Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Human Scale - LS3P

Some people light up every room they enter. Cari Gerrits is one of them.

In the latest episode of Human Scale, LS3P's Atlanta Business Development Professional joins Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley for a lively conversation filled with laughter, great stories, unexpected tangents, and the authentic connections that have made Cari such a beloved member of the AEC community.

Whether you're already a fan of Cari or meeting her for the first time, you'll quickly understand why her enthusiasm is so contagious.

Plus, before the episode wraps up, Meredith and Patrick share an important announcement about what's next for Human Scale.

What do a doctorate in architecture, a year-long NASA-funded Mars simulation, Disney World, underground tunnels in Las Vegas, and two rescue cats have in common? Somehow,they’re all part of Tristan Bassingthwaighte’s story.

In this episode of The Human Scale, Tristan joins co-hosts Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley for a conversation that goes in some unexpected directions. From growing up inMontana and studying architecture in Hawaii to spending 366 days living in a simulated Mars habitat, Tristan’s career path is anything but typical.

Along the way, he’s researched space architecture, helped imagine what hotels in space might look like, explored underground transportation concepts, traveled the world, and ultimately found his way to Asheville and LS3P.

Whether you're fascinated by architecture, space exploration, or just hearing how people find their unique path, this is an episode you won't want to miss.

Listen now, subscribe to The Human Scale, and share the episode with someone who appreciates a good story - and an unconventional journey.

Read Tristan’s Dissertation Here

Listen to The Habitat Podcast Here

From rural cattle farm to Director of IT Operations, Jay Addison’s journey is anything but typical.

In this episode of The Human Scale, he shares with co-hosts Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley how an unconventional start (including time in the mortuary industry) shaped his practical, people-first approach to technology.

With humor and insight, Jay talks scaling IT for a growing firm, leading major initiatives, and navigating the unseen realities of cybersecurity and support, offering a fresh look at the human side of tech.

Three years in, The Human Scale finally lands one of LS3P’s most influential—and most elusive—voices: Chief Marketing & Knowledge Officer Katie Robinson.

In this wide‑ranging, deeply human, and frequently hilarious conversation, hosts Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley go far beyond titles and org charts to explore Katie’s unlikely journey - from a childhood shaped by wildlife refuges and coastal towns, to teaching herself graphic design out of sheer necessity, to building the firmwide marketing and knowledge ecosystem that quietly powers LS3P’s work every day.

This episode is equal parts origin story, leadership masterclass, and group therapy session. Katie opens up about career pivots, impostor syndrome, mentorship, and why curiosity (and asking a lot of questions) has guided her career more than any formal plan ever could. Along the way, the conversation detours joyfully through Quark and fish vectors, turtle rescues, raising teenagers, surviving truly terrible home‑cooked meals, and why good knowledge management might be the most underrated (and misunderstood) discipline in AEC.

In the latest episode of The Human Scale, Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley sit down with Shawn Sowers, LS3P’s National Higher Education Market Leader, for a wide-ranging conversation about curiosity, consistency, and people-first leadership.

Shawn shares her journey from small-town Indiana to Raleigh during its early growth years—and from K-12 design into the multifaceted world of higher education. She reflects on stepping into a brand-new firmwide leadership role just weeks before the world shut down, and how that moment shaped her perspective on leadership, mentorship, and resilience.

Along the way, Shawn unpacks the complexity of higher education design—where academic, research, wellness, and community needs intersect—spotlights a milestone veterinary college project nearing completion, and explores how thoughtful design can support mental health and create environments where people are empowered to learn, test, and grow.

Add in candid career stories, travel adventures, and a few delightfully controversial food opinions, and this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in leadership, design, and the very human side of building better places.

Careers aren’t always straight lines - sometimes they’re layered, remixed, and built over time. 

In the latest episode of Human Scale, Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley sit down with Jordan Powers, LS3P’s in-house photographer, to trace a creative path that’s anything but linear. From audio engineering and music to graphic design, entrepreneurship, and ultimately architecture-focused photography, Jordan’s career has been shaped by curiosity, hustle, and a well-timed willingness to say yes. 

