Las Catalinas might be the most beautiful town built in the 21st century.  And my guest today, Sara Bega, has stewarded its evolution as Town Architect for a decade.  Las Catalinas is a car-free, kid-friendly, multi-generational community in Costa Rica. Their goal is to create a pedestrian-first environment that maximizes kid freedom and allows for independent exploration and discovery. The town is built on 20% of the 1200-acre site, with a mix of houses, flats, hotels, and shops. 

We discuss Sara’s professional journey, and the principles and practices behind developing such a stunningly beautiful and human neighborhood that serves as an inspiration and example for what is possible today.  

If you do anything today, just click on this link so you can see the town.  It stands as a testament to the beauty humans can cultivate when they set their mind to it: Beach Town in Guanacaste, Costa Rica | Las Catalinas (lascatalinascr.com)

TAKEAWAYS

• Creating a car-free, kid-friendly community allows for independent exploration and fosters curiosity and connection with nature.

• A pedestrian-first environment benefits not only children but also adults and families, creating a sense of community and connection.

• Las Catalinas is a successful example of a car-free community, with a mix of houses, flats, hotels, and shops built on a 1200-acre site.

• The community achieves car-free living through walkability, valet services, and emergency vehicle access.

• The town architect's role is to oversee the design and planning of the community, ensuring a balance between privacy, walkability, and optimized views. Creating a sustainable and adaptable community requires prioritizing human experience and connection.

• Designing a walkable town with a mix of residential and commercial spaces fosters a sense of community.

• The legal structure of a town should allow for flexibility and adaptability over time.

• Trust in human intelligence and the ability to solve problems is crucial for the success of a community.

• Creating a sense of place involves considering the local climate, using natural materials, and designing for the long term.

  
  

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Las Catalinas

09:46 Creating a Kid-Friendly Community

27:56 Shifting Conversations and Culture

39:48 Solving for Walkability, Privacy, and Optimized Views

42:16 Reversing and Backing into Codes and Legal Structure

45:17 Creating a Clear Legal Structure for Ownership and Responsibility

50:10 Treating a Town as a Town

55:38 Balancing Prevention and Allowing the Best to Happen

01:00:37 Guiding a Town's Growth and Adaptation

01:06:21 Allowing a Town to Grow and Change

01:10:56 Creating Timeless and Sustainable Architecture

01:19:19 Approaching Life with Courage

CONNECT WITH SARA & SHOW RESOURCES

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/begadesignstudio/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarabega/

• Las Catalinas: https://www.lascatalinascr.com/

• Notre Dame School of Architecture: https://architecture.nd.edu/

  
  

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SPONSORS

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Today I get to speak with Alan Pullman, founder of Studio One Eleven, an architecture, urban design and landscape architecture practice focused on human scaled, mixed-use infill projects.  They have a truly impressive portfolio of work.  I love their “practice themes” which I think will resonate with many of you: housing for all, building community + place, renewing the public realm, 21st century mobility, and equitable practice.

I was truly inspired by this conversation with Alan, particularly around the community integration and engagement they cultivate in their office.  He intentionally moved the practice out of their “ivory tower” and down into the heart of the community, sharing their office space with artists and facilitating all kinds of community-wide events and workshops.  It’s given me vision for how I want Building Culture to evolve.

Alan and his team work closely with developers around the country looking to do difficult and messy – but meaningful – infill projects.  They relish the mess.  And, between running a sizeable practice and doing some of their own development projects, I was extremely impressed with Alan’s practical approach (you know, understanding that the economics have to work to do the project!).  They strike the right balance between idealism + pragmatism to actually pull off incredible projects, and keep people at the center of what they do and why they do it.

I hope you find this episode as inspiring as I did!  

TAKEAWAYS

• Reinvesting in cities and putting people at the center of architecture and urban design is crucial for creating meaningful and impactful spaces.

• Studio One Eleven specializes in infill development, mixed-use projects, and adaptive reuse, focusing on creating places for people and collaborating with developers and public-private partnerships.

• Affordable housing development is complex and requires specialized knowledge and collaboration with various funding sources, such as state, city, and federal programs.

• Collaboration and agility are essential in the design process, allowing for co-creation with clients and the ability to adapt to changing needs and circumstances. Studio One Eleven focuses on incremental development and creating human-scale cities.

• The firm has transformed their own office into a community space, hosting events, workshops, and an artist-in-residence program.

• They are passionate about creating places for people and breaking away from the traditional, car-centric approach to city planning

  
  

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction

00:57 Studio One Eleven: Focusing on Infill Development and Community Impact

06:04 The Evolution of Studio Eleven: From Large Retail Projects to Community Impact

19:14 Challenges and Opportunities in Affordable Housing Development

32:41 Collaboration and Agility: Keys to Successful Design and Development

37:29 Incremental Development and Human-Scale Cities

38:56 The Financialization of Architecture and Cities

39:23 Curating the Right Mix of Tenants

43:10 Transforming Their Office into a Community Space

48:36 Building Connections and Social Capital

53:28 Creating Places for People

01:05:33 Optimism for the Future and Opportunities for Progress

CONTACT ALAN & STUDIO ONE ELEVEN

Website: https://studio-111.com/

https://www.instagram.com/studiooneeleven/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-pullman-06197159

https://www.linkedin.com/company/studio-one-eleven

https://www.facebook.com/studioneleven/

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

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Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

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https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

PODCAST SPONSORS

Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/

One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

I met Philippe Block while studying historic masonry structures in Spain last summer. He presented his work and I was blown away. He is a pioneering structural engineer who, as part of his research group Block Research Group, is inventing the future of sustainable construction by blending old knowledge and precedent with new technology, materials and innovation. He's BUILDING off of thousands of years of architectural innovation and deepening our knowledge of how structures really work, with stunning results. And what makes it so impressive is he isn't just doing this in a research lab somewhere--though that is where the ideas are refined--he's implementing them in the real world. Not only is that very difficult to do, overcoming all the obstacles, it also takes a tremendous amount of courage. When I say "the building industry is broken," as I often do, what Phillipe is doing is part of the solution--he's part of pioneering and inventing the future that doesn't exist yet. Enjoy!

Sign up for my bimonthly newsletter ⁠here⁠ to learn more! PHILLIPE'S BIO Philippe Block is a full professor of Architecture and Structures and head of the Institute of Technology in Architecture (ITA) at ETH Zurich, where he co-leads the Block Research Group (BRG) with Dr. Tom Van Mele.

He studied architecture and structural engineering at the Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) in Belgium and at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the US, where he earned his PhD in 2009. The BRG develops sustainable and circular construction solutions through the advancement of computational structural design and innovation in digital fabrication and construction. Specific expertise includes computational form finding, discrete masonry, graphic statics, architectural and structural geometry, digital fabrication and construction, and open-source computation. Philippe and Tom translate their research into practice, with the consultancy Foreign Engineering and the ETH spin-off VAULTED. Most significant is the development of the Rippmann Floor System (RFS), a low-carbon-footprint, fully circular prefabricated concrete floor solution CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Problem Statement 03:10 Three Tenets: Strength through Geometry, Material Effectiveness, and Circular Construction 09:02 Comparison of Concrete and Steel Floor Systems 17:36 The Rippman Floor System 27:29 Combining Architecture and Engineering 32:19 Thinness and Prefabrication of the Rippman Floor System 38:59 Rediscovering Structural Form and Graphic Statics 50:24 Opportunities to Learn Graphic Statics 51:28 Integration of Graphic Statics in Projects 52:21 Opportunities for Self-Education 52:48 New Master of Advanced Studies in Structural Computation 53:17 Focus on Outreach and Education 54:34 The Importance of Open Source and Collaboration 56:29 Graphic Statics as a Tool for Engineering 59:19 The Maturity of Tools for Arch Structures 01:01:16 Challenges in Accepting New Approaches 01:04:07 The Urgency of Innovation in Construction 01:06:35 The Excitement of Discovering and Learning 01:07:47 Following Philippe Block's Work RESOURCESBlock Research GroupVaulted Unreinforced Concrete Floor SystemBRG Githup Compass ResourcesBook on Graphic Statics: Form and Forces: Designing Efficient, Expressive Structures. Book on Guastavino Vaulting by John Ochsendorf MIT's Morningside Academy For Design w/ John Ochsendorf: Phillipe Block Lecture - ETH Zurich, Block Research Group Phillipe Block Lecture - Stone Skins: New Masonry Shells Armadillo Vault Phillipe Block on Linked InCONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

Today I interview Ruben Hassan, a Dutch podcaster and founder of the Aesthetic City podcast. Ruben shares his journey from being an engineer to becoming a full-time podcaster and filmmaker. We discuss the state of construction and development in the Netherlands and the importance of creating beautiful and sustainable built environments. We also explore the day-to-day life in the Netherlands, including transportation, education, and the value of beauty in society. The conversation covers various themes related to the built environment, society, and culture. Some of the key takeaways include the importance of prioritizing people and their well-being in urban planning and design, the need to address environmental and health issues alongside climate change, the tension between tradition and modernity, the role of institutions in shaping the world, and the emergence of countercultures as a response to societal challenges. We also touch on the Dutch farming protests and the value of different perspectives in shaping the built environment. TAKEAWAYS - Ruben Hassan transitioned from being an engineer to a full-time podcaster and filmmaker, focusing on improving the built environment. - The Aesthetic City podcast aims to foster the creation of beauty and true sustainability in architecture and urbanism. - Dutch cities prioritize local, timeless, traditional, and human-centered design principles and traditions. - The Netherlands has a more gentle density approach to urban planning, with cities consisting of mostly five-story buildings. - The Dutch value the ordinary and find beauty in the simple, everyday things. - Day-to-day life in the Netherlands includes a strong emphasis on cycling, integrated neighborhoods, and a sense of community. - Beauty is not just a nice-to-have, but an essential aspect of creating livable and sustainable cities. - The Dutch approach to architecture and urbanism is influenced by their history of religious tolerance, distributed wealth, and residential neighborhoods. Prioritize people and their well-being in urban planning and design. - Address environmental and health issues alongside climate change. - Recognize the tension between tradition and modernity. - Consider the role of institutions in shaping the world. - Acknowledge the emergence of countercultures as a response to societal challenges. CHAPTERS 00:00 - Introduction 03:02 - Transitioning to a New Chapter in Life 05:21 - The Issues with Construction and Development 08:24 - Dutch Cities and the Built Environment 09:47 - Urban Planning in the Netherlands vs. the United States 14:28 - The Importance of Building Places People Want to Go 16:08 - Day-to-Day Life in the Netherlands 21:36 - The Height and Density of Dutch Cities 24:09 - The Cultural Heritage of Dutch Cities 30:40 - The Value and Importance of Beauty 38:36 - Perspectives of Older and Younger Generations 44:48 - The Dutch Farmers' Protests 47:27 - The Nitrogen Issue and Farming Practices 48:31 - Government Actions and Public Opinion 50:16 - Tyranny and Populism 51:45 - Disconnect Between Elites and Regular People 53:32 - The Dark Side of Modernity 55:10 - Tradition and Innovation 55:49 - Hope for Change and Paradigm Shift 59:45 - Upcoming Plans and Trip to the US 01:03:31 - Recommended Cities in the Netherlands 01:07:03 - Dutch Perception of Americans RESOURCES 1. Recommended Book: North Atlantic Cities by Charles Duff 2. Recommend Video: Why Beauty Matters by Roger Scruton 3. Painting: The Little Streets by Vermeer 4. Examples of some wonderful NEW humanist cities: Cayala, Guatemala and Le Plessis-Robinson outside of Paris. 5. Recommended Dutch Cities: Utrecht, Leiden, Amersfoort, Harlem CONNECT WITH RUBEN - Website - Cayala Video - Le Plessis Video - Summer School CONNECT WITH AUSTIN https://linktr.ee/austintunnell https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/

Today, I have friend and colleague Thomas Dougherty on the podcast. Last year Tom joined the Building Culture team as our lead Urban Designer. He studied architecture and urban design at Notre Dame and focused on inner block development and has become known as the "alley-guy" for his expertise in creating spaces in these areas. It's a great conversation focused on the centralization of capital in real estate and how that affects decision making, how we prioritize profits over people and most importantly what we can do differently to try and solve these issues. We chat about smaller scale development and the creation of smaller grained places that are essential for vibrant communities, as well as how our current infrastructure is unsustainable financially and how we will see the effects in the next few decades. We discuss infill development, local investment and rethinking the way we raise capital, and finally we dive into the potential for infill development like creating streets as spaces that can really create beautiful, wonderful places. People really can be enriching forces on our built environment and are capable of immense good and immense beauty- hope you enjoy the conversation! TAKEAWAYS - The centralization of capital in real estate development leads to decisions that prioritize maximum returns over human flourishing. - Smaller-scale development and the creation of smaller grained places are essential for building vibrant communities. - Current infrastructure is unsustainable and requires financial innovation to address its high costs. - Financing new urbanist projects is challenging due to the changing landscape of real estate finance. - Infill development offers opportunities for incremental growth and the revitalization of existing communities. - Local investment empowers individuals and strengthens communities. - Capital plays a significant role in shaping development and should be aligned with the values of creating human-scaled places. - Recognizing the potential of infill development and building streets as public spaces can create inviting and reflective environments. REFERENCES https://ioncommunity.com/ CONNECT WITH THOMAS DOUGHERTY https://www.innerblock.org/about CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ https://www.tiktok.com/@buildingculture CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell https://linktr.ee/austintunnell https://playbook.buildingculture.com/p/ready-fire-aim CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:04 Becoming Known as the Alley Guy 05:01 The Concept of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) 07:08 The Potential of Alleys for ADUs 09:05 The American Alley Hidden Resource 12:26 The Impact of Experiencing Human Scale 19:34 Reimagining Suburbs as Villages and Market Towns 30:04 The Limitations of Subdivisions 33:37 The Importance of Language and Advocacy 38:32 Empowering Individuals in Shaping the Built Environment 39:31 The Centralization of Capital 41:25 The Importance of Small-Scale Development 43:20 The Unsustainability of Current Infrastructure 45:52 The Need for Financial Innovation 47:23 The Difficulty of Financing New Urbanist Projects 50:15 The Potential of Infill Development 52:20 The Power of Local Investment 55:51 The Role of Capital in Development 57:19 Recognizing the Opportunities in Infill Development 59:52 Building Streets as Public Spaces

