Architect My Business

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Jun 2026

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Architect My Business (AMB) is a podcast for architects and designers in the AEC who are thinking of starting, already managing or want to take their business to the next level. Hosted by Aya Shlachter, each episode offers simple, actionable tips on leadership, people, marketing, processes, and, of course, profit. Check out our mini-shows: Her Space and Ask Aya!

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June 12, 2026Episode 1725 min

How Architects Win Clients Through Smart Marketing

If you've ever said "my work speaks for itself" and skipped the marketing, this episode is for you. In this episode, Aya covers why visibility matters more than ever in the age of AI, how to find your marketing niche, the platforms and tools that won't cost you a fortune, and the mindset shift that will help you stop waiting and start showing up. Whether you're a solopreneur or leading a growing firm, this episode will challenge the way you think about marketing and give you the clarity to finally do something about it. This is Part 1 of a 3-part marketing mini-series designed to help you build a practical marketing strategy for your architecture firm from scratch. What You'll Learn: Why architects avoid marketing and why that mindset needs to change The 4 reasons architects resist marketing (and how to overcome them) What the 2026 Deltek Clarity Study reveals about digital presence and winning new work How a passion project podcast grew MGS Global Group from 8 to 60 employees How to market consistently without a big budget The Circle of Influence mindset for staying focused in uncertain times Timestamps: 0:00 — Episode Snippet 0:21 — Welcome & host introduction / MGS Global Group overview 1:23 — "My work speaks for itself" — challenging the myth 2:18 — Why architects avoid marketing 7:24 — Why firm owners need to be the face of their brand in the age of AI 8:31 — Marketing doesn't have to be expensive — tools & resources 8:57 — The COVID podcast that changed everything: "Architect My Life" 9:49 — From 8 to 60 employees: the real ROI of Marketing 10:58 — MGS Global Group sponsor segment 12:00 — 2026 Deltek data 12:35 — What content marketing really means 17:34 — Why visibility is the differentiator 19:09 — You don't need to be everywhere, pick ONE platform and show up 19:31 — Teaser: Episode 2 19:51 — Personal reflection 21:21 — The Circle of Influence (Stephen Covey) 24:15 — Key takeaway 24:55 — Next episode preview 25:17 — Outro Watch the episode! 🔔 Subscribe for weekly insights on design, tech, and the future of creative business. ➡️ @architectmybusiness for more business insights. Listen to the Podcast: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6rHAanLV0Kif5WXBajyUes?si=254a55e2877348f9 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/architect-my-business/id1575638268 Website: https://www.architectmybusiness.com/ Connect with Us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/architectmybusinesspodcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@architectmybusiness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/architectmybusiness/ About the Host: Aya Shlachter is the Founder and CEO of MGS Global Group, an architectural support services firm serving hundreds of architecture practices worldwide. With over 18 years of industry experience, she helps firm owners scale smarter, adopt emerging technologies, and build resilient, future-ready practices. Aya also hosts the AI for Architects and Architect My Business podcasts and is the co-founder of ArchiCon 2026, a global architecture business conference. She was named as 2025 Global FWN100™ Most Influential Filipina Woman in the World in the Founder and Pioneer category for her leadership in business and AI. Connect with Aya Shlachter: Email: aya@mgsglobalgroup.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aya_shlachter/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayashlachter/ Architect My Business brings you practical strategies on leadership, people, processes, and profit, so you can grow your firm with clarity and confidence. Whether you're just starting out or ready to scale, this podcast covers it all. 🎙️This episode is brought to you by: MGS Global Group End-to-End Architecture Production BIM | Revit | AutoCAD | ArchiCAD | 3D Rendering Since 2008 Learn more at: mgsglobalgroup.com

March 25, 2026Episode 1535 min

How to Run a Successful Architecture Firm in 2026 (and Beyond)