Jordan shares how an unconventional journey took him from Ohio to Minnesota to the Southeast - and from recording studios and wedding shoots to documenting meaningful spaces across the built environment. Along the way, the conversation digs into the power of relationships in creative work, the evolving role of photography in an increasingly AI-influenced world, and why showing up with intention still matters. 

Jordan also reflects on the tension between creative freedom and stability, and what led him to launch the Architecture & Design Photography Summit - creating space for community, learning, and craft in a rapidly changing industry.

In this episode of Human Scale, co‑hosts Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley sit down with Morgan Thomas, Senior Marketing Specialist in LS3P's Raleigh office, to explore her unexpected path into AEC marketing. From an early love of hospitality and broadcast news to finding her professional home through community, mentorship, and SMPS, Morgan shares how her career took shape in ways she never planned—but couldn’t imagine leaving. 

She reflects on launching her career during COVID, why marketing (not business development) plays to her strengths, and what it really takes to translate “archi‑speak” into language that resonates with people. The conversation wraps with a riveting Today Show story—and a powerful reminder that sometimes the biggest leaps lead to the most meaningful moments.

In this episode of HumanScale Co-hosts Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley sit down with Tim Kriegel, LS3P’s Learning & Development Manager, for a conversation that’s as insightful as it is unexpected. Tim shares how building culture through CliftonStrengths shapes our teams, and breaks down the practical differences between people management, mentorship, and coaching.

Along the way, we explore his fascinating career journey - from banking, to Vegas living, to a three-month family stay in Europe - that ultimately led him to Greenville and LS3P. You’ll also hear his thoughts on coaching habits that stick, a mezcal-and-grapefruit cocktail that evolves as the ice melts, and travel stories that remind us why curiosity matters.

Tune in for fresh perspectives on leadership, learning, and the experiences that shape us.

In our final podcast episode of the year, Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley sit down with Greensboro Office Leader Ginna Freyaldenhoven for an inspiring conversation about her career journey, leadership style, and the evolving realities of the architecture profession.

Ginna shares what fuels her passion, how she’s grown into her role, and the mindset that keeps her grounded through the twists and turns of the industry. Plus, don’t miss Questions from the Fishbowl, where the trio reveals their most unexpected food pairings and debates which LS3P team member would make the ultimate party buddy from their 20s.

Listen now and celebrate the close of an incredible year with us!

Enjoy the latest episode of Human Scale, where co-hosts Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley sit down with Charlotte Office Leader Nathan Daniel for an inspiring deep dive into his journey from young architect to leading one of LS3P’s largest offices.

Nathan shares pivotal moments that shaped his career—including the Centene project (now TEN30 Campus), a 1,000,000 SF collaboration that pushed the team to its limits during the uncertainty of the pandemic. Hear how resilience, adaptability, and trust carried them through. This conversation explores the evolution of workplace design, the power of client relationships, and the entrepreneurial spirit at the heart of LS3P’s culture.

And don’t miss the Questions from the Fishbowl segment—one of our best yet! Nathan opens up about family, travel, favorite Charlotte spots, and even weighs in on the ultimate debate: Who serves the best BBQ in the Midwest?

In this spirited episode, co-hosts Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley welcome Carsyn Jarrell and Kelly Walker—two powerhouse members of LS3P’s Finance team whose careers have run side-by-side for over 20 years. From project accounting to assistant controller and beyond, Carsyn and Kelly share the unexpected twists that shaped their professional journeys. With humor and heart, they recount office moves, mergers, and the evolution of their roles.

What keeps them thriving in finance after two decades? Alove for change, strong people skills, and the kind of flexibility that turns challenges into opportunities. This episode is a tribute to resilience, adaptability, and the friendships that make work not just productive—but fun.

Money talks—and so do Carsyn and Kelly. Tune in for thelaughs, stay for the wisdom.

