Explore every episode of the podcast Architecture Business Club with Jon Clayton

Avoiding Costly Miscommunication in Architecture: Clearer Client Communication with Usman Yaqub

Jon Clayton hosts Architecture Business Club with guest Usman Yaqub, president of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists and director at Studio Yaqub Architecture, to discuss how miscommunication and technical jargon damage projects and client relationships. Usman explains that clients, contractors, planners, engineers, and consultants view the same project through different lenses—emotional investment, buildability and program, or compliance and policy—so communication must be adapted to what “success” means for each audience and to reduce “scope canyons” between silos. He shares examples where stakeholders misunderstood milestones and where “planning approval” was wrongly assumed to mean ready-to-build, stressing the need to confirm understanding. Practical tactics include using relatable explanations, storytelling, and visual tools like drawings, BIM, and visualisations, plus framing meetings to invite questions.

Today’s Guest

Usman Yaqub is the current President of The Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists & Director at Studio Yaqub Architecture. He’s an Associate Lecturer at The University of the West of England and holds positions with a number of charities and not for profit organisations. He also established the popular online CPD series - CPD in 43.

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Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

01:12 Meet Usman Yaqub

02:11 Different Lenses Different Goals

03:33 Keeping Clients Emotionally Engaged

05:10 Bridging Scope Canyons

06:19 Jargon That Backfires

06:58 Simplicity Shows Expertise

08:04 Making The Process Accessible

10:09 Miscommunication Stories

10:46 Milestones And Expectations

11:59 Planning Approval Confusion

13:12 Spotting When They Don't Get It

14:50 Planning Vs Building Regs Explained

16:25 Bookending Meetings For Clarity

18:28 Tailoring To Each Audience

22:05 Storytelling And Visual Tools

23:57 Biggest Communication Advice

24:59 Final Thoughts And Where To Connect

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Key Takeaways

Think about who you are talking to

Everyone you work with sees a project differently. A client cares about how it will change their life. A contractor cares about how to build it. A planner cares about rules and policy. When you understand what matters to each person, you can talk to them in a way that makes sense for them — and things go much more smoothly.

Simple words show more skill than big ones

Using jargon might make you feel clever, but it can leave people confused and too embarrassed to say so. The real skill is taking something complex and explaining it in plain language. If someone walks away understanding you, that is a much better result than if they walk away impressed but lost.

Good communication means checking understanding, not just sharing information

Saying something clearly is only half the job. You also need to make sure the other person has understood it the same way you meant it. Watch for small signs — hesitation, odd questions, or repeated words — that tell you there may be a gap. Ask "what questions do you have?" instead of "do you have any questions?" to give people a proper chance to speak up.

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Connect with Usman Yaqub on LinkedIn 🤝

Learn more about Studio Yaqub Architecture 🖥️

Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

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Fixing Budget Misalignment in Residential Projects.

A conversation with Michael Sweebe on Build Cost Estimation. Host Jon Clayton interviews residential architect Michael Sweebe of Sweebe Architecture about the common problem of homeowners’ design goals outpacing their budgets and the lack of early tools to define scope and estimate costs. Mike shares how his childhood experience in an unsuitable apartment shaped his focus on homes as expressions of memory, identity, and aspiration, and how 20 years in commercial practice led him to residential work. He explains how a COVID-era, space-by-space cost spreadsheet helped him give live ballpark project costs, preventing clients from spending money on drawings they couldn’t afford to build. That approach evolved into Scopify, a free homeowner app (beta) that estimates “soup to nuts” build costs by U.S. postal code and delivers pre-qualified leads to architects, reducing unbillable qualification time.

Today’s Guest

Michael Sweebe is a practicing architect & the founder of Sweebe Architecture. Mike’s practice specialises in residential architecture & interior design – designing homes that bring families closer together. Mike is also the founder of Scopify – a new app helping homeowners to estimate & control their build costs from the outset & to connect them with the best service providers.

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Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

01:01 Meet Michael Sweebe

01:36 What We Will Cover

02:08 A Childhood Home Mismatch

03:00 Drawing Plans At Age Nine

04:19 Finding Purpose Early

05:41 From Uni To Real Practice

06:40 Why Homeowners Matter More

08:42 Residential Brand Mindset

09:44 Residential Project Pitfalls

10:23 No Tools For Early Costing

12:16 Chicken and Egg Problem

13:14 Building Without Architectural Guidance

14:46 COVID Spreadsheet Solution

15:47 Space By Space Estimating

16:47 Why Homeowners Think In Rooms

18:15 Live Pricing Saves Projects

20:24 Stop Gatekeeping Cost Info

21:51 Limits Of One To One Help

22:29 Sales Funnel Sparks Scopify

24:52 Scaling Impact Nationwide

26:47 Scopify Beta Overview

27:28 Homeowner Experience And Pricing

28:12 Postal Code Cost Algorithm

29:15 40 40 20 cost rule

30:00 Qualified Leads For Architects

30:54 Beta Results And Conversions

34:05 Homeowners Know 85 Percent Of What They Want

34:54 How To Try Scopify

35:23 Key Takeaway

36:16 Must Have Business Resource

39:11 Where To Find Michael Sweebe

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Key Takeaways

Help homeowners understand costs before they hire anyone.

If you work in architecture or home design, one of the biggest problems you will see is that homeowners have no idea what things cost. When they find out late in the process, it can kill the whole project. You can save everyone a lot of time and money by giving people a rough idea of costs right at the start — before they pay for drawings or sign any contracts.

Think about spaces the way the people living in them do.

When you are working with homeowners, remember that their home is about more than just building materials and square footage. It is about who they are, what they care about, and what kind of life they want to live. If you keep that in mind, you will do better work and build stronger relationships with your clients.

Technology can help you reach more people and save time.

If you are a small practice, you can only help so many clients on your own. But if you use the right tools — like an app that lets homeowners self-qualify before they even speak to you — you can spend your time with people who are actually ready to go ahead. That means less unpaid time in meetings that go nowhere, and more clients who are a good fit for your work.

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Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺

Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢

Learn more about Scopify 🖥️

Test the Scopify app 🖥️

Learn more about Sweebe Architecture 🖥️

Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧

Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

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Top Marketing & Lead Generation Episodes for Architecture Practices

Jon Clayton introduces a roundup of Architecture Business Club episodes focused on improving marketing and lead generation for architecture practices beyond a website portfolio and occasional Instagram posts. Jon highlights the most popular marketing and lead generation episode to date, shares a “hidden gem,” and reveals one of his personal favourites.

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Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

01:32 Most Popular Marketing & Lead Generation Episode To Date

02:42 The Right Way For Architecture Firms To Use LinkedIn

03:53 A Hidden Gem From Our Marketing & Lead Generation Episodes

05:05 How To Use Pinterest To Build Know, Like & Trust

06:19 A Personal Favourite From Our Marketing & Lead Generation Episodes

07:39 Strategic Marketing System For Small Firms

09:47 Wrap Up

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Key Takeaways

Show who you are, not just what you build

On LinkedIn, you might think sharing photos of your finished projects is enough. But clients want to know you. They want to see your personality, understand how you work, and feel they can trust you. Try sharing why you love what you do or a little about your process — that personal touch can make a big difference.

Pinterest can help you reach clients early

Pinterest is not really a social media platform — it works more like a search engine. If you post helpful content there, people can find you while they are still deciding which architectural designer to hire. Over time, they get to know your work, trust your brand, and when they are ready, they come back to you.

A lean marketing system can work for small firms

You do not need a big team to market well. Start by getting clear on who your dream client is, create a simple core offer, and set up a way to bring in leads. Even a small "gateway offer" — like a paid strategy session — can help turn first conversations into paying work and grow your business step by step.

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Get to grips with LinkedIn in this popular podcast episode

Learn how to leverage Pinterest in your architecture practice

Build an effective marketing system for your micro-sized business

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Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺

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Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧

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Host Jon Clayton welcomes Kathy Ennis of Little Piggy Ltd to Architecture Business Club to discuss why many solopreneurs and micro business owners struggle and what drives success. Kathy explains that talented people often rely on passion and “window dressing” marketing without learning core business skills, especially planning and cashflow forecasting. She outlines her five “Ps”: people (start with psychographics and choose who you want to buy from you), product (for services, productise offers into clear packages and entry levels), price (set targets based on business costs, salary, tax and profit, then align pricing with customer and offer), promotion (balance brand and sales marketing; go beyond social media with networking, lead magnets and email), and productivity (allocate time to run the business, build systems, and outsource).

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Today’s Guest

Kathy Ennis is the founder of LittlePiggy and an award-winning Business Mentor who specialises in working with Solopreneurs, Freelancers and Side-Hustlers to build businesses that actually work and bring them the success they deserve.

After 20 years in the corporate world, Kathy launched her own business in 2000 at 40, knowing nothing about business. It didn't all go to plan – redundancy, a financial crisis, and even pension fraud tested her resolve – but she learned, adapted and built something sustainable. Those hard-won lessons became the foundation of everything she now teaches.

With over 26 years of running her own businesses, Kathy knows that talent and passion aren't enough. You need the business fundamentals. That's why she developed her 5Ps framework – People, Products, Price, Promotion and Productivity. It's a practical, proven approach that takes clients from assumptions and guesswork to clear strategy and consistent profit.

Kathy works one-to-one with business owners and delivers training through organisations including Enterprise Nation and Visionnaires, where she tutors and coaches on start-up and business growth programmes. She previously tutored on the York St John University MBA programme and runs the Women Talk Business programme for the Business and IP Centre Norfolk. She's also a regular public speaker and workshop facilitator.

What sets Kathy apart is her straight-talking, no-fluff approach. She doesn't coach people on their feelings about business, she teaches them what they don't know. Because running a business is a skillset, and it's one you can learn.

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Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

00:49 Meet Kathy Ennis

02:15 Why Solopreneurs Start

03:49 Passion vs Profit Gap

04:22 Planning Builds Profit

05:21 Architecture Iceberg Analogy

07:15 Unsexy Business Basics

08:54 Five Ps Framework

10:30 Know Your People

11:01 Psychographics Over Demographics

12:28 Choose Who Buys

13:47 Productising Services

19:40 Packages To Upsell & Downsell

25:35 The Golden Triangle Of Pricing

26:28 Turnover Not Salary

27:42 Tiered Offers Math

28:45 Supermarket Pricing Analogy

29:36 Spreadsheet Stress Test

30:17 Packages Versus Capacity

31:16 Avoid Salary Replacement Trap

33:26 Unemotional Numbers Mindset

34:47 Reevaluate Offer And Audience

35:21 Brand Versus Marketing

36:10 Beyond Social Media

37:52 Lead Magnets And Email

39:49 Productivity For Solopreneurs

41:33 Outsource To Build A Team

44:14 Final Takeaways And Wrap

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Key Takeaways

Running a business is a skill you can learn

Just because you are great at what you do does not mean you automatically know how to run a business. Kathy points out that most solopreneurs are brilliant at their craft but do not understand the basics of business. The good news is that business skills can be learned. Once you start learning things like pricing, planning, and knowing your customers, you put yourself on much firmer ground.

Know your numbers before you set your prices

Do not just think about what you want to take home as a salary. You need to work out how much it costs to run your business, pay yourself, cover tax, and have a little left over to reinvest. Once you know that total number, you can work backwards to figure out your prices and how many clients you need. Using a simple spreadsheet to do this takes the emotion out of it and helps you make clear, sensible decisions.

Plan your marketing and do not rely on social media alone

Many small business owners rely too heavily on posting on Instagram or LinkedIn and hope that their work will speak for itself. Kathy says you need a proper marketing strategy that includes email, face-to-face networking, and things that bring people to you, like a free resource or a short introductory chat. The more people know you and what you do, the more likely they are to refer others to you.

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Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺

Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢

Connect with Kathy Ennis on LinkedIn 🤝

Visit Kathy’s website 🖥️

Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧

Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

—

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Host Jon Clayton interviews Annette Mashi on Architecture Business Club about repurposing existing website content—case studies, portfolios, photos, and blog posts—so more people see it across platforms and are driven back to the website. Annette explains a top-down process: start with a large piece (e.g., an energy-efficiency case study), turn it into a blog, then break it into topic-specific newsletters and short LinkedIn posts that link back to the blog. They discuss finding content ideas in everyday client conversations and frequently asked questions, using AI tools like ChatGPT as a starting point while editing for voice and avoiding generic language, and why LinkedIn builds awareness, email newsletters nurture leads over long sales cycles, and blogs provide depth and a content library. Annette emphasises client-focused benefits over “we” messaging and highlights the value of a supportive professional network.

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Today’s Guest

Annette Mashi creates magic with words. She gives visibility to female architects, interior designers, and women in the construction industry. She positions them as experts, demonstrates the value they provide, and helps them stand out from their competition so they attract clients they love and win their dream projects.

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Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

00:43 Introducing Annette Mashi

01:13 Why Repurpose Content

02:05 Multi Platform Sharing

02:30 Driving Website Traffic

03:14 Channels To Use

03:31 Top Down Process

03:57 Case Study Example

04:22 Turning A Case Study Into A Blog

04:45 Turning A Blog Into A Newsletter

05:02 LinkedIn Snippets

05:27 Main Course Analogy

05:56 No Reinventing Wheel

06:14 Repurpose Podcasts Too

06:52 Guest Appearance Content

07:09 Ask For Transcripts

07:49 Finding Content Ideas

08:27 Marketing Team Analogy

10:48 Client Questions Content

12:30 Social Proof Framing

13:05 AI Repurposing Pitfalls

14:21 Use AI As Tool

17:19 ChatGPT Tells

18:18 Content Ecosystem Package

19:49 Awareness Building Content

20:11 Nurturing Content

20:44 Why You Need To Nurture Leads

21:44 Email Newsletter Opportunity

22:15 How Often To Send Your Email Newsletter

24:13 Flow Analogy

25:12 Results From Just Eight Blogs Per Year

25:39 Building A Content Library

26:42 Long Term Benefits From Content

28:09 Linking Content Together

29:46 Putting It Into Practice

30:55 Getting Started With Content Repurposing

32:11 Sharing Your Process

32:31 Content Marketing Book Recommendations

33:28 Benefits Vs Features

34:29 A Simple Exercise: We Vs You

35:26 The Resource Annette Mashi Can't Live Without

37:15 Closing And Connect

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Key Takeaways

You already have more content than you think

You don't need to start from scratch. Look at what you've already got — a case study, a project photo, a blog post. You can take one big piece of content and break it into smaller pieces for LinkedIn, your newsletter, and your website. It's like getting more meals from one big cook-up. Stop letting good work sit there unseen.

