Explore every episode of the podcast AEC Marketeer

AI-generated content is flooding the internet, making it harder for audiences to distinguish real from fake (deepfakes, AI-written articles, synthetic video/audio). People were already becoming skeptical of what they read on Google, websites, and social media, and now AI-content has driven consumer trust in online content to historic lows. For marketers, this means driving online leads and standing out as credible is much more difficult. In this episode, Katie and I talk about ways brand journalism and human-centered storytelling can help cut through the "AI Slop" by using things AI can't develop - real interviews, quotes, stats, anecdotes, and case studies. We also talk about how to approach this journalistic style of content creation in a way that facilitates meaningful connection.

*About Katie Wagner: *
Katie Wagner spent 15 years as a television and radio journalist, working for news outlets all over the world, including ABC, CBS, Fox, CNN & National Public Radio. As a professional storyteller, Katie knows how to engage an audience and build credibility, and she believes those skills are just as valuable for business owners as they are for journalists. Today, Katie owns a full-service digital marketing agency made up of journalists like herself. The agency, KWSM, was founded in 2010, and specializes in lead generation, content creation, social media management, digital advertising, website design, and SEO. They work with clients like Mitsubishi, Anthem Blue Cross, F45 Fitness Studios, Rakuten, Caesar’s Entertainment, Lorna Jane Active Wear, and small to mid-sized companies across the country. KWSM has offices in Orange County, CA, San Diego, CA, Atlanta, GA and Las Vegas, NV. Katie also works as a consultant, helping businesses integrate digital marketing into their traditional marketing plans. She is a popular speaker, and regularly gives keynote presentations and leads workshops and breakout sessions for both corporate and small business audiences. Katie lives in San Diego, CA with her husband and their 6 rescue dogs.

Links:
Website: https://kwsmdigital.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiewagnerkwsm/

Blair Huddy has been in B2B marketing and PR for over 15 years, and in this episode we chat about why press releases are having a quiet comeback thanks to AI, how LinkedIn actually works (it's closer to TikTok than you'd think), and what it takes to build an audience that genuinely wants to hear from you. Blair also shares how she approaches contrarian takes without burning professional bridges, what LinkedIn jail actually looks like, and why writing the way you talk is still the most underused strategy on the platform.

Links
Website: https://hudsondaviscommunications.com/
LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blairhuddy/

Frank Lazaro joins the show to share his practical, ROI-driven approach to AI adoption. With 20+ years of leadership experience, Frank breaks down why marketers need to stop obsessing over creation and start thinking like their leaders — in hours, heads, and billable rates. He walks us through the "Finding 12 Minutes" concept, the evolution of how organizations are thinking about AI, and why the biggest barrier to adoption isn't the technology at all.

About Frank:
Frank Lazaro is a visionary strategist and persuasive executor. A best-selling author, inventor, and keynote speaker, he is recognized for his expertise in artificial intelligence and innovation. With more than 20 years of leadership experience, Frank advises organizations on adopting innovative strategies to accelerate growth and efficiency. He is the author of Finding 12 Minutes, Building an AI-Ready Organization, and other works, and is known for delivering practical, actionable insights to audiences worldwide.

Where to see Frank:
ACEC Alaska conference at the end of April 2026
AEC.ai conference 2026
SMPS Ampilfy conference 2026
AEC Elevate conference

In this episode, I chat with Patrick Black, the social media manager behind Baker's Construction Services in Bluff City, Tennessee. Patrick takes us through his journey from working in construction and sales to becoming the guy who grew Baker’s Facebook following from 600 to a jaw-dropping 72,000 and got their content in front of over 80 million people.

We dig (pun intended) into Patrick’s creative approach to social media and online marketing—how he uses storytelling, stunning visuals, and a deep understanding of his audience to highlight the incredible work his team does. He also shares the unforgettable story of Hurricane Helene in 2024, when catastrophic flooding hit Northeast Tennessee. Patrick explains how his company was ready—not just to help with recovery efforts but to document and share the story of resilience and hope through social media.

He also highlights how many companies in the construction industry either don’t have a social media presence or aren’t using it effectively. Social media has become a key way people research businesses, offering a chance to show what you do and build a connection with your audience. Gaining followers is more than just a number—it’s about creating a channel where people actively choose to stay informed about your work. Patrick drops a key takeaway: “If the world searched for you in a search bar tomorrow—whether it’s on social media, Google, or whatever—would you be happy with what they find? Is it accurate and up-to-date?” That readiness, combined with a consistent content strategy, made all the difference for Baker’s.

From drone shots to time-lapse videos, Patrick shows how he turned a small-town construction company into a social media powerhouse. Whether you’re a marketer, a construction fan, or just love a good story about innovation and grit, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical tips. Ya dig?