Running a firm in today's landscape isn't just about delivering great design – It's more than that. So, what does it actually take to run a thriving architecture firm in 2026? In this episode of Architect My Business Podcast, host Aya Shlachter breaks down what it really takes to run a firm in 2026, drawing from her recent research of over 200+ architecture firms worldwide. She covers the biggest industry shifts — AI adoption, rising competition, and unstable pipelines — and why most firm owners are underestimating the importance of marketing and business development. Key Takeaways: Referrals aren't enough — consistent visibility and personal branding are essential Pipeline inconsistency is the no. 1 challenge firms face today AI should be embedded in your operations, not used occasionally Relationship capital drives long-term growth and deal-making Intentional, slow leadership beats reactive hustle every time Timestamps: 00:00 – Episode Snippet 00:14 – Welcome to Architect My Business Podcast 02:24 – Running a firm in 2026 and industry shifts 05:06 – Pipeline challenges and the need for systems 06:55 – AI research and global adoption trends 09:06 – Why AI is no longer optional in running a firm 10:21 – ArchiCon 2026 and the vision behind it 13:40 – Top concerns: marketing, AI, and growth 15:20 – Advertisement: MGS Global Group 16:23 – Marketing vs business development 18:04 – Visibility and personal branding 20:31 – Relationship capital and networking 24:03 – AI-assisted operations and efficiency 26:31 – Building a consistent pipeline 29:18 – Designing an intentional firm 32:03 – Aya Alliance and empowering women in business About the Host: Aya Shlachter is the Founder and CEO of MGS Global Group, an architectural support services firm serving hundreds of architecture practices worldwide. With over 18 years of industry experience, she helps firm owners scale smarter, adopt emerging technologies, and build resilient, future-ready practices. Aya also hosts the AI for Architects and Architect My Business podcasts and is the co-founder of ArchiCon 2026, a global architecture business conference. She was named as 2025 Global FWN100™ Most Influential Filipina Woman in the World in the Founder and Pioneer category for her leadership in business and AI. Connect with Aya Shlachter: Email: aya@mgsglobalgroup.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aya_shlachter/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayashlachter/ This episode is brought to you by - MGS Global Group End to End Architecture Production Revit. AutoCAD. ArchiCAD. 18 years, 500+ firms. Learn more at: mgsglobalgroup.com Architect My Business brings you practical strategies on leadership, people, processes, and profit — so you can grow your firm with clarity and confidence. Whether you're just starting out or ready to scale — this podcast covers it all. Listen to the Podcast: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6rHAanLV0Kif5WXBajyUes?si=254a55e2877348f9 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/architect-my-business/id1575638268 Website: https://www.architectmybusiness.com/ Connect with Us! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/architectmybusinesspodcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@architectmybusiness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/architectmybusiness/

December 8, 2025Episode 1456 min

Sustainable Architecture That Actually Works: Mass Timber, Living House & the Future of Design with Richard Naish

