Architect Mark R. LePage explores the business of architecture, firm leadership and the everyday life of an architect. From GÄbl Media, EntreArchitect Podcast features weekly interviews with inspiring, passionate people who share their knowledge and expertise... all to help you build a better business as a small firm entrepreneur architect. Proven business strategies for architects, including financial management, profit, marketing, sales, productivity, and planning.
Is Your Independence Hurting Your Architecture Firm?
In this solo session of the EntreArchitect Podcast, Mark R. LePage explores the value of community for architects. Many firm owners face tough decisions alone, even with more business information available than ever. Mark explains why trusted relationships can offer something information alone cannot: shared experience and perspective.
He reflects on how EntreArchitect grew from a blog into a community where architects help one another. Through honest conversations, firm owners can share lessons, find support, and discover new opportunities. Moreover, trusted peers can provide accountability when daily demands push important goals aside.
Mark also considers why human relationships matter as AI changes the profession. He encourages architects to embrace technology while investing in trust, communication, and mutual support.
This week at EntreArchitect Podcast Solo Sessions, Is Your Independence Hurting Your Architecture Firm?
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WoodWorks provides free resources for architects and building professionals working on light frame and mass timber projects. Find technical papers, design guides, continuing education, and tools covering everything from building codes and structural design to acoustics, cost, and constructionâplus free one-on-one assistance from a WoodWorks technical expert on your project. If you're considering wood for an upcoming project or working through a design challenge, start with WoodWorks.org and tell them EntreArchitect sent you.
InPro helps architects create buildings that stand up to everyday wear without compromising the design vision. As a trusted partner and single-source supplier, they make it easier to specify products that protect both your projects and your reputation. Learn more at InPro.com and tell them EntreArchitect sent you.
ARCAT is a third-generation family-owned business and an EntreArchitect partner for more than a decade. Researching a building product shouldn't mean digging through manufacturer websitesâARCAT brings product information, CSI specifications, CAD details, BIM content, and sustainability documentation together in one place, so you can evaluate products and get them specified fast. It's free for architects: no subscription, no paywall, no email required. Make it part of your firm's workflow at ARCAT.com.
WeCollabify helps small firms expand capacity without adding more overheadâthrough their approach they call "insourcing." They help you build a dedicated team that becomes part of your firm, working within your systems, your standards, and your culture. If you're turning away work, struggling to find the right people, or spending too much of your own time on work someone else could be doing, visit WeCollabify.com/EntreArchitect and start the conversation today.
Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.
EA684: Kenny Isidoro - How to Become the Architect Clients Choose First
Architecture firm branding can help small firms become the clientsâ first choice. Kenny Isidoro, founder of MUDEO, joins Mark R. LePage to explain why brand is reputation. His background spans architecture, strategy, design, and marketing. â â
He introduces four tests for brand effectiveness: contrast, clarity, compelling value, and consistency. Kenny also shares how useful content can show the public what architects do. â He explains why a distinct reputation can attract better-fit clients and reduce wasted proposals.
The conversation also explores AI, personal names, succession, and brand value. Small firm architects will gain practical ways to become more visible and communicate their value.
This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, How to Become the Architect Clients Choose First with Kenny Isidoro.
WoodWorks provides free resources for architects and building professionals working on light frame and mass timber projects. Find technical papers, design guides, continuing education, and tools covering everything from building codes and structural design to acoustics, cost, and constructionâplus free one-on-one assistance from a WoodWorks technical expert on your project. If you're considering wood for an upcoming project or working through a design challenge, start with WoodWorks.org and tell them EntreArchitect sent you.
InPro helps architects create buildings that stand up to everyday wear without compromising the design vision. As a trusted partner and single-source supplier, they make it easier to specify products that protect both your projects and your reputation. Learn more at and tell them EntreArchitect sent you.
EA683: David Muniz Supple - Reclaiming the Architect as Master Builder
The Architect as Master Builder is more than a historical idea; it can guide a stronger design-build practice today. David Muniz Supple leads New England Design & Construction, a licensed architectural firm and integrated design-build practice in Lexington, Massachusetts. He studied architecture at Tufts, worked in an international design firm, and learned construction through the Boston trades.