More about Patrick and Baker's Construction can be found here:
website: https://www.bakersconstructionservices.com/
Patrick's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-black-211023b3/
BCS' Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wedigbcs/

In this special crossover episode with Ayo Abbas from the Built Environment Marketing Show, we’re diving into the fascinating differences between AEC marketing in the US and UK. From the clichés that hold firms back to the bold moves marketers should embrace, this episode is packed with laughs and actionable advice. Plus, we play a few fun games to decode the quirks of the AEC industry and share some behind-the-scenes stories from our careers.

This is Part 1 of the episode where I interview Ayo, and if you want to check out Part 2 where Ayo interviews me on her show, head to The Built Environment Marketing Show.
Link to that episode is here: https://www.abbasmarketing.com/marketing-podcast/uk-us-aec-marketing-ai
Ayo's Website: https://www.abbasmarketing.com

Join us as we cover the final two episodes of On Brand Season 1!

On this recap we cover Episodes 5 and 6 of On Brand - enjoy!

Recap of "On Brand" episodes 3 and 4 - enjoy!

This is the first of a mini-series Courtney Miller and I are doing to keep things a little more light and fun this Holiday season where we apply lessons from the show to AEC marketing. Enjoy!

In this episode, I share key takeaways from a recent leadership course, including career anchors and personality assessments, and how they can shape your approach to work and leadership. Plus, I’m kicking off a fun mini series with my friend Courtney Miller, where we’ll chat about the marketing reality show On Brand and explore how its lessons apply to the AEC industry.

In this episode, we dive deep into the power of generative AI with Brad Thompson, Business Solutions Director at SDB Contracting Services. With over 20 years of experience bridging marketing, IT, and app development, Brad shares his passion for efficiency, innovation, and problem-solving.

We explore:

• The difference between prompt engineering and context engineering and how to master both.
• Practical applications of AI in the AEC industry, from simplifying technical jargon to creating high-impact proposals.
• Tools like Notebook LM, custom GPTs, and automation platforms that are revolutionizing workflows.
• The surprising ways AI can enhance social media, business development, and even interview prep.
• Insights on balancing risk and reward when using AI for sensitive information.

Brad also shares his favorite tools, tips for automating tedious tasks, and how AI is helping professionals focus on what truly matters. Whether you're an AI enthusiast or just starting to explore its potential, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration.

Did you know 95% of people will look up your company online before making a decision? In this episode, we explore the world of construction marketing with Perryn Olson, a fractional CMO who’s helping AEC companies maximize ROI and stay competitive in the digital age. From the surprising findings of the 2025 Construction SEO Report to the game-changing role of AI in search, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone in the industry. Tune in to learn why SEO is no longer optional—and how to make it work for your business!

About Perryn Olson, FSMPS, CPSM, CCMP:
Perryn is a marketing strategist that understands how to drive profitability, grow efficiency, and maximize ROI. He is a Fractional Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) focused on Construction and ConTech companies at AltCMO. Perryn is also an SMPS Fellow, CPSM, and certified with the Construction Marketing Association. Perryn is the past president of SMPS Southeast Louisiana and a member of the chapter's hall of fame, and past co-chair for SMPS Southern Regional Conferences (SRC).

Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perryn/
Website: https://altcmo.net/
Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@AltCMO.
2025 Construction SEO Report: https://altcmo.net/news/2025-construction-seo-report/

Whether you're a Swiftie or not, Taylor Swift's influence on global spending and the marketing strategies behind her success are impossible to ignore. In this episode, Deirdre Booth and I explore how AEC firms can draw inspiration from Taylor Swift's innovative marketing tactics to create their own opportunities for growth.

Are you ready to upgrade your marketing efforts in professional services with a podcast? Maybe you're on the fence?
In either case, John Tyreman, founder of Red Cedar Marketing and co-host of the Breaking BizDev podcast, has got you covered!
In this episode, John shares strategies for using podcasts to build trust, expand networks, and create endless marketing content. From his early days launching shows during the pre-COVID era to navigating today's video-first landscape, John reveals the best practices that separate successful podcast operations from those that fade away after just a few episodes.

What You'll Learn:

• When (and why) your business should launch a podcast
• The host qualities that make or break podcast success
• How video podcasting is reshaping content discovery
• Streamlined workflows using tools like Riverside, Descript, and AI-powered platforms
• The guest experience framework that turns interviews into lasting business relationships
• Monetization strategies beyond traditional sponsorships

Whether you're a leader considering a podcast for your firm or a marketing professional looking to optimize your content strategy, this episode delivers actionable insights you can implement immediately.

About John:
John Tyreman is the founder of Red Cedar Marketing and co-hosts the Breaking BizDev podcast. John and his team help experts and firms use podcasting to build trust with buyers, grow their networks, and create endless marketing content.