You need to share your content in more than one place

Putting something on your website and hoping people will find it doesn't work. You need to share it across different places — social media, email, your blog. Each place does a different job. LinkedIn helps new people find you. Your email list keeps people warm over time. Your blog shows them how you think and what you can do. Together, they bring people closer to hiring you.

You should email your list at least once a month

Most designers — around 85% — don't send regular emails. That means if you do, you're already ahead of the crowd. People often take a year or more before they're ready to hire an architect. Sending a monthly email keeps you in their minds. Even if they don't read every word, they see your name and remember you're there. That matters a lot when they're finally ready to get started.

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Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺

Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢

Connect with Annette Mashi on LinkedIn 🤝

Visit Annette Mashi’s Website 🖥️

Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧

Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

—

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Jon Clayton hosts Architecture Business Club with guest Kevin Crawford, an architecture practice leader with 20+ years’ experience who implemented a succession plan at Crawford Architecture via a transition to employee ownership. They define succession planning as future-proofing the business, protecting legacy, and ensuring continuity if the owner retires, can’t work, or dies, noting many practices delay it until it becomes urgent. Kevin shares how waiting until his father was around 70 created pressure and highlights why planning matters for owners, families, staff career paths, valuation, and avoiding rushed sales to the wrong buyer. They discuss that succession planning applies to all firms, including sole practitioners, and stress the need to take time away from day-to-day work, use structured planning (including ideas from the book “Traction”), clarify roles, communicate a shared vision, and maintain discipline.

Today’s Guest

Kevin Crawford is an architecture practice leader with over 20 years of experience running and growing a practice, before putting a succession plan in place through a transition to employee ownership. Today, he’s the founder of Designing Success and co-founder of ASC and Pilotis, where he helps architecture practice leaders design better businesses — gaining more clarity, time and freedom, while strengthening the person behind the practice.

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Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

00:46 Meet Kevin Crawford

01:20 Why This Topic Now

01:40 Defining Succession Planning

02:15 Planning For Inevitability

02:49 Family Firm Backstory

03:58 New Ventures Plan From Day One

04:33 Ostrich To Eagle Mindset

05:18 Forced Change And Complexity

05:39 Most Firms Delay This

06:23 Reactive Industry Trap

06:52 Hamster Wheel Workaholism

07:27 Two Year Transition Journey

08:03 Balancing Three Stakeholders

08:29 Protecting The Legacy

08:48 Choosing Employee Ownership

09:36 Others Still Ignore It

10:18 Why Succession Matters

10:42 Time With Family Motivation

12:34 Shared Vision And Culture Shift

13:53 Risks Of Leaving It Late

15:28 Is Succession Planning Relevant To Small Firms

16:33 Buying Time To Plan

20:25 Consequences Of Ignoring It

22:36 Collaboration Over Competition

24:24 Where To Start Today

24:49 Frameworks And Reflection

26:21 Discipline And Weekly Structure

27:41 Key Takeaways

29:26 Employee Ownership Realities

30:31 Must Have Business Resource

30:51 Project Management Game Changer

32:02 Connect With Kevin

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Key Takeaways

Don't put it off — start thinking about succession planning now.

It's easy to say "I'll deal with it later," but Kevin learned the hard way that waiting too long makes everything harder. His dad was 70 before they started planning, and by then it was stressful for the whole family. Even if you're not ready to act right now, you should at least start thinking about what happens to your business when you're no longer running it.

You need to make time to work on your business, not just in it.

Kevin used to think working longer hours was the answer. He'd start at 4am and work until midnight. But that didn't help him plan for the future — it just kept him stuck on the hamster wheel. The real change came when he stepped away from the day-to-day and gave himself proper time to think. You need to block out time in your week to focus on the bigger picture, even if it's just a couple of hours on a Friday.

Succession planning matters no matter how big or small your practice is.

You might think this only applies to large firms, but Kevin says it's just as important for sole practitioners. If your business depends entirely on you, what happens if you can't work? Who looks after your projects and your clients? Having a plan in place protects you, your team, and the legacy you've built — whether you're a one-person studio or a team of twenty.

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Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺

Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢

Connect with Kevin Crawford on LinkedIn 🤝

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Jon Clayton marks Architecture Business Club’s 100+ episodes (nearing 120) and explains how new listeners can quickly find relevant content using newly added episode categories on architecturebusinessclub.com. He lists key themes including business strategy and growth, marketing and lead generation, personal brand, sales and pricing, systems and automations, mindset and wellbeing, career journeys, content/PR/podcasting, industry events, community, and team collaboration. Spotlighting the Business Strategy and Growth category, he highlights the most downloaded episode. He also recommends a lesser-known “hidden gem”, and shares his personal favourite.

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Episode Highlights

00:00 Why This Episode Exists

00:50 The Back Catalogue Problem

01:41 New Website Categories

02:03 All Episode Themes Overview

02:58 Why Categorising Matters

04:00 Business Strategy & Growth Episodes

04:16 Most Popular Business Strategy & Growth Episode

06:28 Hidden Gem in Business Strategy & Growth

08:50 Personal Favourite Of Mine

11:59 Wrap Up

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Key Takeaways

You can break big goals into smaller parts

Instead of planning your whole year at once, divide it into 90-day chunks. This makes it easier to see where you're going and change direction if you need to. It's like planning a road trip in stages rather than trying to map out everything at once.

You will make mistakes, and that's okay

When you run a business, you'll mess things up sometimes. You might waste money or make poor choices. The important thing is to learn from what went wrong and move forward. Don't be too hard on yourself about it.

You need to create urgency to get people to buy

If your service is available all the time, people will think they can buy it later and they'll forget about it. You should use special launches or limited-time offers to give people a reason to act now instead of putting it off.

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Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺

Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢

Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧

Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

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Architecture Business Club host Jon Clayton interviews structural engineer Sam Dean of Porthouse Dean about common structural design pitfalls in home extensions and how to avoid spiraling costs. They discuss ground conditions as a major uncertainty (especially clay), the influence of nearby large trees and desiccation, and the use of low-cost desktop geological reports based on British Geological Survey borehole data to flag risk. They cover ceiling downstands and why beam position is often a cost-and-aesthetics decision between homeowner, architect, and builder, with installation complexity increasing when first-floor joists run into the beam. Sam explains cantilever “rules of thumb” and how corner bifold-door cantilevers can drive up steel and foundation demands, sometimes requiring columns and large foundations due to uplift forces. They address adding an extra storey and the case for trial holes. They also highlight risks of building onto existing, undocumented steelwork from previous extensions, which can force intrusive investigation or replacement when later loft conversions are planned. Sam explains how the architectural design can affect structural costs and outlines what to expect from a good structural engineering service. They touch on AI-generated architectural information, Sam’s launch of an AI review service, and he shares the software tool his business can’t work without.

Today’s Guest

Sam Dean. He started out as a materials scientist and structural engineer, spent a year in the nuclear industry, then teamed up with his friend Chris Porthouse to start PorthouseDean structural engineering. Sam then got hooked on building business systems and automations - to cut out the boring stuff and let his team do better work. When he’s not solving process problems – he’s cycling to work, playing and watching football, or baking crusty bread and homemade pizzas.

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Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

00:39 Introducing Sam Dean

01:38 Managing Risk with Groundworks

03:08 The Clay Problem

04:08 Trees Near Extensions: The Hidden Foundation Cost Driver

04:30 When Is a Site Investigation Worth It? Practical Triggers

05:10 Low-Cost Desktop Geology Reports: A Smart Early Warning

05:49 Designers Missing Key Site Info (Like Trees)

06:59 Case Study: The 20m Oak That Shows Up Too Late

07:55 Using Maps + Clay Likelihood to Spot Risk Early

08:48 Removed Trees Still Matter: Clay Desiccation Explained

10:32 Ceiling Downstands vs Flush Beams: Set Expectations Early

11:33 “Where Do I Put the Beam?” Why Engineers Don’t Always Decide

12:13 Joist Direction Changes Everything (and Can Add Thousands)

13:01 Goalpost Frames & Rear Wall Openings: What’s Cost-Neutral?

14:00 Builder vs Client vs Architect: Who’s Steering the Decision?

14:37 Protecting the Homeowner: Budget Trade-Offs in Plain English

15:36 When Architects Aren’t On Site: How Design Intent Gets Lost

18:06 Roles, Responsibility & the Principal Designer Confusion

19:38 Why Small Projects Are So Cost-Driven (and Getting Worse)

21:07 Cantilevers 101: The Rule of Thumb That Saves Your Budget

23:12 Corner Bifolds + Floating Roofs: The Cantilever Trap

25:23 Engineering Workarounds: Columns, Anchors & Uplift Forces

27:34 Adding a Storey: Foundation Reality Checks

29:32 Building on Existing Steelwork: The Missing Calculations Problem

33:37 Prevention Playbook: Trial Holes, Checks, and Lightweight Options

36:46 Quick Wins to Avoid Spiraling Costs (Wind Posts, Pillars, Layout)

41:45 What Great Structural Engineering Service Looks Like

46:49 The Rise of AI

48:55 The One Piece of Software Sam Can't Live Without

50:18 Final Thoughts

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Key Takeaways

Check the Ground Early to Avoid Big Surprises

Learn what's under the ground before you start building. Clay soil can be a big problem. If there are large trees near your building site (especially within 20 metres), they can make the situation worse. The tree roots dry out the clay, which means you might need to dig much deeper foundations. This can cost thousands extra. Even if you remove a tree, the clay takes about three years to go back to normal. You can get a cheap report to check if clay is likely on your site or dig trial holes, which can help you plan ahead.

Think About Where Beams Go Before You Build

Help your client decide if they want the steel beam to show below the ceiling or to hide it inside the ceiling. If you hide it and the floor joists run into the beam, the builder may need to cut the joists and fix them to the side of the beam. This may cost more money. You should talk about this early with your client and builder. It's a trade-off between how it looks and how much it’ll cost.

Plan Cantilevers Carefully to Keep Costs Down

A cantilever is when part of your building sticks out without support underneath. There's a simple rule of thumb: if you want one metre sticking out, you need two metres anchored back inside the building. If you don't follow this rule, you might need heavier, more expensive beams. Corner bifold doors with cantilevers look great, but to keep costs reasonable, make one side shorter (say 1 to 1.5 metres) with the other side being longer (up to 3 metres for example).

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Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺

Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢

Connect with Sam Dean on LinkedIn 🤝

Learn more about PorthouseDean 🖥️

Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧

Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

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In this episode of Architecture Business Club, Jon Clayton introduces Joshua Ayettey, a chartered architect and founder of JADC Studio and Scattered Hub, a mentorship community for aspiring architects. Joshua discusses his personal struggles through architectural training, leading to his passion for mentoring and creating Scattered Hub. The group focuses on providing support, confidence boosts, and guidance to new graduates navigating the architectural field. The conversation covers the group's organic growth, its impact on members, and Joshua's inspiration and future aspirations for Scattered Hub. This episode also highlights practical advice for building community groups and the importance of tackling failures positively.

Today’s Guest

Joshua Ayettey is a chartered architect and creative problem solver who is passionate about improving the way people live through good design and mentoring the next generation of problem solving designers. He’s also the founder of JADC Studio and Scattered Hub.

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Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

00:31 Our Guest: Joshua Ayettey

01:07 Joshua's Background and Scattered Hub

01:45 Organic Growth of Scattered Hub

02:02 Mentoring Journey and Early Struggles

03:09 Helping Others and Building Confidence

04:54 Founding JADC Studio

05:45 Formalising Scattered Hub

06:08 Personal Struggles and Mental Health

07:37 Failures as Catalysts for Growth

08:27 Jon's Struggles That Led To This Show

09:20 Setting Up the Group and Formal Arrangements

10:13 Creating a Peer-to-Peer Platform

11:38 Expanding Beyond Architecture

13:01 Community and Collaboration

14:12 Wins and Success Stories

14:22 Building Confidence and Self-Esteem

17:16 Personal Motivation and Influences

20:09 Future Vision for Scattered Hub

20:49 Collaborative Projects and Ecosystem

24:17 Encouragement to Test Ideas

26:14 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

27:25 Encouraging Young People in Architecture

28:56 Resource Recommendations and Learning

29:40 AI and Future of Architecture

31:39 Connecting with Joshua Online

—

Key Takeaways

Don't Be Afraid to Fail

You can learn a lot from your failures, even if you can't see it at the time. Joshua failed his final year and had to repeat it. He also failed his part three exam the first time. But these failures taught him important lessons that helped him later. When you fail, it doesn't mean you should give up. It means you're learning something that will help you in the future.

Help Others Along Your Journey

When you're struggling with something, you can still help other people who are facing similar problems. Joshua struggled during his training, but he still helped other students with their work. By helping others, you build confidence in yourself and create a positive effect that spreads to more people. You don't need to wait until you're perfect to start helping others.

Surround Yourself with the Right People

When you're going through tough times, you need people around you who can support you and remind you of your strengths. Joshua almost quit everything, but people around him helped him see that he was being too hard on himself. Find people who reflect where you want to be and who can help you see things clearly when you're struggling.

—

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Jon Clayton discusses the issue of burnout with career and wellbeing coach Anna Wolas. The conversation digs into what burnout is, how to recognise its signs, and how it differs from stress. Anna explains the reoccurring nature of burnout and its connection to a misalignment between personal values and external expectations. She also outlines common causes of burnout, such as organisational changes, unrealistic workloads, and lack of recognition. Anna shares her DCP framework (Discover, Create, Perform) that helps professionals recover from burnout, prevent it in the future, and activate their full potential. Through practical strategies and real-life success stories, this episode aims to equip architects and business leaders with the tools they need to thrive in their careers without succumbing to burnout.

Today’s Guest

Anna Wolas is a Career & Wellbeing Coach who helps architects and leaders achieve (& earn) more. Anna's approach helps reduce stress, prevent burnout, and create a sustainable, values-driven definition of success.

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Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

01:22 Understanding Burnout

02:02 The Burnout Cycle

05:30 Burnout vs. Stress

06:27 Healthy Stress Management

09:27 Signs of Burnout

09:45 Physical Symptoms of Burnout

10:04 Psychological Symptoms of Burnout

10:32 Behavioural Symptoms of Burnout

11:00 Occupational Symptoms of Burnout

11:25 Personal Symptoms of Burnout

11:51 Common Causes of Burnout

11:56 Organisational Factors

12:42 Personal Factors

13:07 Lack of Recognition

13:47 Fear-Based Performance

14:15 Conflict in Relationships

14:34 Overcoming Burnout

14:55 Ineffective Solutions To Burnout

18:45 Effective Strategies For Burnout

18:55 The DCP Framework

19:34 Step 1: Discover

22:32 Step 2: Create

25:00 Step 3: Perform

28:03 Success Stories Of The DCP Framework

28:11 Case Study: High-Level Professional

29:15 Achieving Clarity

30:55 Promotion and Beyond

31:55 Main Takeaways

32:21 Act Now

33:32 Final Thoughts

—

Key Takeaways

Burnout is a cycle, not just tiredness

You need to understand that burnout isn't the same as feeling stressed. Stress can actually help you get things done if you have time to rest afterwards. But burnout happens when stress goes on for too long without recovery. It keeps coming back again and again if you don't fix the real problem. Burnout means you're living by other people's rules and goals instead of your own. When this happens over and over, your body and mind get worn out.