I'm thrilled to have Coby Lefkowitz on the show today. Coby is an urbanist, real estate developer, writer, and consultant based in New York, and I would add, all around optimist. I've been following him on X for several years, and while it was our first conversation it felt like we had known each other much longer. We are saving the technical conversation on building and development for a time down the road, and today we really focused on the culture around building well and the obstacles that come with it. We both share this idea, in a lot of ways, that the best is just ahead if we can align our beliefs as a culture. TAKEAWAYS: - Urbanism and planning play a crucial role in creating beautiful and sustainable cities. - It is important to dream and not settle for utilitarian outcomes in city building. - A cultural shift towards more thoughtful and human-centered city building is needed. - Dopamine plays a significant role in motivation and addiction, and understanding its effects can help us make better choices. - Finding beauty in the ordinary and embracing everyday simplicity can enhance our appreciation of our surroundings. - Background buildings, when designed with quality and simplicity, can provide a strong foundation for vibrant communities. - Tradition and innovation are not mutually exclusive; tradition represents proven innovation that has stood the test of time. - Architecture has the power to shape our experiences and create intrigue and stimulation in our surroundings. - Small actions, such as adding potted plants or personal touches, can transform and benefit streets and communities. - Overcoming fatalism and embracing choice can empower individuals to shape their communities and create meaningful change. - Despite the challenges we face, history shows that humanity has the ability to rise to the occasion and find solutions. - Optimism and a proactive mindset are essential for creating a better future. CONNECT WITH COBY: Twitter

https://cobylefkowitz.com COBY'S FAVORITES: * Habits: Daily gym & reading * Top Podcasts: - Basketball theme - Nick's NBA podcast * Books: - Welcome to Your World: Sarah Williams Goldhagen - The School of Llife: An Emotional Education CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Background 04:30 The Importance of Urbanism and Planning 08:08 The Need to Dream and Overcoming Barriers 17:33 The Cost of Development and the Value of Design 25:00 The Culture of Consumption and the Importance of Good 29:35 The Challenges of Financing and the Need for Coherent Vision 35:24 The Importance of Conversations and Understanding Perspectives 41:11 The Cultural Shift Needed for Sustainable Development 42:04 The Dopamine Effect and Addiction 43:26 The Value of Everyday Beauty 47:12 The Role of Background Buildings 50:12 The Balance Between Tradition and Innovation 53:07 The Impact of Architecture on Experience 56:20 The Importance of Restraint and Punctuation in Design 57:49 The Power of Small Actions in Shaping Communities 01:03:06 Overcoming Fatalism and Embracing Choice 01:05:32 The Value of Tradition and the Potential for Change 01:10:01 The Impact of Individual Actions on Shaping Places 01:14:01 The Journey of Making a Difference 01:18:36 The Progress and Hope in Urban Planning 01:22:19 Introduction and Background 01:23:04 Interest in Architecture and Urban Planning 01:24:27 Books That Have Changed the Way Coby Thinks 01:25:36 Inspiring Trips and Observations on the Built Environment 01:31:25 Philadelphia as an Example of Urban Planning 01:33:40 Optimism for the Future 01:36:25 Closing Remarks CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ https://www.tiktok.com/@buildingculture CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Instagram LinkedIn Twitter

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Today I'm dropping the second half of my conversation with Sam Day. In case you missed Part 1, head back to Episode 8 in our Podcast series to check it out. Sam is an architect, urbanist, and infill developer based in Oklahoma City--a rare combination of someone designing buildings (architect), creating spaces with those buildings (urbanist), and actually facilitating them coming out of the ground, including buying land, figuring out financing, leasing up, etc (development). At the beginning of this episode, we continue our conversation on the importance of centers, the challenge of creating centers in suburbia, and the possibility of improving suburbia with possibilities like e-bikes, delivery and more. We have a lot of fun getting into the rapid-fire questions and question that our viewers asked via Instagram, topics like habits and routines, the challenges of architecture school and the importance of learning construction details, and even personal topics like the meaning of fatherhood for the both us. If you enjoyed today's show, make sure to like, comment and share! RESOURCES Podcast Recommendations: - Henry George Podcast - http://seethecat.org/ - Ezra Klein - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ezra-klein-show/id1548604447 - Adam Tooze - https://adamtooze.com/category/on-record/podcast/ Book Recommendations: - Regenesis: https://www.amazon.com.au/Regenesis-World-Without-Devouring-Planet/dp/0141992999 - Micheal Pollen - A Place of My Own (Architecture-theme) - https://a.co/d/aVs5a6U How to Change Your Mind - https://a.co/d/9CJJkDI Omnivores Dilemma - https://a.co/d/0bxxumn - Rise of the Community Builders - https://a.co/d/9hKNKpw - Developing Expertise - https://a.co/d/7h06dT7 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in /samuel-day https://www.instagram.com /_sam_day https://www.wheelerdistrict.com/ Takeaways: - Innovative solutions are needed to address the challenges of housing affordability, community building, and sustainable development. - Learning construction details and practical knowledge is challenging in architecture school, and gaining experience on job sites is crucial. - Being a new father is a rewarding experience, and observing a child's growth and development is fascinating. - Working with clients as an architect can be challenging, as there may be a disconnect between the architect's values and the client's priorities. - Investing in high-quality lighting, landscaping, and tactile elements like hardware can greatly enhance the overall design and experience of a space. 00:00 Creating Centers 04:52 The Challenge of Suburban Development 08:00 Distributed Shopping Centers and E-Bikes to Improve Suburbia 22:20 Habits and Routines 25:20 Podcasts Books That Have Changed Our Thinking 35:00 Getting Started as a Developer 38:00 Pivoting into Construction 43:17 The Joys of Fatherhood 47:30 Challenges of Working with Clients 50:00 Splurging on High-End Items CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE Website: https://www.buildingculture.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ X: https://twitter.com/build_culture TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@buildingculture CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Instagram: https://instagram.com/austintunnell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ X: https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell Join the Movement to Build a Better World: The Building Culture Playbook - https://playbook.buildingculture.com/p/blueprint-1-life-is-boring-yet-profound

In the first half of today's episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with a friend and colleague, Sam Day. Sam is an architect, urbanist, and infill developer based in Oklahoma City--a rare combination of someone designing buildings (architect), creating spaces with those buildings (urbanist), and actually facilitating them coming out of the ground, including buying land, figuring out financing, leasing up, etc (development). Sam is also very philosophical, and it's easy for us to talk for hours and debate ideas. He is both an ideas guy and an executor, which is another rare combo that leads to unique perspectives and conversation. First we explore Sam's career trajectory, his first infill project of a quad/4plex self financed with an FHA loan that he used as his primary residence (the development hack for those who don't have a ton of cash--a la R John Anderson and the Incremental Development Alliance). We dive into the concept of missing middle housing, explore the various challenges small developers face in this sector, discuss creating vibrant community centers, the pros and cons of a land value tax, as well as what we mean by human scale and the magic of 3 and 4 story buildings (NOT 20+almost stories). In part 2 we broach ideas like the difficulties in controlling land and the financialization of real estate, and the potential transformation of suburbia through e-bikes and distributed shopping centers, envisioning a more connected and accessible community. TAKEAWAYS - Transitioning from architecture to development requires a diverse skill set, including financial modeling and understanding zoning regulations. - Small developers, such as architects and tradespeople, are well-positioned to address the missing middle housing gap. - Implementing a land value tax can incentivize landowners to develop their properties more efficiently and discourage land speculation. - Retrofitting suburbia requires careful planning and consideration of existing neighborhoods and infrastructure. RESOURCES https://www.linkedin.com/in/samuel-day https://www.instagram.com/_sam_day/ https://www.wheelerdistrict.com/ CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Career Path 03:04 Becoming a Developer 08:05 The Concept of Missing Middle 17:06 Land Value Tax 25:01 Retrofitting Suburbia 36:26 Concerns about Land Value Tax 43:15 The Need for Solutions 47:12 The Future of Suburbia 48:40 Retrofitting Suburbia 50:17 Transfer of Development Rights 51:44 The Rule of 10,000 53:10 The Magic of Three-Story Buildings 54:43 Creating Centers in Suburbia CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE Website: https://www.buildingculture.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ X: https://twitter.com/build_culture TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@buildingculture CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Instagram: https://instagram.com/austintunnell LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ X: https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell Join the Movement to Build a Better World: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/subscribe

Today I sit down with the infamous and inspiring R. John Anderson, also known as 'R John the Bad'. We dive into John's unique story, from his early days quitting high school to pursue his passion in the trades, to his transformative experiences as a developer and influential figure in urban planning.

I met John in 2016 at an Incremental Development Alliance workshop he was putting on in San Antonio--teaching normal folks how to be small-scale developers.

I love his message about "form follows finance", and that, while it is good to romanticize and dream, we also have to live in reality if we want to get anything done. 🔹 Key Topics: - John's early challenges and how they shaped his career - Impact of the 2008 financial crisis on his philosophy - Transition from tradesman to a successful developer - Insights on small-scale development and building sustainable communities - John's perspective on 'form follows finance' in urban planning 🔹 Connect with R. John Anderson: John's Blog: https://www.rjohnthebad.com/ Incremental Development Alliance: https://www.incrementaldevelopment.org/ 🔹 Timestamps: 00:01 - Introduction to John Anderson 01:06 - John's early life and entry into construction 03:15 - Shift to architecture and impact on development philosophy 05:25 - Experiences with large-scale projects and learning from failures 08:50 - Influence of Leon Kreer and the New Urbanism movement 14:28 - Insights on public service and infrastructure development 20:08 - The journey towards incremental development and small-scale projects 33:04 - Strategies for young developers in the current financial landscape 43:52 - The concept of 'form follows finance' in urban design 01:00:37 - Exploring opportunities in urban renewal and sprawl repair John has a lot of bits of wisdom and insight for anyone interested in architecture, urban planning, and sustainable development. Thanks a ton for coming on!

Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe if you support what we are doing at Building Culture.

Enjoy!

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X: https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

Join the Movement to Build a Better World: The Building Culture Playbook

Today I get to chat with my business partner and mentor Matthew Myers, a successful entrepreneur, syndicator and real estate developer of unique, infill projects. As a local developer renowned for his work on infill pocket neighborhoods, Matthew shares a wealth of knowledge and personal insights.

This episode is a blend of technical expertise, cultural commentary, and personal anecdotes, providing a unique perspective on urban development and its impact on community life.

Key Highlights:

Matthew Myers' Journey: From leadership training with Giant to real estate development, Discover Matthew's transition and his venture into developing neighborhoods like the Prairie at Post. Innovative Urban Developments: Learn about the Lark, the Ember, and other projects that redefine the concept of community living. Cultural Insights: Explore Matthew's views on the importance of design, the role of relationships in community building, and his personal experiences in overcoming challenges. Pocket Neighborhoods Explained: Understand the concept of pocket neighborhoods and how they foster a sense of identity and place. T he Future of Housing: Matthew discusses the diversity in housing options and how the built environment shapes social wellbeing. Personal Reflections: Gain insights into Matthew's personal growth, his approach to business, and his vision for mentorship in urban development.

In this conversation, Austin Tunnell shares a personal story of surviving a bus accident and the life changes and challenges he has faced since then. He discusses the importance of identity and acceptance in adapting to new circumstances.

Austin also talks about the evolution of Building Culture's identity. He emphasizes the mission of cultivating a better human habitat and the need for advocacy and cultural change in the industry.

Finally, he reflects on the importance of finding meaning and purpose in life and the journey towards happiness.

Takeaways:Life can change dramatically in an instant, and it is important to adapt and find acceptance in new circumstances.Identity is not fixed and can evolve over time, and it is important to embrace new aspects of oneself.

Building Culture has evolved its identity and approach to address challenges in the industry. Advocacy and cultural change are necessary to create a better human habitat and overcome barriers in the construction industry.

Finding meaning and purpose in life is more important than pursuing happiness, and limitations can lead to personal growth and contentment.

In this conversation, Trevor Acorn, a structural engineer, discusses his background and experience in the field. He explains his interest in structural masonry and how he became familiar with it through restoration work. The conversation also covers the strength and durability of masonry compared to other construction materials.

Trevor emphasizes the importance of designing buildings that we love and the role of aesthetics in the longevity of structures. He provides an overview of structural engineering and the different approaches to structural analysis. The use of graphic statics in engineering is discussed, including its application in finding the shape of arches.

The conversation concludes with a discussion on the efficiency of different arch shapes and the flow of forces within arches. This conversation covers various topics related to masonry construction, including load distribution in masonry walls, challenges with brick veneer, lintel design and cracking, cracks in masonry, different types of mortars, forces in masonry walls, Hyman's rules for structural masonry, using lime-based mortars, natural hydraulic lime mortars, harder bricks and mortars, steel and concrete lobbying, availability of lime in the US, and limitations of steel in masonry.

The conversation provides insights into the behavior of masonry structures and the importance of selecting appropriate materials and design techniques. The conversation covers various topics related to construction materials and techniques. The main themes include hydraulic set and mortar, the longevity of steel structures, GFRP rebar, an innovative concrete floor system, and the future of engineering. Structural masonry is a field that requires specialized knowledge and experience, particularly in restoration work.

Masonry structures can be more durable and have fewer vulnerabilities compared to other construction materials.

Designing buildings that we love and appreciate can lead to better maintenance and longevity. Structural engineering involves designing the structural elements of a building to ensure its stability and safety.

Different approaches to structural analysis, such as allowable stress design and load resistance factor design, are used depending on the material and project requirements. Graphic statics is a useful tool for form finding and understanding the flow of forces in structures, but it is not commonly used in the final calculations submitted for building permits. The efficiency and strength of arches depend on their shape and the flow of forces within them. Hydraulic set and mortar are important for quickly building walls as they allow the curing process to occur properly.

Steel structures can last for hundreds of years with proper maintenance and care. GFRP rebar is a lightweight alternative to steel reinforcement and can be used in various applications.

An innovative concrete floor system using graphic statics can reduce the amount of steel and concrete needed for construction.