In this vibrant, laughter-filled episode of Human Scale,hosts Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley launch LS3P’s celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month with a heartfelt conversation featuring Iván Martinez-Cruz, Daniela Ayers, and Michael Garcia—three inspiring members of the Diseñasteering committee, LS3P’s Hispanic and Latinx resource group.

Together, they share personal journeys from Spain, Mexico,and Miami, revealing how culture, family, and resilience shaped their paths into architecture and design. Listeners will discover the origin and mission of Diseña, a passionate community within LS3P dedicated to celebrating heritage,fostering mentorship, and amplifying impact across projects and workplace culture.

From the story behind tapas to the challenges of drive-throughs, this episode is packed with humor, wisdom, and heartfelt advice for aspiring designers. The team also dives into the importance of mentorship, the power of diversity, and the joy of honoring one’s roots—plus a few fun stories about food, family, and personal accomplishments beyond the studio.

In this inspiring episode of Human Scale, Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley sit down with Wil Drennan, the creative force behind the design of our new Charlotte office. A true Carolina native, Wil shares how his upbringing shaped his design philosophy and approach to workplace culture. Drawing from his experience leading multiple LS3P office designs, he reflects on lessons learned, the importance of local identity, and the challenge of designing for your own team.

Wil also discusses the emotional impact of change, the role of storytelling in architecture, and offers candid insights into the best—and worst—advice he’s received. From navigating design team dynamics to championing authenticity, this episode is a thoughtful exploration of leadership and design excellence.

Recorded in our new space at 600 South Tryon Street, the conversation is as much about place as it is about purpose.

Bonus: The Human Scale podcast was recently honored with a Merit Award at the 2025 SMPS Marketing Communications Awards—a testament to the power of storytelling in our industry.

This month, co-hosts Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley sit down with LS3P Interior Designer Benji Martin for a conversation that’s as heartfelt as it is hilarious. From hot takes on snack choices to deeply personal reflections on identity, community, and creative growth, Benji brings it all.

They share their journey from Asheville to Raleigh, the unexpected impact of Hurricane Helene, and how their upbringing shaped their design perspective. We also dive into navigating ADHD, embracing identity, and the power of finding your people—at work and in life.

Whether you're here for the design insights or the butter debates, this episode is a vibrant celebration of authenticity, resilience, and showing up as your full self.

We’re back with another inspiring episode of Human Scale!

This month, co-hosts Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley sit down with the incredibly talented Senior Interior Designer Emily Patterson. Emily takes us on a winding journey through her path to LS3P, unpacks the nuances between interior design and space planning, and shares what fuels her passion for design every day. And don’t miss our fan-favorite segment, Questions from the Fishbowl, where we get candid about the rumors we’d start about ourselves (and each other!) and the people who’ve recently inspired us.

Join us for a special episode of Human Scale as we mark two incredible years of insightful conversations and engaging content! This month, co-hosts Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley are joined by the podcast's talented Producer and Editor, Bailey Bresee, to answer your burning questions.

In this fun and light-hearted episode, the team dives into a variety of listener-submitted topics. They reflect on the podcast's journey and progress, share their dream jobs (outside of LS3P, of course!), and even discuss which of LS3P's 12 office locations is the most haunted.

Don't miss out on this entertaining conversation that offers a unique glimpse into the personalities behind Human Scale. Whether you're a long-time listener or new to the podcast, this episode is sure to delight and engage.

Tune in and get to know the Human Scale team a little better!

Welcome to the latest episode of Human Scale! This month, co-hosts Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley are thrilled to welcome LS3P’s Raleigh Office Leader, Chris Roberts, to the podcast. In this episode, they dive into Chris's action-packed first year in his new role, exploring how he found his way to LS3P and the extensive travels he has undertaken outside the office. But that's not all! Stay tuned for our Questions from the Fish Bowl segment where Chris shares an unforgettable story about his visit to...charming...backcountry winery during one of his many adventures.

We are thrilled to present the latest episode of Human Scale! Join Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley as they welcome LS3P’s Azure Administrator, Jon Galloway. If you haven't heard Jon's story, you're in for a treat. His journey to becoming a part of LS3P's Technology team is truly inspiring. By the end of this episode, you'll feel both relaxed and awed by his incredible tale. Don't miss our "questions from the fishbowl" segment, where they discuss the movies that have had the biggest impact on their lives.

