Build Wealth Without More Clients: The Architecture Hack No One Talks About
Business of Architecture Podcast
Release Date: 05/12/2025
From Burnout to Balance: How CoXist Studio Transformed Their Practice and Profits | EP649
Business of Architecture Podcast
End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: Frank and Megan Lin didn’t set out to build a high-profit, award-winning firm. For years, they worked late, chased too many projects, and tried to out-hustle their burnout. Then something happened that changed the entire direction of their practice—and their lives. In this episode, they share what it really took to stop grinding and start growing. You’ll hear how they created freedom without sacrificing design, and how they reconnected with their deeper purpose through the business itself. If you’ve ever wondered...
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How Smarter Systems Are Transforming Firm Profitability | EP648
Business of Architecture Podcast
End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: In this episode of Business of Architecture, Rion Willard sits down with Robert Yuen, CEO of Monograph, to explore how architecture firms can stop running in survival mode and start operating with clarity, cash flow, and confidence. Robert shares insights from Monograph’s latest benchmarking report—revealing what separates the high-performing firms from the rest. You'll hear how new tools and mindsets are helping firm owners shift away from outdated habits that keep them stuck. They dive into the quiet killers...
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How to Track Time, Set Profitable Fees, and Grow with Confidence | EP647
Business of Architecture Podcast
End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/framework In this episode of Business of Architecture, host Rion Willard sits down with Mike Linn, the fractional CFO behind some of the most financially secure architecture firms today. They explore why most architects unknowingly sabotage their own profit — and how to fix it without becoming a “numbers person.” If you’ve ever felt stressed about cash flow or unsure about when to hire, this episode will speak directly to you. Mike shares the mindset shift that turns messy...
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Growing a Multi-Generational Architecture Firm with Vision, Culture, and Grit | EP646
Business of Architecture Podcast
End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: Running a successful architecture firm for decades is no small feat—especially when it spans three generations. In this heartwarming and high-energy episode, Scott Spector of Spectorgroup shares the story of how his father built a practice that shaped the skyline of Long Island—and how Scott expanded its reach into Manhattan and beyond. The conversation dives into culture, legacy, and what it really takes to build a firm that thrives across time. From stories of “visiting dad’s dirt” to lessons learned in...
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Choosing an Entity Structure and Paying Less Taxes | EP645
Business of Architecture Podcast
End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: Most architecture firm owners don’t realize how much money they’re leaving on the table. In this episode, financial experts Tal and Rachel Richards, CPA, reveal some of the most common — and costly — mistakes architects make when it comes to taxes. They also offer powerful insights on how to build long-term wealth with the income you’re already earning. Whether you’re just starting out or have a small team, this conversation will change how you think about profit, planning, and even partnerships. Enoch guides...
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Digital Marketing Strategies for Architects: SEO, Branding, and Getting Found Online | EP644
Business of Architecture Podcast
End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: In this episode of Business of Architecture, we dive into a sharp, honest conversation with Elias Christeas, founder of Lighthouse Digital Marketing, about what really works—and what doesn’t—when architects try to grow their firms online. From digital visibility to long-term reputation, Elias pulls back the curtain on common traps and powerful strategies architects often overlook. Whether you're fighting to stand out in a crowded market or dreaming of building a lasting legacy, this episode offers an eye-opening...
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How to Prepare Your Architecture Firm for a Successful Ownership Transition | EP643
Business of Architecture Podcast
End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: What really happens when it’s time to step back from your architecture firm? In this eye-opening episode, Enoch Sears and Ryan break down the hidden traps and quiet wins that make or break firm transitions. If you think a buyout or equity plan is all it takes, think again. This isn’t just about handing over the reins—it’s about what really drives a thriving business when you're no longer in the driver's seat. You'll hear behind-the-scenes stories of success, failure, and everything in between. Some will hit a...
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SmithGroup: Leading with Vision, Legacy, and Values | EP 642
Business of Architecture Podcast
End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: What does it take to lead one of the oldest architecture firms in America—and keep it thriving? In this episode, Troy Thompson and Roxanne Malek pull back the curtain on how legacy, leadership, and long-term thinking come together inside SmithGroup. But don’t expect the usual corporate jargon—this is a rare look into the mindset behind real, lasting success. From navigating ambiguity to balancing profit and purpose, they share lessons learned from decades of growth. You’ll hear how they make bold decisions...
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Leadership Lessons from the East | EP641
Business of Architecture Podcast
End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/framework What if the secret to running a thriving architecture firm wasn’t doing more, but actually doing less? In this episode, Enoch Sears and Rion Willard share a surprising insight from the East that changed how they think about leadership, creativity, and business growth. Rion’s recent travels sparked a deep realization that may flip your idea of “productivity” on its head. You’ll hear stories, metaphors, and one simple daily ritual that reveals a new way to think...
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2025 Architecture Alert: Risks for Small Firms | EP640
Business of Architecture Podcast
End chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: If you’re like many firm owners right now, you’re feeling the weight of uncertainty — what is happening in the market and - what’s next for my practice? On today’s episode — in this special State of Architecture address — you’ll discover: What’s really happening in the market right now (and what most architects are missing). The biggest mistake small firm owners make during a downturn — and how to avoid it. A step-by-step path to turn uncertainty into opportunity, so you can lead your firm with...
info_outlineEnd chaos in your firm—300+ peers use this framework. Free video here: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/framework
Many architects dream of launching their own firm, but few do it with the level of preparation and insight that Matthew Arnold brings to the table. After nearly 15 years at a celebrated architecture practice, Matthew made a bold move, one inspired by a surprising encounter with two iconic projects in the Arizona desert. What followed was a shift not only in career, but in how he sees the role of architects in shaping their own futures.
In this heartening and practical conversation, Rion explores what made Matthew take the leap, what he did beforehand to prepare, and how he now blends the roles of designer and developer. Listeners will hear about the surprising lessons from famous architects of the past, and the critical detail that helped Matthew win a key development deal without breaking the bank.
Listen to learn:
- What a legendary gala tradition reveals about the business of architecture
- Why one dinner in the desert changed everything
- The mistake Matthew made selling a unit too early and how it backfired
- How one overlooked seller need gave him a development deal no one else could win
To learn more about Matthew, visit his:
Website: www.matthewdarnold.com