There is still much to be explored and pioneered in the field of engineering, with new materials and techniques constantly emerging. Chapters 00:00Introduction and Background 02:01Interest in Structural Masonry 06:10Discussion on the Strength and Durability of Masonry 10:42Importance of Designing Buildings We Love 15:24Explanation of Structural Engineering 16:39Different Approaches to Structural Analysis 19:24Transition to Modern Engineering 21:12Discussion on Thrust in Arches 23:50Use of Graphic Statics in Structural Engineering 25:36Graphic Statics and Modern Engineering 28:18Historical Use of Graphic Statics 29:09Efficiency of Different Arch Shapes 31:08Flow of Forces in Arches 34:33Factors Affecting Arch Strength 36:50Load Distribution in Masonry Walls 38:28Challenges with Brick Veneer 39:20Lintel Design and Cracking 41:57Cracks in Masonry 44:55Different Types of Mortars 46:15Forces in Masonry Walls 49:09Hyman's Rules for Structural Masonry 52:03Different Types of

I had the opportunity to speak with Bobby Fijan today, who sometimes refers to himself as the Bill James of floorplans.  His focus?  Building apartments for families – and helping others do it too.  He’s a developer, entrepreneur and consultant.  

We discuss the lack of family-friendly apartment buildings and the impact on loneliness and community, and how we need to make cities and apartment buildings more family friendly.  We touch on the importance of amenities and spaces that are suitable for children, how floorplans make having even one young child very uncomfortable (thereby incentivizing people to move out), and how to make your next apartment or multi-family project more suitable for families and dynamic living conditions.  Check it out!

TAKEAWAYS

• The current design of apartment buildings caters to a narrow demographic of high-income singles and couples, neglecting the needs of families.

• The lack of family-friendly apartment buildings contributes to feelings of loneliness and disconnection in urban areas.

• Apartment buildings should prioritize amenities and spaces that are suitable for children and families, such as toddler rooms and playgrounds.

• Floor plans should be designed with families in mind, with more bedrooms and more spaces to accommodate children.

• There is a need for more apartment buildings that are specifically designed to meet the needs of families. To make apartments more family-friendly, consider allocating more space to living areas and smaller bedrooms and closets.

• Adding an extra room, such as a nursery or a home office, can provide privacy and a dedicated workspace for parents.

• Differentiating between spaces and creating additional rooms can enhance the functionality and appeal of apartment designs.

• Design choices, such as the ratio of living room width to bedroom width and the presence of walk-in closets, can impact rent prices.

  
  

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction and Narrow Demographic of Apartment Buildings

05:19 Connecting Loneliness to Moving and Multifamily Buildings

13:18 Challenges in Apartment Design for Families

16:38 Importance of Amenities and Spaces for Families

24:45 Designing Floor Plans for Families

25:56 Designing Family-Friendly Apartments

29:17 The Importance of Additional Rooms

43:35 Optimizing Design Choices for Higher Rent Prices

CONNECT WITH BOBBY

https://x.com/bobbyfijan

https://www.tailorbird.com/

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

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

https://www.buildingculture.com/

https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/

https://twitter.com/build_culture

https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/

https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

In this episode, Austin interviews Anthony Catania, an experienced architect and urban designer who specializes in New Urbanist communities and TNDs. They delve into the essence of building for people, the challenges faced in the process, and the vision required for creating vibrant, walkable communities.

Anthony shares insights gained from his diverse career, spanning Washington, D.C., to his recent move to Oklahoma City. Discussing the nuances of designing at various scales, from individual buildings to entire neighborhoods, he emphasizes the importance of prioritizing human experiences in urban design.

The conversation touches on the impact of zoning regulations on development and explores the concept of "maximum dimensions" in design, contrasting it with the prevalent "minimum dimensions" approach. Anthony challenges the conventional notion of suburban convenience, highlighting how well-designed urban spaces offer a different, more sustainable kind of convenience.

They discuss the challenges faced in overcoming formulaic suburban development, where corporations dictate a standardized approach. The conversation also addresses the clash between the corporate, efficiency-driven mindset and the need for adaptable, context-specific design to create unique, thriving places.

Zoning emerges as a key obstacle to innovative development, prompting a broader discussion on the need for a shift in regulatory frameworks to foster better-designed, people-centric spaces. Anthony concludes by emphasizing the critical role of zoning reform in realizing a vision for more vibrant, culturally rich communities.

Tune in to gain valuable insights into the world of urban design, architecture, and the challenges and opportunities in creating places that prioritize people and culture.

RECOMMENDED READING

The Geography of Nowhere: Americas Man Made Landscape - James Howard Kunstler

Listen in on the one-year anniversary of Matt Hayes joining the Building Culture team. Whether you're considering architecture as your field of study, want to hear what the day to day of working for a Design & Build small business is like, or are just curious to hear more on what makes beautiful places, this one is for you.

Prior to joining Building Culture in 2022, Matt graduated from the Notre Dame School of Architecture and worked in Manhattan at G.P. Schafer Architect on custom residences in areas including Arkansas, Virginia, Florida, and New York City. Following several serendipitous interactions with Austin, the opportunity to confront the problems of disposable building and car-centric urbanism was too exciting for Matt to pass up and he uprooted to Oklahoma to join the Building Culture Team as Architect and Program Manager. Matt and Austin discuss an array of topics, like what factors are important when considering architect school for yourself, the benefits of travel and its influence on their building and design methods, the uniqueness of working for a start up Design & Build firm, and considering what makes a beautiful place and have the priority on humans and not cars.

RESOURCES School of Architecture, University of Notre Dame

Original Green - Steven Mouzan

FOLLOW AUSTIN

Building Culture Playbook

I was thrilled to have Ashley Terry, VP of Development for Wheeler District on the Building Culture Podcast. Wheeler District is a Traditional Neighborhood Development, or TND, just a mile from downtown Oklahoma City.

Ashley Terry has an amazing story. She started off as a hairdresser and as her career progressed she started to feel the itch for something more. Upon reading one of Jan Gehl's books, it completely changed how she saw cities and architecture, and how it shapes peoples' lives, so she decided to get more involved wherever she could in that arena--even though she didn't know what the end goal was. Eventually, the opportunity to work for Wheeler was presented, and she took it with a "give me anything to do and I'll figure it out" attitude, and just a few years later she is VP of Development in one of the largest and most successful developments in Oklahoma City, got her MBA on the side, runs the local ULI, and much more. Can't wait for you to hear her story, and also about what they are doing in Wheeler District.

You may not be from Oklahoma City, but there is something for everyone in this podcast! WHAT IS A TND? What do fancy terms like "TND" and "New Urbanism" actually mean? It simply means that these neighborhoods are designed around the human experience. It takes what people want, things like safety, privacy, community, vibrancy, beauty, public spaces, convenience, shopping, schools, range of housing options, etc, and THEN figures out how to express those features, those desires and values, in the fabric of the neighborhood, and in the architecture itself.

FOLLOW US Connect with Building Culture on social media: https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingcul... https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.linkedin.com/in/seancannell/ https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tu...

Trilith is a newly built (and growing) walkable community located next to Trilith Studios in Atlanta, Georgia.  It is one of the most successful TNDs and New Urbanists communities in the country.  

Rob Parker, as President, leads a team of designers, architects, planners and builders in creating the 235 acre master-planned residential and mixed use development.  Rob is a transformational leader with a focus on people, and has extensive experience in town building, commercial and retail development, music entertainment, non-profit leadership, marketing, branding and capital development.

This episode is a must for developers, investors, planners, architects, engineers or city officials interested in creating more walkable, mixed-use, people-first places.  Hear directly from someone who has actually done it successfully, and learn about the keys to success, as well as some of the pitfalls. 

Trilith is built on the principles of new urbanism, with a focus on walkability, sustainability, and a deep sense of community. The vision of Trilith is to create a town for creatives, artists, storytellers, and makers, where everyone feels loved, served, inspired, and connected. The community is designed to promote longer, better, and happier lives for its residents. Trilith is a successful example of a people-centered, walkable community that prioritizes sustainability and quality of life. 

TAKEAWAYS

1. Trilith is a walkable community in Atlanta, Georgia, built on the principles of new urbanism.

2. The community is designed to promote longer, better, and happier lives for its residents.

3. Trillith is focused on creating a sense of community and connection among its residents.

4. The community is committed to sustainability and has implemented practices such as geothermal heating and cooling and the preservation of green spaces. Trilith is a people-centered, walkable community that prioritizes sustainability and quality of life.

5. The development focuses on creating smaller footprint, energy-efficient homes and incorporates sustainable technologies like geothermal energy and solar power.

6. Trilith emphasizes the importance of community and mental health, offering enrichment activities and a progressive school.

7. The financing of the project involved patient capital and partnerships with builders and investors.

8. The success of Trilith has led to increased property values and a positive impact on the surrounding area.

   
   

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Trilith and Rob Parker

03:01 Creating a Walkable Community for Creatives

07:47 Promoting Longer, Better, and Happier Lives

14:42 Fostering a Sense of Community and Connection

18:08 The Freedom of Living in a Walkable Environment

20:29 The Impact of COVID-19 on Trilith

29:05 The Importance of Sharing the Vision

37:48 Commitment to Sustainability and Green Practices

40:02 Creating a Sustainable and Walkable Community

41:30 Incorporating Sustainable Technologies in Home Design

44:20 Prioritizing Community and Mental Health

49:48 The Financing and Partnerships Behind Trillith's Success

55:23 The Positive Impact of Trilith on Property Values and the Surrounding Area

CONNECT WITH ROB & TRILITH

Rob's Linked In

Trilith's Real Estate Instagram

Trilith's Foundation Instagram

Trilith's Facebook

Home Website: Trilith

Town Website: Town at Trilith

Variety Article on Trilith

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

https://www.buildingculture.com/

https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/

https://twitter.com/build_culture

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CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/

https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

In part 2 Justin Mares and I discuss the broken food and health systems in the US and the need to prioritize human flourishing. We get into the weaponization of our instincts by companies that produce addictive food, the importance of fixing our environment and food system, and the role of human health in the built environment. Justin shares his experience in the health industry and highlights the misalignment of incentives in the food and healthcare industries. 

We touch on the lack of trust in traditional institutions and the challenges of following dietary guidelines. Justin talks about nutrient density in crops, the depletion of nutrients in soil, the impact of food processing on nutrient density, and the potential consequences for human health. We also delve into the challenges of scaling sustainable farming practices and the role of government and corporations in addressing health and environmental issues. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the need for individual and community action to create positive change.

Takeaways

• The food and health systems in the US are profoundly broken and need to be fixed to promote human flourishing.

• Companies are weaponizing our instincts to create addictive and profitable food products.

• Fixing the environment, food system, and built environment is crucial for improving human health.

• There is a lack of trust in traditional institutions and their ability to provide accurate health advice.

• The misalignment of incentives in the food and healthcare industries hinders progress in promoting human health. Nutrient density in crops is influenced by the nutrients in the soil, and over time, the depletion of nutrients in the soil has led to less nutrient-dense crops.

• Food processing can further reduce nutrient density, and the consumption of processed foods may lead to nutrient deficiencies and cravings for specific nutrients.

• Scaling sustainable farming practices, such as regenerative agriculture, can help improve soil health and nutrient density in crops.

• Government regulations and policies play a role in shaping the food system, but individual and community action is also necessary to create positive change.

• Addressing health and environmental issues requires a holistic approach that considers the interconnectedness of various factors, including food production, human health, and environmental sustainability.

  
  

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgment

00:57 Weaponizing Instincts: The Addictive Food Industry

06:22 Misaligned Incentives in the Food and Healthcare Industries

08:16 The Broken Healthcare Industry

19:19 The Debate on Veganism and Vegetarianism

25:12 Sponsor Acknowledgment and Nutrient Deficiencies in Food

26:41 The Impact of Soil Depletion on Nutrient Density in Crops

29:07 The Nutrient Decay Curve and the Role of Food Processing

34:29 Challenges and Potential of Scaling Sustainable Farming Practices

36:25 Government and Corporate Responsibility in Addressing Health and Environmental Issues

43:00 The Need for Individual and Community Action

CONNECT WITH JUSTIN

• Justin’s Substack: ⁠The Next | Justin Mares | Substack⁠

• Twitter: ⁠Justin Mares (@jwmares) / X⁠

• Kettle and Fire: ⁠https://www.kettleandfire.com/⁠

• Surely Non-Alcoholic Wines: ⁠https://www.drinksurely.com/⁠

• Perfect Keto: ⁠https://perfectketo.com/⁠

• Truemed: https://www.truemed.com/

RECS

Book Rec: ⁠Formerly Known as Food⁠

Book Rec: ⁠The End of Craving⁠

Book Rec: ⁠Gangs of America⁠

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

⁠https://www.buildingculture.com/⁠

⁠https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/⁠

⁠https://twitter.com/build_culture⁠

⁠https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/⁠

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

⁠https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/⁠

⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/⁠

⁠https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell⁠

⁠https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

Justin Mares is the founder of Kettle and Fire, Perfect Keto, and Surely Non-Alcoholic Wines, and is working on his fourth company: Truemed.  I am super impressed with what Justin has accomplished, and am a big fan of Kettle and Fire.  My wife and I drink their bone broth regularly.  What I am most inspired by is that Justin isn’t in business just to be in business.  He is in business to solve problems that make peoples’ lives better, specifically around their physical and mental health and wellbeing.  As the sickest generation of Americans in history–and it’s not even close–he is on a mission to rescue the food system and transform the industry into something that serves people first, not profits.  Health is foundational to human flourishing – even before shelter.  

We discuss how Justin started Kettle and Fire by testing the idea with a landing page and no actual product to gauge demand.  We discuss the importance of a healthy food system, and the failures of regulatory bodies like the FDA. Justin emphasizes the need for companies to prioritize consumer health and wellness. Our conversation explores the impact of food regulations and the state of health in the US.  Justin highlights the differences between the US and the EU in terms of food regulations, with the US allowing thousands of chemicals in food that are banned in Europe. We also discuss the high rates of chronic diseases and obesity in the US, and the connection between physical and mental health. 

TAKEAWAYS

• The most profitable food products are often the worst for people, highlighting the brokenness of the food system.

• Starting a company that prioritizes consumer health and wellness is important but challenging.

• Bone broth is a nutrient-dense food that can improve gut, skin, and joint health.

• The FDA and other regulatory bodies have failed to protect consumers, leading to high rates of chronic disease.