Links!
Red Cedar Marketing: https://www.redcedarmarketing.com/
John Tyreman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johntyreman/
Breaking BizDev Podcast: https://www.breakingbizdev.com/

Having a hard time finding and keeping top marketing talent in the AEC industry? You’re definitely not alone. In fact, it’s one of the biggest headaches firms are dealing with right now.

In this episode, we’re tackling that challenge head-on and sharing one game-changing approach: creating clear paths for upward mobility within your firm. We’ll chat about smart ways to find talent where they already are and how investing in their growth can completely transform your team.

About Skip:
Skip is a principal and vice president of marketing at Coffman Engineers. In this role, he oversees the company-wide strategic marketing, communication, and branding efforts, and supports ongoing company growth in geographic reach, markets served, and engineering capabilities.
Skip has been a marketer in the AEC industry since 2006. He was the founding president of the Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS) Alaska Chapter, and has served in various board and committee positions for numerous organizations. He holds a Master of Professional Communications in marketing communication and a Bachelor of Science in graphic and multimedia technology.

Website:
https://www.coffman.com/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/skipbourgeois/

From pre-tradeshow planning to post-event debriefs, Tracy Jenkins shares her proven process and go-to checklist for success. Tune in as we explore best practices, actionable tips, and a step-by-step approach to make your next tradeshow a winning experience!

About Tracy Jenkins, MBA, CPSM:
Tracy is a dedicated business development professional providing strategic marketing services for the 3QC team. She specializes in research, organization, technical writing, and creative thinking, consistently meeting tight deadlines and delivering impactful results.

Website: https://3qcinc.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenkinstracy/

In this episode, Mindy and I discuss how a healthy culture affects a company's bottom line and the impact cultural strategy can have on your firm and community. She provides historical context for current cultural challenges and examples of the best ways we can move forward.

About Mindy Gulati:
Mindy is a seasoned strategist and advisor whose career spans law, leadership, and organizational transformation. Rooted in a strong foundation of critical thinking and problem-solving, she began her professional journey as a trial lawyer, honing her ability to navigate complexity, uncover biases, and advocate for equitable outcomes. Nearly a decade of experience in the criminal justice system sharpened her skills in strategy, communication, and relationship-building—qualities that would later define her consulting approach.
A decade ago, Mindy founded Fundamental Advisory, a consultancy dedicated to guiding organizations through pivotal challenges and opportunities. Whether partnering with corporate leaders, legal teams, or government entities, she brings a unique blend of analytical rigor, emotional intelligence, and actionable insight to every engagement. Her work focuses on aligning leadership teams, driving cultural transformation, and solving high-stakes organizational issues.
Under Mindy's leadership, Fundamental Advisory has become a trusted partner for companies building sustainable leadership teams, navigating crises, fostering collaboration, and achieving long-term business goals. Known for her ability to lead through ambiguity and deliver sustainable results, Mindy is passionate about empowering leaders to build resilient, high-performing organizations.
Through her consultancy, Mindy and her team have facilitated breakthroughs for clients across diverse industries, fostering environments where innovation thrives, teams excel, and businesses grow.

Website: https://www.fundamentaladvisory.com/
Book Recommendation: The Sum of Us: https://bookshop.org/p/books/the-sum-of-us-what-racism-costs-everyone-and-how-we-can-prosper-together-heather-mcghee/14618549?ean=9780525509585&next=t

This is a recording of the closing conversations at SERC where the creator of the AEC Marketing Memes instagram page and I sit down to talk about the page, how content is created, and their philosophy behind the page.

AEC Marketing Memes: https://www.instagram.com/aecmarketingmemes/?hl=en
Video of Surreal Cereal Ad: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PDJ7eG9ZYRE

Myself and the fantastic mind behind the AEC Marketing Memes page, "Mimi", talk about the sessions we went to at SERC and some of our key take-aways. We also touched on the conference as a whole and the details that stuck out the most to us as attendees.

In this episode as part of the SERC conference series, Shane and I talked about management strategies to help your team's operations and maximize efficiency which included systems to eliminate tedious and time-intensive tasks like reformatting resumes and project sheets.

About Shane:
Shane Kane
Director | Turner & Townsend
Over the course of his marketing career, including work at an independent marketing agency and professional service firms focused on building design, construction and management, Shane has advanced marketing programs within national and international markets. His leadership, development and execution of multi-faceted marketing and business development programs has been aimed at strengthening overall corporate visibility while advancing new business pursuit interests. He has extensive experience in generating brand impressions, developing messaging, measuring effectiveness and guiding target audiences into the business development cycle. Using this integrated marketing and business development communications approach, he has led marketing teams and been involved in marketing efforts that have translated into new business contract awards exceeding $10 Billion in construction value in the last 12 years.

Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanekane/
Website: https://www.turnerandtownsend.com/

In this episode, Lillian and I talk about the importance of looking outside the AEC space to get inspired, prevent burnout, and effectively communicate your firm's brand and strategy.