Spot the warning signs early

You can notice burnout in five main areas of your life. Physical signs include feeling tired all the time, headaches, and sleep problems. Mental signs include brain fog, forgetting things, and feeling hopeless. You might also get more emotional, angry, or eat differently. At work, you lose your passion and make more mistakes. In your personal life, your relationships suffer and you feel like you're not doing well anywhere. The sooner you spot these signs, the easier it is to fix the problem.

Quick fixes don't work - you need a proper plan

Taking holidays, doing more exercise, or waiting for a project to finish won't solve burnout on their own. Even changing jobs won't help if you don't fix the real causes. You need a proper strategy that helps you understand yourself, create healthy boundaries, and use your real skills and strengths. Don't wait to deal with burnout - the longer you leave it, the harder it becomes to fix.

—

Connect with Anna Wolas on LinkedIn 🤝

Learn more about Anna Wolas’s work 🖥️

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Jon Clayton welcomes Tim Lewis, a seasoned podcaster and content creator who's been exploring AI and automation. Together, they discuss the distinctions between AI and automation, practical applications in day-to-day business, and the benefits of locally hosted AI over cloud-based tools. They also address common fears about AI replacing jobs. Gain valuable insights on leveraging AI for tasks like image and video generation, project management, and client presentations. Tim shares various tools and strategies to enhance productivity and maintain privacy when using AI. Learn how AI can help you build a better, more efficient business.

Today’s Guest

Tim Lewis is a long term podcaster and content creator. Tim’s background is in books and publishing, but he’s recently deep dived into AI Automation and AI Image and Video Generation, and how it can be used to help small business owners in their day to day work.

—

Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

00:54 Meet Tim Lewis: AI and Automation Expert

01:40 What's The Difference Between AI and Automation Tools?

03:10 Practical Examples of AI in Automation

04:19 AI's Role in Simplifying Tasks

06:37 There's More To AI Than ChatGPT

07:35 Use Cases for AI Tools for Architects

10:23 Advanced AI Tools for Visualisation

12:18 Organizing Information with AI

14:22 Locally Hosted AI vs. Cloud-Based AI

16:51 Privacy and Security in AI

22:59 Using AI for Client Presentations

24:26 Should We Be Worried About AI Replacing Us

28:55 Embracing AI and Automation

29:43 Additional AI Tools and Resources

30:38 Connecting with Tim Lewis

31:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

—

Key Takeaways

AI and automation are different tools that work together

AI is like a computer programme that thinks a bit like a human. It can look at a picture and tell you what's in it, or help you create images and videos. Automation is different - it's about setting up steps that happen automatically, like "when I get an email, add it to a spreadsheet." The exciting part is when you put them together. AI can now do the thinking parts that used to need a person, which makes automation much more powerful.

You can use AI for more than just writing

Most people think AI is only good for writing text, but that's just the start. You can use AI to create pictures and videos from your sketches, organise your notes and research, and even make presentations faster. For example, if you draw a simple building sketch, AI can turn it into a realistic image showing what it would look like in real life. This is really helpful if you work with designs or need to show ideas to clients.

AI won't replace you, but someone using AI might

You don't need to worry about robots taking your job. But you should pay attention to other business owners who are learning to use AI tools. They can work faster, finish projects quicker, and offer better prices because AI helps them save time. The key is to start learning about these tools now, so you can use them to do the boring tasks faster and spend more time on the important work you enjoy.

—

Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺

Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢

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Visit Tim Lewis's Website 🖥️

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Next Episode

Next time Jon is joined by Anna Wolas to learn how you can thrive in your career without burnout.

Jon Clayton reflects on the challenges and achievements of 2025, highlighting milestones in his podcasting journey and personal life. Jon shares his Christmas break activities, introduces a new service aimed at enhancing your online presence, and outlines exciting updates for the Architecture Business Club in 2026, including fortnightly episodes, YouTube content, and potential sponsorships. He invites listeners to contribute their thoughts and challenges to shape future content, all while offering a special gift to kick-start the New Year.

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Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

02:05 Personal Highlights of 2025

02:48 Christmas Break Activities

03:34 Exciting New Service Announcement

03:50 What's New for Architecture Business Club in 2026

05:41 Special Gift for the New Year

07:42 Engage with Us and Share Your Challenges

08:21 Wrapping Up and What's Next

—

Key Takeaways

It is good to look back and learn from the past year. Jon shares both the hard times and the happy moments from 2025 - it’s normal to have ups and downs.

Trying new things and making changes can help you grow. This show is adding video episodes, changing how often episodes come out, and offering new services - being open to change can bring new opportunities.

Staying connected with your audience is important. Jon invites you to share your challenges and ideas, and encourages you to subscribe and join in, so you can be part of this community.

—

Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺

Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢

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—

Next Episode

Jon is joined by Tim Lewis to explore the difference between AI and Automation.

Jon Clayton delivers a brief special episode to thank listeners for their support. He shares notable statistics from 2025, including the release of 52 episodes, the 100th episode celebration in September, and record downloads in October. He also recounts the top three episodes of the year based on download numbers, highlighting listener favourites. Jon encourages you to take a break from the podcast to enjoy the festive season.

—

Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction and Holiday Greetings

00:35 Podcast Achievements and Milestones

01:29 Top Episodes of 2025

02:57 Future Plans and Guest Invitations

03:54 Holiday Sign-Off and Advice

—

Key Takeaways

Keep Going, Even When It’s Hard

If you keep working on something, like making a podcast every week, you can reach big goals. You might even do better than most people if you don’t give up.

People Like to Hear Real Stories

When you share true stories about your life or work, others want to listen. You can help people by telling them what you have learned and what you have gone through.

Take Time for Family and Friends

It’s good to stop working sometimes and spend time with people you care about. You should enjoy special days, like Christmas, with your family and friends.

—

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—

Next Episode

Tune in next week for a New Year's episode previewing 2026.

In this episode of Architecture Business Club, hosted by Jon Clayton, productivity mentor Louise Miller joins to discuss a new definition of productivity that focuses on doing what's important rather than doing more in less time. Key topics include the importance of creating space over relying on systems, how productivity begins before taking action, and why recognising capacity can prevent burnout. The episode also explores practical strategies like taking a pause to reassess goals and the benefits of changing environments. Louise's insights are aimed at helping business owners achieve more with a sense of fulfilment and well-being.

Today’s Guest

Louise Miller is a productivity mentor, the founder of Make It Happen Club and host of the Unfrazzle podcast. She’s on a mission to change the world by helping her clients change the world. She partners with coaches, consultants and community-builders who have a big, exciting vision, helping them land their ideas in reality, reach more people and make a bigger impact, whilst being kind to themselves along the way.

—

Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction to Productivity

00:42 Meet Louise Miller

01:30 Challenging Traditional Productivity

02:26 The Importance of Doing What's Important

03:21 The Busy Trap

04:34 Productivity Before Action

04:45 The Treehouse Analogy

09:32 The Progress Cycle

10:56 Space vs. Systems

11:47 The Chaos of Systems

14:23 The Emotional Weight of Productivity

15:52 The Vicious Cycle of To-Do Lists

17:04 Six Pillars of Productivity

17:44 The Life-Friendly Approach

19:01 The Rhythm of Productivity

19:30 The Neuroscience of Productivity

22:50 The Real Reasons for Not Getting Things Done

25:23 The Power of the Treehouse

29:49 Final Thoughts and Resources

—

Key Takeaways

Prioritise Space and Reflection Over Constant Action

True productivity is not about relentless activity or doing more in less time, but about creating space to pause, reflect, and make intentional choices. Taking time to step back. Louise’s “treehouse” analogy allows for clarity, better decision-making, and prevents the cycle of busywork and burnout.

Focus on What’s Important, Not Just What’s Urgent

Productivity isn’t simply ticking off tasks. Instead, it’s about identifying and working on what truly matters, rather than being caught up in the “busy trap”. This means aligning your actions with your values and long-term goals, and letting go of tasks that do not serve your bigger purpose.

Systems Are Secondary to Self-Awareness and Capacity

While productivity systems and tools can be helpful, they are not a cure-all. If you’re overwhelmed or unclear, new systems will only organise your chaos. The real key is self-awareness: understanding your own needs, capacity, and life context, and building a rhythm of regular reflection. Productivity is personal. Experiment to find what works for you, and don’t feel broken if someone else’s method doesn’t fit.

—

Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺

Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢

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Take Louise’s Productivity Quiz 🖥️

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—

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—

Next Episode

Next time, Jon shares a short Christmas message.

Want to streamline your least favourite tasks? In this episode of Architecture Business Club, host Jon Clayton explores innovative ways to leverage AI for automating routine and time-consuming tasks in architecture. Joined by Bryon McCartney, CEO of Archmark, the discussion covers identifying tasks AI can optimise, the Teach framework for deciding what to automate, and practical tips for training AI to match your unique tone. Bryon shares insights on creating efficient workflows using AI, recounts his experiences enhancing his agency's profitability through AI integration, and underscores the importance of starting small for those new to AI. Additionally, the episode details Bryon's approach to building an AI-powered advisory board and a successful workshop using AI tools, emphasising the role of AI in freeing up time for creative and strategic work.

Today’s Guest

Today's guest is Bryon McCartney, CEO of Archmark, a leading business coaching, branding, and marketing firm working exclusively with architecture firms. Bryon has more than 35 years of experience and has led digital marketing initiatives for Calvin Klein, General Motors Europe, Lipton Foods, and many others. He has founded and led six successful creative service firms since 2002 and has helped more than 5,000 architects transform their practices. He's the only Business Made Simple, Small Business Flight School, and StoryBrand certified coach serving the architecture industry, and he's on a mission to help 10,000 firm leaders by 2030.

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Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction: Tackling Your To-Do List with AI

00:47 Welcome to Architecture Business Club

01:06 Meet Bryon McCartney: Transforming Architecture Firms

01:51 The Power of AI in Architecture

05:42 Identifying Tasks for AI Automation

06:04 Streamlining Meeting Notes and Emails with AI

11:20 The TEACH Framework for AI Automation

14:37 Treating AI Like a Summer Intern

20:17 Balancing Instructions for AI

21:14 Five-Step Formula for Writing AI Prompts

22:59 Creating a Blog Post with AI

24:39 Structuring Your AI Prompts

25:15 Avoiding Common AI Pitfalls

26:11 AI's Impact on Agency Profitability

26:32 Early Experiences with AI

27:13 Adopting AI Tools in Business

28:07 Streamlining Client Onboarding with AI

29:54 AI-Powered Workshops and Presentations

31:29 Efficiency Gains and Profitability Boost

31:49 Using AI in Podcast Production

32:40 Building an AI Advisory Board

35:38 Getting Started with AI

39:10 Choosing the Right AI Tools

41:00 Creating AI-Powered Workshops

46:05 Final Thoughts on AI Integration

50:15 Connecting with Bryon McCartney

—

Key Takeaways

View AI as a powerful tool to free up your time by automating repetitive and routine tasks. By letting AI handle admin, meeting notes, and standard email responses, you can focus more on creative and strategic work that you truly enjoy.

You need to approach AI like you would a summer intern: provide clear instructions, context, and feedback. AI is not a magic solution; it requires you to define what a good result looks like and to iterate, refining your prompts and expectations as you go.

You will benefit most from AI if you start small, choosing tasks you know well and can clearly explain. As you build confidence, you can gradually integrate AI into more areas of your work and life, ultimately gaining a competitive edge and improving your efficiency.

—

Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺

Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢

Connect with Bryon McCartney on LinkedIn 🤝

Learn more about our guest’s services 🖥️

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—

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—

Next Episode

Next time Jon chats with Louise Miller about productivity.

Jon Clayton and guest Louise Brogan discuss the importance and strategic use of LinkedIn company pages. You’ll learn the distinct roles of LinkedIn profiles and company pages, how to properly set up and manage a company page, and the type of content to post. Louise shares valuable insights on leveraging a company's LinkedIn page to boost visibility, attract talent, and enhance credibility. The episode also covers how small business owners and larger teams can optimise their LinkedIn presence and the reasons behind these strategies.

Today’s Guest

Louise Brogan is a Consultant, YouTuber, Podcaster and International speaker. Louise works with small businesses and professionals who want to raise their visibility on LinkedIn and YouTube. She is also a Small Business Champion in the UK. Her proudest work moments are meeting the King at Buckingham Palace in recognition of her work and getting her coveted silver play button for YouTube.

—

Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction to LinkedIn Company Pages

01:23 Understanding LinkedIn Profiles vs. LinkedIn Company Pages

02:08 Creating a LinkedIn Company Page

03:19 The Importance of Company Branding

07:40 SEO Benefits of LinkedIn Company Pages

08:03 Optimising Your LinkedIn Company Page

08:50 LinkedIn's AI and Algorithm Updates

10:04 Filling Out Your Company Page Details

10:18 The Value of Company Values

13:49 Posting on Your LinkedIn Company Page

14:38 LinkedIn Company Page Content Strategy for Solopreneurs

16:36 Balancing LinkedIn Personal Profiles and LinkedIn Company Pages

17:38 Leveraging Your Team for LinkedIn Success

18:25 Client Success Stories

22:43 Project-Based Content Ideas for LinkedIn

24:38 Employee Advocacy on LinkedIn

25:25 LinkedIn Training and Workshops

26:00 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

28:39 Free Resources and Conclusion

—

Key Takeaways

Establish a LinkedIn Company Page for Professional Credibility

Even if you are a sole trader or a small business, having a LinkedIn company page is essential. It allows you to showcase your brand, display your logo, and provide a professional 'shop front' for potential clients and collaborators. This increases your chances of being discovered by your target audience and lends credibility to your business.

Maintain Consistent and Strategic Posting

Regularly update your company page, ideally once a week or at least fortnightly, to demonstrate that your business is active and engaged. Share project updates, company news, and team achievements. Remember to write posts from the company’s perspective, which differs from the more personal tone used on individual profiles.

Empower and Involve Your Team in Advocacy

Encourage your team members to engage with and share company page content on their own LinkedIn networks. Explain the purpose and benefits of this advocacy, as it amplifies your reach and can generate more leads and business opportunities. Providing guidance and training ensures everyone understands how to contribute effectively.

