In this episode of the Business of Architecture, Rion Willard sits down with FCA leaders Jennifer Kenson and Aran McCarthy. They share their unique journeys to their current roles and offer insights into how FCA manages growth, especially through recent acquisitions. Their approach to culture, transparency, and leadership is refreshing and could change how you view the dynamics of large architecture firms.

They also reveal FCA’s approach to building a collaborative, supportive work environment. Listen in to discover how this multi-office firm integrates new teams without losing its values and keeps the culture strong across locations.

• Curious how a major architecture firm stays true to its roots after 70 years?
• Want to know FCA’s secret to successfully blending cultures after acquisitions?
• Hear the surprising way FCA handles financial transparency with employees.
• Discover why “culture eats strategy for breakfast” at this firm.

To learn more about Aran & Jennifer, visit their:

Website: www.fcarchitects.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fcarchs/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Francis-Cauffman-110456185686383/

Twitter: https://www.fcarchitects.com/contact

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

► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/72WAOC-ZlwVP6gtf67WO1iaKPZY?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!

Joel Tanner, founder of SMPL Design Studio, joins Rion Willard to discuss the journey from a one-person team to a firm of 20, taking on complex and custom residential projects. Joel shares lessons from navigating major economic shifts and reveals the systems and strategies that keep his firm resilient. He also dives into his unique approach to marketing, handling client expectations, and expanding SMPL’s offerings with new product lines.

• How a single contract sparked SMPL Design Studio’s success
• The approach that helped SMPL navigate economic storms
• Key strategies Joel uses to attract high-end clients in a competitive market
• Discover the secret behind SMPL’s innovative product expansion

To learn more about Joel, visit his:

Website: www.smpldesignstudio.com

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

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

► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/jkIEc2Qj_po_vsw7g5lNEcd8IXU?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!

Succession planning is a daunting task for many architecture firm owners. The thought of transitioning leadership brings up fears of losing firm culture, financial instability, and operational chaos. In this episode of Business of Architecture, host Rion Willard dives deep into the essential blueprint for legacy in architecture firms. Discover why many practices struggle to hand over the reins smoothly and how this can impact leadership, firm culture, and financial stability. Learn how proactive strategies can transform a challenging transition into a seamless experience that secures the future of your firm.

Rion shares insights from real-world examples and practical advice that will resonate with firm owners at every stage of their journey. Whether you’re just beginning to think about leadership succession or seeking to refine your plan, this episode offers valuable perspectives you won’t want to miss.

• What hidden risks are threatening your firm’s future?
• Why does succession planning often go wrong—and how can you prevent it?
• How can strong leadership planning increase client confidence?
• What unexpected benefits come from a well-thought-out succession plan?

► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/y2LbDCD271c6OKsep59uPelnUy0?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!

Architects juggling marriage and business often face intense pressures, from blurred work-life boundaries to conflicts that spill from office to home. These challenges can strain even the strongest relationships, adding stress to both personal and professional lives.

In this episode of the Business of Architecture, hosts Rion Willard and Enoch Sears dive into the unique dynamics of running an architecture practice as a married couple. With over 25% of their clients in this position, they explore the balancing act between personal and professional lives. From sharing personal stories to hard-won lessons from other couples, Rion and Enoch offer practical insights on making this challenging setup work.

They discuss common challenges faced by couples in business together, such as finding boundaries, defining roles, and building mutual respect. And for those seeking support, they reveal strategies to make your relationship and practice thrive.

• Why over 25% of architecture firms run by married couples face unique challenges.
• The top mistakes married partners make – and how to avoid them.
• How setting boundaries can transform both your business and your relationship.
• Visit https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/married for a free resource that is filled with advice from experienced married partners who’ve been there.

Link: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/marriage

► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/VJE36ioNXITKk2dM2BmCIAx1HY4?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!

In this episode of the Business of Architecture podcast, Rion Willard talks with Ben Parco, founder of Parco Studio. Ben shares his journey from working at large firms to starting his own practice and the challenges that came with that leap. He reveals his innovative approach to projects and how he navigated the complexities of development while balancing creativity and business.

• What surprising opportunities can arise from a chance conversation?
• How does embracing risk change your perspective on projects?
• What unique strategies can architects use to create value in development?
• Why is understanding your financial landscape crucial for success?

Join us for an insightful discussion that explores the intersection of architecture and development, as Ben shares lessons learned and exciting new ventures on the horizon. Don't miss the chance to hear how a creative mindset can reshape the architectural landscape!

To learn more about Ben, visit his:

Website: http://parcostudio.com/

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

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

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

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzP-v9ic3eBBb6v44TkVnmA

► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/EBXkxTfs_bpFA1wvwkdnwNUfCIg?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!

In this episode, Enoch Sears dives into one of the toughest challenges facing architectural firms today—hiring the right people. He shares stories from real architects who’ve recently lost key team members, highlighting the stressful impact this can have on small firms. Enoch offers valuable advice on how to tackle these hiring struggles and what you can do to make sure you’re bringing the best talent into your practice.

He also reveals a unique perspective on why hiring should be treated like something you’re already doing every day in your business. You’ll learn the surprising connection between marketing and hiring, and how a small change in mindset can completely transform your process. Plus, Enoch shares a little-known tool to make your next hire a success.

• Discover why your hiring process might be broken.
• Learn how one small shift can change everything.
• Find out what most firms get wrong about their job ads.
• Hear a surprising solution that can unlock better hires.

Link: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/delegate

► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/MNcXTMVMEOCmlkCBCnXs7yOXts0?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!

In this episode of the Business of Architecture podcast, Enoch Sears sits down with David Supple, the CEO of New England Design & Construction. David shares his unconventional journey from architecture school to becoming a leader in design-build. Along the way, he talks about hard lessons learned and how he built a thriving business with a team of 25.

David also reveals the surprising reason why he chose not to become a licensed architect and how it impacted his career. He discusses the challenges of building a company, including a difficult moment that could have ended it all. Finally, David opens up about the biggest mistake he made and how it set him back for years.

• What major challenge almost forced David to close his business?
• Why does David believe architects don’t always need a license?
• Discover the unexpected strategy that helped David find success.
• What one decision did David regret that nearly cost him everything?

To learn more about David, visit his:

Website: https://www.nedesignbuild.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nedesign.construction/

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-england-design-&-construction

► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/M3J_gtTc4d5firVdJ_Xj6ssPJjE?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!

Architects often face the daunting challenge of growing a firm while juggling client demands, managing teams, and navigating competitive markets. Balancing creativity with the need for profitability can be overwhelming.

In this episode of Business of Architecture, Rion Willard interviews Blima Ehrentreu, founder of The Designers Group. They dive into how she grew her architecture and design firm from scratch to over 30 employees, with projects spanning multiple cities. Blima shares the challenges of starting fresh in a new city and how she broke into highly competitive markets.

They also discuss her approach to working in various sectors, including a surprising transition into healthcare. Blima offers key insights on how her team keeps projects profitable while continuing to deliver high-quality results.

You’ll also hear Blima’s unique approach to leadership and the one philosophy she uses to keep her team engaged. Plus, she reveals how her firm’s charitable efforts shape its identity and future goals.

• What is Blima’s secret to growing a firm in one of the most competitive cities?
• How did a chance meeting lead to big opportunities in a new sector?
• What’s the biggest challenge Blima faces in managing her large team?
• How does her firm’s pro bono work contribute to its growth?

To learn more about Blima, visit her:

Website: http://www.thedesignersgroup.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thedesignersgroup/

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

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedesignersgroup/?hl=en

► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/w0ZWJJyrT4ATtwGJnyW_4A6Ro8o?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!