• The food system needs to be reformed to prioritize healthier and more sustainable options. The US allows thousands of chemicals in food that are banned in Europe, leading to worse health outcomes for Americans.

• The US has high rates of chronic diseases and obesity, with 60% of Americans living with at least one chronic disease and 80% being overweight.

• There is a strong connection between physical and mental health, and addressing physical health through food interventions can improve mental health.

• Food regulations and the food system play a significant role in the overall health of the population.

  
  

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgment

01:09 Guest Introduction: Justin Mares

03:25 Starting Kettle and Fire: Testing the Idea

08:16 The Benefits of Bone Broth

11:35 Creating Healthier Food Products

19:11 The Failures of Regulatory Bodies

23:33 Differences in Food Regulations: US vs. EU

30:42 High Rates of Chronic Diseases and Obesity in the US

41:42 The Connection Between Physical and Mental Health

46:24 The Impact of Food Regulations on Health

CONNECT WITH JUSTIN

• Justin’s Substack: The Next | Justin Mares | Substack

• Twitter: Justin Mares (@jwmares) / X

• Kettle and Fire: https://www.kettleandfire.com/

• Surely Non-Alcoholic Wines: https://www.drinksurely.com/

• Perfect Keto: https://perfectketo.com/

• Truemed: https://www.truemed.com/

RECS

Book Rec: Formerly Known as Food

Book Rec: The End of Craving

Book Rec: Gangs of America

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

https://www.buildingculture.com/

https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/

https://twitter.com/build_culture

https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/

https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

I got the chance to chat with Andy Boenau today, who sometimes refers to himself as a Plangineer, with a background in urban planning and engineering.  We chat about the flaws in traffic engineering and the need for a different approach to the built environment.  Andy is passionate about questioning established norms and finding shared interests to drive positive change. He advocates for the need for critical thinking and curiosity in industries that often prioritize conformity. 

TAKEAWAYS

• Traffic engineering often prioritizes efficiency and speed over the needs and well-being of communities.

• Questioning established norms and finding shared interests can lead to positive change in the built environment.

• Critical thinking and curiosity are essential in industries that tend to prioritize conformity.

• Reforming parking and zoning regulations can lead to more vibrant and diverse communities. Unhealthy infrastructure has negative consequences on physical and mental health.

• Creating a connected network of bike lanes is crucial for promoting cycling as a mode of transportation.

• Public opinion plays a significant role in shaping infrastructure decisions.

• There is a need for a shift in urban planning and design to prioritize human well-being.

• Andy Boenau is working on a documentary on healthy infrastructure and a book on public opinion.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Rethinking Traffic Engineering

09:26 The Power of Social Media

35:02 Driving Positive Change

39:30 Creating Vibrant and Diverse Communities

39:59 The Impact of Unhealthy Infrastructure

45:15 Physical Health Consequences of Car Crashes

49:19 Trauma of Walking on Certain Streets

54:54 Dancing as a Mental Health Solution

01:05:51 Creating a Connected Network of Bike Lanes

01:12:06 Upcoming Projects: Documentary and Book

CONNECT WITH ANDY

Website & Blog: https://www.urbanismspeakeasy.com/

https://x.com/Boenau

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

Documentary: White Collar Epidemic: Infrastructure Is Crumbling Our Minds & Bodies - Film and Storytelling | Seed&Spark (seedandspark.com)

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

https://www.buildingculture.com/

https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/

https://twitter.com/build_culture

https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/

https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

Micah is the founder of Monumental Labs, one of the most exciting companies in the architecture and construction industry right now.  It blends humanistic values with tech – much like Apple did to revolutionize the computer industry in the 80’s. His company is building robotic stone carving factories to unleash a renaissance in art and architecture, using robots to create sculptures, architectural pieces, and more. The goal is to bring costs down, unleash creativity, empower people, and to once again build great architecture that will be standing in 500 years. You can see why I’m so excited to talk to him!  We at Building Culture will absolutely be partnering with him on upcoming projects. The use of robots and AI in stone carving raises philosophical and ethical implications, which we discuss.  It’s worth noting the company is working with artists, architects, and stone masons to create these works of art, and is actually bringing people, that is, humans, INTO the trade of stone carving, and creating entirely new forms of artwork not possible before. Enjoy! Takeaways • Monumental Labs is using robots and AI to revolutionize the art and architecture industry by automating the stone carving process. • The use of robots allows for the creation of highly ornate buildings and sculptures that would be too labor-intensive to create by hand. • The company works with artists, architects, and stone carvers, offering new possibilities for creativity and innovation. • While the use of robots and AI raises philosophical and ethical questions, it also opens up new avenues for artistic expression and pushes the boundaries of what is possible. Technology can help preserve traditional craftsmanship and keep the knowledge and skills of handcrafting alive. • Stone carving can provide more job opportunities for artists and allow them to develop their own art while making a living. • There is a debate between copying great works of art and creating original pieces, but both have their place in the art world. • Architecture gains meaning and value when it is thoughtful about its viewers and users, and when it gives back to the community. • The future of architecture may involve a return to building with stone, using AI and robotics to manufacture custom details and reduce costs. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Monumental Labs and the Use of Robots in Stone Carving 03:48 Automating the Stone Carving Process for Highly Ornate Buildings 06:14 Scaling Up and Making Stone Carving More Efficient 11:28 The Role of Hand Carving in Art and Architecture 23:13 Balancing Craftsmanship and Automation in Stone Carving 29:03 The Role of Artists as Inventors and Innovators 33:23 The Future of AI in Art and Architecture 35:16 Preserving Traditional Craftsmanship 38:09 The Debate: Copying vs Creating 41:23 The Meaning and Value of Architecture 56:12 The Future of Architecture: Building with Stone and AI CONNECT WITH MICAH Twitter: https://x.com/mspringut Twitter: https://x.com/Monumental_Labs Website: https://www.monumentallabs.co/ CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

In this episode I get to chat with Matt Dean of Dean & Co, an award-winning agency that we at Building Culture hired to collaborate on our Townsend project, an urban infill, mixed-use neighborhood breaking ground later this year (2024).  While out of LA, he made a trip to Oklahoma City in the middle of our collaboration, and it was awesome to get to meet and chat in person!

After trying several routes, we simply weren’t on the same page with the other marketing companies we tried (we tried several!).  Not their fault, it just wasn’t a good fit.  Then we met Matt and his team, and wow, they understood what we were trying to do.  They shared our values, and just happened to be in marketing rather than building.  It was such a fun collaboration.

In this conversation we discuss the importance of building authentic brands, connecting with customers and target audiences, finding your tribe and building long term relationships based on shared values and goals.

And of course, we conclude with a discussion on AI and the future of marketing and social media. Matt is amazing, as well as his whole team, and if you are in the business, I highly recommend you reach out on your next project.  Check out his website here: https://www.deancostudio.com/

TAKEAWAYS

• Building authentic brands involves understanding the target audience and delivering on brand promises over time.

• Long-term relationships and collaborations based on shared values and goals are key to success.

• Aspiration plays a significant role in people's lives, and brands can help enhance their experiences and fulfill their aspirations.

• Delivering on brand promises and maintaining authenticity are crucial for building lasting connections with customers. Aspiration is not limited to achieving great success, but can also be about living a happy life doing what you love.

• Everyday experiences, simple relationships, and human connection are important aspects of aspiration and the built environment.

• Authenticity is crucial in branding and commercial real estate, as people are seeking genuine connections and experiences.

• AI and social media have their place, but human connection and emotion cannot be replaced.

• The future of the built environment is moving towards caring about people, human well-being, and creating spaces that enhance lives.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Format

08:09 Working with Good People and Building Authentic Collaborations

15:32 Creating Authentic Brands and Delivering on Promises

32:22 Understanding the Target Audience and Their Aspirations

38:59 The Beauty of Everyday Life and Human Connection

47:30 The Role of AI and the Future of Human Connection

CONNECT WITH MATT

Website: https://www.deancostudio.com/

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

Agency IG: https://www.instagram.com/deancostudio/

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-dean-deanco/

Agency LI: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dean-co/

 

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

https://www.buildingculture.com/

https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/

https://twitter.com/build_culture

https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/

 CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/

https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

Devon Zuegel is planning a bold, people-centered town from scratch. She has a background in software engineering and has worked at some of the big firms in Silicon Valley. She discovered a passion for urbanism and housing while living in San Francisco when she started looking into why there wasn’t more housing, and she draws a lot of inspiration from her childhood experiences at Chautauqua, a small town in Western New York. We discuss the need for more beautiful and community-oriented neighborhoods and the challenges of current housing policies and regulations. Devon also explains her vision for Esmeralda, a town that combines the principles of traditional neighborhood development (TND) and the community-oriented programming of Chautauqua. We explore the concept of experimentation and flexibility in urban planning and development, and brainstorm the importance of allowing for iteration and adaptation in building communities, the limitations of traditional planning processes and the need for more creative and responsive approaches. We talk about how the tech MVP model (Minimum Viable Product) can be applied to neighborhoods (Minimum Viable Place) through temporary structures, such as food trucks and airstreams, in testing ideas and activating spaces. While we discuss problems, it’s a fundamentally optimistic conversation! We discuss the need for individuals to take more agency and responsibility in shaping their built environment. Devon was an amazing guest, lot’s of energy, nuanced thinking and positive vibes–can’t wait for y'all to hear! CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Background 07:12 The Need for Building Better Places 11:52 Chautauqua: A Model for Community and Learning 15:10 The Challenges of Building Beautiful and Functional Places 24:35 Creating a New Town: The Vision for Esmeralda 31:16 Building for the Long Term: Evolving and Adapting 32:13 Challenges of Planning and Permission 37:53 The Cost of Locking In Decisions 42:48 The Negative Impact of Excessive Process 47:10 The Importance of Truth and Being Wrong 51:17 Hyper-Specialization and Loss of Agency 01:01:09 Capital and the Vision for the New Town 01:04:54 The Appeal of Esmeralda 01:05:49 Back-Weighted Returns 01:06:27 Investor Preferences 01:07:41 The Long-Term Value of TNDs 01:08:38 The Importance of Aligned Capital 01:09:30 Appreciating Wealth and Capital 01:09:59 The Impact of Wealthy Individuals 01:11:42 The Zero-Sum Mindset 01:13:16 The Infinite Potential of Wealth 01:14:13 Creating Value and Making the Pie Bigger 01:15:10 The Role of Wealth in Society 01:17:19 Building Relationships and Community 01:19:56 Funding through Pre-Sales 01:22:03 The Inspiration behind Esmeralda's Name 01:23:23 The Concept of Edge Esmeralda 01:32:05 Podcast - Outro w Music.mp4 CONNECT WITH DEVON & RESOURCES Blog: https://devonzuegel.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/devonzuegel Summer Event: https://www.edgeesmeralda.com/

Book: Invisible Cities

Chautauqua: https://www.chq.org/ CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/

Inspiring and equipping architects, developers, and anyone working in the built environment to craft a more beautiful and resilient world for people.

I invited Thomas Dougherty, or lead urban designer, back on the Podcast to discuss real life lessons behind several of our current projects at Building Culture.  We discuss Townsend, a 1+ acre infill site with 19 townhomes, a couple live/works and 10,000 SF of boutique commercial, that we are nearing approvals on.  We get into some really practical stuff we’ve learned, such as how we are parking it, dealing with trash, utilities, and balancing privacy with connection. We also discuss an 80-acre master plan we are working on and how we are taking a slightly different approach than many current TNDs. And of course, we bring it back to the human experience, and how we can serve people through building and architecture!

If you are reading this, I'd greatly appreciate it if you took a moment to leave us a 5 star review! Enjoy.

TAKEAWAYS

• Innerblock development creates human-scale spaces within blocks, allowing for the creation of vibrant and intimate urban environments.

• Centers and courtyards are essential elements of innerblock development, providing identifiable and delineated spaces for human interaction.

• Utilities and fire safety are important considerations in innerblock development, and creative solutions such as geothermal HVAC systems and land condos can address these challenges.

• Balancing public and private spaces is crucial in creating a cohesive and livable urban environment.

• Thoughtful design and attention to detail, such as trash management and parking solutions, can enhance the overall experience of innerblock development. Public spaces play a crucial role in fostering community and building relationships.

• Missing middle building types and diverse housing options are essential for creating inclusive and attainable communities.

• The design of a community should be responsive to the topography and natural surroundings.

• The layout of streets and the integration of nature can enhance the pedestrian experience and create a sense of place.

  
  

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction and Overview

02:51 Creating Human-Scale Spaces: The Concept of Interblock Development

12:53 The Value of Centers and Courtyards in Urban Design

25:02 Addressing Utilities and Fire Safety in Innerblock Development

35:02 Innovative Solutions: Geothermal HVAC and Land Condos

38:45 Balancing Public and Private Spaces in Urban Environments

45:07 Enhancing the Urban Experience: Attention to Detail in Innerblock Development

52:46 The Importance of Missing Middle Building Types

58:06 Designing with Topography and Nature in Mind

01:05:16 Enhancing the Pedestrian Experience through Street Design

CONNECT WITH TOM

https://x.com/NestedUrbanism

https://www.instagram.com/innerblock/

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

https://www.buildingculture.com/

https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/

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CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

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SPONSORS

Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/

One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

I sit down with Jaime Izurieta, founder of Storefront Mastery, to explore the transformation of local businesses into powerful engines for community engagement and downtown revitalization. Drawing on his diverse background in architecture, urban planning, and retail design, Jaime shares how he helps small businesses reinvent themselves by focusing on experience and authenticity. We dive into the importance of local businesses as cultural stakeholders, how Main Streets can compete in today’s convenience-driven world, and the role of design in shaping customer experiences. Jaime also discusses the evolution of Main Streets into destinations, not just transactional spaces, while providing insights from his book Main Street Mavericks.