In this episode of Human Scale, co-hosts Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley welcome Dr. Alessandro Morganti, Ph.D. and LS3P Emerging Professional Abbey Willis to discuss the importance of neuroinclusive design in the healthcare sector and beyond. They discuss insights on creating inclusive spaces that cater to the diverse needs of clients and explore the potential advantages of empowering individual choice through design. They explore practical applications of neuroinclusive design in various environments, from schools to corporate offices and discuss practical tips for creating sensory-friendly spaces using accessible materials. Be sure to stick around for our Questions from the Fish Bowl for a fun discussion about cooking the perfect dish!

Enjoy our latest episode of Human Scale where co-hosts Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley chat with LS3P’s Quality Leader Gus Aretakis and Risk Management Leader Kevin Bryant.

In this episode, Gus and Kevin share how they came to find their passion for quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC), the mentors that helped them along the way, and some of their best advice for those newer to the industry. Stay tuned for our questions from the fish bowl as things get a little weird and a lot of fun. We hope you enjoy getting to know Gus and Kevin who prove that while the job maybe serious, they are always happy to be the life of the party.

Tune in now for our first episode of 2025!

Get ready for an illuminating conversation on the latest episode of Human Scale! Join co-hosts Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley as they are joined by LS3P’s Innovation Leader Espy Harper, Architect Zakiya Wiggins, and Practice Professional Melanie Simmons.

In this episode Espy, Zakiya and Melanie share how they recently came together to present at the AIA Aspire Conference about tough conversations surrounding minorities in the AEC industry. They discuss the racial discrepancies in everyday design, how they affect the community that utilizes them, and how the AEC industry can approach these challenges head on. 

They also discuss the challenges minorities have faced throughout history in the AEC industry. Through their personal stories they share how these disparities have affected their personal lives, the lives of their families, and their community.

Tune in now for our final episode of 2024 - one filled with thoughtful discussion, difficult topics, and hope for a better tomorrow.

Human Scale is now available on Apple Music, Goodpods, Castbox, and Pocket Casts!

Get ready for an inspiring journey on the latest episode of Human Scale! Join co-hosts Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley as they dive into a captivating conversation with LS3P’s Chief Practice Officer, Katherine Peele. 

Discover how Katherine's path took a fascinating turn from vocal major to architecture, leading to an illustrious 36-year career with LS3P. From her beginnings as an intern at Boney Architects to playing a pivotal role in opening the Raleigh office, Katherine shares her incredible experiences and favorite projects. And don't miss our fun "questions from the fish bowl" segment, where Katherine reveals what her 10-year-old self would be most proud of today.

Tune in now for an episode filled with inspiration, insights, and a few surprises!

Please enjoy the latest episode of Human Scale, where co-hosts Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley speak with LS3P’s Columbia Office Leader and newly appointed K-12 Practice Leader, Mary Beth Branham. In this episode, Mary Beth shares the many accomplishments she has achieved in her illustrious career. From opening the first female-led LS3P office to celebrating 20 years in Columbia, SC to becoming the newest LS3P Board member, to say Mary Beth has had a lot to celebrate in 2024 would be an understatement. Stick around for our questions from the fish bowl where Mary Beth shares her advice for all women in the AEC industry and beyond. 

In honor of (inter)National Podcast Day, the creators behind LS3P's Human Scale present the Human Scale Blooper Reel! Over the last 20ish episodes, co-hosts Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley have worked hard to create and share the compelling stories of our team members, but we've also had a lot of fun along the way. Enjoy some of our funnier outtakes, equipment mishaps, and lots of laughs. AND you'll finally get to hear the voice Human Scale producer, Bailey Bresee, whose hard work and patience are what make this podcast happen every month. Sit back, relax, and share a laugh with us!