In this conversation, he traces the split between design and construction, then explains why it still affects architects and clients. He shares how NEDC keeps design, budget, and construction with one accountable team. David also explains concurrent cost planning, fixed-price construction, and change orders resolved during design instead of construction.
Small firm architects will hear practical ways to build construction knowledge without abandoning design. The discussion also covers integrated teams, clearer accountability, and a more collaborative relationship with builders.
This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Reclaiming the Architect as Master Builder with David Muniz Supple.
WoodWorks provides free resources for architects and building professionals working on light frame and mass timber projects. Find technical papers, design guides, continuing education, and tools covering everything from building codes and structural design to acoustics, cost, and constructionâplus free one-on-one assistance from a WoodWorks technical expert on your project. If you're considering wood for an upcoming project or working through a design challenge, start with WoodWorks.org and tell them EntreArchitect sent you.
InPro helps architects create buildings that stand up to everyday wear without compromising the design vision. As a trusted partner and single-source supplier,. Learn more at and tell them EntreArchitect sent you.
EA682: Tim Derrington - Stop Waiting for Projects to Find You
Business development for architects starts with a hard truth: good design alone will not keep projects coming. Tim Derrington, founding principal of Austin-based Derrington Building Studio, joins Mark R. LePage to share how he learned that lesson. After launching his firm in 2011, Tim built a practice through small projects, personal connections, and repeat clients.
However, his next stage of growth required a shift from waiting for opportunities to actively creating them. He shares how reaching out to brokers, making uncomfortable phone calls, and following up are helping him build new relationships. Along the way, Tim explains why reducing friction, owning mistakes, and bringing solutions to clients builds lasting trust.
The conversation also explores how clear principles help a small team work with greater freedom and confidence. Plus, Tim shares how he uses Claude to uncover overlooked contacts and revive missed opportunities.
This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Stop Waiting for Projects to Find You with Tim Derrington.
Want to hear Tim share his journey and how partnering with WeCollabify is helping him expand his team? Watch the Ask the Architect Anything replay inside the EntreArchitect Network membership to hear his conversation about growing a small architecture practice.
Not a member? Join free for 30 days to watch this conversation and explore the community.
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EA681: Keiran Murphy - Frank Lloyd Wright Beyond the Legend
Frank Lloyd Wrightâs Taliesin offers a rare look beyond the legend of one of architectureâs most famous names. Historian Keiran Murphy joins Mark R. LePage with more than three decades of work supporting the siteâs preservation and public access. Her writing earned a Wright Spirit Award, and her research has informed several books about Wright and his home.
Together, they examine the myths about Wrightâs buildings, business habits, and larger-than-life personality. Keiran also explains how preservation teams protect Taliesinâs original materials while addressing repairs, comfort, and access. Along the way, she reveals why preserving this evolving home takes patience, careful research, and respect for its history.
For small firm architects, the conversation connects Wrightâs bold ideas with the real demands of practice. Ultimately, Keiran offers a simple lesson for building a better business: listen closely to what your clients need and want.
This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Frank Lloyd Wright Beyond the Legend with Keiran Murphy.
WoodWorks provides free resources for architects and building professionals working on light frame and mass timber projects. Find technical papers, design guides, continuing education, and tools covering everything from building codes and structural design to acoustics, cost, and constructionâplus free one-on-one assistance from a WoodWorks technical expert on your project. If you're considering wood for an upcoming project or working through a design challenge, start with WoodWorks.org and tell them EntreArchitect sent you.
InPro helps architects create buildings that stand up to everyday wear without compromising the design vision. As a trusted partner and single-source supplier,. Learn more at and tell them EntreArchitect sent you.
EA680: David Sellers - Hawaii Off-Grid Architecture
Hawaii off-grid architecture becomes a model for business, resilience, and community impact in this conversation with David Sellers. David shares how commercial fishing, technical systems, and environmental concerns shaped his path into architecture.