TAKEAWAYS

1. The Experience Economy Shift: Jaime highlights the importance of local businesses evolving from transactional models to creating rich, memorable experiences that attract foot traffic and build community loyalty.  
2. Small Businesses as Cultural Anchors: Local businesses have a critical role in shaping the identity and resilience of a downtown area by contributing to economic, social, and civic value.
3. Designing for Feelings: Successful design is not just about aesthetics, but about how it makes people feel. Jaime shares his approach to designing customer interactions and creating meaningful experiences within spaces.
4. Unreasonable Hospitality: Inspired by Will Guidara’s concept of unreasonable hospitality, Jaime encourages businesses to go above and beyond to make customers feel valued and special, turning ordinary transactions into transformative moments.
5. Downtowns as Destinations: Austin and Jaime discuss how downtowns should be reimagined as events—places people go to for an experience, rather than a collection of shops for convenience. Downtowns need to embrace walkability and human-scale design to thrive.
6. Decentralization and Community Building: Jaime offers a hopeful vision for the future, where decentralized communities and individuals create localized impact, fostering stronger, more vibrant neighborhoods.

CHAPTERS

00:00 The Essence of Hospitality in Business

02:20 Jamie Izurieta: A Journey Through Design and Community

08:04 The Experience Economy: Redefining Local Business Success

12:25 Local Businesses as Community Stakeholders

17:08 Transforming Downtowns: The Role of Local Businesses

21:56 Creating Memorable Experiences: The Power of Hospitality

28:14 Lessons from Bookstore Design: User Experience Matters

34:05 Redefining the Closing Process: A Journey of Experience

39:15 Unreasonable Hospitality: Going Above and Beyond

43:05 Building Community Through Local Businesses

49:14 The Importance of Place in Urban Design

55:16 Decentralization: A Hopeful Future for Communities

CONNECT WITH JAIME

Recommended Books:

1. The Experience Economy

2. Unreasonable Hospitality

3. The Network State

Contact

www.storefrontmastery.com

https://x.com/izurietavarea

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

https://www.instagram.com/storefrontmastery/

https://www.facebook.com/public/Jaime-Izurieta/

Book: Mainstreet Mavericks

Storefront Renaissance League

Great Urban Places to Visit

1. Savannah, GA

2. South Beach, Miami

3. Laguna Beach, CA

4. Seattle, WA

5. NYC

6. Istanbul

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

https://www.buildingculture.com/

https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/

https://twitter.com/build_culture

https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/

https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

SPONSORS

Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/

One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

In this episode I sit down with Daniel Herriges, the new Policy Director for Parking Reform, and co-author of The Housing Trap, a book he wrote alongside Strong Towns' Chuck Marohn. We delve into the complex issue of housing affordability, discussing how it goes far beyond the usual culprits of capitalism or zoning. Daniel provides great insights into the financial, legal, and cultural forces that have shaped our current housing crisis.

We discuss how housing has become a financial product intertwined with national economic stability, and explore how the suburban experiment, government mortgage programs, and zoning laws have locked many communities into unsustainable patterns of development. Daniel also shared a compelling vision for moving forward, advocating for more incremental and local solutions that empower individuals to take small steps towards improving their communities.

TAKEAWAYS

1. Housing Affordability is Complex: The housing crisis can't be blamed solely on capitalism or zoning—it's the result of a mix of financial, legal, and cultural factors that have developed over decades.

2. Housing as a Financial Product: Housing in the U.S. has evolved into a financial asset tied to the national economy, creating a system where prices must remain high to avoid financial collapse, even if that means homes are unaffordable.

3. The Suburban Experiment's Impact: Post-WWII suburban development, backed by government mortgage policies, has locked us into a system where housing is separated by strict zoning laws, limiting organic neighborhood growth and adaptability.

4. Zoning Laws as a Barrier: Outdated zoning regulations make it nearly impossible to build affordable housing in many desirable areas, restricting supply and pushing up prices.

5. The Need for Incremental Development: Instead of massive top-down solutions, Daniel advocates for smaller, local infill projects like backyard cottages or duplexes that can quickly and affordably add housing in existing neighborhoods.

6. Cultural Shift is Key: Beyond policy changes, there must be a cultural shift where communities accept neighborhood evolution and recognize the value in incremental, human-scale development over rigid, large-scale planning.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Understanding the Housing Crisis

04:10 Historical Context of Housing Affordability

09:14 The Complexity of Housing Affordability

11:07 The Suburban Experiment and Its Impact

17:50 The Financialization of Housing

33:30 Legal and Regulatory Challenges in Housing

34:00 Cultural Shifts in Housing Perception

44:26 Planning for Permanence in Neighborhoods

45:55 The Impact of Zoning and Redlining

49:41 The Decline of Affordable Housing Strategies

51:34 Understanding the Role of Capitalism in Housing

52:53 The Future of Suburban Developments

56:05 The Importance of Incremental Development

01:00:20 Building Culture and Community Engagement

01:06:12 Escaping the Housing Trap: A Cultural Shift

01:17:03 The Future of Housing Policy and Community Development

CONTACT DANIEL

housingtrap.org

Email: herrigas@gmail.com

Book: Escaping the Housing Trap

Parking Reform: https://parkingreform.org/2024/04/03/meet-our-new-policy-director/

https://x.com/dpherriges

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

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

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https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/

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CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

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SPONSORS

Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!

Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/

One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

In this episode, I sit down with OG Steve Mouzon, a well-known architect, designer and instigator of the New Urbanist movement, to explore the art of building places that truly matter. Steve shares compelling stories from his journey in urbanism, including projects like Mahogany Bay Village and Providence in Huntsville, Alabama, where he brought local materials and craftsmanship to life in unique, resilient ways. Steve makes a bold case for why "impossible" projects bring out the best in urban design, inspiring us to rethink what’s achievable. We discuss how generalist thinking, leadership, and a willingness to challenge outdated regulations are essential to creating sustainable, beautiful spaces. This conversation goes beyond theory, offering real insights on creativity, humility, and the power of community involvement in transforming our cities.

TAKEAWAYS:

Preserve Land Character Through Simplicity and Local Craftsmanship: Beautiful, sustainable spaces are achieved by honoring the land’s character and using regional materials and crafts.

Embrace a Generalist Approach for Holistic Solutions: Urbanists should adopt a broad, adaptable mindset, enabling them to see connections and address complex urban challenges creatively.

Challenge the Status Quo to Drive Innovation: Innovative urban solutions emerge when architects and planners push beyond conventional practices and embrace fresh perspectives.

Community Involvement and Intergenerational Exchange Lead to Thriving Spaces: Engaging with the community and drawing on insights across generations helps foster urban environments that truly serve their residents.

Simplicity Over Complexity in Sustainable Design: Simple, resilient designs often outperform complex systems, enhancing sustainability and adaptability in a way that prioritizes human flourishing.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Preserving Land Character and Urbanism

02:48 Steve's Journey in Architecture

08:00 Innovative Projects and Community Building

24:06 Barriers to Building Better Places

41:15 Leadership and Overcoming Challenges

45:12 Exploring Local Patterns and Historical Insights

51:01 Building Codes and Egress Regulations

57:31 The Complexity of Urban Planning and Building Standards

01:03:27 The Importance of Generalist Thinking in Urbanism

01:10:54 The Fragility of Modern Construction Methods

01:19:21 Simplicity vs. Complexity in Sustainable Building Practices

01:30:05 The Vision of Adaptability and Simplicity

01:31:30 Competing Visions in Sustainability

01:33:54 Foundations of Sustainable Places

01:37:48 Intergenerational Exchange in Urbanism

01:40:29 Innovative Developments in Urban Design

01:47:31 Common Threads of Successful Projects

01:52:11 The Importance of Generosity and Humility

01:57:26 Lessons from Pain and Innovation

STEVE’S RECOMMENDED PLACES TO VISIT

• ​Providence
• ​Mahogany Bay
• ​Carlon Landing
• ​Wheeler
• ​South Main, CO
• ​Seaside, FL
• ​Rosemary, FL
• ​I'on
• ​Habersham
• ​NW Arkansas

CONTACT STEVE:

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

X: https://x.com/stevemouzon?lang=en

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.originalgreen?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Book: The Original Green

Websites: 

newurbanguild.com (New Urban Guild)

originalgreen.org (Original Green)

katrinacottages.com (Katrina Cottages)

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

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CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

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SPONSORS

Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!

Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/

One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

In this episode, I sat down with architect and advocate Jennifer Griffin to delve into real-life examples of missing-middle, pre-approved plan programs and their potential to transform local development. While fixing zoning laws is essential, it’s not enough to significantly increase missing middle and infill housing—a reality I understand firsthand as a small developer and builder.

Pre-approved plan programs aim to fast-track infill projects by providing community-vetted, permit-ready plans with associated budget estimates, giving small developers a clearer idea of construction costs.

While these estimates may vary over time and with specific project details, having a ballpark figure helps developers make informed decisions quickly. This approach is a significant win for communities struggling with housing shortages.

We discussed case studies from South Bend and Kalamazoo, where these initiatives have been tested, and highlighted the real challenges and successes associated with implementing them.

A key takeaway from our conversation was the importance of community involvement.

Successful programs require more than just plan approval; cities must also invest in infrastructure to support these developments, making it easier for local developers to participate.

Financing the first project is often the hardest step, but pre-approved plans can mitigate some of the risk for builders. We also explored how city collaboration with lending institutions can further enhance these programs' success.

Combining pre-approved plans with incremental zoning changes can lead to long-term benefits for both the community and developers.

For cities looking to adopt these programs and for architects, developers, and advocates seeking to get their local governments on board, Jennifer provided valuable resources and insights to help kickstart the process.

TAKEAWAYS

• Pre-approved building programs speed up infill development, tackling housing challenges head-on.

• Local developers benefit by reducing risks and securing easier project financing.

• Community involvement and city investment in infrastructure are essential for success.

• Incremental zoning changes can make a big impact on housing diversity and neighborhood character.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Pre-Approved Plans

02:54 Understanding Pre-Approved Building Programs

05:58 Benefits of Pre-Approved Plans for Communities

08:49 Empowering Local Developers and Builders

11:58 Case Studies: South Bend and Kalamazoo

15:03 Challenges in Infill Development

18:04 Resources and Next Steps for Cities

20:55 Conclusion and Future Outlook

CONTACT JENNIFER & MENTIONED RESOURCES:

Jen’s Email:  jennifer@jgriffindesignllc.com

Liberty House Plans: https://libertyhouseplans.com/

South Bend Pre Approved Plans: https://southbendin.gov/bsb/preapprovedplans/

Kalamazoo Pre Approved Plans: https://issuu.com/kalamazoocity/docs/preapproved_plans_comp

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/

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CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

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SPONSORS

Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!

Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/

One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

In this episode, I chat with Sarah Campbell, an architectural consultant at Sierra Pacific, to explore the key details that matter when selecting one of the most significant investments in any building: windows. Whether you're an architect, developer, builder, or planning a home renovation or new construction, this episode is packed with valuable insights just for you.

CHAPTERS

00:00The Importance of Quality Windows

02:14Introduction to Window Technology

07:43The Evolution of Windows Through History

11:53Understanding Glass Technology

18:04Modern Window Design and Energy Efficiency

24:06The Longevity and Maintenance of Windows

31:37The Importance of Educated Consumers

38:34Craftsmanship and Quality in Window Manufacturing

45:29The Future of Window Manufacturing: Technology and Innovation

50:08Exploring Advanced Glass Technologies

54:23Understanding the Cost of Specialty Windows

56:36Custom Solutions and the Role of Contractors

CONTACT SARAH & SIERRA PACIFIC WINDOWS

Website: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ 

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

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

Sarah’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/campbell-sarah/

Sierra Pacific Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sierra-pacific-windows/

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/

https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

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SPONSORS

Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!

Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/

One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

In this episode, I sit down with Chuck Marohn from Strong Towns and Nolan Gray from California YIMBY to tackle one of the most pressing issues of our time: the housing crisis in America. 

It started with an exchange on X (Twitter) where I saw Nolan and Chuck disagreeing. Surprised, I asked them on the podcast to discuss areas of overlap and disagreement between the YIMBY movement and Strong Towns. They were kind enough to agree.

In this episode we discuss the complex web of factors driving housing unaffordability, from financialization and zoning laws to the ripple effects of inflation and outdated building codes.

We dive into the historical context of these challenges and debate the influence of investors, policymakers, and local governments in shaping the future of housing. Along the way, we uncover where the Strong Towns and YIMBY movements align—and where they diverge—especially on the role of financialization in housing supply.

TAKEAWAYS

Financialization of housing has created a feedback loop driving up prices, turning homes into investment assets rather than places to live.

Zoning and building codes play a critical role in either enabling or hindering the ability to increase housing supply.

There is significant overlap between Strong Towns and YIMBY movements, particularly in their shared focus on practical, community-oriented solutions to housing challenges.

Local governments can play a crucial role in financing housing development and supporting small builders to create a more diverse housing market.

Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) offer quick, scalable housing solutions that align with incremental development strategies.

Policy changes are essential to create a more flexible and affordable housing market that meets the needs of diverse communities.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Understanding Housing Affordability and Supply Chain Dynamics

02:46 Introduction to the Debate: Strong Towns vs. YIMBY

06:29 Exploring the Financialization of Housing

12:32 The Role of Financialization in Housing Crisis

19:11 Historical Context: Financialization and Housing Policy

24:07 The Impact of Institutional Investors on Housing

29:15 Navigating the Future of Housing Affordability

31:03 The Impact of Financialization on Housing Supply

34:46 Addressing the Affordability Crisis

39:57 The Role of Local Governments in Housing Development

43:42 Zoning, Financing, and the Housing Market

50:56 Inflation and Its Effects on Construction Costs

57:51 Balancing Incremental Development with Market Needs

01:02:36 Addressing the Affordable Housing Crisis

01:11:01 The Role of Incremental Change in Housing

01:19:19 Financing Solutions for Accessory Dwelling Units

01:27:40 Debating Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Strategies

01:30:17 The Future of Housing Movements

CONTACT NOLAN & MENTIONED RESOURCES:

X: https://x.com/mnolangray?lang=en 

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

Website YIMBY:https://cayimby.org/author/nolangray/ 

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

Book:https://islandpress.org/books/arbitrary-lines#desc 

CONTACT CHUCK & MENTIONED RESOURCES:

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

Strong Towns Website:https://www.strongtowns.org/ 

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

Books:https://www.strongtowns.org/book 

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

Strong Towns Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strong_towns/?hl=en

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/

https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

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SPONSORS

Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!

Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/

One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

Hi everyone! I’m excited to share our final episode of the year, marking one full year of the Building Culture Podcast! This episode is a solo reflection—something new for me—where I dive into the evolution of our brand, key business learnings, our tech stack, updated thinking, and personal growth.