Enjoy the newest episode of Human Scale, where co-hosts Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley welcome LS3P’s Digital Practice Manager and Senior Architect Ruth Parr. In this episode, Ruth shares her passion and efforts to standardize and automate several processes across the firm. She discusses the hurdles, accomplishments, lessons she has learned and how she hopes these efforts can help project processes. Stick around to hear how we turned the recording back on after we'd wrapped up our conversation so Ruth could share a great story about her "black market sourdough.” 

Enjoy the latest episode of Human Scale, where Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley chat with Senior Architect and Design Leader Bryan Beerman. We learn how Bryan found himself in the South, his thoughts on the importance of mentorship and applying it in his side gig as a teacher at Clemson, and how he applies futuristic thinking when designing for clients. Stay tuned for our Questions from the Fishbowl to hear what Bryan would choose to have at the snap of a finger!

[1:52 PM] Meredith Ray

Enjoy the latest episode of Human Scale, where co-hosts Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley welcome LS3P’s Sustainability Leader Leigh Pfeiffer! We learn how Leigh discovered her love for all things sustainability, her journey from architecture school at Tulane University to walking the streets of San Diego in search of a job, to a few quick tips for how to be more sustainable, both in your home life and at the office. Stay tuned for Questions from the Fishbowl where we learn what type of animal Leigh would love to have a conversation with (spoiler, it’s a feathered creature with a cursing problem). Human Scale is now available on Spotify, Amazon Music, Audible and iHeartRadio!

We are happy to share the latest episode of Human Scale, where Meredith and Patrick chat with Roger Attanasio, LS3P’s Quality Leader as he prepares for retirement from the firm. In this episode, we learn how Roger found his passion in Construction Administration, how he got the nickname "Greenline," and the best advice he has for emerging professionals (or anyone, really) who wants to make a difference. Stick around for our Questions from the Fish Bowl where we learn where Roger cut his teeth making spaghetti and the odd job he had with red hot glass! Human Scale is now available on Spotify, Amazon Music, Audible and iHeartRadio!

Enjoy the latest episode of Human Scale, where co-hosts Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley welcome Senior Project Manager and Interior Designer Kelly Wagner. In this episode, Kelly shares the inspiring story of how she grew from an administrative assistant into a trusted advisor, forging a deep and meaningful relationship with one of the firm's legacy clients. We get to hear how she grew up cruisin' with her friends, what her dream job was as a kid, and her greatest fashion faux pas.  Human Scale is now available on Spotify, Amazon Music, Audible and iHeartRadio!

Take a listen to our bonus one-year anniversary episode of Human Scale, where co-hosts Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley welcome the podcast's biggest fan, longtime listener, first time participant: LS3P's CEO Marc Marchant. In this special bonus episode we learn all about Marc's journey from starting off as an intern and working his way to becoming the firm's CEO. He shares some insights into how he approaches his role, those he's met along the way, and his advice for younger professionals throughout the firm.

A special thank you to everyone who has supported us through this incredible journey so far!

Human Scale is now available on Spotify, Amazon Music, Audible and iHeartRadio!

Take a listen to the latest episode of Human Scale, where Meredith and Patrick chat with Brian Wurst, LS3P's Design Leader. We learn about Brian's early career (but how he ended up in Charleston will remain a mystery), his advice for new designers, how he approaches his design process and much more. Stick around to learn what new skill Brian would pick up in an instant (to add to his incredible toolbox of talents) in our Questions from the Fishbowl! Human Scale is now available on Spotify, Amazon Music, Audible and iHeartRadio!

Take a listen to the latest episode of Human Scale, where Meredith and Patrick welcome Greg McNamara, one of the firm's Business Development (BD) team members from the Raleigh office. Learn about how Greg wound up at LS3P, the part BD plays in building relationships with new and legacy clients, and how he juggles it all with a new puppy in the mix. Be sure to stick around until the end to hear a hilarious outtake from our recording session where we play around with some voice modulation!

Human Scale is now available on iHeartRadio!