About Lillian:

Lillian Parker
External Communications Manager | Little Diversified Architectural Consulting
Lillian is a curious and enthusiastic communications strategist, relationship builder, and storyteller. Professionally, Lillian serves as External Communications Manager with Little Diversified Architectural Consulting and a freelance copywriter and communications consultant. She is a lifelong learner fascinated by the intersections of language and experience. In all spaces, she strives to move with sincerity and intention. Lillian hails from Montgomery, Alabama, and graduated from Auburn University with bachelor's degrees in Public Relations and Spanish Language. She has resided in Charlotte, North Carolina, since 2018. Outside of work, Lillian enjoys fostering creative talent, binging cultural commentary, and loving on her rescue pup.

Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lillianvparker/
Website: littleonline.com

In this episode, industry veteran Bill Long, PE, LEED AP, and SMPS Fellow, shares his extensive insights on the strategic role of business development (BD) and marketing in AEC. He discusses how technical professionals and marketers can effectively collaborate throughout the client acquisition process, emphasizing the importance of connecting, meeting, and following up with clients to build relationships and establish trust.

Bill Long, PE, LEED AP, FSMPS
Principal | WRL Consultants
Bill is an experienced member of the design and construction community where he has been active for over forty years. During that time, Bill has held multiple positions at both design and construction firms including Principal, Vice President, Project Executive, Director of Business Development, Project Manager, and Project Engineer. An active member of the AEC community, Bill has been a featured speaker at multiple industry presentations and presented at regional and national functions for AIA, ACEC, AGC, CMAA, ASLA, SDA, NFMT, ASC, CSI, ISPE, and SMPS. Bill has authored numerous articles for various building industry publications and was the lead author and researcher for the Fellows Report published by the SMPS Foundation. He also authored a White Paper for the Foundation entitled International Success in the A/E/C World – Benchmarks and Best Practices. Bill is a Fellow in SMPS and a Past-Trustee and Past-President of the SMPS Foundation.

Links:
https://wrlconsultants.com/
Bill's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamrlong/

In this podcast episode, we dive into Whole-Brain® Thinking and Gracewriting, exploring how these tools can transform communication and proposal writing by tailoring messages to different thinking styles. Through engaging insights and real-world examples, we discuss key questions about leveraging these methods to improve marketing strategies, lead teams, and achieve impactful results.

Carol Doscher is the Founder, President, and CEO (Chief Encouragement Officer) of Graceworks, a communications training and coaching firm. She’s been immersed in teaching communication skills for nearly 30 years and just loves watching clients break through and find their freedom!

Kyla Stewart is a Gracewriter and Freedom Finder at Graceworks. So that means she’s wild about semicolons and loves to coach presenters to freedom and strength! She’s been in the world of theatre, elementary, secondary and higher education, photography, music, all the fun things, because she can’t sit still. Kyla hails from Miami, Florida and is thrilled to support her South Florida community!

Links:
https://graceworksinc.com/

In this episode, we explore the intricacies of social media strategy, including tools, recommendations, and tips for creating and maintaining your online presence. We also discuss how to refine your social media and online content to meet the needs of your firm.

Duncan Robertson, CPSM
Director of BD and Marketing | Tamarack Grove Engineering
Duncan is a BD and marketing professional who has dedicated his young career to the A/E/C industry. In just over five years after graduating from college, Duncan has made significant contributions to the marketing and BD presence at Tamarack Grove Engineering, co-founded SMPS Idaho, presented at AmplifyAEC and led his firm to win 10+ national marketing achievement and best firm awards through SMPS and Zweig Group. He served as President of SMPS Idaho, PR Chair for ACE Mentor Program of Idaho which he also co-founded, and also on various subcommittees with AmplifyAEC and SMPS PRC, including a 2024 Program Lead for Amplify AEC. Duncan has a passion for making a difference in the lives of others through content creation, strategic planning, and connecting like-minded professionals. Building authentic industry relationships and promoting the incredible work that technical professionals do each day wakes Duncan up every morning with a purpose.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/duncanhrobertson/
Website: https://www.tamarackgrove.com/

Ever felt like proposals take over your life? In this episode, we talk about Briana's SERC session on owning your pursuit schedule, balancing work and personal life, and learning how to stay in control even when everything feels chaotic.

About Briana:
Briana Carter, CPSM | Associate and Marketing Strategist | Page
Briana is a seasoned Marketing Manager at Page. She has been in the industry since 2017 and has experience working in the “A,” the “E,” and the “C.” She found her niche as a visual storyteller who sells relationships, experience, and quality work. She has a deep interest in the built environment and loves its impact on the human experience. She is an advocate for women in construction and STEM, creating equal opportunities in the workforce, and inclusive design practices. Briana has been heavily involved with the SMPS DEI Committee and assumed the role of chair in 2024. At Page, she continues this work as part of several of their PCGs (Page Community Groups), Think Tanks, and co-labs.