He explains how Hawaii Off-Grid grew by combining design, engineering, renewable energy, and practical business thinking. This diverse model helped the firm support wildfire recovery, affordable housing, and pro bono work. David also explores net-zero design, mass timber, and integrated solar systems that make sustainability part of the architecture.
Along the way, he shows why financial success can expand an architectâs ability to serve others. He offers a clear lesson for small firm owners: diversity creates resilience. Listen to discover how purpose and sound business strategy can build a thriving firm with lasting local impact.
This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Hawaii Off-Grid Architecture with David Sellers.
InPro helps architects create buildings that stand up to everyday wear without compromising the design vision. As a trusted partner and single-source supplier, they make it easier to specify products that protect both your projects and your reputation. Learn more at InPro.com and tell them EntreArchitect sent you.
ARCAT makes finding architectural product information simple. Access specifications, CAD details, BIM objects, and sustainability documentation from thousands of manufacturersâall free, with no paywalls or registration required. Explore the platform architects trust every day at .
EA679: Mark Lefitz - Turning Better Pricing Into Better Projects
Architectural pricing strategies can shape more than a firmâs bottom line. They can also improve the client experience. In this episode, Mark R. LePage talks with Mark Lefitz, COO and partner at EZ Plans Architects. Mark brings more than 20 years of experience across architecture, construction, operations, and technology.
Mark shares how EZ Plans built a more transparent approach to pricing and project delivery. The firm uses an online pricing tool to give potential clients an upfront estimate before a consultation. As a result, the team spends less time chasing proposals and more time working with qualified leads. Mark also explains how virtual site consultations and a network of licensed architects help the firm serve projects across California.
Finally, Mark explores how better systems can lead to stronger margins and a smoother client experience. He also introduces ArchiTech, a pricing platform designed to bring these tools to other architecture firms. Learn how transparency, technology, and smarter pricing can help architects build a more profitable and scalable practice.
This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Turning Better Pricing Into Better Projects with Mark Lefitz.
InPro helps architects create buildings that stand up to everyday wear without compromising the design vision. As a trusted partner and single-source supplier, they make it easier to specify products that protect both your projects and your reputation. Learn more at InPro.com and tell them EntreArchitect sent you.
ARCAT makes finding architectural product information simple. from thousands of manufacturersâall free, with no paywalls or registration required. Explore the platform architects trust every day at .
EA678: Rachel Gresham and Ali Alsaleh - Built for Business
In this episode, Mark R. LePage welcomes Rachel Gresham and Ali Alsaleh from The American Institute of Architects to discuss Built for Business, AIAâs new podcast. Rachel and Ali share their paths through architecture and the experiences that shaped how they think about business. They also explore why architects need stronger business knowledge to build successful firms.
Rachel brings together experience in architectural practice, business strategy, research, and education. Aliâs career has spanned architecture, design, filmmaking, writing, and media production. Today, they work together at AIA to create professional practice resources that support architects at every stage of their careers.
Together, Mark, Rachel, and Ali discuss the inspiration behind Built for Business and the lessons emerging from its conversations. They explore why there is no single model for a successful architecture firm. Discover how better business practices can help architects create healthier, more profitable, and resilient firms.
This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Built for Business with Rachel Gresham and Ali Alsaleh.
Learn more about Built for Business and listen at Built for Business, and connect with Rachel and Ali on LinkedIn.
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InPro helps architects create buildings that stand up to everyday wear without compromising the design vision. As a trusted partner and single-source supplier, they make it easier to specify products that protect both your projects and your reputation. Learn more at InPro.com and tell them EntreArchitect sent you.
ARCAT makes finding architectural product information simple. Access specifications, CAD details, BIM objects, and sustainability documentation from thousands of manufacturersâall free, with no paywalls or registration required. Explore the platform architects trust every day at .