"The best way to know what you're capable of is to throw yourself in the deep end and make all the key decisions." In this episode of Architect My Business, Aya Schlachter sits down with Richard Naish, one of New Zealand's most acclaimed architects, founder and creative director of RTA Studio, to explore the journey of building a successful architecture practice. They discuss the challenges of running a firm without formal business training, managing talent shortages, and setting up systems for scalable growth. Richard shares how he balances work-life priorities, leverages creative problem-solving, and sustains a firm over decades through client relationships, mentoring, and a culture that keeps teams long-term. They also cover marketing strategies, from awards and publications to reputation building, and the importance of designing sustainable, innovative projects, from mass timber buildings to the Living House, a carbon-zero, affordable home. This conversation is full of practical insights and lessons for architects and business owners on growing a firm without compromising quality, creativity, or team well-being. Key Takeaways: Working on different project types keeps ideas fresh and innovative. Eco-friendly buildings like the Living House prove green design is possible and cost-effective. Teamwork with experts and communities leads to innovative, meaningful solutions. Architecture can tackle housing shortages, climate change, and more. Setting goals and building systems from the start allows a small team to scale efficiently. Boundaries, regular breaks, and subconscious thinking spark creativity and prevent burnout. Creating a "come home to work" environment keeps staff engaged and loyal. Training the next generation ensures design and financial continuity. Technology can assist, but architecture must respond to people, light, and space. Timestamps: 00:00 – Episode Snippet 02:36 – Early career challenges and lessons from a recession 04:34 – Working on different project types and taking the leap to start his own firm 07:30 – Designing the E-Type House for a family's life cycle 11:34 – Scion Innovation Hub 15:19 – Designing with cultural respect and functionality 17:41 – The Living House: affordable, flat-pack, climate-positive home 21:55 – Prototype success and first-home buyer story 23:32 – Timber construction: sustainability and carbon benefits 25:07 – Myths about sustainable architecture and cost solutions 29:31 – Building a practice: challenges, mistakes, and strategic planning 29:58 – Sponsor Spotlight: Need extra hands to meet deadlines? MGS Global Group provides skilled architectural professionals on demand so your projects stay on track. Visit mgsglobalgroup.com. 33:29 – Balancing family life and running a business 36:11 – Growth ceiling and gradual expansion of RTA Studio 39:31 – Dealing with rejection and building relationships 41:33 – Collaborating with other firms and the value of referrals 44:29 – Delegating management duties to focus on design, clients, and mentoring 46:48 – How to ensure financial and design sustainability 48:08 – Creating a workplace culture that attracts and retains talent post-pandemic 50:08 – Marketing through strong reputation instead of traditional ads 52:06 – AI: A tool but not a replacement for human creativity 53:47 – What is the next thing for Richard Nish? 54:51 – Keeping architecture human-centered About the Guests: Richard Naish is the Founder and Executive Director of RTA Studio, a design-led architecture practice known for work that connects people, landscape, and culture. A Registered Architect and Fellow of the New Zealand Institute of Architects (FNZIA), Richard's philosophy, "What you draw is what you mean," has guided his career from studying at the University of Auckland to working on major heritage projects in London. Since founding RTA Studio in 1999, he has focused on creating sustainable, innovative designs rooted in 'New Zealand-ness' and has earned over 100 local, national, and international awards. Outside architecture, Richard explores art, photography, and sculpture, bringing the same adventurous spirit to his creative pursuits as he does to his buildings. Connect with RTA Studio: Website: https://rtastudio.co.nz Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rtastudio/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rtastudio/ Other links: An Architect's Own Family Home of Pavilions and Courtyards is Named New Zealand's Home of the Decade 🎙️ 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 https://mgsglobalgroup.com/. Listen to the Podcast: Spotify: https://acesse.one/lr2qB Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/architect-my-business/id1575638268 Podcast Website: https://www.architectmybusiness.com/ Connect with Us! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/architectmylife/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/architectmybusinesspodcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@architectmybusiness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/architectmybusiness/ Get in Touch: Ask Aya anything: www.speakpipe.com/AskAya Be a Guest: https://bit.ly/AMBPodcastGuest Architect My Business (AMB) is the go-to podcast for architects and designers in the AEC industry who want to build, grow, and scale a thriving practice. Hosted by Aya Shlachter, each episode breaks down complex business concepts into simple, actionable strategies focused on leadership, people, marketing, operations, and profit. Whether you're just getting started or ready to elevate your firm, this podcast helps you design a business as strong and inspiring as the spaces you create.

October 7, 2025Episode 1359 min

Inside Etch Design Group: How Two Women Built a Thriving Interior Design Brand — Multiple Companies, and a Culture of Autonomy