I explore how Building Culture has grown from focusing on structural masonry to a broader mission of creating durable, human-centered architecture and thriving communities. Adapting to challenges like rising costs and supply chain disruptions, I reflect on how staying versatile has helped us remain true to our mission of fostering human flourishing through the built environment.

This episode also includes lessons learned from raising capital, building a team, and refining processes with tools like Superhuman and AppFolio. I share how inspiring books, podcasts, and thinkers—like Make Something Wonderful and Andrew Huberman’s work—have shaped my perspective.

On a personal note, I open up about recovering from a life-changing injury, the importance of pursuing meaningful goals, and how embracing life’s challenges has brought deeper fulfillment. I’ve found that happiness is fleeting, but meaning endures.

I hope this episode inspires you to reflect on your own journey and take away something valuable for your life or business. Thank you for an incredible year, and here’s to building a thriving future together!

CHAPTERS 

00:00 Navigating Real Estate Syndication and Fundraising

33:41 Indefinite Hold Strategy in Real Estate Investment

39:45 Understanding Dopamine and Motivation

45:35 The Importance of Free Speech in Society

54:00 The Importance of Free Speech

01:00:05 The Case for Masonry in Modern Construction

01:07:01 Personal Development and New Ventures

01:14:28 Creating Your Own Heaven or Hell

TAKEAWAYS

Building Culture has shifted from a focus on structural masonry to creating human-centered architecture and thriving communities.

Regular feedback, delegation, and alignment have strengthened team culture and efficiency.

Viewing architecture as a human habitat highlights its role in fostering well-being and community.

Adapting to rising costs and personal setbacks underscores the value of flexibility in pursuing long-term goals.

Pursuing meaningful, challenging goals leads to deeper fulfillment and personal growth.

Austin shares aspirations for Building Culture’s role in creating resilient, human-centered communities.

 

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/

https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

https://www.buildingculture.com/

https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/

https://twitter.com/build_culture

https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/

SPONSORS

Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!

Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/

One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

I’m excited to share this conversation with Will McCollum and Matthew Marshall, the passionate minds behind Citymakers Collective.

This summer, they’re hosting a transformative two-week program in Charleston, featuring some of the top practitioners in the New Urbanism and human-centered design movements. 

Their approach is holistic, hands-on, and experiential, with a mission to equip the next generation of city makers to design and build places that are resilient, beautiful, and centered on people.

In this episode, we delve into the challenges of traditional education, what’s missing, and why they felt compelled to create this innovative summer program.

If you’re a young professional or student working in the built environment—whether you’re an architect, planner, builder, developer, engineer or something else—I highly encourage you to check it out and consider applying.

Learn more at: citymakerscollective.org

TAKEAWAYS

The City Makers Collective program teaches principles that make cities more livable, sustainable, and people-focused.

Participants engage with Charleston’s urban fabric through walking tours, real-world case studies, and collaborative studio projects.

The program blends timeless design principles with modern needs to create places that work for today’s challenges.

Architects, planners, developers, and more come together to foster holistic learning and solutions.

Students learn how to navigate market realities, collaborate effectively, and implement sustainable practices in urban design.

Instructors include top practitioners like Lou Oliver and Maria Sanchez (Estudio Urbano), offering a wealth of knowledge and diverse perspectives.

The program addresses the lack of foundational training in urbanism and traditional design in most architecture schools.

Participants gain access to a powerful network of professionals, creating lasting connections for their careers.

The program offers scholarships and affordable housing options to ensure a wide range of students can participate.

The City Makers Collective aims to grow beyond this summer, offering ongoing programs to shape the future of urbanism and architecture.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Designing Cities for People

08:10 Bridging the Education Gap in Urbanism

14:00 The Importance of Tradition in Architecture

20:42 Integrating Disciplines for Holistic City Building

27:59 Understanding Market Realities in Education

29:50 Creating a Shared Vision for Communities

30:47 Building the Human Habitat

32:11 The Dual Nature of Humanity: Creation and Destruction

33:38 The Responsibility of Architects

34:41 Learning from Past Mistakes in Architecture

36:35 Integrating Tradition with Modernity

37:34 Hands-On Learning in Architecture Education

40:26 The Importance of Networking in Architecture

41:5 Introducing the Fellowship Program

43:24 Funding and Support for Citymakers Collective

45:06 Future Programs and Workshops

46:30 Cognitive Architecture and Human Experience

49:22 Backgrounds and Inspirations of the Founders

52:20 The Journey of Citymakers Collective

53:16 Application Process and Accessibility

CONTACT MATT, WILL & CITYMAKERS COLLECTIVE

Summer Studio Website: https://citymakerscollective.org/summer-2025

Will's email: will@citymakerscollective.org

Matthew's email: matthew@citymakerscollective.org

Citymakers Collective Website: https://citymakerscollective.org/ 

Newstory Website: https://www.newstoryhomes.org/ 

Matthew’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/Matth3wMarshall/ 

Matthew’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesmatthewmarshall/ 

Will’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-mccollum-6965a066 

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/

https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

https://www.buildingculture.com/

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SPONSORS

Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!

Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/

One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

Most Americans think painting brick is as simple as grabbing a bucket of latex or oil-based paint, but this common approach can wreak havoc on your home–and is uglier to boot.

In this episode, I sit down with Matt Plechan, the founder of Mineral Stains.  We dive deep into the art and science of finishing brick with mineral stains like limewash, potassium silicate and sol silicate. 

These centuries-old techniques are not only more durable and beautiful but also allow your brick to breathe, preventing costly damage. 

I talk to many people who go to Europe, see a beautiful color, and try to color match it at home on stucco or masonry. It doesn’t turn out the same.  Why? It’s not the same paint!

But it can be. 

If you are thinking about painting masonry, listen to this episode! And while there are other US based suppliers, Matt at Mineral Stains is an excellent source who manufactures in the US and will help you find the right product for your project!

TAKEAWAYS

Latex acrylic paints are unsuitable for masonry, while mineral stains bond with masonry for enhanced durability and a natural aesthetic.

Potassium silicate offers better longevity than lime wash, while sole silicate works effectively on previously painted or coated surfaces.

Mineral stains are eco-friendly, made from natural pigments, and provide vibrant, non-toxic finishes with a timeless, breathable quality.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Masonry Painting Challenges

02:49 Understanding Mineral Stains vs. Traditional Paints

06:30 Exploring Types of Mineral Stains

10:56 Comparing Lime Wash and Potassium Silicate

18:30 Application Techniques for Mineral Stains

32:28 Best Practices for Exterior Application

35:37 The Importance of Primer in Painting

40:49 Cleaning and Preparing Surfaces for Painting

45:33 Best Practices for New Construction Painting

52:35 Application Techniques: Spraying vs. Rolling

57:49 Interior Painting: Natural Finishes and Techniques

CONTACT MATTHEW PLECHAN AND MINERAL STAINS

Website: https://mineralstains.com/ 

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

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mineralstains1 

Matt’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-plechan-94a18172 

MENTIONED RESOURCES

https://masonrymagazine.com/Default?pageID=2362

https://voyagejacksonville.com/?post_type=interview&p=91151

https://www.fosterandpartners.com/projects/global-home-of-the-pga-tour

https://youtu.be/OIWKKjPj5PI

https://youtu.be/cojGgH-79u4

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/

https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

https://www.buildingculture.com/

https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/

https://twitter.com/build_culture

https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/

SPONSORS

Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!

Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/

One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

What if our cities weren’t just places we lived, but places that made us feel alive? In this episode, we welcome back Coby, an urban planner, developer, and author of Building Optimism, to talk about how we can move beyond pessimism and reclaim the built environment. We dive into the philosophy of traditional urbanism versus traditional architecture, how to balance art and economics in development, and why optimism in city building isn’t just wishful thinking—it’s already happening.

Coby shares how his latest project integrates affordability, beauty, and human-scale design, and why zoning reform is beginning to shift the landscape of American cities. We discuss why preservation alone isn't enough, how small developers can create lasting impact, and why the best cities aren’t built overnight—they evolve, adapt, and improve over time. If you’ve ever wondered why some places feel right and others don’t, or how we can design spaces that actually serve human beings, this episode is for you.

TAKEAWAYS

Great places aren’t about height or style but about how spaces are formed. Streets, plazas, and courtyards dictate how we experience a city more than the aesthetics of individual buildings.

Traditional architecture isn’t about copying the past; it’s about principles that create beauty, durability, and livability across cultures and time periods.

Keeping historic buildings is important, but we should also be building new ones that are worthy of being preserved in the future. Fear of losing the past shouldn’t stop us from creating great new places.

The best cities have a mix of housing that allows people of different income levels to live side by side. Segregating wealth or poverty harms economic mobility and community vitality.

The hardest part of building great places isn’t the architecture—it’s getting the financing. Small-scale, human-centered development struggles to compete with big box projects, but that can change with the right approach.

Building better cities isn’t a fantasy—it’s already happening in pockets across North America. The real challenge is scaling those successes and proving that beautiful, walkable, thriving communities can be the norm, not the exception.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Exploring Urban Beauty: A Vision for Cities

01:32 The Intersection of Urban Planning and Development

03:58 The Journey to Writing 'Building Optimism'

10:02 The Current State of Urbanism: A Turning Point

18:41 Traditional Urbanism vs. Architecture: Finding Balance

22:59 The Role of Preservation in Modern Urbanism

38:20 Creating a Living Tradition in Architecture

44:06 Exploring Kingston's Urban Fabric

51:04 Innovative Infill Housing Solutions

58:13 The Importance of Diverse Housing Options

01:06:56 Creating Integrated Communities

01:12:12 The Role of Capital in Urban Development

CONNECT WITH COBY

X: https://x.com/Cobylefko?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor 

Website: ⁠https://cobylefkowitz.com

Substack: https://ourbuiltenvironment.substack.com/p/a-call-to-build-a-better-world

MENTIONED RESOURCES

Coby’s  Book:

https://www.amazon.com/Building-Optimism-World-Looks-Better/dp/B0DJV2WLXR/?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=Q3

Patrick Sharkey’s Trapped in Place: https://www.amazon.com/Stuck-Place-Neighborhoods-Progress-Equality/dp/0226924254 

Samuel Hughes’ Article: Making Architecture Easy: https://worksinprogress.co/issue/making-architecture-easy/

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

Newsletter:https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/

https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

https://www.buildingculture.com/

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https://twitter.com/build_culture

https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/

SPONSORS

Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!

Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/

One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

Moses Kagan has a unique take on real estate development and investing – and he’s influenced my thinking substantially over the past couple of years.

He is a highly successful syndicator, investor and developer with over $200 million in assets under management. He runs Adaptive Realty, having renovated over 100 multi-family buildings in Los Angeles, managing them in-house while specializing in the "indefinite hold” strategy for long-term wealth building.

He is the Co-Founder of ReSeed, a platform offering long-term GP and LP capital, along with mentorship for emerging real estate operators nationwide.  He also hosts Reconvene, a highly regarded annual “unconference” for real estate operators and passive investors to connect and share knowledge. I attended last year, and it was awesome!

And lastly, he is a Twitter personality and avid blogger, sharing valuable insights on real estate and business. I highly recommend you follow him.

This is an excellent conversation about practical investment and real estate development philosophy, and I hope this conversation has as big of an impact on you as meeting Moses has on me!

TAKEAWAYS

Holding real estate indefinitely often leads to better investment outcomes than IRR-driven flipping.

Traditional real estate models incentivize risky short-term decisions, while sustainable strategies benefit both investors and communities.

Investors should focus on post-tax returns rather than pre-tax IRR, as tax considerations play a crucial role in long-term profitability.

Wealthy families and patient capital partners are more aligned with indefinite hold strategies than institutional investors.

Unlevered yield on cost and all-in price per square foot are key financial indicators for long-term real estate success.

Building direct relationships and trust at scale is essential for securing capital, especially for indefinite hold investments.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Real Estate Development Philosophy

06:06 Understanding IRR and Its Implications

11:55 The Importance of Long-Term Thinking in Real Estate

17:59 Finding the Right Investors for Long-Term Strategies

25:50 Investing with Wealthy Families and Professional Money Managers

40:20 Understanding Capitalization and Investor Liquidity

46:11 Building Trust and Relationships in Real Estate Investment

55:41 Building Trust at Scale in Real Estate

58:01 The Democratization of Capital Raising

01:04:29 New Urbanism and Walkable Neighborhoods

01:06:00 Challenges of Ground-Up Development

01:09:03 Zoning and Building Code Challenges

01:11:57 The Impact of Bureaucracy on Development

01:14:07 Introducing ReSeed: Supporting Emerging Operators

01:17:08 The Importance of Community in Real Estate

CONNECT WITH MOSES

X:https://x.com/moseskagan?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moses-kagan-2638ab2/

Adaptive Realty: https://www.adaptiverealty.com/ 

ReSeed: https://reseedpartners.com/

Moses Newsletter: https://kagansblog.com/blog/

MENTIONED RESOURCES

The Fort Podcast Interview on ReSeed: https://www.thefortpod.com/videos/moses-kagan-rhett-bennett-co-founders-of-reseed-partners-the-y-combinator-for-re-operators/

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

Newsletter:https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/

https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

https://www.buildingculture.com/

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https://twitter.com/build_culture

https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/

SPONSORS

Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!

Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/

One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

In this episode, I sit down with Stephen Smith, founder of the Center for Building, to uncover the labyrinthine world of building codes—how they’re made, who really influences them, and why they end up stifling the very innovation and affordability we need. From the peculiarities of elevator requirements to the often overlooked role of local politics and special interests, we unpack how these complex rules shape our homes, buildings, and cities more than we might realize.

TAKEAWAYS

Why Building Codes Matter: Even if you’re not a builder or developer, codes dictate your home’s layout, the price of housing, and whether your favorite small condo project can even get off the ground.

The ICC (International Code Council) Isn’t Really “International”: You’ll learn how this non-governmental body, which writes most U.S. building codes, can be both extremely influential and surprisingly insular.

Over-Regulation’s Real-World Costs: We break down how elevator mandates, fire codes, and accessibility requirements—though well-intended—sometimes create perverse incentives that drive up costs or discourage better solutions.

Local Politics & Hidden Interests: Discover how “government members” and private manufacturers shape these codes, and why your mayor or city council may have little say in regulations that affect everyone.