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

In this episode, Sarah explains the importance of creating a clear, actionable vision for success - whether that be organizational growth or adapting to disruption or change. She emphasizes starting with reflection—examining what has changed, what remains constant, and identifying non-negotiables to guide decision-making. Sarah discusses how a shared vision, rooted in a company’s current reality, is essential for aligning leadership and activating teams to achieve long-term goals. By learning from past successes and missteps, organizations can build frameworks, such as go/no-go scorecards, to make more informed, strategic choices. Whether navigating stability or uncertainty, Sarah highlights the value of thoughtful reflection in driving purposeful, sustainable growth.

Sarah Kinard – Market Research, Strategy, and Planning Consultant
Sarah is a strategic visionary with over 20 years of experience in professional services firm strategy, research, marketing, and implementation. She is known as a change agent, frequently hired by firms to create a strategy rooted in research, business practice, and scale resulting in their unique growth plan.

Her career has taken her from a well-regarded regional firm, to a national K-12 firm to begin a Higher Education Practice so successful that it went global, to a Global Interior Architecture firm focused on Hospitality. Her experience and understanding of differing markets, project types, and growth strategies bring thoughtful, tailored research and growth strategy to her clients.

Links:
https://theflamingoproject.com/
Office Hours: https://theflamingoproject.com/office-hours/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahwkinard/

In this episode, Tim Asimos and I talk all about client experience (CX) and its importance for standing out in the AEC industry. We look at the connection between CX and brand, discussing how marketing professionals are uniquely positioned to serve as brand ambassadors and take ownership of the overall brand experience.

About Tim Asimos, CPSM
Head of Growth @ Client Savvy

Tim Asimos is a catalyst for disruption in A/E/C marketing, providing keen insights on modern marketing and a unique perspective drawn from more than 20 years of experience both inside and outside the industry. As Head of Growth at Client Savvy, Tim leads the client feedback software company’s growth strategies, overseeing business development, marketing, and communication. Tim’s visionary perspectives are regularly showcased in industry publications, blogs, webinars, and podcasts. His inspiring keynotes and informative breakout sessions have become fixtures at conferences across the country. Tim is a longstanding SMPS member and a Certified Professional Services Marketer (CPSM).

Links:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timasimos/

Website: https://clientsavvy.com/

Conference: https://clientexperience.org/

In this episode, I walk through my key takeaways from the Managerial Economics course I took and how it applies to AEC Marketing as a whole.

In this episode, I give a little peep into what I've been up to the last few months and what I've got in store for everyone this New Year!

Links:
Project Nomination Form: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScXXX4IC86vPGvTt7Z7DeLeblyFRcTw_uHmJA2K92AJM0L2Sw/viewform?usp=header

General Survey: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScXXX4IC86vPGvTt7Z7DeLeblyFRcTw_uHmJA2K92AJM0L2Sw/viewform?usp=header

This episode goes into why your company should feature employees and leverage thought leadership as an important component of both marketing and culture. One common piece of pushback that we are looking to answer/mitigate is - if we feature our employees, they'll just get recruited away! Listen in to hear how we address that and other pushback we often hear.

About Ida Cheinman, Substance151 Principal and Creative Director:
Ida is a brand strategist, designer, marketer, speaker and educator who uses 20+ years of experience to help business leaders and marketing professionals make sense of trends, tools, and next practices in order to position their companies to win in the 21st century’s fast-changing and extremely competitive marketplace.

Website: https://substance151.com/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/idacheinman/

This episode is a very quick recap of the relevant pieces I got from my Survey Methodology course.

In this episode Aimee Colton and I talk about the Utah Department of Transportation's instragram page and the strategy behind it's incredibly funny and sometimes serious posts. From getting buy in to tracking key metrics, this is an episode you don't want to miss!

About Aimee:
As the social media manager for UDOT, Aimee has grown their social media accounts by tens of thousands of followers. Most notably, she launched and grew the UDOT TikTok account, amassing millions of likes and over 120,000 followers within a year of its creation, reaching and connecting with more Utahns and establishing UDOT as a leader worldwide.

Prior to joining the Utah Department of Transportation, Aimee’s dynamic career has seen her navigating the communications world of both government entities and national brands. Most recently, she managed the social media for the largest publicly traded company in Utah.

Instagram: utahtransportation
Aimee's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aimeecolton/

In this episode I'm joined by Ryan Sullivan to talk about the essential financial literacy needed for success in the AEC industry. We explore how businesses allocate their funds and listeners will learn about key financial terms such as revenue, expenses, and profit, and we’ll discuss crucial project-level considerations like overhead, utilization, and billable rates. We also explore how this financial knowledge can inform marketing strategies, focusing on pre-bid work, the go/no-go process, and the importance of ROI. By the end of the episode, you'll have a clearer understanding of how to allocate a percentage of revenue toward effective marketing efforts.