Building a business that lasts isn't just about great design, it's about vision, trust, and the people who help bring it all together. In this episode of Architect My Business, host Aya Shlachter sits down with Stephanie Lindsay and Jessica Nelson, co-founders of Etch Design Group, a full-service interior design firm in Austin, Texas. What started as two creatives with complementary strengths has evolved into a thriving enterprise that includes Etch Property Management, Postscript Styling, and AI for Interiors, a growing platform that empowers designers through technology and education. Stephanie and Jessica share how their journey from side hustles to building a multi-faceted business was guided by shared values, humility, and a deep respect for one another's strengths. They talk candidly about the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of investing in people, and how clear communication and mutual trust have been the cornerstone of their ten-year partnership. The conversation also explores the realities of scaling a creative business, including learning when to delegate, hiring business coaches, and maintaining balance between passion and profitability. Their story is a testament to what happens when you lead with intention, nurture your relationships, and never lose sight of the joy that brought you to the work in the first place. Key Takeaways: Partnerships thrive on respect, trust, and open communication. Let go of control, invest in the right people, and allow experts to do their best work. Delegate tasks that don't serve your highest value to free up time for what truly matters. Self-care and clarity are essential for long-term business success. Failures are not setbacks; they are stepping stones to greater achievements. A strong company culture starts with putting people before profit. Hiring a business coach can provide clarity, structure, and fresh perspective. Stay adaptable, as growth often requires a pivot. Passion and purpose fuel resilience during challenging seasons. Life is short, so build a business and a life that aligns with what you truly love. Timestamps: 00:00 – Episode Snippet 02:33 – How a missed job turned into a life-changing connection 08:50 – Starting Etch Design Group during a season of uncertainty 14:15 – How Etch creates beautifully personal interiors 18:41 – The entrepreneurial spirit that runs in both their families 22:49 – The fear and faith behind hiring the first employee 25:31 – How roles have evolved as the business expanded 29:39 – Sponsor Spotlight: Need extra hands to meet deadlines? MGS Global Group provides skilled architectural professionals on demand so your projects stay on track. Visit mgsglobalgroup.com. 31:40 – Pipeline planning and marketing with strategy and intention 33:36 – Introducing other businesses beyond Etch 36:50 – What excites Jessica and Stephanie most 40:05 – The realities of work-life balance 42:24 – Invest in good people to help your business grow 45:06 – Take quiet time for clarity and strategy 47:04 – How complementary strengths make partnership thrive 51:32 – The zone of genius 55:51 – Hire a business coach 58:20 – Life's too short to hate what you do About the Guests: Stephanie Lindsey and Jessica Nelson are the co-founders of Etch Design Group, an Austin-based interior design firm they launched in 2015 with one shared belief: life is too short not to create beautiful spaces together. Built on three core principles—putting people first, creating balance between work and life, and always doing what is right—Etch has grown into a thriving studio known for its warm, collaborative culture and deeply personalized design approach. Under Stephanie and Jessica's leadership, Etch's talented team has mastered a signature process rooted in listening, creativity, and care. They design extraordinary spaces that reflect each client's unique story and style, proving that friendship, passion, and purpose can build something truly meaningful. Connect with Etch Design Group: Email: info@etchdesigngroup.com Website: https://etchinteriordesign.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/etchdesigngroup/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/etchdesigngroup/ 🎙️ 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 https://mgsglobalgroup.com/. Listen to the Podcast: Spotify: https://acesse.one/lr2qB Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/architect-my-business/id1575638268 Podcast Website: https://www.architectmybusiness.com/ Connect with Us! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/architectmylife/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/architectmybusinesspodcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@architectmybusiness LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/architectmybusiness/ Get in Touch: Ask Aya anything: www.speakpipe.com/AskAya Be a Guest: https://bit.ly/AMBPodcastGuest Architect My Business (AMB) is the go-to podcast for architects and designers in the AEC industry who want to build, grow, and scale a thriving practice. Hosted by Aya Shlachter, each episode breaks down complex business concepts into simple, actionable strategies focused on leadership, people, marketing, operations, and profit. Whether you're just getting started or ready to elevate your firm, this podcast helps you design a business as strong and inspiring as the spaces you create.

September 10, 2025Episode 1255 min

Teamwork, Technology, and Purpose: Keys to Firm Growth in Design with Blima Ehrentreu

What happens when a design firm makes philanthropy, teamwork, and innovation just as important as the projects themselves? In this episode, Blima Ehrentreu, founder and CEO of The Designers Group, shares her journey in the interior design industry, from launching her firm to leading a growing team across Toronto and New York. Blima opens up about her philosophy on leadership, community impact, and philanthropy, while also exploring how AI and smart technology are transforming the future of design. What sets Blima apart is her role as an activator—someone who sees gaps in the industry and creates initiatives to fill them. From TDG Gives Back to TDG Insider and the TDG Furniture Exchange, she's built programs that extend her firm's impact beyond design projects, addressing real needs in the community and industry. We also discuss how purposeful design enhances healthcare environments, the importance of teamwork in building a thriving creative culture, and the realities of managing a multi-location design firm. Blima reflects on leadership, resilience, and why she believes design should always have a greater purpose. Key Takeaways: Showing up and working hard every day is essential for success. Awards are a recognition of great work, not the end goal. Success comes with unseen challenges and perseverance. User-centered, purposeful design creates spaces that improve lives. Philanthropy is core to TDG, with initiatives like TDG Gives Back, TDG Insider, and TDG Furniture Exchange. Firm growth has been organic, driven by strong client relationships. Diverse teams enhance creativity and deliver stronger solutions. AI and technology streamline design processes and increase efficiency. Clear communication is key to managing clients and projects. Passion and resilience are vital traits for aspiring designers. About the Guest: As Founder and CEO of The Designers Group, Blima Ehrentreu leads an award-winning international interior design firm with offices in Toronto, New York, and Miami. Under her leadership, TDG has completed hundreds of projects across residential, commercial, healthcare, and hospitality sectors, earning recognition from Inc. Magazine, GlobeSt's Women of Influence, and Crain's Notable Leaders in Real Estate. Blima is also the driving force behind initiatives such as TDG Gives Back, TDG Insider, and TDG Furniture Exchange, reflecting her commitment to philanthropy, mentorship, and community impact. Known as an activator, she integrates AI, smart technology, and forward-thinking strategies into her work, positioning design as a tool for both innovation and positive change. Check out The Designers Group's website: www.thedesignersgroup.com Instagram: @thedesignersgroup LinkedIn: The Designers Group 🎙️ 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 Listen to the Podcast: Spotify: Architect My Business Apple Podcasts: Architect My Business Podcast Website: www.architectmybusiness.com Connect with Us! Instagram: @architectmybusinesspodcast LinkedIn: Architect My Business Get in Touch: Ask Aya anything: www.speakpipe.com/AskAya Be a Guest: bit.ly/AMBPodcastGuest

