003 - Community, Confidence, And Licensing – Meet Emily Hobbs
Release Date: 03/13/2025
014 - Unlock the Power of ARE Bootcamp: How to Maximize Your Success
Architect Exam Podcast
Learn how to get the most out of ARE Bootcamp with this insider's guide to the program. Michael Riscica and Emily Hobbs break down what makes the Bootcamp different from just studying alone and share key strategies for success. Whether you're just starting your ARE journey or looking to finish what you've started, this conversation reveals why structure, mentorship, accountability, and community make all the difference.
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013 - Quality Assurance vs Quality Control: The Complete Process
Architect Exam Podcast
Understanding QA vs QC is crucial for every architect and ARE candidate. In this episode, we break down Quality Assurance and Quality Control systems that appear across ALL ARE exams and the CDT. Learn the fundamental differences, how they work throughout the project lifecycle, and practical applications. Discover how quality assurance focuses on prevention through planned systems while quality control concentrates on detection and correction. We'll share practical examples, clear analogies, and exam-focused tips to help you master these concepts for both exam day and professional practice....
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012 - Construction Types Simplified: The 5 Essential Building Classifications
Architect Exam Podcast
Learn all about construction types and how they impact your building designs and ARE exam success! In this comprehensive guide, I break down the five types of building construction from Type I (fire-resistive) to Type V (wood-frame) that every architect needs to master. Understanding the differences between Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, Type 4, and Type 5 construction is crucial for the ARE exam, especially in the Construction & Evaluation, PPD, and PDD divisions. I'll explain when to use each construction type, their fire ratings, and how they affect building height and area limitations. ...
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011 - Who Creates the Construction Punch List? Not Who You Think
Architect Exam Podcast
The most heated debate in construction finally settled! Discover why contractors—not architects—are responsible for creating punch lists according to official AIA documents. Michael breaks down the connection between substantial completion and punch lists with practical examples that every architect needs to understand. In this episode, you'll learn: What substantial completion really means and why it matters The official AIA documentation confirming who creates punch lists The step-by-step punch list process from start to finish How to handle missed items with the one-year...
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010 - Understanding Preconstruction Activities For Construction Evaluation
Architect Exam Podcast
Are you studying for NCARB’s Construction Evaluation exam? This comprehensive breakdown of Preconstruction Activities will help you understand exactly what NCARB is testing—and how to pass it on your next attempt. 🔍 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN: NCARB’s hierarchy of ARE exams, sections and objectives How delivery methods affect architect responsibilities Systematic contractor evaluation techniques Value engineering vs. simple cost-cutting Contract mechanisms for controlling costs Common pitfalls when studying Section 1 📝 FREE RESOURCE: Download our Preconstruction Notes PDF to...
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009 - Occupancy Classifications Explained: Building Code Basics for ARE 5.0
Architect Exam Podcast
Occupancy Classifications: The foundation of building code that determines safety requirements for every structure. In this comprehensive episode, we break down the 10 major occupancy groups from the International Building Code - from Assembly spaces like theaters to Utility structures like sheds. You'll learn how these classifications impact building size, exits, fire protection systems, and accessibility requirements.
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008 - Construction Specification Types Made Simple: A Complete Guide
Architect Exam Podcast
Do you know the difference between all the different construction specification types? 🤔 In this podcast episode, Emily makes construction specification types easy to understand! She breaks down the classification systems (Master Format, Uni Format, Omni Class) and explains the crucial differences between prescriptive vs. performance specifications, proprietary vs. reference specifications, open vs. closed specifications, and more. Why is this important? If you're studying for the ARE or pursuing CDT certification, understanding specification types is crucial. These concepts show up...
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007 - Drawings vs. Specifications: Why 'Specs Always Win' Is Dead Wrong
Architect Exam Podcast
For years, ARE candidates have been told that specifications always take precedence over drawings if there is a conflict. But this widespread belief is completely wrong—and it could cost you on both the exam and in practice. In this eye-opening episode, Michael Riscica debunks the dangerous misconception that "specs always win" and explains what AIA documents actually say about the relationship between drawings and specifications. Learn why these documents are complementary rather than competing, and discover how this knowledge impacts everything from contract administration to payment...
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006 - Persistence, Practice, And Passing The ARE – Meet Layla Qarout
Architect Exam Podcast
Layla Qarout had a unique journey to becoming a licensed architect, transitioning internationally from Palestine, adapting to ARE 5.0, and facing multiple exam setbacks along the way. Through persistence, structured practice, and the supportive community of Young Architect, Layla overcame these challenges, achieved licensing, and now helps others navigate their own architect exam journeys. In this insightful episode, Layla and Michael discuss her story, highlighting the importance of running your own race, the power of structured studying with a partner, and the value of embracing the exam...
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005 - Understanding Specifications: An Introduction for ARE/CDT Candidates
Architect Exam Podcast
Emily, a registered architect and specifications expert, breaks down the often-overlooked world of construction specifications in this approachable introduction. Discover why specifications are the unsung heroes of every successful building project and how mastering them can improve your exam success and professional practice. In this episode, Emily shares: The essential differences between drawings and specifications Why specifications serve as crucial legal documents How properly written specs prevent costly mistakes and change orders A real-world example of how specifications...
info_outlineEmily Hobbs faced hurricanes, repeated exam failures, and plenty of self-doubt on her journey to becoming a licensed architect. In this episode, Emily shares her inspiring story of resilience, revealing how discovering the Young Architect community transformed her setbacks into opportunities for growth.
Listen as Emily and Michael discuss:
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The reality of failing ARE exams multiple times and the lessons learned.
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The importance of finding community and support through difficult times.
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Building self-confidence to overcome professional obstacles.
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Emily’s experience transitioning from ARE 4.0 to 5.0, and her insights into why failure can be essential to success.
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Her journey of starting her own architecture practice in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands.
This episode will leave you inspired and equipped with practical insights to tackle your own Architect Registration Exams (AREs) and professional challenges.
🎯 Helpful Links:
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Young Architect Academy: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/
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ARE Bootcamp Info: https://youngarchitect.com/arebootcamp/