About Ryan:
Ryan Sullivan, PE is the founder and lead financial planner of Off the Beaten Path Financial. Starting his career as a mechanical engineer, he built an engineering department from the ground up before starting his financial planning firm. His focus is on helping architects and engineers build, grow, and use their wealth to accomplish their biggest dreams. He believes cash flow is the foundation of a strong financial position and helps his clients make sure their money is aligned with their values by building systems that provide peace of mind, financial clarity, and ultimately better decision making. With a precision-driven approach, Ryan blends engineering rigor with calculated risk-taking, ensuring stability while empowering clients to confidently pursue financial abundance.

Links:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-sullivan-pe/
https://www.obpfinancial.com/

In this episode, I'm joined by Katherine Robinette to discuss the challenges of initiating change within organizations, emphasizing the importance of clearly defining goals before embarking on any project. We talk about the process to follow for change management and common scenarios where individuals may feel hesitant to start due to uncertainty or anticipated resistance. We stress the significance of clear communication throughout the process to mitigate resistance and foster engagement. If you want to know how to really get SCHTUFF done right, join us as we uncover strategies for building trust and ensuring everyone feels involved in the journey of change.

About Katherine:
In today’s work environment, it is a struggle to find the time, resources, and energy to make big changes efficiently, effectively, and with wide support. Meet Katherine Robinette, CPSM, keynote speaker and consultant, on a mission to help leaders and managers create positive change for their teams and company. With more than 20 years of experience in marketing and employee engagement, Katherine is a thought leader in effective engagement and organizational change management.
https://KeystoneAndRaven.com
https://www.linkedin.com/company/keystone-and-raven
https://www.linkedin.com/in/karobinettecpsm/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560298193059 (business page)

In this episode, Chemene Phillips explains the differences between branding and marketing, especially for smaller vs. larger firms. We highlight the importance of budget allocation in making these strategies work. Plus, we share how new companies can effectively build their brand and why consistent branding is key to tackling challenges like talent turnover and keeping customer loyalty strong.

Chemene Phillips, President:
In 2002, Chemene had a vision to help companies build their brand story through the right combination of long-term business strategy, applicable technology and effective design techniques. Assembling a team in various marketing specialties to create a full-service branding firm she launched BRIXBranding (formerly Digital Arts Designs). Chemene and her team specialize in helping businesses achieve growth initiatives through effective strategies and cross platform communication methods. Her “no-nonsense” approach and passion for achieving results, helps companies increase brand awareness, engagement and talent attraction. The BRIX team works closely with their clients nationwide to deliver effective solutions that position them to win in the marketplace. Through identification of long-term business objectives and developing techniques to help clients set themselves apart from their competition, they have successfully helped professional service firms and A/E/C companies grow their brand, double their profits, attract the right prospects, and stay top of mind with their audience. The end result is effective solutions that produce long term results and sustainable company growth.

Links:
https://www.brixbranding.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/chemenephillips/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/brixbranding/

This mini episode is quick rundown on listening and how to be a good listener. Hope you enjoy!

In this episode, Bryce Batts outlines what the labor market looks like right now and the best ways to attract and retain talent. This includes how marketing can improve the processes in place to align new employees with company culture and attract top talent using marketing best practices.

Bryce has been a recruiter in the AEC industry for 15+ years and is a certified Career Coach and Speaker. She met her husband in college, and they have two daughters and a Bernedoodle. She attended NC State University for her bachelor’s degree and received her MBA at Nova Southeastern. She was a college dancer and cheerleader and loves to cheer professionals on as they gain clarity and confidence when it comes to their career goals. She's the co-CEO of Career Collective, an AEC recruiting and coaching firm and podcast host of Wine After Work. Career Collective was founded with a Singular Vision: Providing Both Candidates and Employers with Premier Access to the Best in AEC Industry Opportunities. Guided by Bryce Batts and Edwin Powali, Career Collective stands at the forefront of AEC recruitment. Bryce's passion for career coaching and dedication to enriching both the careers of individuals and the teams of employers they serve is truly inspiring.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryce-batts-recruiter/
https://www.mycareercollective.com/

In this episode, I'm joined by Marci Thompson as we dive into the essence of leadership. Marci offers a unique perspective on her own approach to leading and provides valuable advice on what leaders should do more and less of to shine. Join us for a great conversation of what it truly means to be a great leader and bring your own brilliance.

