How Architects Can Use AI Without Losing the Human Touch with Mark R LePage
Release Date: 01/30/2026
How Architects Can Use AI Without Losing the Human Touch with Mark R LePage
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In a profession facing rapid technological change, understanding how to use AI without losing the human element has become one of the most important challenges for architects today. In this episode, Aya Schlachter sits down with Mark R. LePage, an entrepreneur architect and Chief Executive Officer and co-founder of Gābl Media Group, Inc., to explore how AI is reshaping the AEC industry and what it means for the future of architectural practice. With decades of experience building firms, communities, and media platforms, Mark shares how his journey from practicing architect to business...
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info_outlineIn a profession facing rapid technological change, understanding how to use AI without losing the human element has become one of the most important challenges for architects today.
In this episode, Aya Schlachter sits down with Mark R. LePage, an entrepreneur architect and Chief Executive Officer and co-founder of Gābl Media Group, Inc., to explore how AI is reshaping the AEC industry and what it means for the future of architectural practice. With decades of experience building firms, communities, and media platforms, Mark shares how his journey from practicing architect to business educator has shaped his perspective on leadership, creativity, and growth.
They discuss why AI should be viewed as a powerful tool rather than a threat, how architects can build AI literacy at every level of their business, and why human connection will remain the profession’s greatest differentiator. Mark also breaks down the business gaps left by traditional architectural education, the rise of community-driven learning, and how initiatives like EntreArchitect and the EntreArchitect Academy are helping architects build stronger firms.
Tune in for practical insights on building sustainable firms, developing leadership skills, preserving institutional knowledge, and preparing the next generation of architects for long-term success.
Key Takeaways:
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AI is a powerful tool that can improve efficiency, productivity, and creativity at every level of architectural practice.
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Architects who build AI literacy early will be better prepared as technology continues to accelerate.
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AI will not replace architects, but architects who fail to adapt risk falling behind.
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Human connection, trust, and empathy remain the strongest differentiators in an AI-driven profession.
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Architecture requires emotional intelligence and human judgment that technology cannot replicate.
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Financially stable firms create better architecture by giving architects time, focus, and freedom.
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Strong culture and flexibility are critical for attracting and retaining the next generation of architects.
Timestamps:
00:00 – Episode Snippet
01:43 – Introducing our guest, Mark R. LePage
03:07 – Mark’s early foundations of building and problem-solving
08:16 – The power of openly sharing business knowledge within the profession
10:01 – Sponsor Spotlight: Struggling to meet deadlines with limited staff? MGS Global Group is here for you. We provide qualified architectural professionals on demand so you can scale your projects without compromising quality. Visit https://mgsglobalgroup.com today.
11:56 – The power of public accountability (12-12-12)
13:24 – Financial success enables better architecture
16:31 – Masterminds scale through shared leadership
20:06 – How EntreArchitect Academy fills a critical education gap
22:51 – How Gābl Media gives architects a stronger voice
25:10 – A website should be a sales tool
30:28 – Fear of AI is common but misplaced
32:24 – Human connection is irreplaceable
34:33 – AI creates time to invest in relationships
36:12 – Mastery comes from repetition and self-review
39:31 – Start small with AI to avoid overwhelm
40:56 – The limits of AI and the role of human judgment
43:43 – How business pulse surveys help firms measure progress against peers
45:48 – Economic data supports smarter planning
49:28 – Becoming irreplaceable means focusing on people
51:26 – Strong culture attracts the next generation
53:40 – Internal podcasts preserve and activate firm knowledge
56:22 – What’s next for Mark?
57:51 – The passion and purpose to serve architects
About the Guest:
Mark R. LePage is an entrepreneur architect based in the Charlotte Metro area who is known for helping architects think differently about business, leadership, and creativity. He is the co-founder and CEO of Gābl Media Group, where he works to give architects and AEC professionals a stronger voice through podcasting, storytelling, and education. Mark is also the founder of EntreArchitect, a platform he started in 2007 to support small firm architects who want to build successful businesses without losing sight of good design. Through writing, podcasting, and community building, he has helped thousands of architects grow their firms with more clarity and confidence.
Connect with Mark R. LePage:
Web: https://gablmedia.com/; https://entrearchitect.com/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/gablmedia/
YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSQNTZAcGQ9hxt-8ngzj5WA
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markrlepage/
About the Host:
Aya Shlachter is the CEO and Founder of MGS Global Group and the creator of the Architect My Life Community and Podcast. With degrees from Columbia University and NJIT, plus advanced studies at Harvard, she helps architects and designers grow their businesses while living more fulfilling lives. Outside of work, Aya is a wife, mom of two, world traveler, and recreational triathlete.
Connect with Aya Shlachter:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aya.shlachter
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aya_shlachter/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayashlachter/
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🎙️ This episode is brought to you by MGS Global Group
Running a growing architecture firm? You’re probably not short on projects. You’re short on people. That’s where MGS Global Group comes in.
We provide qualified architects on demand so you can deliver more without overloading your team or sacrificing quality. Whether you need help with Construction Documents, Design Development, BIM support, or just don’t have time to train someone new, our team integrates seamlessly with yours — no long hiring process, no hand-holding.
We work across time zones, so your projects keep moving even after you log off.
Learn more at mgsglobalgroup.com (https://mgsglobalgroup.com/)
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