—

Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺

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Get Louise’s Free LinkedIn Success Guide 🖥️

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—

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—

Next Episode

Jon chats with Bryon McCartney to learn how to teach AI to do your least favourite tasks.

Jon discusses the importance of personal branding with expert Christine Gritmon. Christine breaks down what personal branding is, why it matters, especially for solopreneurs and small business owners, and shares her five-part Inside Out personal branding methodology: Purpose, Passion, Person, Personality, and Personal Brand. The conversation delves into the significance of authenticity, how to make a memorable impression, and offers practical exercises for identifying and leveraging your unique gifts. The episode concludes with actionable tips for starting to develop an authentic personal brand today.

Today’s Guest

We’re joined by Christine Gritmon - Christine reconnects solopreneurs, freelancers, and small business owners with their purpose and passions for a more aligned personal brand that’s joyful, authentic, and impossible to ignore! She’s spoken on stages worldwide and is a frequent expert guest on podcasts, live streams, chats, and blog posts, as well as hosting her own podcast, Let’s Talk About Brand.

—

Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

00:42 Meet Christine Gritmon

01:15 What really is Personal Branding?

02:03 Personal Branding Misconceptions

04:11 Why Personal Branding Matters So Much

05:40 Building Trust Through Branding

06:13 The Power of Authenticity

11:44 The Inside Out Branding Framework

12:05 Purpose and Passion

15:25 Identifying Your Gifts

20:42 How You Show Up In The World

21:57 The Role of Personality

23:50 Expanding Your Personal Brand

24:38 Jon's Gift

28:24 Leading with Your Gifts

29:35 Christine's Personal Branding Evolution

30:30 The Flexibility of Personal Branding

31:15 Embracing Your Unique Gifts

32:22 Final Takeaways on Personal Branding

32:52 Connecting with Christine Gritmon

—

Key Takeaways

Be authentic and true to yourself

Your personal brand should come from who you really are, not from trying to fit into someone else’s idea of success. When you show your true self, people are more likely to trust you and remember you.

Lead with your unique gifts

Everyone has something special to offer. Focus on the skills and qualities that make you different, and use them in your work. This not only helps you stand out, but also makes your brand flexible if you change direction in the future.

Your personal brand goes further than you do

A strong personal brand can open doors and create opportunities, even when you are not in the room. The impression you leave with others can travel far, helping your reputation and bringing new connections your way.

—

Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺

Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢

Click here to connect with Christine on LinkedIn 🤝

Click here to learn more about Christine Gritmon 🖥️

Ready to start podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧

Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

—

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—

Next Episode

Next time Jon chats with Louise Brogan about getting more from your LinkedIn company page.

In this episode of the Architecture Business Club podcast, host Jon Clayton reflects on the podcast's impact and announces several upcoming changes aimed at broadening its audience and improving content delivery. Key changes include the transition to both audio and video formats, a shift to fortnightly episode releases, and a tighter editing process to focus on core topics. Jon also discusses the possibility of releasing video versions of past episodes and explores securing a long-term sponsor that aligns with the show's mission. Listeners are encouraged to provide feedback on these updates and suggest potential sponsorship partners.

—

Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

01:01 New Audio and Video Formats

02:01 Content and Format Adjustments

05:25 Editing and Production Process

07:05 Release Schedule Update

08:48 Focus on Interview-Based Episodes

10:57 Exploring New Podcast Ideas

11:27 Sponsorship and Ads

15:22 Summary and Conclusion

—

Key Takeaways

The importance of adaptability: The episode demonstrates how being flexible and open to change can help you overcome unexpected challenges and seize new opportunities.

Effective communication is key: Clear, honest, and timely communication between all parties involved helps to prevent misunderstandings and ensures that everyone is aligned towards common goals.

Continuous learning drives progress: Embracing a mindset of ongoing learning and self-improvement allows for personal and professional growth, keeping individuals and organisations competitive in a rapidly evolving environment.

—

Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺

Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢

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Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community waitlist 🤝

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—

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—

Next Episode

Next time Jon chats with Christine Gritmon about personal branding.

Jon is joined by Natalie Doremieux, a membership and tech strategist with over 10 years of experience. They delve into the numerous benefits of podcast guesting for business growth. Natalie shares her expertise on why podcast guest appearances are valuable, the importance of having a podcast guesting strategy, and how to find the right podcasts to guest on. Listeners will also learn effective strategies to repurpose guest appearances for maximum value. Additionally, they discuss building trust, connecting with the audience, and crafting a compelling narrative to achieve business objectives. Tune in to discover how you can leverage podcast guesting to enhance visibility, build trust, and align with your business goals.

Today’s Guest

Nathalie Dorémieux is a membership and tech strategist with over 10 years experience helping coaches and course creators design high-retention programs that drive real results. In 2025, she co-created Podcast LeadFlow, a tool that turns podcast episodes into high-quality lead magnets using smart automations and AI. Nathalie’s work blends strategy, tech, and a human-first approach - with a dash of French flair.

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Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction to Podcast Guesting

00:30 Welcome to Architecture Business Club

00:49 Meet Natalie Doremieux

01:40 Why Be a Podcast Guest?

03:02 Building Trust Through Podcasting

04:05 The Importance of a Podcast Guesting Strategy

07:15 Defining Your Podcast Guest Strategy

08:30 Connecting with Your Audience

10:32 Finding the Right Podcasts To Guest On

15:29 The Power of Networking

16:03 Researching Podcast Guest Opportunities

16:35 Making a Good Impression as a Podcast Guest

19:56 Crafting Your Message as a Podcast Guest

23:31 Sharing Your Unique Approach as a Podcast Guest

28:40 Leveraging Podcast Appearances

31:38 Repurposing Podcast Content

35:13 The Value of Podcasting

36:59 Getting Started with Podcasting

38:49 Commitment and Podcast Seasons

40:28 Final Thoughts and Connection

—

Key Takeaways

Having a clear podcast guesting strategy is essential for aligning your appearances with your business goals and reaching your ideal audience.

Building trust and authentic connections through podcast guesting is far more effective than simply promoting your expertise; sharing your story and values helps you stand out.

The value of podcast guesting extends beyond the interview itself—repurposing your appearances and treating them as lead-generating assets can significantly boost your business growth.

—

Click here to take your next step after listening 🖥️

Click here to connect with Nathalie 🤝

Ready to start podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧

Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

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Jon interviews Nicla Diceglie, founder of Nicla D Interiors. Nicla shares her transformative journey from a stressful career as a project manager in London to embracing bold biophilic design inspired by her own battle with depression. She discusses the importance of nature and colour in creating spaces that nurture and restore well-being. The conversation touches on the therapeutic benefits of nature, the challenges of starting a new business during COVID-19, and the unique aspects of bold biophilic design. Nicla also shares her love of travel, architecture, and some of her favourite places around the world. Tune in to learn how embracing biophilic design can enhance your health, happiness, and personal growth.

Today’s Guest

Nicla Diceglie is the founder of Nicla D. Interiors. After experiencing the healing power of nature and colour in her own life, Nicla founded Nicla D. Interiors to help others create bold biophilic spaces that support happiness, health, and personal growth. Nicla helps people turn their homes into joyful, nature-inspired sanctuaries - spaces that heal, energise, and make them happier and healthier.

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Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

00:56 Meet Nicla Diceglie: Founder of Nicla D Interiors

03:34 Nicola's Journey: From Italy to London

05:06 The Turning Point: Leaving the Job

08:06 Embracing Nature: The Healing Power of the Outdoors

09:37 Starting Fresh: A New Career in Interior Design

14:49 Launching Nicla D Interiors

19:34 Challenges of Starting a Business During COVID

21:46 Finding Your Passion and Alignment

22:49 Introduction to Biophilic Design

27:03 The Journey to Biophilic Design

31:43 Benefits of Biophilic Design

37:09 A Day in the Life of a Biophilic Designer

39:07 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

40:23 Favourite Travel Destinations

42:08 Connect with Nicla

42:51 Closing Remarks

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Key Takeaways

Spending time in nature can improve your mood and well-being. Even simple activities like walking in the park or adding plants to your home can make a positive difference.

The spaces where you live and work should help you feel comfortable and happy. Bright colours, natural light, and personal touches can turn any space into a place that supports your health.

It is possible to change your career or life direction if you are not satisfied. Following your interests and passions can lead to a more fulfilling and enjoyable life.

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Click here to connect with Nicla on Instagram 🤝

Click here to learn more about Nicla D Interiors 🖥️

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Next Episode

Next time Jon is joined by Nathalie Doremieux to learn how to get the most value from your podcast guest appearances.

Jon welcomes Daniel Patterson, an experienced business growth strategist, to discuss smart strategies for doubling profit without hiring more staff or increasing marketing expenses. They explore the pitfalls of trying to please everyone, the importance of discussing money early on, and effective pricing strategies. Daniel shares his insights on reducing overhead by optimising team roles and asks the critical question of knowing who your dream client is. Tune in to uncover practical tips and transformative strategies to enhance profitability in your architecture practice.

Today’s Guest

Daniel Patterson is a former RIBA Part 1 with nearly two decades of experience helping businesses grow and scale. He is the founder of Masterplan.pro and branding agency Highly, and has worked with the RIBA and RSAW to deliver CPD training on business and marketing strategy. Daniel is also the creator of The Architect’s Masterplan™, a 12-month growth system for architects who want to escape the tender trap and run highly profitable, sought-after practices.

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Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

00:37 Meet Daniel Patterson

01:57 Daniel's Personal Interests

03:20 The Profitability Challenge in Architecture

09:20 Understanding the Value of Money in Architecture

23:33 Strategies to Double Your Profit

32:10 Maximising Profit Through Fractional Support

34:33 The Power of Asking for Referrals

37:13 Effective Pricing Strategies for Architects

43:10 Identifying and Fixing Profit Leaks

44:42 Real-Life Success Stories

48:04 Practical Tips for Immediate Profit Improvement

51:40 Overcoming the Fear of Failure

57:16 Exploring the World: Travel Stories

59:08 Final Thoughts and How to Connect

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Key Takeaways

Know Your Best Clients and Say No Sometimes

You do not have to please everyone. When you try to make everyone happy, your best clients may not feel special. It is better to know who you really want to work with and focus on them. If someone is not a good fit, it is okay to say no.

Talk About Money Early

Do not be afraid to talk about money with your clients. If you talk about price at the start, you save time for both you and your client. This helps you find out quickly if you are a good match. It also stops you from working for less than you should.

Ask for Referrals and Show Your Value

If you do a good job, ask your clients if they know anyone else who might need your help. This is a simple way to find new work. Also, show your clients the value you bring, not just your price. When people see your value, they are happy to pay more.

—

Click here to connect with Daniel Patterson 🤝

Click here to learn how much profit you are missing out on each year 🖥️

Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧

Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

—

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—

Next Episode

Next time, Jon is joined by Nicla Diceglie, who shares her career journey to Bold Biophilic Design.

Jon addresses what to do when facing a shortage of clients or work. He shares his personal story of recent hardships* and explains the common mistakes to avoid when trying to attract new clients. He provides practical advice for fast sales, focusing on hot leads, and high-touch outreach. Jon also emphasises the importance of asking for help and using available resources to manage cash flow issues. The episode concludes with recommendations for related podcast episodes that delve deeper into lead generation and sales strategies.

* Trigger warning: between 01:43 to 02:22 Jon briefly mentions death and bereavement.

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Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

01:28 Personal Struggles and Business Impact

03:14 Common Mistakes When Seeking Clients

05:04 Effective Strategies for Fast Sales

05:38 Practical Tips for Faster Sales

08:45 Recap and Additional Resources

10:25 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

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Key Takeaways

Focus on hot leads - When you need more clients, you should talk to people who already know you, like your past or current clients. They are more likely to work with you again.

Try not to panic - If you feel worried because work is slow, try not to panic. Take a moment to calm down, then make a plan to help your business.

Talk to someone - You do not have to do everything alone. If you need help, ask someone you trust or talk to a professional for advice.

—

Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧

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Next Episode

Next time Jon is joined by Daniel Patterson to explore how to double your profits (without hiring or spending more on marketing!).

Jon welcomes David Drazil, an architect, author, and creator of 'Sketch like an Architect.' They discuss how technology has overshadowed and nearly replaced the craft of architectural sketching in schools, leading to a decline in this essential skill among young professionals. David shares insights from his journey and mission to revive this art form, drawing on his experiences in Denmark and his global platform, which has helped thousands master architectural sketching. He highlights the cognitive benefits of sketching, from aiding in problem-solving and brainstorming to enhancing client interactions. They also discuss the advantages of using both traditional and digital sketching methods, and share success stories from students and professionals who have benefited from David's teachings. The episode underscores sketching as a universal, learnable language that enriches both the creative process and business communication in architecture.

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Today’s Guest

David Drazil is an architect, author, and creator of Sketch Like An Architect, a global platform helping architects and designers build confident drawing skills through a clear step-by-step method. Originally from the Czech Republic, David studied architecture in Denmark, where he noticed a big gap: sketching was expected, but rarely taught. That insight sparked a mission that’s grown into a worldwide movement — with over 300,000 followers, 15,000 students in his online courses, and three popular books. Today, David empowers creatives to communicate their ideas visually with clarity and confidence.

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Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

00:45 Meet David Drazil: Architect and Sketching Advocate

01:45 David's Personal Interests and Background

03:56 The Importance of Sketching in Modern Architecture

06:59 Personal Benefits and Practical Applications of Sketching

13:26 Sketching as a Differentiator in Client Interactions

23:11 Success Stories and Testimonials

27:37 Final Thoughts on Sketching and Technology

30:54 David's Favourite Places and Conclusion

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Key Takeaways

Sketching is a Timeless Skill That Sets You Apart

You learn that, even in an age dominated by digital tools and AI, the ability to sketch by hand remains a powerful differentiator. Sketching helps you communicate ideas quickly, build trust with clients, and stand out in interviews or meetings. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being able to think and express visually in the moment.

Anyone Can Learn to Sketch - It’s Not About Talent

You discover that sketching isn’t a gift reserved for the naturally talented. It’s a learnable skill that you can develop with practice. By embracing sketching, you open up new ways to brainstorm, solve problems, and engage with others, regardless of your starting point.

Sketching Fosters Human Connection and Collaboration

You realise that sketching is more than just a technical skill; it’s a tool for collaboration and dialogue. When you sketch in front of others, you invite them into the creative process, encourage feedback, and create a shared understanding. This approach not only speeds up decision-making but also makes your work more engaging and client-focused.