Marci D. Thompson, DES| Interim Chief Executive Officer/ CSO, SMPS

Interim Chief Executive Officer/CSO for the Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS HQ). A forward-thinker, Marci leads the strategic direction for growth, engagement, publications, and training for the Society. Marci is the Publisher of the award-winning Marketer journal; she is also a contributing writer for trade publications and a two- time book author.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marci-thompson/

In today's podcast, Richard Tregaskes from Atkins Realis shares his journey with dyslexia and its impact on his innovative problem-solving skills. He talks about initiating a neurodiversity employee resource group in the Americas, inspired by his university diagnosis, which helped improve his academic performance. Our conversation highlights the importance of neurodiversity in the workplace, especially in the AEC industry, emphasizing the need for accommodating and understanding neurodiverse employees to boost productivity and innovation. It covers the benefits of simple adjustments like alternative communication methods and accessible formats, and suggests practical inclusivity strategies like noise-canceling headphones for remote workers, flexible work environments, and tailored support.

Richard has 17 years of Engineering Design experience including as a multidisciplinary project manager before joining AtkinsRéalis as a senior project manager. Over his career Richard has helped deliver projects in his native UK, the Far East, Middle East and North America. Richard understands the strengths that his Dyslexia brings him and tries to use those as an advantage for the projects he is helping deliver.

Richard's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardtregaskes/
Office Design for Neurodiversity: https://www.atkinsrealis.com/en/engineering-better-future/beyond-engineering/nurturing-neurodiversity

This episode dives into constructing and evaluating effective pursuit processes, and defining what sets them apart from traditional proposal process. Krystn shares her philosophy of prioritizing clients over projects, highlighting the strategic, client-focused approach that distinguishes a pursuit process. She details the fundamental steps crucial for any company's prosperity, underscoring the importance of adaptability, defined roles, and striking a balance between inflexibility and flexibility.

Join us as we dig into the importance of authentic client connections, the common pitfalls to steer clear of, and the intertwined responsibilities of leadership, business development, and marketing teams in creating and maintaining a successful pursuit process.

Krystn Macomber believes there's magic in disrupting the ordinary and she thrives on challenging the status quo. She has more than 20 years of experience in the marketing + proposal profession, including 17 years in the corporate world building and leading high-performing teams for global AEC firms across the country. She has trained thousands of leaders, project managers, marketers, and SMEs on proposal + marketing best practices. Three years ago, she left the corporate world to follow her long-time dream to start her own business, Summit Strategy. Today, Summit is a game-changing integrated marketing + proposal consulting firm instrumental in helping B2G + B2B organizations achieve their goals through strategic planning, branding, proposal development, and training.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/krystnmacomber/
Website: https://www.summitstrategywins.com/

In this episode Dr. Tullio Rossi explains how he uses animated videos to convey complex information in a simple and approachable way. While Tullio primarily works with scientists, the principles of communicating complex projects are what the A/E/C and scientific communities share.

Dr. Tullio Rossi is an award-winning science communicator, marine biologist and graphic designer. As founder of the agency "Animate Your Science", he helps STEM professionals tell their story to the world. His engaging video animations and eye-catching graphics make science and engineering understandable for everyone, reaching millions of people around the world, to create a real-life impact.

Website: animateyour.science
Workshops and learning opportunities: https://www.animateyour.science/training

In this episode we dig into the transformative impact of AI in the AEC industry. Discover how AI is reshaping the AEC landscape and paving the way for firms to gain a competitive edge. This conversation is balanced between AI expert Mehdi Nourbakhsh, Ph.D. and CEO Andy McCune as we explore the benefits of integrating AI software, strategies for staying ahead of the curve, and crucial considerations for successful implementation.

About today's guests:
Mehdi Nourbakhsh, Ph.D., is an author, speaker, and CEO of YegaTech, a technology consulting company in the AEC industry.With a decade of experience in the research and development of innovative AI solutions in the AEC and manufacturing industry at YegaTech, Autodesk, and GeorgiaTech, Mehdi brings a unique perspective to this space. He has developed several AI solutions that are used by
tens of thousands of AEC and manufacturing professionals every day, has filed seven US patents on the use of artificial intelligence in the AEC and manufacturing industries, and served as a member of the technical advisory committee of the Center of Integrated Facility
Engineering at Stanford University. In his new book written for AEC innovators and professionals, "Augment It: How Architecture, Engineering, and Construction Leaders Leverage Data and Artificial Intelligence to Build a Sustainable Future," Mehdi explains how AEC leaders can invent, innovate, and augment their capabilities using AI.

**Andy McCune **began his career in the consulting engineering industry in 1987 as a graduate engineer. Through the years, he has filled various roles; from project engineer to project manager to group manager to region manager, market segment manager, Chief Operating Officer and now Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board for Wade Trim. These roles have given him the opportunity to work with a wide variety of clients including municipalities, utility authorities, departments of transportation, industrial and commercial entities, energy companies and many more. Andy draws from his 37 years of experience to guide the firm’s strategic focus and business performance. He is invested in continued development of the organization’s ability to be the best team in the business and to maintain a deep technical bench.