We hope you'll enjoy our special Valentine's Day episode of Human Scale, where Meredith and Patrick chat with Becky & Roy Smith, one of the many couples who work together at LS3P. Listen in as they talk about navigating the intricacies of what it's like working with your partner. Between work, travel, and spending almost every moment together, they talk about how they balance their personal life with their work life.

We're excited to share the latest episode of Human Scale, where Meredith and Patrick chat with several of LS3P's Young Professionals about their hobbies and side hustles outside of the office. Listen in as they welcome Carey Nelson (GSP), Kaitie Harrigan (GSO), Katherine Schuff (SAV), Samantha Fellman (CAE), and Travis King (CHS) for conversations ranging from tattooing to aerial arts to laser engraving - this episode really runs the gamut! Katitie's Etsy Shop: https://www.etsy.com/shop/EtchandGlowDesigns?ref=search_shop_redirect

Take a listen to the latest episode of Human Scale, where Meredith and Patrick chat with Kelly Gilreath and Lisa Pinyan, a couple of LS3P's Interiors leaders. We learn about Kelly's childhood escapades looking into neighbors' windows to judge their design taste and Lisa's journey from New York to Savannah as the first member of her family to go to college . Be sure to stick around until the end to learn which fictional character each of our guests most relate to (hint: they're all Disney characters).

Take a listen to the latest episode of Human Scale, where Meredith and Patrick chat with LS3P's Federal & Industrial Sector Leader Roy Selvidge. We learn about Roy's time serving in the military, his shrimp scampi skills, and the game-changing work he and his team are doing with one of the firm's most playful clients: LEGO! Be sure to stick around until the end when Roy shares some of the sage advice he received from a former LS3P team member that continues to serve him today. 

We are excited for you to take a listen to episode 6 of Human Scale, where Meredith and Patrick welcome Charlotte Office Leader Jeff Floyd and Raleigh’s Office Leader Steve Hepler. Did you know that Jeff and Steve share a long history together, going all the way back to being roommates during their college days? The chat involves Star Wars lasers, stoned rats, and lots of laughs between old friends. Stick around for our “Questions from the Fishbowl” to hear which dream client Jeff & Steve would love to work with before retiring.

Welcome to episode 5 of Human Scale! In our latest podcast, Meredith and Patrick welcome Practice Professional Natallie Santiago Rodriguez. Natallie shares the inspiring story of how she rallied the firm to donate supplies for the people of her home in Puerto Rico after a devastating hurricane and earthquake. It might bring a tear to your eye (as it did with at least one of our hosts). Read more about Natallie's Humanity efforts in Puerto Rico here - https://www.ls3p.com/portfolio/architecture-humanity-vs-nature/

We are proud to share episode 4 of Human Scale, where Meredith and Patrick welcome LS3P's Healthcare Practice Leader, Willy Schlein. They talk all about the incredible work LS3P’s Healthcare team have been doing with the World Health Organization (WHO) during the COVID pandemic and beyond. Be sure to stay tuned until the end to hear what actor Willy would want to play him in a movie about his life in our favorite segment "Questions from the Fish Bowl."

To learn more about the work LS3P is doing with WHO please check out their website https://www.who.int/initiatives/initiate2

Welcome to episode 3 where Meredith and Patrick welcome LS3P's VP of Human Resources, Jennifer C. Smith. They hear all about her amazing journey to discovering her love for HR and helping people along the way. Be sure to stay tuned until the end to hear some of Jennifer's advice to her 16 year old self in our new segment Questions from the Fish Bowl.

Welcome to episode 2! Join Meredith and Patrick as they welcome their first guests, Ellie Dawson and Jennifer Boyles, as they share the past, present, and future of Branded Environments at LS3P...and be sure to stay tuned to hear the songs they're most embarrassed to have on their playlists.

Welcome to Human Scale, an LS3P podcast.

From LS3P, an architecture, interiors, and planning firm, this is Human Scale, a podcast where we sit down with any and all members of LS3P's team to talk about the different facets of what we do, how we do it, and who we are as humans.

Co-hosts Meredith Ray and Patrick Cooley introduce the podcast and themselves...and might just give you some Charlotte, NC donut recommendations if you stick around.