—

Click here to connect with David Drazil 🤝

Click here to learn more about Sketch Like An Architect 🖥️

Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧

Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝

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Jon welcomes internationally renowned architect Kevin Kennon, the founder and CEO of Beyond Zero DDC, to discuss his journey and innovative approach to sustainable design. Kevin shares his experiences, including his involvement in the World Trade Center design competition, and the concept of distributed practice. He explains how this model can help studios access the best talent while remaining competitive and nimble. Kevin also touches on the advantages of working with remote teams, the importance of harnessing new technologies like AI, and the future direction of the architecture profession. The episode provides valuable insights for architects on balancing tradition with innovation in the architecture industry.

Today’s Guest

Kevin Kennon is an internationally renowned architect with over 40 years’ experience in sustainable and innovative design. He’s the founder and CEO of Beyond Zero DDC, leading the creation of zero-carbon luxury eco-resorts around the world. His portfolio includes major projects such as the Barclays North American Headquarters, the Rodin Museum in Seoul, and award-winning Bloomingdale’s stores. A finalist in the World Trade Center design competition, Kevin has received over 40 international design awards and has work in MoMA’s permanent collection. He also lectures at top universities and contributes widely to discussions on urban development and climate change.

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Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

00:45 Meet Kevin Kennon

04:10 Understanding Distributed Practice

10:19 Challenges and Misconceptions of Remote Teams

16:49 Success Stories of Distributed Practice

22:24 Kevin's Career Journey

25:20 9/11, Ground Zero, and the World Trade Centre Design Competition

27:56 Advantages of Running Your Own Practice

30:46 The Future of Architecture and AI

39:08 Advice for Younger Practices

43:55 Main Takeaways

45:32 Favourite Travel Destination

46:42 Final Thoughts

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Key Takeaways

You can achieve more by building teams for each project and working with people from different places. This helps you find the right skills and makes your work stronger.

You should be open to new ideas and ways of working. Using technology and working with others online can help you keep up with changes in your field.

You will grow if you keep learning and share your knowledge with others. Every project is a chance to learn something new, and working together makes your work better.

—

Liked our guest? Click here to connect with them 🤝

Click here to learn more about Kevin’s work 🖥️

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Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝

Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

—

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—

Next Episode

Next time, Jon chats with David Drazil to explore whether design professionals still need sketching skills.

Jon welcomes William Ringsdorf, founder of William Ringsdorf Consulting, who shares insights on how architecture firms can master profitability and process. William explains that most pricing issues stem from a failure to clearly communicate value and set proper boundaries. He discusses the systemic problem of undervaluing expertise in the field, highlights the importance of knowing one's numbers, and suggests implementing tiered service proposals to offer clear value to clients. William also offers practical steps for architects to increase their fees and improve profitability while reducing scope creep and burnout. He stresses the need for tracking data and continuous improvement in business practices.

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Today’s Guest

William Ringsdorf is the founder of William Ringsdorf Consulting. He helps architecture firms master profitability, process, and purpose, turning chaos into clarity so you can design with freedom and confidence. Drawing on three decades of UK and German project experience, his coaching blends practical systems with architectural insight. This work is part of Into The Nest, an award-winning sustainable practice, giving his guidance credibility and a live design context.

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Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

00:28 Meet William Ringsdorf

03:08 The Issue of Undervaluing Expertise

05:52 Understanding the Systemic Problem

12:22 5 Steps to Fix Undervaluing Your Expertise

19:59 Success Stories and Practical Examples

23:33 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

27:35 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

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Key Takeaways

Do a Value Audit and Communicate Your Worth Clearly

Start by taking a close look at all the ways you help your clients. This means thinking about how you reduce risks, save time and money, and create certainty for them. Once you understand your value, make sure you talk about it openly with your clients. Don’t just focus on the hours you work or the tasks you do - explain the real benefits and outcomes you deliver. When clients see the value you bring, they are less likely to argue about price.

Know Your Numbers and Set Boundaries

It’s important to know exactly what you need to charge to cover your costs, pay yourself fairly, and make a profit. Work out your effective hourly rate based on real projects, including all your overheads. Then, set clear boundaries in your proposals. Offer different service tiers (like basic, standard, and premium) so clients can choose what suits them, but always be clear about what is included in each option. This helps avoid “scope creep” where you end up doing extra work for free.

Be Confident - Raise Your Fees and Practise Sales Conversations

Don’t be afraid to increase your fees. Try adding 10–15% (or even 20%) to your next proposal. Most clients will accept this if you have explained your value well. Practise having fee conversations and handling objections, even if it feels uncomfortable at first. The more you practise, the more confident you will become. Remember, you are worth it, and charging what you deserve helps you run a better, more sustainable business.

—

Liked our guest? Click here to learn more about them 🤝

Click here to grab a free copy of William’s e-book 🖥️

Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧

Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝

Want more freedom? Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

—

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—

Next Episode

Next time, Jon chats with Kevin Kennon about the concept of Distributive Practice.

Jon celebrates the major milestone of 100 episodes by featuring reflections, tips, and good wishes from past guests and listeners. This special 100th edition features messages from diverse voices, including architects, entrepreneurs, and business experts, who discuss the impact of the podcast on their personal and professional lives. The episode highlights the show's commitment to providing valuable insights and practical advice for running a successful architecture business. Tune in for heartfelt congratulations and essential business tips from notable guests as Jon marks this significant achievement.

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Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

00:58 Guest Congratulations

02:15 Reflections from Past Guests

11:32 Messages From Listeners

13:03 Tips on Content, Consistency, and Marketing

17:16 Advice on Positioning Your Services and Making Sure Clients Are Ready

19:36 Tips on Implementation, Getting Visible, and Thought Leadership

25:11 Guidance on Running The Business and Knowing Your Numbers

29:04 The Human Side of Architecture and Business

31:55 Ideas For Future Episodes

34:55 Final Messages from a Guest and a Listener

37:22 Wrap Up

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Contributors

Ange Lyons, Anna Lundberg, Ann Vanner, Antoinette Chappell, Aya Shlachter, Beatrice Ronchetti, Bob Gentle, Bryon McCartney, Catherine Turner, Chris Ducker, Chris Simmons, Colin Gray, Derek Timms, Doug Hodgson, Ellie Senior, Fabio Zammit, Hayley Watts, Helen Nurse, Helen Tebay, Jackie Goddard, James Talman, Janine Coombes, Joe Wright, Laura Pearman, Lee Smith, Liz Murrell, Mahmood Reza, Maja Kovacic-Kalra, Mark Franklin, Melanie Boylan, Mel Barfield, Rachel Extance, Ray Brown, Richard Petrie, Ross Foulkes, Stephen Nixon, Susanna Reay, Tom Lewith, Vardeep Edwards, Vlad Borislavov.

—

Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧

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—

Next Episode

 Next time, Jon chats with William Ringsdorf to discuss the problem of undervaluing your expertise (and how you can fix it!).

Jon shares practical advice on how to manage when life throws unexpected challenges your way. He discusses the importance of prioritising essential tasks, surrounding yourself with positive people, celebrating small wins, and the value of taking a break when needed. Throughout the episode, Jon draws on his recent personal experiences and offers tips on how to maintain balance and well-being during difficult times. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, these insights will help you navigate tough seasons and continue to find success and fulfilment in your architecture business.

Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

00:43 Personal Challenges and Coping Strategies

01:27 Pause Non-Essentials

02:57 Low-Energy Tasks

04:18 Spending Time with Lifter Uppers

05:51 Finding the Good Stuff

06:40 Celebrate Small Wins

07:46 Taking Time Off

08:33 Be Kind to Yourself

09:29 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser

Key Takeaways

Prioritise Essentials and Allow Yourself to Pause

When facing tough times, focus on what is truly essential in your business and life. It is perfectly acceptable to pause or drop non-essential tasks, lightening your load until you feel ready to pick them up again.

Seek Support and Celebrate Small Wins

Spend time with supportive people - your “lifter uppers” - who can help boost your spirits. Also, remember to celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, as these moments of progress are important for maintaining motivation.

Be Kind to Yourself and Take Breaks When Needed

Practise self-compassion and look after your own wellbeing. If you need to take time off, do so without guilt. Tough seasons don’t last forever, and it’s important to take care of yourself to get through them.

Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧

Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝

Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

Next Episode

Next time, it’s our 100th episode - so I’ve put together something special, with a little help from some friends of the show.

From Award-Winning Homes to Transformative Community Projects - Jon continues his chat with Carl Turner about his journey from traditional residential projects to pioneering public and community-focused developments. Carl shares the pivotal moment of selling his award-winning home to fund Pop Brixton, a transformative community workspace made from shipping containers. This bold move opened new opportunities for Carl's practice, leading to more impactful projects like Peckham Levels and Hackney Bridge. Carl highlights the importance of taking risks, embracing failure, and self-initiating projects to create meaningful architectural work. The discussion also explores the evolving nature of Turner.Works, their future ambitions, and the significance of designing spaces that people can adapt and thrive in.

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Today’s Guest

Carl Turner is the founder of Turner Works, an architecture and urban design studio specialising in the early activation of sites and the meanwhile use of buildings. Carl has founded and set up several meanwhile projects, including Pop Brixton, Peckham Levels and Ashford Coachworks. The building of his own Brixton home was filmed by Grand Designs, and Carl has gone on to feature on Channel 4's 'Ugly House To Lovely House' as an expert in low-cost, high-impact design.

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Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

01:12 The Pop Brixton Project

07:58 Expanding Horizons: Peckham Levels and Hackney Bridge

09:44 Transforming Turner.Works

13:57 Future Aspirations and Stability

23:20 Embracing Failure and DIY Ethos

29:27 Travel Tales and Final Thoughts

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Key Takeaways

Taking risks and learning from failure can lead to new opportunities and growth. If you try new things, even if you fail, you will learn and move forward.

Working with others and building a strong team helps you achieve more than working alone. You do better when you share ideas and support each other.

Creating spaces and projects that people can use and enjoy is more important than just making something look perfect. When you focus on real needs, your work has a bigger impact.

—

Click here to connect with Carl on LinkedIn 🤝

Click here to learn more about Turner.Works 🖥️

Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧

Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝

Want more freedom? Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

—

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

Jon chats with award-winning architect Carl Turner, founder of Turner.Works. Carl shares the first part of his career journey. From his beginnings as a mature student to building an amazing reputation for residential projects. He won a string of prestigious awards along the way. Several of Carl’s projects have featured on TV shows like George Clarke's Ugly House To Lovely House & Grand Designs. In 2013, Carl’s own home, Slip House, won the RIBA Manser Medal, and in 2021, Hove House won Grand Designs House of The Year. Carl talks about the benefits of hands-on construction for building designers, the importance of teamwork, and his itch to make a larger impact through public architecture. Plus the ups and downs of running his own firm straight out of university and the valuable lessons learned along the way.

Today’s Guest

Carl Turner is the founder of Turner Works, an architecture and urban design studio specialising in the early activation of sites and the meanwhile use of buildings. Carl has founded and set up several meanwhile projects, including Pop Brixton, Peckham Levels and Ashford Coachworks. The building of his own Brixton home was filmed by Grand Designs, and Carl has gone on to feature on Channel 4's 'Ugly House To Lovely House' as an expert in low-cost, high-impact design.

Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

01:07 Meet Carl Turner

03:53 The Importance of Taking Breaks

06:36 Carl's Early Career and Starting Turner.Works

11:14 Hands-On Construction Experience

26:01 Building a Reputation and Winning Awards

29:47 The Desire for Public Projects

31:25 Transition to Community Development

31:50 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser

Key Takeaways

Get Involved and Learn by Doing

You learn a lot when you get your hands dirty. If you help build things yourself, you understand how buildings really work. This makes you a better designer because you know what is possible and what is hard to do.

Take Breaks and Make Plans

You need to take breaks and step back sometimes. When you do this, you can see things more clearly and make better choices. If you just keep working without stopping, you might miss out on good ideas or make mistakes.

Work Together and Help Others

You do better when you work as a team. If you help other people and listen to their ideas, you can finish projects more easily. It is not just about you; it is about everyone working together to make something great.

Click here to connect with Carl on LinkedIn 🤝

Click here to learn more about Turner.Works 🖥️

Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧

Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝

Want more freedom? Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

Next Episode

Next time, hear what happened after Carl decided to move away from residential architecture towards public projects.

Only 17% of small teams write down what they do. Most just try to remember everything, which leads to stress and feeling overwhelmed. Layla Pomper, CEO of ProcessDriven and a systems expert, talks about how to build strong systems in your business. She shares her own journey from running a carpentry business with her husband to helping over 2,100 clients and 119,000+ YouTube followers. Layla explains the difference between good tools and good systems, and why writing down what you do is so important. She also discusses common mistakes teams make, like relying too much on software. This episode of Architecture Business Club will help you understand why better systems are key, not more tools.

Today’s Guest

Layla Pomper is the CEO of ProcessDriven® and the go-to expert on systemizing small team operations. Since 2018, Layla has been using software, process documentation, and storytelling to guide over 2,100+ clients and 119k YouTube subscribers to “enjoy the process” so they can delegate, grow, or simply relax. Creator of the Systemization Snapshot™— an operations audit and report that has benchmarked the operations of hundreds of teams—Layla’s mission is to turn “build your business systems” into a game that small teams can win in any industry.

Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

00:50 Meet Layla Pomper: CEO of ProcessDriven

02:25 Layla's Journey from Carpentry to Systems

04:26 The Importance of Documenting Business Systems

05:48 Why Systems Matter More Than Tools

07:17 The Pitfalls of Relying on Software

12:52 Learning from Other Industries

14:30 Defining Good Systems vs. Good Tools

21:32 The Benefits of Writing Down Processes

27:07 Tool Switching: Does It Solve Real Issues?

29:27 Practical Steps to Improve Your Systems

30:54 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

34:50 Layla's Favourite Place and Closing Remarks

Key Takeaways

Write Things Down

You should not try to remember everything in your head. When you write down what you do at work, it helps you and your team know what needs to be done. This makes your job less stressful and stops you from forgetting important steps.

Don’t Let Software Decide How You Work

It’s easy to think that new tools or apps will fix your problems. But you should first decide how you want to work, then pick tools that fit your way. If you let the software choose for you, you might end up working in a way that does not suit you.

Learn from Others

You can learn good ideas from people in your own job and from other jobs too. Ask others how they do things and share what works for you. Sometimes, a simple trick from another business can help you do your work better.

Connect with Layla on LinkedIn 🤝

Click here to get your Free Operations Audit and Identify Your Team's Biggest Bottleneck in Minutes - take your Systemization Snapshot today. 🖥️

Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧

Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝

Want more freedom? Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

Next Episode

Next time Jon chats with architect Carl Turner from Turner.Works about his career of two halves.