August 18, 2025Episode 111 hr 24 min

Award-Winning Firm Owner on What It Really Takes to Succeed in Architecture

Architecture isn't just about what we build. It's about how we build our practices to last. In this episode, Marc Dufour-Feronce, co-founder of Rundzwei Architekten, shares his journey of shaping an architectural practice rooted in sustainability, innovation, and strong partnerships. From navigating challenges to building a diverse portfolio, Marc opens up about the realities of firm leadership and the lessons learned along the way. We explore why research and development play such a vital role in the design process, how networking and social connections help bring in clients, and why cultivating a positive studio culture matters just as much as financial clarity. Marc also reflects on competitions as a way to gain visibility and the personal side of balancing firm growth with family life. Whether you're just starting your firm or aiming to strengthen an established practice, this episode offers valuable insights into the intersection of design, business, and resilience. Key Takeaways: Strong partnerships are the foundation of successful practices. Every firm faces challenges; navigating them builds resilience. Sustainable design is at the core of Rundzwei Architekten's philosophy. Building a portfolio takes patience and strong client relationships. Research and development fuel innovation and creativity. Networking and socializing are essential for winning clients. A positive work environment drives productivity and creativity. Financial literacy is as important as design skills. Competitions can provide valuable experience and visibility. Balancing work and family life is crucial for long-term success. About the Guest: As founder and managing director at rundzwei Architekten, Marc is involved in all projects. He is responsible for the success of each project under his direct management. He represents the office in front of clients and is a guest lecturer at higher education institutions where he presents rundzwei ideas and concepts. Marc is also a regular part of the competition jury for international architectural competitions. Before founding rundzwei Architekten, Marc Dufour-Feronce was project manager for ACME in London where he signed responsible for various projects in Germany and the Middle East. Before that he was design architect for the Dubai based Lab architecture studio and worked on a variety of museum projects. In Berlin he worked at the architectural office Phaseeins, where he joint as assistant to the project management on international competitions. He finished his studies at the Technical University (TU) in Berlin with a diploma. Although he is a native Berliner he speaks fluent English and is familiar with the culture and customs of the Middle East. Check out rundzwei's website: www.rundzwei.de/enInstagram: @rundzwei 🎙️ 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 Listen to the Podcast: Spotify: Architect My Business Apple Podcasts: Architect My Business Podcast Website: www.architectmybusiness.com Connect with Us! Instagram: @architectmybusinesspodcast LinkedIn: Architect My Business Get in Touch: Ask Aya anything: www.speakpipe.com/AskAya Be a Guest: bit.ly/AMBPodcastGuest