A Path Forward: Stephen shares practical ways policymakers and citizens can get involved in reforming the system, focusing on a more human-centered approach that balances safety, cost, and beauty

CHAPTERS

00:00 The Challenge of Building Codes in the U.S.

03:06 The Role of Building Codes in Urban Development

05:46 Understanding the American Way of Building

09:09 The Impact of Building Codes on Housing Costs

12:09 Elevator Regulations and Their Consequences

14:52 Harmonization of Codes and Standards

18:11 Over-Dimensioning in American Construction

21:05 Labor Issues in the Construction Industry

23:57 The Need for Code Review and Justification

26:49 The Tyranny of Bureaucracy in Building Codes

38:49 The Grenfell Fire and Its Aftermath

45:05 Design Innovations in Building Codes

48:25 Understanding the ICC and Code Writing

58:09 The Revolving Door: Industry and Regulation

01:07:26 The Role of Government in Building Codes

01:15:20 Getting Involved: Supporting Change in Building Codes

CONNECT WITH STEPHEN

Center for Building https://www.centerforbuilding.org/

BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/stephenjacobsmith.com 

Email: stephen@centerforbuilding.org

MENTIONED RESOURCES

Elevator research: https://admin.centerforbuilding.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Elevators.pdf 

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/

https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

https://www.buildingculture.com/

https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/

https://twitter.com/build_culture

https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/

SPONSORS

Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!

Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/

One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

In this episode, I talk with Ryan Johnson, co-founder and CEO of Culdesac, about building the United States’ first car-free neighborhood from scratch. We discuss everything from winning over the fire department with foldable ladders to building hundreds of units without building a single parking garage. Ryan also opens up about how designing for people—rather than cars—has paid off big time for both residents and local retailers, and why he believes autonomous vehicles, ride-sharing, and a passion for walkability will reshape cities nationwide.

TAKEAWAYS

Walkability Isn’t a Niche Luxury—It’s a Mass Market Demand. The majority of Americans would pay more to live in a walkable neighborhood, and 92% of Gen Z is on board. This isn’t just a trend—it’s a tidal wave.

Car-Free Living Works—Even in Phoenix. If a walkable neighborhood can thrive in a sprawling, car-centric city like Phoenix, it can work anywhere. The key? Thoughtful design, mixed-use spaces, and actual community-building.

Parking Garages Are the Next Real Estate Mistake. Developers still pouring millions into structured parking are setting themselves up for regret. AV ride-hailing, changing transportation habits, and shifting zoning laws are making them obsolete faster than people realize.

Retail Thrives When It’s a Destination, Not an Afterthought. Culdesac started with six planned retail spaces—now they have 21, and local businesses are thriving. Why? Because people actually want to be there.

Building for Humans, Not Traffic Engineers, Changes Everything. The way we build cities has quietly been making us more isolated, unhealthy, and unhappy. Culdesac’s design flips that script—prioritizing gathering spaces, green areas, and human-scale density.

CHAPTERS

00:00 The Need for Change in Urban Design

02:57 Introducing Cul-de-Sac: A New Vision for Neighborhoods

06:12 Designing Walkable Communities: The Cul-de-Sac Approach

08:54 Innovative Infrastructure: Rethinking Parking and Access

11:50 Financing the Future: Capital Strategies for New Developments

15:04 Community and Belonging: The Heart of Urban Living

18:07 Navigating Challenges: Working with City Regulations

21:07 Phased Development: Learning and Adapting in Real Time

24:00 The Impact of COVID-19 on Construction and Costs

26:58 Market Dynamics: Setting Rents in a Changing Landscape

29:43 The Evolution of Walkable Neighborhoods

32:03 Creating Community Through Intentional Design

34:48 Retail and Community Engagement

37:59 The Role of Local Businesses in Urban Development

40:50 Innovative Urban Design and Architecture

43:54 Challenges and Surprises in Development

45:41 The Future of Walkable Communities

50:18 Leadership and Vision in Development

55:41 Advice for Aspiring Developers

CONNECT WITH RYAN

Culdesac: https://culdesac.com

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

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

Twitter: https://x.com/ryanmjohnson?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/

https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

https://www.buildingculture.com/

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SPONSORS

Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!

Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/

One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

In this episode, I talk with Jeral Poskey, former project executive at Google, and current Founder and CEO of Swyft Cities, about a radically different approach to urban transportation that’s fast, flexible, and surprisingly affordable. Spoiler: it's not autonomous or flying cars.

When I first heard about Swyft’s solution, I was skeptical.  But I’m increasingly excited about the possibilities, and how it could unlock walkable districts and neighborhoods within the suburban sprawl context (so basically everywhere).  

We get into how Jeral’s experience inside Google’s real estate division led to the birth of Project Swyft, why traditional mass-transit infrastructure isn’t feasible (at least on its own), and how Swyft’s solution solves for the last few miles, weaves between buildings, and adapts to cities as they grow.

If you're into urbanism, real estate, autonomous vehicles, or just want to understand what could actually make our cities function better (without waiting 20 years and wasting billions of dollars for a new train–looking at you, California), this one’s worth your time.  And excitingly, Swyft has numerous projects underway around the world beginning in 2026.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction to Project Switch and Urban Transportation

01:48 The Origins of Swyft Cities

05:08 Innovative Transportation Solutions

10:31 Skepticism to Curiosity

14:09 The Last Mile Connection and Urban Challenges

17:34 Economic Models and Urban Growth

19:23 Modularity and Network Effects in Urban Transit

21:16 AI and Efficiency in Transportation Systems

23:40 Cost Comparisons and Infrastructure Decisions

24:15 Understanding the Station Design and Functionality

26:22 Infrastructure Flexibility and Cost Efficiency

29:09 The Competition: Self-Driving Cars and Urban Mobility

32:52 Private vs. Public Sector Transportation Solutions

35:16 Real-World Applications and Case Studies

40:01 Overcoming Skepticism and Educating Stakeholders

43:45 Induced Demand: A Positive Perspective on Urban Transportation

48:13 Future Vision: Scaling and Real Estate Integration

Website: https://swyftcities.com/

Newsletter: https://swyftcities.us10.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=04dae35275c37b51b049b89c9&id=349fe9a899

Twitter: https://x.com/jeralpo 

Twitter: https://x.com/swyftcities

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

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL:

Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ 

https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

https://www.buildingculture.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ 

https://twitter.com/build_culture 

https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/

SPONSORS:

Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!

Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ 

One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/ 

You’re not supposed to be good at everything. But somehow, Alli is.

Architect, landscape architect, developer, GC, policy reformer, zoning translator, builder of teams, builder of trust, builder of actual buildings-it’s no wonder we spent the first five minutes of this episode just trying to list all the roles she plays.

In this conversation, Alli joins me to talk about what it means to be a true generalist in an era obsessed with specialization. We cover her journey from flipping houses as a teenager to running a growing team at Flintlock Lab, directing the Incremental Development Alliance, and quietly (or not so quietly) reshaping how development works across the country-starting in her hometown of Fayetteville, Arkansas.

We dig into building science, incremental housing, the limits of Revit, and why being a builder makes you a better architect (and vice versa). But we also get into the harder stuff-like learning to lead, facing city bureaucracy, and what to do when the guy reviewing your permit might genuinely want to run you over with his truck.

This one’s as practical as it is philosophical, and it left me feeling more hopeful-and a little more fired up-about what’s still possible if we’re willing to roll up our sleeves and terraform our own backyards.

CHAPTERS

00:00 Community Engagement and Local Impact

02:51 The Multifaceted Career of Ali

05:51 Navigating Development and Housing Challenges

09:09 The Unique Economy of Fayetteville

11:56 Balancing Growth and Community Needs

14:57 Career Trajectory and Intentionality

18:06 Building Science and Sustainable Practices

20:49 Design-Build Workflow and Efficiency

24:07 Entrepreneurial Spirit in Development

31:57 The Design-Build Approach: Learning Through Doing

34:51 Scaling Up: The Challenges of Growth

39:10 Understanding the Market: Design Meets Demand

41:55 Terraforming Communities: The Role of Local Investment

44:11 Building a Culture of Collaboration: The Fayetteville Experience

49:50 Changing the Narrative: Zoning and Community Engagement

57:04 Navigating Conflict: Building Relationships with City Staff

01:08:20 Building Relationships in Local Governance

01:15:06 Navigating Conflict with City Staff

01:20:01 Growing a Business: Challenges and Changes

01:26:09 Tools and Software for Efficiency

01:34:00 Learning from Failures and Growth

CONNECT WITH Alli

• Flintlock Lab: flintlocklab.com

• Incremental Development Alliance: incrementaldevelopment.org

• Instagram: @flintlocklab

• LinkedIn: Alli’s Profile

  
  

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ 

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CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

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SPONSORS

Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!

Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ 

One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/ 

A hundred years ago, people in small towns were building things that still stop us in our tracks. Two-story brick shops on the corner of Main and Commerce. Sturdy. Modest. Enduring. And beautiful.

So the question is: what changed?

I joined Geoff Graham on his Yeoman podcast, alongside Jaime Izurieta and Saifedean Ammous (author of The Bitcoin Standard), to try and unpack that question.

We talk about why the small towns of the early 1900s could build beautiful things without credentialed architects, starchitects, or REIT funding... and why today, with all our global supply chains and five-star consultants, we mostly build disposable boxes.

Turns out, there’s a connection between money, time preference, and architecture. And when the money got funny, everything else started to crack too – our neighborhoods, our supply chains, even our standards for beauty.

It’s a wide-ranging conversation that touches on architecture, monetary policy, code creep, and how the over-financialization of everything is eroding our ability to build for the long haul.

Take a listen if you’ve ever wondered why your grandparents' post office looks better than your city’s new civic center.

CHAPTERS

00:00 The Changing Landscape of Building and Time Preference

02:51 Exploring the Intersection of Money and Architecture

05:57 Historical Context: Building in Early 20th Century America

09:01 The Role of Local Materials and Community in Architecture

11:54 Understanding Time Preference and Its Impact on Building

15:09 The Influence of Monetary Policy on Architectural Beauty

17:50 The Shift from Hard Money to Inflationary Currency

21:03 Regulatory Challenges and Their Impact on Construction

23:57 The Disparity Between Wealth and Money

26:56 The Future of Architecture in an Inflationary Economy

40:47 Innovative Window Design and Egress Solutions

41:32 The Rising Cost of Housing and Inflation's Impact

42:32 Housing as a Store of Value

45:18 The Competition for Homeownership

47:26 Regulatory Challenges in Housing Production

50:47 The Complexity of Modern Building Standards

52:43 Energy Efficiency and Building Costs

53:43 Inflation and Environmental Concerns

56:29 The Future of Energy Production

01:01:20 The Role of Nuclear Energy

01:03:03 The Case for Sound Money and Bitcoin

01:12:14 The Path to a Low Time Preference World

CONNECT WITH THE GUESTS

Geoff Graham: Host of the Yeoman Podcast, real estate developer​

Yeoman Podcast Website: https://graham.dev/yeoman/

Jaime Izurieta Varela: Architect, developer, urbanist​

www.storefrontmastery.com 

https://x.com/izurietavarea 

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

https://www.instagram.com/storefrontmastery/  

https://www.facebook.com/public/Jaime-Izurieta/ 

Book: Mainstreet Mavericks 

Saifedean Ammous: Economist, Bitcoin advocate, author​

Website: https://saifedean.com/

Twitter (X): @saifedean

Instagram: @saifedean

Podcast: saifedean.com/podcast

Courses: saifedean.com/courses

MENTIONED RESOURCES

The Bitcoin Standard: The Decentralized Alternative to Central Banking https://saifedean.com/the-bitcoin-standard

The Fiat Standard: The Debt Slavery Alternative to Human Civilization https://saifedean.com/the-fiat-standard

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ 

https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

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SPONSORS

Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!

Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ 

One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/ 

In this episode, I sit down with Joachim Tantau–a cabinetmaker, artist, teacher, and occasional architect to explore the quiet power of sacred geometry. Joachim works at the intersection of tradition, craftsmanship, and cosmic math. His approach to design isn’t just about aesthetics, it’s about uncovering the fundamental order embedded in nature, music, architecture, and even the movements of planets.

We talk about how flowers, planets, and buildings all share hidden proportional systems; why the Golden Ratio keeps showing up in history and design; and how ancient builders created structures more efficient-and more awe-inspiring-than much of what we build today. We also dig into why beauty is not just a luxury, but a basic human need.

If you’ve ever felt like modern buildings don’t quite “speak” to you, this might explain why.

CHAPTERS

00:00 The Role of Sacred Geometry in Design

03:12 Exploring Sacred Geometry

08:30 Understanding Sacred Geometry

13:27 The Intersection of Geometry and Music

17:03 Sacred Geometry in Architecture

27:16 The Importance of Beauty in Design

39:01 Geometry in Modern Engineering

48:53 Rediscovering Wonder in the Modern World

54:09 The Distinction Between Pleasure and Enjoyment

01:00:17 Connecting Architecture with Nature and Geometry

01:06:04 Ancient Architecture and Cosmic Proportions

01:11:10 Teaching Sacred Geometry in Design

01:17:26 Practical Applications of Sacred Geometry in Architecture

CONNECT WITH JOACHIM:

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

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joachim-tantau-53849055

Website: https://www.joachimtantau.com/home.html 

MENTIONED RESOURCES:

The Hidden Geometry of Flowers: Living Rhythms, Form and Number by Keith Critchlow: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12293965-the-hidden-geometry-of-flowers 

The Dimensions of Paradise: Sacred Geometry, Ancient Science, and the Heavenly Order on Earth by John Michell : https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/1443804.The_Dimensions_of_Paradise 

Sacred Art in East and West by Titus Burckhardt: https://www.goodreads.com/en/book/show/371784.Sacred_Art_in_East_and_West_1st_Edition 

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ 

https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

https://www.buildingculture.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ 

https://twitter.com/build_culture 

https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ 

SPONSORS

Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!

Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ 

One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/ 

New episode out now with Charles Duff, author of The North Atlantic Cities. This is one I’ve wanted to record for years, ever since I read his book. Charles lays out a vision of city building that’s neither skyscraper-packed Manhattan nor endless suburban sprawl, but something in between. Something tested, timeless, and deeply human.