Declutter Your Mind with Bullet Journaling! Jon shares how bullet journalling can help you reduce mental clutter and focus on what’s important. John, who has been using the bullet journal method for over a year, explains how it works and debunks common myths about it needing to be artistic. He highlights the ease and flexibility of this analogue method, making it a better alternative to digital tools that can be distracting. Jon provides simple instructions on getting started and the benefits of incorporating bullet journalling into your daily routine.

00:00 Introduction

01:18 Exploring Bullet Journaling

02:32 Debunking Bullet Journaling Myths

05:27 Jon's Bullet Journaling Journey

13:38 Getting Started with Bullet Journaling

18:33 Bullet Journaling Tips and Tricks

20:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Key Takeaways

You can use bullet journaling to clear your mind. Writing things down helps you stop worrying about forgetting ideas and lets you focus on what matters.

You do not need to be artistic or make your journal look perfect. Bullet journaling is for everyone, and you can keep it as simple as you like.

You can use your journal to plan, keep track of your tasks, and look back at what you have done. This helps you see your progress and remember your small wins.

—

Visit the BuJo (Bullet Journal) Website

Liked our guest? Click here to connect with them 🤝

Click here to learn more about [our guest’s services] 🖥️

Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧

Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝

Want more freedom? Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

Next Episode

Next time, Jon is joined by Layla Pomper to uncover why you need better systems, not more tools.

Jon chats with Susie Lober, a marketing expert with over 20 years of experience working with architects. Jon and Susie discuss the pressures and challenges of modern marketing for architecture practices. They highlight the importance of focusing on quality over quantity and avoiding common marketing time wasters like chasing trends, fixating on social media metrics, producing content without strategy, endlessly tweaking websites, and ineffective networking. Susie emphasises the need for a sound marketing strategy, following up on networking efforts, and building trust with potential clients. The conversation underscores the value of intentional and consistent marketing efforts.

Today’s Guest

Susie Lober helps architects harness the power of marketing to get more of the work they want. If you're feeling overwhelmed by all the different marketing tools and tactics, Susie will help you identify what's most relevant to your business with down to earth practical advice. She is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Marketing with over 20 years experience marketing for architects both in practice and independently. She is also an editor of the RIBA publication ‘Cambridge Architecture’.

Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

00:44 Meet Susie Lober

02:30 Biggest Marketing Time Wasters

02:56 Chasing Trends in Marketing

07:22 The Pitfalls of Social Media Metrics

11:20 Creating Purposeful Content

14:17 Website Tweaks and Their Impact

29:10 Effective Relationship Marketing

36:54 Consistency in Marketing Efforts

46:16 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

48:20 Travel and Personal Recommendations

49:48 Conclusion and Contact Information

Key Takeaways

Focus on What Matters, Not Just Trends

You don’t need to follow every new marketing trend. Instead, think about where your audience is and what they care about. If your customers aren’t on a certain social media platform, you don’t have to be there either.

Quality Over Quantity in Content

It’s better to share helpful and interesting content than to post all the time. You don’t have to post every day. Make sure what you share is useful and fits your business. This way, people will remember you for the right reasons.

Build Real Relationships and Keep in Touch

Meeting people is just the start. You need to follow up and keep in touch with them. This helps you stay in their minds, so when they need your help, they will think of you first. Little and often is better than doing a lot all at once and then stopping.

Click here to connect with Susie on LinkedIn 🤝

Click here to learn more about Susie’s marketing workshops 🖥️

Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧

Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝

Want more freedom? Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

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Next Episode

Next time Jon talks about how to use warm outreach to generate leads.

Jon is joined by Antoinette Chappell, an expert in executive thought leadership and content creation. They discuss the importance of standing out with original insights and effective content implementation. Antoinette shares her journey from translation to copywriting, and the necessity of strategic, long-form content to build authority in your field. They explore the role of thought leadership in career growth, the impact of AI on content creation, and the significance of having a strong content strategy. Also, Antoinette talks about Property Connect networking events and the value of face-to-face networking in the property and construction industries.

Today’s Guest

Antoinette Chappell has worked in two professions heavily transformed by AI and automation, yet has remained resilient and agile throughout. As a translator, she spotted automation trends early and pivoted into copywriting in 2019, ahead of the industry curve. In 2023, she wrote "Copy that!" to help fellow translators develop additional revenue streams, guidance that professional bodies are only now advocating. Antoinette now specialises in executive thought leadership, transforming busy leaders' insights into compelling long-form content. This forward-thinking approach exemplifies how she helps C-suite executives and founders lead industry conversations rather than reflect on what has been.

Episode Highlights

00:00 Introduction

00:39 Meet Antoinette Chappell

03:08 Becoming a Thought Leader

05:32 Benefits of Thought Leadership

08:13 Long Form vs Short Form Content

11:07 SEO and Quality Content

16:49 Strategic Content Planning

20:30 Engaging Content for Professional Services

22:31 Personal Touch in Professional Posts

23:07 Consistency and Strategy in Posting

23:43 Building a Recognisable Brand

24:45 The Long-Term Benefits of Quality Content

28:07 Evolving with Industry Changes

32:46 Networking and Property Connect

35:19 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

36:15 Favourite Travel Destinations

39:21 Conclusion and Contact Information

Key Takeaways

You need to share your own ideas and stories to stand out. If you want people to notice you, don’t just copy what others say. Use your own experience and show what makes you different.

You should have a plan for your content. Think about who you want to help, what they want to know, and when you will share your posts. If you post with a plan, more people will see you as an expert.

You don’t have to be the best or have worked for many years to be a leader. If you look ahead, learn new things, and share what you know, you can help others and become someone people trust.

Like our guest? Click here to connect with them 🤝

Click here to learn more about Antoinette's services 🖥️

Find your nearest Property Connect Networking Event 🏡

Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧

Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝

Want more freedom? Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

Next Episode

Next time Jon is joined by Susie Lober to uncover 5 big marketing timewasters.

Jon welcomes Susanna Reay, the UK's authority architect and creator of the Spark process. They discuss the importance of building authority over visibility for sustainable business growth in architecture. Susanna shares her expertise on how architectural firms can effectively position themselves as the go-to experts in their field by focusing on their unique methods, offers, and distinctive content. The episode also highlights success stories of interior designers who transformed their businesses by uncovering their unique service premises. Through engaging examples and actionable insights, this episode provides a roadmap for architects and designers to build a credible and distinctive brand.

Today's Guest...

Susanna Reay is the UK's Authority Architect and creator of the SPARK Process™, dedicated to transforming brilliant but overwhelmed service providers into clear, confident authorities with scalable impact.

Episode Highlights...

00:00 Introduction

00:46 Meet Susanna Reay: The Authority Architect

04:26 Positioning Yourself as the Go-To Choice

07:53 The Authority Spark Process

11:15 Signature Methods and Unique Offers

19:25 Real-Life Examples of Unique Service Premises

30:47 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

31:37 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Key Takeaways...

You don’t need to be everywhere to be successful.

You might think you have to be on every social media platform and get lots of followers. But you don’t. It’s better to know what you want to be known for and build your skills and trust first. This helps you stand out without feeling tired or stressed.

You have your own special way of doing things.

Even if you learned the same things as others, you have your own method and style. When you find out what makes you different, you can use it to show people why they should choose you. Your unique way is your “calling card”.

Share what you believe and what you care about.

People want to know what you stand for. If you talk about your ideas and what matters to you, others will see you as a leader. This helps you become the go-to person in your field.

Links Mentioned In The Episode...

Connect with Susanna on LinkedIn

Get Susanna’s free resources to help position you as the go-to expert

—--

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Like to be a guest speaker on this podcast?

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Resources…

👉 Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

It’s the step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. Get it today (without any charge).

👉 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

In The Next Episode...

Next time Jon chats with Anoinette Chappell about how to use written content to build your authority so that you can become a thought leader in your sector.

Jon shares practical tips for managing work and family life during the school holidays. Jon offers advice on how to maintain productivity by designing flexible routines, prioritising essential tasks, batching work, and using technology. He shares the importance of setting expectations with clients, involving children in planning, and taking care of your own well-being to avoid burnout. Jon also highlights the benefits of outsourcing and the value of connecting with peers for support and ideas. Tune in to learn how to create a balance that works for you and your family.

Episode Highlights...

00:00 Introduction

01:23 Balancing Work and Family During School Holidays

02:48 Practical Tips for Managing Work

07:16 Deep Work and Breaks

10:43 Outsourcing and Tech Solutions

12:29 Self-Care and Community Support

14:56 Final Thoughts

Key Takeaways...

Redefine Productivity: You need to accept that your work efficiency will change during the school holidays. Focus on consistency rather than perfection and set realistic goals for yourself and your business.

Plan and Communicate: Design a flexible routine that fits around your family. Let your family and clients know about any new arrangements, and feel free to adjust the plan as you go.

Self-Care is Key: It's important to look after yourself. Make sure you get enough rest and take regular breaks. Balancing work and family is challenging, but your well-being should never be neglected.

—--

Want to explore podcasting for your business?

👉 Book a chat with Jon to explore working with him 📞

Interested in joining our membership community?

👉 Click here to JOIN THE WAITLIST 😀

Resources…

👉 Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

It’s the step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. Get it today (without any charge).

👉 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

In The Next Episode...

Next time Jon chats with Susanna Reay about how to position yourself as the go-to choice.

Jon is joined by brand photographer Catherine Turner to discuss the vital role personal brand photography can play for architecture firms. They explore how showcasing the people behind the designs can build trust and differentiate firms in a competitive market. Catherine shares her insights on effectively using these photos beyond just the about page, choosing the right photographer, and understanding photo licensing. Additionally, she provides practical tips for making professional photos work as a powerful marketing tool. This episode is essential listening for architects and design professionals looking to enhance their brand presence.

Today's Guest...

Catherine Turner is a brand photographer and also co-host for the You Are The Media - London community events. She can help you have awesome photos, whether you shyly cringe or boldly perform while having them taken. She's based in the South East of England but travels the country with her kit, including an essential pop-up stool as she's a bit of a shortie! Catherine is also a wife, a bonus-mum and has a cockerpoo called Arthur.

Episode Highlights...

00:00 Introduction

01:53 Meet Catherine Turner: Brand Photographer

06:54 The Importance of Personal Brand Photos

17:57 Using Personal Brand Photos Effectively

21:54 Leveraging Personal Brand Photos for Marketing

26:10 The Power of Personal Connections in Business

26:53 The Impact of Visual Marketing

30:38 Choosing the Right Photographer

34:49 Understanding Photo Licensing

40:52 Catherine's Favourite Travel Destination

43:06 Final Thoughts and Where to Connect

Key Takeaways...

Show your face: Personal brand photos are important. They help people remember you and know who they are working with. This builds trust, which can set you apart from others.

Mix professional and casual shots: When using photos, don't just stick to professional headshots. Mix in some casual, everyday photos that show a bit of your personal life. This can make you more relatable and approachable.

Choose the right photographer: Work with a photographer you feel comfortable with. This can make a big difference in how you feel about the photo session and the end results.

Links Mentioned In The Episode...

Visit Catherine’s Website

Connect with Catherine on Instagram

—--

👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers.

https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint

—--

Want to explore podcasting for your business?

👉 Book a chat with Jon to explore working with him 📞

Interested in joining our membership community?

👉 Click here to JOIN THE WAITLIST 😀

Resources…

👉 Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

It’s the step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. Get it today (without any charge).

👉 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

Jon is joined by the acclaimed writer Rachel Extance to discuss how architects can keep their practice websites engaging even between projects. They explore the concept of treating your website like a magazine, sharing six key blog ideas that can maintain interest and boost search engine rankings. Topics covered include case studies, unpacking key concepts, origin stories, sales page support articles, news stories, and event write-ups. Rachel also shares valuable tips for creating compelling blog content and the importance of tailoring content to the client's understanding level. And insights on effectively managing writing tasks. Tune in to learn how to make your architecture practice's website consistently dynamic and informative.

Today's Guest...

Rachel Extance has been writing professionally for more than 20 years, first as a journalist, and now as a copywriter and blogger. She’s always been interested in government, social justice, international development and sustainability so specialises in these areas. Her work is story-led, focused on people, and how our work interrelates to make an impact. Rachel excels at simplifying complex topics for the public and writing for different audiences.

Episode Highlights...

00:00 Introduction

01:28 Meet Rachel Extance: Professional Writer

03:46 Using Your Website Like a Magazine

08:32 Six Blog Ideas for Architects

09:36 Deep Dive: Case Studies

13:23 Exploring Key Concepts

19:12 The Importance of Origin Stories

22:03 Introducing the Sales Page Supporter

28:04 Using Pinterest for Your Architecture Business

29:03 Sharing News Stories on Your Website

30:48 Developing Case Studies and Interlinking Content

33:32 Incorporating Events into Your Blog

35:25 Tips for Writing Effective Blog Articles

39:56 Travel Inspirations and Personal Insights

41:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Key Takeaways...

Share Your Knowledge: You have lots of stories and experiences that can help others. Share them on your website in blog posts. This way, people can learn from you and trust you more.

 Explain Your Work: Many people don't understand what architects do. By writing about how you solve problems and create amazing designs, you can help clients see why they should choose you.

 Keep Your Website Updated: Adding new stories and news to your website shows that you are active and reliable. This helps you rank higher on search engines and keeps you in the minds of potential clients.

Links Mentioned In The Episode...

Learn more about Rachel’s Writing Club

Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn

—--

Want to explore podcasting for your business?

👉 Book a chat with Jon to explore working with him 📞

Interested in joining our membership community?

👉 Click here to JOIN THE WAITLIST 😀

Resources…

👉 Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

It’s the step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. Get it today (without any charge).

👉 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

In The Next Episode...

Next time Jon chats with Catherine Turner to learn how personal brand photography can benefit your practice.

Jon is joined by imposter syndrome life coach and fire engineer Jason McDaid. The discussion dives into the widespread issue of imposter syndrome, which affects 78% of professionals. Jason shares actionable strategies to combat this debilitating self-doubt, explains its core traits, and discusses the impact it has on individuals, particularly in the architecture and engineering sectors. He also opens up about his personal struggles and the coping mechanisms that people adopt. Additionally, the episode offers practical tools to reframe negative thoughts and underscores the importance of understanding that you're not alone in feeling like an imposter.

Today's Guest...

Jason McDaid is a fire engineer and a life coach specialising in imposter syndrome and the impact this is having on professionals working in the construction industry. He provides 1 on 1 coaching, and in-person imposter syndrome workshops called The 78% Club, 78% being the first stat that he heard about how many people experience imposter thoughts and feelings during their career.

Episode Highlights...

