Libsyn Directory

006 - Persistence, Practice, And Passing The ARE – Meet Layla Qarout

Release Date: 03/17/2025

025 - Gross, Rentable, Usable, and Net Areas: Simply Explained

Architect Exam Podcast

Understanding building area measurements is crucial for ARE exam success and professional practice! In this episode, we break down the differences between Gross Area, Rentable Area, Usable Area, and Net areas using the easy-to-remember GRUN framework. Never mix up these measurements again! We cover: The hierarchy of building measurements How to calculate building efficiency Common exam traps and how to avoid them Real-world examples that make these concepts click Check out our blogpost for a more indepth written version breaking down building area calculations: ...

024 - Top 10 Construction Specification Writing Errors & Solutions

Architect Exam Podcast

Discover the 10 most common construction specification mistakes architects make throughout their careers. In this video, we break down critical spec errors and share practical solutions to improve your architectural documentation. Despite being as crucial as drawings, specifications often get overlooked in architectural education. This comprehensive guide explores why poor specs lead to conflicts, cost overruns, and even legal disputes - plus how to fix these issues in your practice. 📝 Want to master architectural specifications and avoid costly mistakes? Check out our in-depth...

023 - Construction Change Orders: Your Project’s Plot Twist

Architect Exam Podcast

Warning: Change Orders will appear on every project in your career - here's what they don't tell you. In this comprehensive guide, I walk you through everything you need to know about change orders for the ARE exam and your career. Understand the "Project Manager's Golden Rule" - why changes ALWAYS cost more Learn the complete 7-step change order process from start to finish Discover the critical differences between COs, CCDs, ASIs, and Addenda See real-world examples from millions of dollars in change orders Master change orders from all perspectives: owner,...

022 - Construction Administrative Procedures: CE Section 3

Architect Exam Podcast

Learn the essential administrative procedures and protocols that make up Section 3 of the Construction & Evaluation exam. Michael and Emily break down all four objectives including RFIs, submittals, payment applications, and handling non-conforming work. In this comprehensive episode, you'll master the documentation that supports construction administration - from determining when to use ASIs versus change orders to properly reviewing contractor payment applications. We cover the critical paperwork that protects all parties during construction and ensures projects run smoothly. 🔗...

021 - Architect Insurance: The Designer’s Guide to Risk Management

Architect Exam Podcast

Learn exactly what insurance architects need and how to pass those tricky ARE insurance questions! This comprehensive guide breaks down professional liability, general liability, and more essential concepts. Insurance might seem boring, but it's crucial knowledge for both the ARE exam and your professional practice. In this episode, you'll learn: The difference between Professional Liability/E&O and General Liability insurance What contractors need to carry (Builder's Risk, General Liability, Workers' Comp) How owner insurance requirements differ from architects and contractors...

020 - Means of Egress: Making “OMG RUN FOR YOUR LIFE” Successful!

Architect Exam Podcast

Is egress the most feared topic on the ARE exam? It shouldn't be! In this episode of the Architect Exam Podcast, building codes expert Layla shares her passion for egress design and breaks down why it matters for both the exam and real-world practice. We start with the big picture (the three components of egress that form a complete escape route) before diving into the calculations and dimensions you need to memorize. Layla explains how occupant load drives everything from door widths to travel distances, using real examples to make these concepts stick. ✨ Pro Tip: As you listen, pay...

019 - Visual Learner Myth: Why You Need Multiple Study Methods

Architect Exam Podcast

Struggling with the ARE despite watching countless prep videos? In this episode, I break down why passive studying fails and introduce you to the Learning Pyramid - a powerful framework that shows exactly how to transform your studying from passive absorption to active learning that sticks when it matters most.

018 - Construction Observation: Breaking Down CE Section 2

Architect Exam Podcast

STRUGGLING with Construction & Evaluation Section 2? Did NCARB tell you "Section 2 needs improvement" but didn't explain why? This episode reveals EXACTLY what you need to know about the largest and most challenging section of the CE exam (29-41% of all questions)! In this comprehensive breakdown, we explore what happens when construction actually begins and your role as an architect during site visits. Learn exactly what NCARB is testing in this crucial section that many candidates struggle with. 🔑 KEY TOPICS COVERED: Understanding the crucial distinction between...

017 - Construction Submittals: No Exceptions Taken

Architect Exam Podcast

Avoid costly construction mistakes with submittals! This episode reveals how submittals serve as your project's quality control system, preventing expensive errors and delays. Discover the critical differences between shop drawings, product data, samples, and mock-ups, plus learn the exact submittal workflow from preparation to approval. You'll get insider tips on what "No Exceptions Taken" really means and how to avoid the common pitfalls that trip up even experienced professionals. Essential knowledge for passing your ARE exam and succeeding in real-world practice. Want to learn more about...

016 - Fire Wall vs Fire Barrier vs Fire Partition: Key Differences

Architect Exam Podcast

Struggling to understand the differences between fire walls, fire barriers, and fire partitions? In this episode, we break down all five fire and smoke separation types in buildings, with clear explanations of their ratings, continuity requirements, and real-world applications. Essential knowledge for the ARE exam and professional practice! 🔗 Links & Resources: 📝 Download our FREE 2-page Fire Separations Study Guide: 📚 Building Codes 101 Course: 🎓 ARE Boot Camp Registration: Want to master building codes for the ARE exam? Check out our comprehensive Building Codes...

More Episodes

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 process—even through failures. Layla also shares her experiences co-creating impactful courses, including the Young Architect Building Codes Course and the CDT 101 Course.

This conversation offers valuable insights and motivation for anyone tackling the ARE and aspiring toward architectural licensing.

🎯 Helpful Links:

Young Architect Academy: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/
ARE Bootcamp Info: https://youngarchitect.com/arebootcamp/
Building Codes 101: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/join/cdt-101/
PA 101: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/join/ncarb-are-101/