Links:
YegaTech: https://yegatech.com/free-resources/
Wade Trim: https://www.wadetrim.com//

This episode is part two of my book report on Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss. In this episode I go over mastering "no" and getting to "That's Right".

I'm trying something new this year and doing book reports on professional development books I really like. In this episode I'm going through Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss and applying the tactics he discusses to AEC Marketing! In this episode I cover the two building blocks for building relationships and improving communication - mirroring and labeling.

Link to book: https://www.amazon.com/Never-Split-Difference-audiobook/dp/B01COR1GM2/ref=sr_1_1?crid=SW75YBEQRXVL&keywords=never+split+the+difference+chris+voss&qid=1707326308&sprefix=never+spl%2Caps%2C172&sr=8-1

Have you ever wondered how to make your website really stand out? Well, in today's episode, Ben and I dive into working with a copywriter when designing a website and the role good copy plays in a successful user experience.

Now, Ben has some serious wisdom to share. He's a firm believer in getting the copywriter involved right from the start. Why? Because thoughtful copy can guide the entire design process and make sure your website speaks directly to your audience. So, if you want your website to not just look amazing, but really hit the mark in delivering your message, stick around.

About Ben:
Ben Culbreth is a freelance copywriter and content strategist who partners with corporate clients and news publications. He also works with organizations to develop content marketing strategies. Prior to starting his business, Ben held roles in voluntary benefits sales and marketing and non-profit advocacy.

Ben's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminculbreth/

Website: www.benjaminculbreth.com

In this, the 100th episode of AEC Marketeer, we are taking it back to the basics with a little AEC Marketing 101. Send it to your friends, loved ones, people who might want to get started in this industry, your next door neighbor even!

About Julie:
Julie Shaffer, FSMPS, CPSM, is passionate about helping AEC marketers maximize software tools to expedite content layout without sacrificing good design. After 11 years as an in-house marketer, Julie founded Shaffer Creative in 2012 to offer consulting, training, and creative design services, empowering firms to secure new work and thrive in the competitive landscape. She and her team support 100+ pursuits a year and have worked with over 250 owner agencies and AEC firms across the country on projects across the globe. Through these efforts, Shaffer Creative has helped firms shape their identities, craft impactful marketing campaigns, and empower teams to make the most of their marketing efforts.

Website: https://shaffercreative.com/

A little note from me to you this New Year's.

In this episode, Janki and I discuss the 'pack mule' versus 'unicorn' mentalities and a few tools to help you identify your strengths. We also cover the importance of establishing boundaries to get where you want to be.

Janki DePalma is the Director of Business Development for Kirksey Architecture, with over 20 years of experience in the architecture, engineering and construction industry. She’s a connector at heart who believes there always is room to widen the circle and give people a sense of belonging. Janki is a frequent speaker and writer on topics such as networking, emotional intelligence and women in construction. She is a past-president for the Society for Marketing Professional Services, a board member of AIA Austin and active with ULI and Commercial Real Estate Women. A San Francisco native, Janki cheers loudly for the Warriors, 49ers and Giants.

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

In this episode, Donna Corlew, FSMPS, CPSM and I have a great discussion on Doer-Sellers – those remarkable individuals who are responsible for Doing and Selling. Throughout this conversation we explore the significance of the Doer-Seller role, and how their hands-on approach and relationship-building skills grant them credibility. We also discuss different scenarios where firms exclusively rely on Doer-Sellers or adopt a hybrid model based on size and strategy.

Looking to engage Doer-Sellers more effectively? We've got you covered! Tune in as we reveal strategies for how marketers can respectfully approach Doer-Sellers. So, join us and let's dive into the dynamic world of Doer-Sellers!

About Donna:
Strategist. Facilitator. Connector. Coach. Donna works with A/E/C firms to focus strategic vision and market position, grow connections with clients and targets, and train doer-sellers and marketing and business development professionals to thrive and win profitable work. She has trained over 600 technical professionals as effective doer-sellers.
A Certified Professional Services Marketer (CPSM) and Fellow of the Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS), Donna is an active SMPS member, including serving as Society President and SMPS Foundation trustee. Donna received SMPS’ highest honor, the Weld Coxe Marketing Achievement Award, in 2019, recognizing career achievements, leadership roles, and lasting contributions to the A/E/C industries.

Links:
Website: http://www.yourconnectedge.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnacorlew/

In this episode, I am joined by BJ Kraemer to discuss the importance of elevating the AEC Industry and strategies we can use to make an impact. We aim to highlight ways that will allow us to boost both the reputation and visibility of the AEC Industry.

BJ is the President and CEO of MCFA and the host of the Inspiring People and Places podcast.

Website: https://mcfaglobal.com/
Podcast: https://mcfaglobal.com/podcast/ and https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/inspiring-people-places-architecture-engineering-and/id1561090224