00:00 Introduction

01:38 Meet Jason McDaid

04:54 Defining Imposter Syndrome

08:26 Why Imposter Syndrome is So Common

11:52 Different Competence Types

15:52 Coping Mechanisms and Their Impact

20:16 Imposter Syndrome in Architecture and Engineering

25:10 Competence and Mistakes in the Workplace

26:01 Understanding Imposter Syndrome

26:36 Healthy Self-Doubt vs. Imposter Syndrome

29:19 Personal Story of Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

32:10 Tools to Combat Imposter Syndrome

33:27 Reframing Negative Thoughts

39:13 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

42:32 Travel and Nature Experiences

45:50 Conclusion and Contact Information

Key Takeaways...

Imposter syndrome is very common. You're not alone in feeling like a fraud sometimes; 78% of professionals experience similar thoughts at some point in their career. This realisation can help you feel less isolated.

Imposter syndrome can show up in different ways. You might procrastinate, avoid putting yourself forward, or switch jobs frequently. Recognising how it affects you personally can be the first step in tackling it.

Reframing your thoughts can help. Asking yourself questions to challenge negative thoughts can change how you see your skills and achievements. This can make a big difference in how you handle feelings of self-doubt.

Links Mentioned In The Episode...

Visit Jason’s Website

—--

Want to explore podcasting for your business?

👉 Book a chat with Jon to explore working with him 📞

Interested in joining our membership community?

👉 Click here to JOIN THE WAITLIST 😀

Resources…

👉 Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

It’s the step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. Get it today (without any charge).

👉 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

In The Next Episode...

Next time we’re joined by Rachel Extance to learn how to use your website like a magazine.

Jon addresses the challenging question of whether it's time for you to quit your architecture business. He explores indicators that might suggest it's time for you to step away, such as changes in the market, personal circumstances, and diminishing passion. He explores the emotional aspects of closing your business and reframes the concept of failure as a learning opportunity. Offering three potential paths—staying the course, stopping, or starting something new—Jon provides actionable insights and personal anecdotes, encouraging you to carefully consider your options before making any big decisions about your business.

Episode Highlights...

00:00 Introduction

02:11 Signs It's Time to Quit Your Business

05:15 Reframing Failure: Learning from Setbacks

07:14 Evaluating Your Business: Freedom, Flexibility, and Fulfillment

09:21 Options: Stay, Stop, or Start Something New

10:44 Jon's Personal Experience: Struggles and Realisations

17:01 The Power of Pivoting: Embracing Change

22:42 Conclusion: Making the Right Decision for You

24:16 Outro: Next Episode and Final Thoughts

Key Takeaways...

Think About Changing:

If your architecture business is no longer working and it's making you sad or tired, it might be time to think about changing something. This can mean trying a new idea or offering different services.

Closing Your Business Is Not Failure:

If you close your business, it doesn’t mean you failed. Think of it as learning from what didn’t work and moving on to something new. It’s okay to stop something that makes you unhappy.

You Have Options:

You can choose to keep your business going, close it, or start something new. It’s important to take time to think about what you really want and make a plan that is best for you.

—--

Want to explore podcasting for your business?

👉 Book a chat with Jon to explore working with him 📞

Interested in joining our membership community?

👉 Click here to JOIN THE WAITLIST 😀

Resources…

👉 Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

It’s the step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. Get it today (without any charge).

👉 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

In The Next Episode...

Next time we’re joined by Jason McDaid to explore how we can normalise impostor syndrome.

Jon and special guest Heidi Suter, co-founder and CEO of Arkiste, discuss effective ways to build and maintain an online presence for architects and designers. They explore SEO tactics, the importance of having a detailed and updated portfolio, and using platforms like Pinterest for increased visibility. Heidi shares her journey into the architecture space and offers valuable tips for repurposing content and optimising your website. Jon provides insights into leveraging digital tools to avoid burnout while maintaining a strong online presence.

Today's Guest...

Heidi Suutari is the co-founder and CEO of Arkiste—a digital playground made just for design professionals, where architects and designers can show off their best work and get found by dream clients.Based in Helsinki but running an international crew, she’s a tech and marketing pro who’s obsessed with helping creative people win online. Heidi once got rejected from architecture school, but now she’s building Arkiste, so what goes around comes around. Always learning, and passionate about helping others succeed, Heidi’s here to make sure your work gets noticed online

Episode Highlights...

00:00 Introduction

01:18 Meet Heidi Suter: Co-founder and CEO of Arkiste

02:25 Heidi's Personal Interests and Background

04:07 Long-term Online Strategies for Architects

07:31 SEO Tips for Architects

17:10 Using Pinterest to Boost Visibility

22:29 Importance of a Well-Designed Website

27:22 Effective Social Media Strategies

30:34 About Arkiste: A Digital Playground for Designers

38:26 Final Thoughts and Favourite Places

40:00 Conclusion and Farewell

Key Takeaways...

Use SEO to Stand Out: You need to use the right words on your website to help people find you. Make sure to describe your work well and use the words that your clients might use to search for services like yours.

Share Your Work Online: Don't keep your amazing projects hidden on your computer. Share them online on platforms like Pinterest and your website. This way, more people can see your work and you can get more clients.

Keep Your Website User-Friendly: Your website is the first thing many people will see about you. Make sure it is easy to use, loads quickly, and has all the important information about your projects and how people can contact you.

Links Mentioned In The Episode...

To start showcasing your work online head to arkiste.com & sign up (for free).

—--

Want to explore podcasting for your business?

👉 Book a chat with Jon to explore working with him 📞

Interested in joining our membership community?

👉 Click here to JOIN THE WAITLIST 😀

Resources…

👉 Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

It’s the step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. Get it today (without any charge).

👉 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

Jon is joined by leading architect marketing coach Richard Petrie. They discuss effective marketing systems tailored to consistently attract the right clients and projects for architects and design professionals. Richard, co-founder of the Architect Marketing Institute, shares insights into building a systematic approach to marketing, shares the importance of niche marketing and a consultative sales process. They explore specific strategies such as creating offers that appeal to clients at different stages of their readiness to hire an architect. Richard shares success stories and provides practical advice for transforming architecture practices through targeted marketing efforts.

Today's Guest...

Richard Petrie is the world’s foremost architect marketing coach & the co-founder of The Architect Marketing Institute - a leading provider of marketing training and resources for small-firm architects and building designers. Their mission is to enable motivated architects to find freedom and fulfillment through exceptional projects and exceptional income. Richard brings a high performance mindset to marketing for his architect clients all around the world. And he’s joined me on this episode to share some of his expertise with you.

Episode Highlights...

00:00 Introduction

02:19 Introducing Richard Petrie

05:13 Challenges Architects Face in Marketing

14:32 High-Level Marketing Strategies For Architects

18:50 Creating Effective Offers

25:24 Common Pitfalls in Traditional Sales Approaches

26:19 The Value of Paid Diagnosis and Research

28:29 Four Offers for Different Client Stages

30:50 Filtering Clients Through Offers

31:24 Nurturing Clients Over Time

33:34 Customising Offers for Specific Projects

35:06 Case Study: Success with Niche Marketing

39:52 The Importance of Marketing for Architects

42:18 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways

44:39 Personal Insights and Travel Experiences

46:54 Connecting with Richard and Show Wrap-Up

Key Takeaways...

You should have a clear target. Knowing exactly who your ideal client is will help you attract the projects you like. Imagine fishing with the right bait for the right fish.

Use a step-by-step marketing plan. Create systems for marketing your services which involve several steps—like different offers for clients at various stages. This helps you guide them through their journey.

Say no to bad projects. If you have plenty of good projects lined up, you can easily say no to the ones that don’t suit you. This way, you won’t feel stuck doing work you don’t enjoy.

Links Mentioned In The Episode...

Click here to learn more about The Architect Marketing Institute

Register for AMI's free AI webinars, Six-AI & AI-Powered Marketing

Book a free Gameplan Call with AMI

—--

Want to explore podcasting for your business?

👉 Book a chat with Jon to explore working with him 📞

Interested in joining our membership community?

👉 Click here to JOIN THE WAITLIST 😀

Resources…

👉 Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

It’s the step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. Get it today (without any charge).

👉 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

In The Next Episode...

Next time Jon chats with Heidi Suutari about long term online strategies to build your visibility without burnout.

Jon is joined by marketing coach Maya Kovacic-Kalra, a former architect who provides a comprehensive guide on optimising LinkedIn profiles to attract more clients and better projects. The discussion covers essential elements like the importance of a compelling headline, an effective LinkedIn banner, a professional profile photo, and a strong about section. Maya stresses the importance of clear call-to-actions and using the featured section to enhance profile engagement. The episode includes examples and practical tips to help architects stand out on LinkedIn and make the most of their online presence.

Today's Guest...

Maja Kovacic-Kalra is a former architect turned marketing coach who spent over a decade in practice. Maja knows the pain of doing great work… and still feeling invisible. Relying on word of mouth. Taking on underpaid, uninspiring projects just to stay afloat. Working with difficult clients. But she’s also seen the difference when you're working on projects you actually enjoy, getting paid properly, and not burning yourself out in the process. Her mission is to help architects get more of the right work with clients who respect and value you. So you can work on projects you love and earn the money you deserve without working crazy hours.

Episode Highlights...

00:00 Introduction

01:24 Meet Maya Kovacic-Kalra: From Architect to Marketing Coach

03:54 What Makes Up A LinkedIn Profile?

09:56 The Importance of a Strong LinkedIn Headline

14:52 Crafting an Effective LinkedIn Banner

18:28 Perfecting Your LinkedIn Profile Photo

20:04 Maximising the Blue Link and About Section

28:07 The Featured Section: A Key Element

29:38 Maya's Favourite Travel Destination

31:17 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Key Takeaways...

Make Your LinkedIn Headline Work for You

Your headline should do more than just say your job title. Use it to tell people who you help, what you do, and how it helps them. Try a simple format like: “I help [type of person] do [what you do] so they can [benefit].”

👉 Focus on the first 45–60 characters—this is what people see first when you show up in searches or invites.

Design a Banner That Tells Your Story

Your LinkedIn banner is the big image at the top of your profile. Use it to grab attention and show:

📢 What you do and why it matters

✅ Proof of your work (like logos or quotes from happy clients)

👉 A simple message that tells people what to do next (like “Book a call”)

Make sure the text is easy to read on both phone and computer, and check that nothing is hidden behind your profile photo.

Use the ‘About’ and ‘Featured’ Sections to Show How You Help

The ‘About’ section is a place to share your story—not just your CV. Talk about the problems your ideal client has, and how you help fix them. Keep it clear and friendly.

In the ‘Featured’ section, add links to your best work or offers. Put the most important link first—the one you want people to click. This should match the call to action in your banner.

Links Mentioned In The Episode...

Grab Maja’s Free PDF Guide ‘Your Next Step to a Stronger LinkedIn Profile’

Connect with Maja on LinkedIn

Visit Maja’s Website

—--

Want to explore podcasting for your business?

👉 Book a chat with Jon to explore working with him 📞

Interested in joining our membership community?

👉 Click here to JOIN THE WAITLIST 😀

Resources…

👉 Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

It’s the step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. Get it today (without any charge).

👉 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

Behind the Scenes of Podcast Production: Jon offers a behind-the-scenes look at the extensive work involved in relaunching CIAT's 'Where it's AT' podcast. The episode covers the planning, strategy meetings, content brainstorming, and technical setups necessary to reboot an existing show. Jon explains the importance of having clear goals, appropriate branding, and well-thought-out audio and visual elements. He also discusses the meticulous editing and promotional efforts required to produce quality podcast episodes. Jon also previews the next episode of 'Where it's AT' titled 'The Healing Power of Buildings,' set to release on May 30, 2025.

Episode Highlights...

00:00 Introduction

01:39 What is the Where it's AT podcast?

04:48 Podcast Relaunch Strategy

13:28 Editing and Production Insights

16:52 Conclusion and Next Steps

Key Takeaways...

Podcasting takes planning

Making a podcast isn’t just hitting record and talking. You need a plan—what the show’s about, how it sounds, what it looks like, and who it’s for. It’s a bit like designing a building—lots of little parts need to work together.

The stuff people don’t see matters

There’s loads that goes on behind the scenes. From planning and editing to sorting out guests and sharing the show online, all these steps help your podcast sound and look professional.

You don’t have to do it alone

Getting help from someone who knows what they’re doing can save you time and stress. A podcast expert can help with everything from ideas to launch, so your show feels smooth and sounds great.

Links Mentioned In The Episode...

👉 CLICK HERE to subscribe to Where it’s AT: The Architectural Technology Podcast on your favourite podcast player

—--

Want to explore podcasting for your business?

👉 Book a chat with Jon to explore working with him 📞

Interested in joining our membership community?

👉 Click here to JOIN THE WAITLIST 😀

Resources…

👉 Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

It’s the step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. Get it today (without any charge).

👉 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

In The Next Episode...

Next time, Jon chats with Maja Kovacic-Kalra about how to optimise your LinkedIn profile.

Jon shares tips on how to stay positive when feeling down about your business. Drawing from his 20+ years in architecture, Jon highlights common challenges and offers strategies to boost morale. He discusses the importance of changing perspectives, leveraging community support, utilising coaching exercises like the circle of control, and the benefits of networking and co-working. Jon also stresses the value of celebrating small successes and managing overwhelming to-do lists through bullet journaling. Tune in for practical advice to maintain a positive mindset in your entrepreneurial journey.

Episode Highlights...

00:00 Introduction

01:20 Understanding Business Struggles

02:24 Changing Your Perspective

05:50 Circle of Control Exercise

08:47 Environmental Changes and Networking

13:30 Journaling and To-Do Lists

15:38 Conclusion

Key Takeaways...

Change how you look at things

When you're feeling low about your business, try to look at things in a different way.

It’s easy to compare yourself to others and feel like you’re not doing enough.

But remember – you don’t see their full story. Everyone has ups and downs.

Try to spot the difference between what’s really true and what you’re just feeling in the moment.

Don't waste energy on things you can’t change

When everything feels too much, try this simple exercise to feel more in control:

Draw three circles on a page:

• In the outer circle, write things you can’t control (like the news, the economy, or other people’s actions)
• 
  
• In the middle circle, write things you can influence (like how you talk to clients or the way your team works)
• 
  
• In the centre circle, write what you can control (like your daily habits, how you spend your time, and how you react)

Spend most of your time and energy on the centre circle. That’s where real change happens.

Small changes can lift your mood

Feeling stuck? Try changing where you work – a coffee shop or coworking space can give you a boost.

Get outside for a walk, or do something fun like kayaking or cycling.

And even if you're an introvert, talking to others in your field can really help.