EA677: Juan Mullerat â Revitalizing Cities Without Losing Their Identity
How can we approach revitalizing cities without losing their identity? In this episode, Mark R. LePage sits down with Juan Mullerat, Founding Principal of Plusurbia Design in Miami. Juan brings more than 25 years of experience in urban design, planning, and sustainable growth.
Juan explains how every city has its own DNA, shaped by history, culture, infrastructure, and the people who live there. He shares how thoughtful revitalization starts by understanding those layers before introducing change. Using real-world examples, Juan explores public engagement, transit-oriented development, and the role of good planning in creating stronger communities.
Juan challenges architects to think beyond individual buildings and consider how their work contributes to the larger city. He explains why listening and communication are essential tools for architects who want to advocate for better places. Juan also shares why caring for existing clients may be one of the best ways to build a stronger architecture firm.
This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Revitalizing Cities Without Losing Their Identity with Juan Mullerat.
InPro helps architects create buildings that stand up to everyday wear without compromising the design vision. As a trusted partner and single-source supplier, they make it easier to specify products that protect both your projects and your reputation. Learn more at InPro.com and tell them EntreArchitect sent you.
ARCAT makes finding architectural product information simple. from thousands of manufacturersâall free, with no paywalls or registration required. Explore the platform architects trust every day at .
EA676: Zachary Waters - Protecting Your Architecture Firm Before Problems Begin
Protecting Your Architecture Firm Before Problems Begin
Protecting your architecture firm starts long before a claim or costly mistake occurs. In this episode, Mark R. LePage sits down with Zachary Waters, Managing Principal of Black Swan Insurance Services. Zach helps architecture and engineering firms understand risk, insurance, and the steps they can take before problems begin.
Zach breaks down professional liability in clear, practical terms for small firm owners. He explains why building the right team of advisors matters and how to better understand your insurance coverage. He also shares simple ways to identify risks early and make smarter business decisions.
The conversation also explores how AI is changing the risk landscape for architecture firms. Zach discusses emerging liability questions and why firm owners should pay attention now. This episode offers practical guidance to help you protect your firm while building a stronger business.
This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Protecting Your Architecture Firm Before Problems Begin with Zachary Waters.
InPro helps architects create buildings that stand up to everyday wear without compromising the design vision. As a trusted partner and single-source supplier, they make it easier to specify products that protect both your projects and your reputation. Learn more at InPro.com and tell them EntreArchitect sent you.
ARCAT makes finding architectural product information simple. Access specifications, CAD details, BIM objects, and sustainability documentation from thousands of manufacturersâall free, with no paywalls or registration required. Explore the platform architects trust every day at .
ARCAT is a third-generation family-owned business and an EntreArchitect partner for more than a decade. Researching a building product shouldn't mean digging through manufacturer websitesâARCAT brings product information, CSI specifications, CAD details, BIM content, and sustainability documentation together in one place, so you can evaluate products and get them specified fast. It's free for architects: no subscription, no paywall, no email required. Make it part of your firm's workflow at ARCAT.com.
WeCollabify helps small firms expand capacity without adding more overheadâthrough their approach they call "insourcing." They help you build a dedicated team that becomes part of your firm, working within your systems, your standards, and your culture. If you're turning away work, struggling to find the right people, or spending too much of your own time on work someone else could be doing, visit WeCollabify.com/EntreArchitect and start the conversation today.
Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.
they make it easier to specify products that protect both your projects and your reputation
ARCAT is a third-generation family-owned business and an EntreArchitect partner for more than a decade. Researching a building product shouldn't mean digging through manufacturer websitesâARCAT brings product information, CSI specifications, CAD details, BIM content, and sustainability documentation together in one place, so you can evaluate products and get them specified fast. It's free for architects: no subscription, no paywall, no email required. Make it part of your firm's workflow at ARCAT.com.
WeCollabify helps small firms expand capacity without adding more overheadâthrough their approach they call "insourcing." They help you build a dedicated team that becomes part of your firm, working within your systems, your standards, and your culture. If you're turning away work, struggling to find the right people, or spending too much of your own time on work someone else could be doing, visit WeCollabify.com/EntreArchitect and start the conversation today.
Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.
WoodWorks provides free resources for architects and building professionals working on light frame and mass timber projects. Find technical papers, design guides, continuing education, and tools covering everything from building codes and structural design to acoustics, cost, and constructionâplus free one-on-one assistance from a WoodWorks technical expert on your project. If you're considering wood for an upcoming project or working through a design challenge, start with WoodWorks.org and tell them EntreArchitect sent you.
InPro helps architects create buildings that stand up to everyday wear without compromising the design vision. As a trusted partner and single-source supplier, they make it easier to specify products that protect both your projects and your reputation. Learn more at InPro.com and tell them EntreArchitect sent you.
ARCAT is a third-generation family-owned business and an EntreArchitect partner for more than a decade. Researching a building product shouldn't mean digging through manufacturer websitesâARCAT brings product information, CSI specifications, CAD details, BIM content, and sustainability documentation together in one place, so you can evaluate products and get them specified fast. It's free for architects: no subscription, no paywall, no email required. Make it part of your firm's workflow at ARCAT.com.
WeCollabify helps small firms expand capacity without adding more overheadâthrough their approach they call "insourcing." They help you build a dedicated team that becomes part of your firm, working within your systems, your standards, and your culture. If you're turning away work, struggling to find the right people, or spending too much of your own time on work someone else could be doing, visit WeCollabify.com/EntreArchitect and start the conversation today.
Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.
they make it easier to specify products that protect both your projects and your reputation
ARCAT is a third-generation family-owned business and an EntreArchitect partner for more than a decade. Researching a building product shouldn't mean digging through manufacturer websitesâARCAT brings product information, CSI specifications, CAD details, BIM content, and sustainability documentation together in one place, so you can evaluate products and get them specified fast. It's free for architects: no subscription, no paywall, no email required. Make it part of your firm's workflow at ARCAT.com.
WeCollabify helps small firms expand capacity without adding more overheadâthrough their approach they call "insourcing." They help you build a dedicated team that becomes part of your firm, working within your systems, your standards, and your culture. If you're turning away work, struggling to find the right people, or spending too much of your own time on work someone else could be doing, visit WeCollabify.com/EntreArchitect and start the conversation today.
Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.
WeCollabify is one of EntreArchitect's trusted allied partners, helping architecture firms build capacity through integrated design, BIM, and technical professionals who work directly within your team. Their goal to help firm owners create the capacity they need to better serve clients, support their teams, and make confident long-term growth decisions. Learn more at WeCollabify.com/EntreArchitect.
Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.
Access specifications, CAD details, BIM objects, and sustainability documentation
WeCollabify is one of EntreArchitect's trusted allied partners, helping architecture firms build capacity through integrated design, BIM, and technical professionals who work directly within your team. Their goal to help firm owners create the capacity they need to better serve clients, support their teams, and make confident long-term growth decisions. Learn more at WeCollabify.com/EntreArchitect.
Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.
WeCollabify is one of EntreArchitect's trusted allied partners, helping architecture firms build capacity through integrated design, BIM, and technical professionals who work directly within your team. Their goal to help firm owners create the capacity they need to better serve clients, support their teams, and make confident long-term growth decisions. Learn more at WeCollabify.com/EntreArchitect.
Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.
Access specifications, CAD details, BIM objects, and sustainability documentation
WeCollabify is one of EntreArchitect's trusted allied partners, helping architecture firms build capacity through integrated design, BIM, and technical professionals who work directly within your team. Their goal to help firm owners create the capacity they need to better serve clients, support their teams, and make confident long-term growth decisions. Learn more at WeCollabify.com/EntreArchitect.
Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.
WeCollabify is one of EntreArchitect's trusted allied partners, helping architecture firms build capacity through integrated design, BIM, and technical professionals who work directly within your team. Their goal to help firm owners create the capacity they need to better serve clients, support their teams, and make confident long-term growth decisions. Learn more at WeCollabify.com/EntreArchitect.
Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.