We talk about what makes cities like Amsterdam, London, and Boston so livable-and why they offer a roadmap for places like Oklahoma City and the Sunbelt. It’s not about replicating Parisian density or banning cars. It’s about building places where families can live in row houses, walk to a corner store, catch a train, and still have a backyard, space and privacy. It’s about recognizing that the built environment is one of our biggest levers for addressing the environment, culture, economics, and quality of life–all at once.

Charles explains how a bunch of brick houses built by 17th-century merchants ended up creating one of the most resilient, beautiful, and efficient urban forms the world has ever seen. And he makes a compelling case that we don’t need to invent a new future, we just need to remember what already works.

This one’s for anyone who cares about the intersection of beauty, density, and sanity in our cities. Hope you enjoy it–and if you do, go read the book. It’s changed the way I think about building.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 The Hidden Way of Building Cities

05:08 Understanding North Atlantic Cities

12:27 The Importance of Urban Density

21:01 The North Atlantic Way of Building

26:10 Lessons from North Atlantic Cities

36:11 Living Conditions in 1600s Europe

39:42 The Rise of the Dutch Middle Class

43:35 Architectural Innovations in the Netherlands

46:27 Contrasting Urban Developments: Paris vs. London

48:50 The Modern Row House and Urban Density

55:52 The Importance of Aesthetic in Urban Design

01:01:46 Integrating Density with Community Needs

01:05:45 Final Thoughts on Urban Development

MENTIONED RESOURCES:

Charles’ book- The North Atlantic Cities: https://lute-grasshopper-4hhr.squarespace.com/ 

CONNECT WITH CHARLES DUFF

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charles-duff-8a2486237/ 

Website: https://lute-grasshopper-4hhr.squarespace.com/ 

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ 

https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

https://www.buildingculture.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ 

https://twitter.com/build_culture 

https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ 

SPONSORS

Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!

Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ 

One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/ 

In this episode, I talk with Isaac French, founder of Live Oak Lake and one of the most thoughtful voices I’ve come across in the world of experiential real estate. Isaac’s story reads like an adventure novel: raised with eight siblings on a Texas farm, homeschooled, steeped in grit. Well before turning 30, he walked five acres of tangled brush – no money, just a vision – and figured out how to design and build a seven-cabin, Nordic-inspired retreat that went viral, grossed over $1M in bookings, and sold for $7M. All in under two years. And plenty went wrong along the way.

He’s basically a case study in the idea: you can just do things.

We talk about how Isaac blends hardware – design, layout, light – with software – hospitality, scent, story – to create spaces that are both deeply personal and universally resonant. He shares how a glitch in the Airbnb matrix led him to build a direct-to-consumer brand from scratch, and how beauty often begins by submitting to constraint, whether it’s the land, the budget, or your own limits.

If you’ve ever wondered what it would mean to build with your soul, not just your spreadsheet, this one’s for you.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Creating Community Through Built Environments

03:48 The Journey of Live Oak Lake

17:54 The Art of Hospitality and Experience

27:40 Exploring New Urbanism and Placemaking

36:54 The Power of Saying No

39:02 Exploring Sacred Geometry and Beauty

44:16 Biophilic Design and Human Connection

49:45 The Role of Humans in Environmental Stewardship

54:43 Navigating Success and Humility

01:00:19 Future Visions and Community Building

MENTIONED RESOURCES:

Live Oak Lake | Modern Cabins in Waco, Texas

CONNECT WITH ISAAC FRENCH

Email: i@isaacjfrench.com

Website: https://www.isaacjfrench.com/ 

Twitter: https://x.com/isaacfrench_

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

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

Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/c/IsaacFrench 

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ 

https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

https://www.buildingculture.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ 

https://twitter.com/build_culture 

https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ 

SPONSORS

Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!

Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ 

One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/ 

What if the future of affordable housing doesn’t come from prefab or 3D printing, but from building vertically integrated factories that travel to where homes are needed most?

In this episode, I sit down with Aleksandr Gampel, co-founder and COO of Cuby Technologies, to talk about their radical approach: Mobile Micro-Factories. Instead of shipping oversized boxes across the country, they bring a full factory on-site – producing windows, panels, framing, and even helical piers locally, then assembling homes with unskilled labor.

We get into why housing costs have exploded (up 40–50% since pre-COVID), how Cuby’s system cuts hard costs by reducing skilled labor, and why most prefab and modular ventures have failed. Aleks explains how their vertically integrated model works, why they’re targeting small-to-mid-sized builders instead of one-off homeowners, and what it will mean when dozens, or even hundreds, of mobile microfactories are running across the U.S.

We also dive into design: steel tube framing, magnetic facades, and the surprisingly elegant logic behind Toyota’s production system applied to housing. If you’ve ever wondered how we might actually build cost-effective, durable homes at scale – without sacrificing beauty or quality – this episode is worth your time.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Housing Challenges

02:53 The Concept of Mobile Micro Factories

05:35 Manufacturing Process and Product Offerings

08:24 Building Systems and Structural Integrity

11:17 Cost Management and Market Strategy

14:05 Design Flexibility and Market Demand

17:07 Community Development and Housing Affordability

19:53 Operational Dynamics of Mobile Micro Factories

24:43 Building Efficient Factories with Unskilled Labor

27:30 The Role of Automation in Construction

28:54 Phased Business Plan for Housing Production

30:34 Funding and Capital Efficiency in Startups

32:33 Design Versatility and Limitations in Home Building

34:10 Long-Term Vision and Growth Strategy

35:15 Innovative Problem Solving in Construction

39:13 Challenges of Prefabrication in the Housing Market

41:33 Material Science Innovations for Housing

43:11 The Journey of Co-Founding a Startup

44:33 Connecting with Cuby Technologies

CONNECT WITH ALEKSANDR GAMPEL

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

Twitter/X: https://x.com/agampel1 

Cuby Technologies: https://www.cubytechnologies.com/ 

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ 

https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

https://www.buildingculture.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ 

https://twitter.com/build_culture 

https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ 

SPONSORS

Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!

Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ 

One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/ 

What if the key to designing better cities wasn’t just in concrete, code, or cost, but in understanding how our brains actually work?

In this episode, I talk with Ann Sussman and Kelsey Bradley of the Human Architecture and Planning Institute (HAPI) about a subject that’s as profound as it is underdiscussed: how our unconscious biology reacts to the built environment – and how that should change everything about how we design.

Ann, architect and author of Cognitive Architecture  and Kelsey, founder of Design Cause Inc., now Executive Director at HAPI, walk us through the neuroscience of placemaking. We talk eye tracking. Skin conductivity. Heart rate variability. And how our “Stone Age brains” are still calibrated for the Savannah, even when we’re stuck in a strip mall.

This episode will validate what many of us feel but can’t quite explain why some places energize us, and others quietly drain us. The answers aren’t just aesthetic. They’re evolutionary.

CHAPTERS:

00:00 The Car-Free City: Oslo's Urban Transformation

03:43 Human Architecture: Merging Biology and Design

08:03 Understanding Human Experience: The Emotional Brain

11:24 The Impact of Environment on Human Behavior

18:37 The Influence of Modernism on Architecture

23:28 The Threatening Nature of Suburban Design

26:47 Measuring Human Responses: Biometrics in Architecture

31:25 The Science of Emotions in Design

33:52 The Power of Empathy in Leadership

36:57 Designing for Human Flourishing

40:07 The Impact of Built Environments on Mental Health

45:35 Understanding Human Perception in Urban Design

49:13 The Need for Beautiful and Functional Spaces

53:00 The Future of Urban Planning and Community Well-being

MENTIONED RESOURCES

Book: Cognitive Architecture: Designing for how we respond to the built environment

Book: Urban Experience & Design

https://thehapi.org/

Free course on "The Genetics of Design" – HAPI.org Courses 

Design Cause Inc. – Kelsey’s nonprofit building schools in Africa

CONNECT WITH ANN SUSSMAN

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ann-sussman-a1a34a14/

X: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ann-sussman-a1a34a14/ 

Ann’s Blog: https://annsussman.com/ 

The Genetics of Design: https://geneticsofdesign.com/about 

CONNECT WITH KELSEY BRADLEY

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

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

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ 

https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

https://www.buildingculture.com/ 

https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ 

https://twitter.com/build_culture 

https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ 

SPONSORS

Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!

Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ 

One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/ 

In this episode, I sit down with Jan Sramek, Founder and CEO of California Forever, to talk about one of the most ambitious development efforts in the country: they're building the next great American city.

Chapters

0:00 — Why This Conversation Matters

02:05 — Meeting Jan and the Origins of California Forever

06:45 — Growing Up in the Czech Republic and Coming to America

12:10 — What California Forever Is Actually Trying to Build

17:55 — The Housing Crisis and Why Incremental Fixes Aren’t Enough

23:40 — Walkability, Safety, and Designing for Families

30:15 — Why Cities Should Work for Kids and the Elderly Alike

35:50 — The Reality of Building a New City in California

41:30 — Regulation, Risk, and the Cost of Not Building

47:20 — Reviving American Manufacturing and Shipbuilding

53:10 — Master Planning, Density, and Mixed-Use Neighborhoods

59:00 — Learning from Traditional Urban Design

1:04:45 — Community, Belonging, and Social Trust

1:10:30 — What Success Would Actually Look Like

1:15:40 — Long-Term Vision and Final Reflections

CONNECT WITH JAN SRAMEK

California Forever - Building the next great American city

Jan Sramek | LinkedIn

https://x.com/jansramek?s=11

CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL

Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/

https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell

CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE

https://www.buildingculture.com/

https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/

https://twitter.com/build_culture

https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/

This episode is a personal one. I sat down with Sarah — my wife, my partner in all of this — to talk about Apollo Workspace: what it is, why we’re building it, and what it means within our larger project, Townsend, in downtown Edmond.We met in the Peace Corps in Uganda, got married after a five-week engagement, and moved to the middle of Oklahoma so I could learn structural masonry from a master mason. Building Culture started around the same time as our marriage, and a decade later, we’re building something that I think pulls together everything we’ve learned — about craft, about community, about what it actually means to make a place where people can do their best work.Apollo is a professional workspace for small teams and solo entrepreneurs — not coworking in the way most people think of it. We’re talking about private offices with real windows, structural brick masonry walls that are 16 inches thick, timber ceilings, and outdoor courtyards with a sauna and cold plunges. The whole thing is embedded in a walkable downtown district with 35+ restaurants and a park across the street.I talk about why we named it Apollo — the Greek god of light, creativity, and knowledge. Why the building materials matter and what people feel when they walk into structural masonry. Why we chose downtown Edmond and how we see it becoming one of the most walkable places in the OKC metro over the next decade.We get into the business case: if you come to Apollo and you don’t make more money than your rent, we’ve failed. This space should pay for itself through better focus, better client impressions, a built-in referral network of 30–40 other small business owners, and the kind of problem-solving community that’s hard to find when you’re running a business alone.We also talk about the Founding Member program — the first people to commit get their name carved in stone on the building. Not a plaque. In the masonry. Because the story of how something begins matters, and the people who take a chance early deserve to be part of that story permanently.If any of this resonates, go to apolloworkspace.com or email hello@apolloworkspace.com. We’re signing LOIs with refundable deposits now — no risk to lock in your space but a great time to get in early. 0:00 Open0:28 Intro & Welcome2:52 The Origin Story — Peace Corps to Oklahoma5:12 Why Build a Workspace?7:37 The Name: Why Apollo?10:00 Workspace, Humanized — What That Means12:15 The Power of Small Business Community14:34 AI, Rapid Change & Learning Together16:51 Structural Masonry: Why the Building Matters19:15 Design with Soul20:14 Mid-Episode Break20:34 Sauna & Cold Plunge at the Office24:06 Why Downtown Edmond?26:33 Apollo at Townsend: The Full Picture28:57 Who Is Apollo For?31:25 Home Office vs. Apollo33:27 Not Networking — Problem Solving37:55 Founding Members Program39:38 How to Get Involved42:13 The Vision: A Thursday Morning at Apollo45:06 Closing & Masonry Event PreviewCONNECT WITH APOLLO WORKSPACEhttps://apolloworkspace.com/https://www.instagram.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/apolloworkspace/hello@apolloworkspace.com CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELLNewsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/https://twitter.com/AustinTunnellCONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTUREhttps://www.buildingculture.com/https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/https://twitter.com/build_culturehttps://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/

Mike Hathorne spent 30 years in real estate and development trying to understand why the industry keeps building the wrong thing. His answer is in his book, The Great Housing Reversal.It's not a housing shortage. It's a housing mismatch. 64% of American households are one or two people. Over half the housing stock has three or more bedrooms. Mike walks through the three simultaneous trends reshaping who needs a home in America, why the development industry hasn't caught up, and what the neighborhoods people actually want look like.We also talk about the LDS ward study that revealed what happens to communities built on monolithic housing over time, the Harvard research showing that access across socioeconomic lines raises lifetime earnings by 20%, and what it looks like when a developer finally builds the kind of place the data has been pointing toward for decades.Mike recently relocated to Northwest Arkansas to join High Street, a traditional neighborhood development firm. He's also one of the clearest thinkers I've met on the relationship between how we build neighborhoods and how we live in them.Chapters00:00 Introduction00:44 Mike's background: 30 years in development and the path that led to the book03:10 Housing mismatch, not shortage05:00 The numbers: 64% of households are 1-2 people vs. 54% of homes with 3+ bedrooms07:33 Three simultaneous disruptors: fertility rates, marriage rates, and an aging population14:43 Zoning: 75% of residential land locked into single-family20:07 The comps problem: why real estate financing runs backwards from innovation27:29 Placemaking takes longer: lessons from Wheeler District32:28 What supply that matches the market actually looks like36:35 Connectedness is the new luxury42:45 The LDS ward study: why diverse housing makes resilient neighborhoods49:00 When communities can't support themselves, government fills the gap53:47 Personal stories: when mixed neighborhoods change lives57:18 Finding your tribe: Mike's move to Northwest Arkansas and CNU 34CONNECT WITH MIKE HATHORNEhttps://www.amazon.com/Great-Housing-Reversal-American-Dream/dp/B0G1FG4PXN greathousingreversal.substack.com linkedin.com/in/hathorneCNU 34, Northwest Arkansas (May 12-16): cnu.org/cnu-34CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELLNewsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ / austintunnell / austin-tunnell-2a41894a / austintunnell CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTUREhttps://www.buildingculture.com/ / buildingculture / build_culture / buildculture