You’re not alone – sometimes, a quick chat can give you a whole new idea.

—--

Want to explore podcasting for your business?

👉 Book a chat with Jon to explore working with him 📞

Interested in joining our membership community?

👉 Click here to JOIN THE WAITLIST 😀

Resources…

👉 Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

It’s the step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. Get it today (without any charge).

👉 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

Jon is joined by productivity and habits coach Haley Watts to discuss the psychology of habits and offer practical tips for small firm founders in architecture. They discuss the Four Tendencies of habit formation, strategies for managing to-do lists, and the importance of balancing work with personal interests. Haley also shares insights on creating small, actionable habits and provides advice on how to leverage energy levels for better task management. The conversation offers valuable guidance for anyone looking to improve productivity and achieve more freedom and fulfillment in their business.

Today's Guest...

Hayley Watts is a productivity and habits coach and trainer. She helps people who are juggling too much to get clear on their priorities, reduce their stress and help them grow their businesses. She has been delivering training around productivity and people management for the last 10 years, and now helps people who are running their own businesses to get focused.

Episode Highlights...

00:00 Introduction

01:33 Meet Haley Watts: Productivity and Habits Coach

03:36 Understanding Habit Formation

06:50 Effective Use of Calendars and To-Do Lists

11:26 Creating and Sustaining New Habits

14:05 Managing Overwhelm and Prioritising Tasks

24:10 Weekly Planning Strategies

28:03 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

31:32 Closing Remarks and Contact Information

Key Takeaways...

Build small habits that stick

Start with tiny steps you can do easily.

Link your new habit to something you already do – like brushing your teeth or making tea.

Celebrate little wins to help you keep going.

Plan your day in a way that works for you

Use a simple system to keep track of what needs doing.

Start with the most important jobs, and think about when you have the most energy.

You can use a calendar, a journal, or even post-it notes – whatever helps you stay on track.

Stop feeling overwhelmed

When your tasks are all over the place, your brain feels messy too.

Keep everything in one spot and break big jobs into small steps.

This makes things feel easier and helps you stay in control.

Links Mentioned In The Episode...

Visit Hayley’s Website

Connect with Hayley on LinkedIn

—--

Want to explore podcasting for your business?

👉 Book a chat with Jon to explore working with him 📞

Interested in joining our membership community?

👉 Click here to JOIN THE WAITLIST 😀

Resources…

👉 Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

It’s the step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. Get it today (without any charge).

👉 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

In The Next Episode...

Next time, Jon explores how to stay positive even when you’re feeling down.

Jon chats with business coach and entrepreneur Ray Brown about a simple yet powerful business framework for architecture practices. They discuss the 'Four Ps' - Practice, Projects, People, and Perception - that can dramatically improve business results. Key insights include being intentional about business perceptions, understanding and managing project hours, the importance of clear roles and strategic hiring, and the value of a foundational business education. They also introduce ArchiBiz's new Business School for Architects. Ray underscores that architects must embrace basic business knowledge to ensure long-term success.

Today's Guest...

Ray Brown is a business coach and entrepreneur. Originally from Scotland & now based in Australia. Ray has coached everyone from startups to top executives of major companies. He is the founder ArchiBiz - a global company that helps ambitious architects build profitable and sustainable businesses without compromising design standards. Ray is our first returning guest, having featured on episode 31 of the podcast back in May 2024.

Episode Highlights...

00:00 Introduction

01:31 Meet Ray Brown

04:03 The Four Ps Framework for Architecture Practices

06:33 Deep Dive into Practice and Projects

16:17 People: Hiring, Training, and Utilisation

22:47 Perception: Shaping Your Market Image

28:43 Introducing the Business School for Architects

35:46 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

38:55 Travel Talk and Farewell

Key Takeaways...

Build Your Business Like You Build a House

You can be great at design, but without a strong business setup, your practice won’t run well. Ray Brown talks about using the “Four Ps” to keep things on track:

🏢 Practice – how your business is set up

📁 Projects – how you run your jobs

👥 People – who you hire and how they work

👀 Perception – how others see your business

Know Where Your Time Goes

You only have so many hours in a day. Ray says it’s important to know how you spend them:

⏱️ Time on client work you can charge for

🧾 Time on project tasks you can’t charge for

📋 Time on things not linked to any project

If you don’t track this properly, you might end up working loads… but earning less than you think.

Don’t Wait Too Long to Hire Help

Hiring someone when you’re too busy can lead to mistakes. Ray says:

👷 Hire before you're desperate

📄 Give each person a clear job and role

💰 Use the right team member for the task – the one who can do the job well without costing too much

This way, your team works better, and your business makes more money.

Links Mentioned In The Episode...

Click here to join the Business School for Architects (for free)

Click here to learn more about ArchiBiz

—--

Want to explore podcasting for your business?

👉 Book a chat with Jon to explore working with him 📞

Interested in joining our membership community?

👉 Click here to JOIN THE WAITLIST 😀

Resources…

👉 Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

It’s the step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. Get it today (without any charge).

👉 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

In The Next Episode...

Next time Jon chats with Hayley Watts to learn how you can create good habits to lead to more success in your business.

Jon is joined by architect Joe Wright, who shares his journey from working in a large architecture firm to running his own small practice. Joe shares the challenges and rewards of this transition, including his changing approach to business and the importance of client collaboration. He also discusses personal anecdotes, his love for a local gospel choir, and the significance of sustainable design in his projects. The episode offers valuable insights for small firm founders aiming to build their dream business in architecture.

Today's Guest...

Joe Wright is a Chartered Architect who creates bespoke homes in London and West Sussex. His focus is on client collaboration and sustainable design. Joe has worked on around 10 projects a year for over a decade, from design to construction. Helping to turn his clients’ houses into fabulous homes. During that time, he’s also moved from Tottenham to the seaside town of Worthing in West Sussex. And oversaw building work on three projects on his own home. Asides from spending time with his architect wife, two sons and their mad cocker spaniel. Joe loves mountain biking, Arsenal football club, travel, and is a member of a local gospel choir.

Episode Highlights...

00:00 Introduction

01:28 Meet Joe Wright: Architect

04:45 Joe's Architectural Practice and Philosophy

07:45 Joe's Journey to Becoming an Architect

13:31 Starting a New Practice: Challenges and Strategies

17:29 Early Business Struggles and Client Relationships

25:36 Dealing with Difficult Clients

27:18 Learning to Trust Your Gut

29:43 The Impact of Bad Clients on Mental Health

31:07 The Importance of Client Collaboration

31:41 Business Development and Marketing Strategies

40:45 Networking: Overcoming Fear and Building Relationships

46:39 Favourite Travel Destinations

48:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Key Takeaways...

Facing Your Fears and Taking Action

You might feel scared to try something new — like getting into architecture, starting your own practice, or going to a networking event. But the longer you wait, the more chances you might miss. Taking action helps you learn as you go. You don’t need to have it all figured out — just get started, and deal with things as they come.

Why Building Relationships Matters

At first, networking can feel awkward. But once you start meeting people, it gets easier — and it can really help your business. Talking to others, sharing stories, and asking for advice can lead to new ideas, referrals, and work. You don’t have to do it all alone — people want to help.

Trusting Your Gut with Clients

Sometimes you just know when a client doesn’t feel right. If you ignore that feeling, it can lead to stress, wasted time, and low energy. Be picky. Set clear rules from the start. When you work with good people, your projects go better and you feel happier too.

Links Mentioned In The Episode...

Visit Joe’s practice website

Connect with Joe on LinkedIn

—--

Want to explore podcasting for your business?

👉 Book a chat with Jon to explore working with him 📞

Interested in joining our membership community?

👉 Click here to JOIN THE WAITLIST 😀

Resources…

👉 Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

It’s the step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. Get it today (without any charge).

👉 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

In The Next Episode...

Next time, Jon is joined by Ray Brown to learn how you can dramatically improve your results as an architecture practice owner.

Jon discusses how much money is enough for both you and your architecture business. Jon guides listeners through a step-by-step exercise to calculate personal and business income requirements, dispels common myths, and offers practical advice to maintain profitability. He emphasises the importance of considering both short-term needs and long-term financial goals. Additionally, Jon introduces the Profit First method for allocating business revenue. Tune in to gain clarity on your financial targets and ensure your business's financial health.

Episode Highlights...

00:00 Introduction

01:38 Understanding Your Financial Needs

03:56 Calculating Your Monthly Income

05:08 Planning for Annual and Unexpected Expenses

07:03 Setting Long-Term Financial Goals

08:50 Determining Your Business Revenue Needs

09:50 Profit Allocation and Business Expenses

12:08 Conclusion and Next Steps

Key Takeaways...

Know how much money you need

You need to be clear on how much money you need to live and run your business. This means knowing what you need to take home each month, as well as saving for once-a-year bills and surprise costs. It helps you stay on top of things and avoid money stress.

Set money goals for your business

Break your income into steps. Start with what you need each month to get by. Then look at your yearly costs. Finally, think about what you want in the future. These steps make it easier to plan your business income and keep things growing.

Split your money the smart way

One way to manage your money is from the book Profit First. You split what your business earns like this:

💸 50% for paying yourself

🏢 30% for running the business

💰 15% for tax

📈 5% for profit

This helps you make sure everything is covered — and that you’re not just working, but earning too.

—--

Want to explore podcasting for your business?

👉 Book a chat with Jon to explore working with him 📞

Interested in joining our membership community?

👉 Click here to JOIN THE WAITLIST 😀

Resources…

👉 Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

It’s the step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. Get it today (without any charge).

👉 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

In The Next Episode...

Next time, Jon chats with architect Joe Wright about his changing approach to business.

Jon continues his chat with filmmaker, author, and master storyteller Jude Charles to explore the power of storytelling in business. They discuss how capturing and sharing personal and professional stories can humanise a brand and attract more clients. Jude offers practical advice on building a 'story bank,' the importance of video storytelling, and how speaking engagements can enhance your business. Real-world examples from architects and interior designers illustrate how storytelling can be leveraged for greater business success.

Today's Guest...

For over 18 years, Jude Charles has been producing documentaries for entrepreneurs. He has produced stories for Google, Steve Harvey, and dozens of visionary CEOs. Jude is the author of Dramatic Demonstration. This book is a roadmap that teaches you how to dig deep to find compelling stories that no one else knows, and then leverage those stories to grow your business. Jude’s mission is to lead and empower entrepreneurs to have relentless, unwavering courage.

Episode Highlights...

00:00 Introduction

01:29 The Power of a Story Bank

04:01 Crafting Engaging Stories

08:50 Success Stories in Design

14:42 Marketing Beyond Your Portfolio

22:40 The Impact of Video Storytelling

27:04 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

29:04 Travel and Connection

31:12 Closing Remarks

Key Takeaways...

Why storytelling matters

🗣️ If you want people to trust you and feel a real connection, sharing stories helps. When you tell personal stories, it shows the human side of your business. It makes you easier to understand and easier to like. Jude says it’s a good idea to keep a “story bank” – a place where you write down little things that happen each day. You can use these stories later when you need them.

Using video to tell better stories

📹 Video is a great way to tell stories. People can see your face, hear your voice, and really get a feel for who you are. Jude says video helps people understand what your business is all about – sometimes much faster than reading words on a website. It helps them decide if you’re the right person to work with.

Marketing isn’t just about pretty pictures

📸 If you're an architect or designer, don’t just show your finished work. Let people see what happens behind the scenes. Share clips of your team working, or happy clients talking about their experience. And try speaking on podcasts or at events – it helps more people find you and trust you. These simple things make a big difference when it comes to getting the right clients.

Links Mentioned In The Episode...

Grab a free copy of Storytelling for Design Creatives

Visit Jude’s Website

Follow Jude on Instagram

—--

Want to explore podcasting for your business?

👉 Book a chat with Jon to explore working with him 📞

Interested in joining our membership community?

👉 Click here to JOIN THE WAITLIST 😀

Resources…

👉 Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

It’s the step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers. Get it today (without any charge).

👉 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

In The Next Episode...

Next time Jon explores how much money is enough.

Jon is joined by Jude Charles, an expert in storytelling and documentary filmmaking for entrepreneurs. They discuss the three types of stories every business should share: origin stories, success stories, and vision stories, to build a strong connection with their audience. Jude shares his insights from over 18 years of experience, highlights from his book 'Dramatic Demonstration,' and personal anecdotes to demonstrate the power of effective storytelling in business. Additionally, Jude reveals the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in storytelling and offers a simple two-step formula for crafting impactful stories. Don't miss this episode to learn how strategic storytelling can help you attract ideal clients and grow your business.

Today's Guest...

For over 18 years, Jude Charles has been producing documentaries for entrepreneurs. He has produced stories for Google, Steve Harvey, and dozens of visionary CEOs. Jude is the author of Dramatic Demonstration. This book is a roadmap that teaches you how to dig deep to find compelling stories that no one else knows, and then leverage those stories to grow your business. Jude’s mission is to lead and empower entrepreneurs to have relentless, unwavering courage.

Episode Highlights...

00:00 Introduction

01:39 Meet Jude Charles: Filmmaker and Storytelling Expert

04:03 Why is Storytelling Important in Business?

07:42 Three Essential Stories Every Business Should Share

12:23 Overcoming Challenges and Building Trust Through Stories

15:44 What Holds People Back From Sharing Stories?

20:02 The Simplicity of Effective Storytelling

27:21 Conclusion and Next Steps

Key Takeaways...

📖 Why Storytelling Matters in Business

Telling your story helps people trust you and connect with you. When you share your journey, successes, and big ideas, you show what makes you different. People remember stories – and that makes you stand out.

💬 Being Real Builds Trust

Being open about your experiences (even the tough ones) helps people relate to you. When you’re honest and real, your audience feels a stronger connection. That trust makes them more likely to work with you.

✏️ Keep Storytelling Simple

Jude Charles breaks storytelling into two easy steps:

1️⃣ Pick a clear moment – A time when something important happened.

2️⃣ Share the lesson – What you learned from it.

That’s it! No overthinking, just simple, powerful stories that connect with your audience.

Links Mentioned In The Episode...

Grab a free copy of Storytelling for Design Creatives

Visit Jude’s Website

Follow Jude on Instagram

—--

👇 Click the link below to grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁

It’s the FREE step-by-step formula to freedom for architects, architectural technologists, and architectural designers.

https://architecturebusinessclub.com/blueprint

—--

👇 Join the waitlist & chat group for our Community & Mastermind (for FREE)🎁

https://architecturebusinessclub.com/waitlist

👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…

Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

👇 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn at...

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjonclayton/

In The Next Episode...

Jon & Jude’s conversation on storytelling concludes in our next episode.