July 16, 20251 hr 1 min

How Swedish Traditions Inspire Timeless Architecture with Johan Sundberg

What can architects learn from a Swedish coffee break? Turns out, quite a lot. In this episode, we explore how cultural rituals, minimalist values, and thoughtful leadership can shape not only great design, but also a resilient and balanced architecture practice. I sit down with Johan Sundberg, founder of Johan Sundberg Arkitektur, to explore what it takes to build a thoughtful, sustainable architecture practice. From his early days as a student to leading one of Sweden's most respected residential architecture firms, Johan shares how culture, design, and business intersect in his work. We talk about how Fika, the Swedish tradition of taking intentional breaks, shapes the studio culture and creates space for connection. Johan shares how he approaches every project as a balance of interior design, landscape, and architecture, with a strong emphasis on minimalism and livability. We also discuss how AI is impacting the profession, why strong client relationships matter more than ever, and the kind of mindset young architects need to thrive in today's industry. Whether you're running your own practice or still finding your place in the field, this conversation is full of insights you won't want to miss. Key Takeaways: Building a sustainable architecture firm takes clarity, creativity, and consistency. Fika is more than a coffee break — it's a cultural practice that encourages team bonding and mental resets. Successful projects balance interiors, landscape design, and the home as one unified experience. The Ingso House reflects Swedish minimalism and thoughtful residential design. Interior and landscape design are not add-ons — they're integral to creating livable homes. The viral Laudan Shed shows how even small structures can make a big architectural impact. Strong client relationships drive long-term firm success. Leading a firm means constantly navigating expectations and evolving workflows. Prioritizing work-life balance is key to avoiding burnout. AI has potential in architecture, but its effectiveness depends on how it's integrated. About the Guest: Johan Sundberg's architectural work started in Lund almost 20 years ago. He grew up interested in art, architecture, and graphic design. At 19, he found his way to architecture, a suitable mix of art and technology. Johan studied architecture at Lund University and had a breakthrough with his first significant house, Villa Bergman-Werntoft, designed during his final year at school and built in Ljunghusen in southern Sweden. After this first success, Johan received commissions for several more houses. The office can now showcase an impressive portfolio, with most homes in Skåne and southern Sweden built close to nature and driven by a distinct architectural language. The office has also designed apartments and office environments and created Andrum, a peaceful, elegant spa facility in the town of Höör. The office's approach always starts from the experience; "We work from a total effect of the architectural tools, an emotional response, not an artificial order," says Johan. "It's about human needs and atmospheres." Check out his website: www.johansundberg.com/Instagram: @johansundbergarkitektur 🎙️ 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 Listen to the Podcast: Spotify: Architect My Business Apple Podcasts: Architect My Business Podcast Website: www.architectmybusiness.com Connect with Us! Instagram: @architectmybusinesspodcast LinkedIn: Architect My Business Get in Touch: Ask Aya anything: www.speakpipe.com/AskAya Be a Guest: bit.ly/AMBPodcastGuest

June 11, 202551 min

Business Skills Every Architect Should Master with Ray Brown of Archibiz

Business skills aren't optional if you want your architecture firm to thrive. In this episode, I chat with Ray Brown, co-founder of Archibiz, to talk about something most architects never got trained in—how to actually run a business. From pricing and profitability to personal branding and pipeline planning, we dig into why business education is essential for architects who want to grow a sustainable and profitable practice. Ray shares practical advice from years of coaching firm owners, especially those just starting out. We talk about what's missing in traditional architectural education, how to separate your identity from your business, and why understanding financials isn't optional. We also touch on AI's growing role in the industry and how architects can adapt and thrive. Key Takeaways: Business skills are often the missing piece in an architect's training. Turning hours into revenue is the basic model—but it must be done smartly. Personal branding helps architects stand out and attract the right clients. New architects need a solid foundation in business, not just design. Accountability and regular reviews can drive real business growth. Knowing your numbers is non-negotiable. Separate your self-worth from your firm's performance. Always plan your pipeline—it's the key to cash flow. A 15–20% profit margin is a realistic and healthy target. AI is reshaping the industry, and adapting is part of staying relevant. Want more tools to help your firm grow smarter? Download our AI for Architects White Paper — a 100+ page guide where we've tested and scored over 50 tools to help architects work smarter 👉 aiforarchitects.ai/c/whitepaper Listen to the Podcast: Spotify: Architect My Business Apple Podcasts: Architect My Business Podcast Website: www.architectmybusiness.com Connect with Us! Instagram: @architectmybusinesspodcast LinkedIn: Architect My Business Get in Touch: Ask Aya anything: www.speakpipe.com/AskAya Be a Guest: bit.ly/AMBPodcastGuest

May 9, 2025Episode 836 min

Work Less, Design More: How Architects Can Reclaim Creative Time With Tech That Works

Feeling like there's never enough time for real creative work? In this episode, I sit down with Mike George, our COO at MGS Global Group, to talk about one of the biggest challenges architects face today—managing time. We break down how architecture professionals can reclaim their hours by using smarter systems, embracing technology, and rethinking outdated business models. Mike and I share stories from the field, including lessons from our clients, internal training models we've built, and how admin work, when done right, can actually drive profitability. We also touch on the role of AI in shaping the future of the profession—and how it's already helping firms increase efficiency and focus more on design. Whether you're overwhelmed with documentation, struggling to improve utilization, or just looking for ways to grow your practice, this episode offers practical strategies that work. 🎯 Key Takeaways: Reclaiming time is essential for creative work. Utilization rates are crucial for business efficiency. Documentation can eat up a huge portion of project time. Training models can help scale your team's output. Technology is key to future-proofing your practice. Project management tools can simplify operations. Admin work matters—it supports your cash flow. Personal branding and marketing aren't optional anymore. AI is actively reshaping architecture workflows. Managing your time is a business skill every architect needs. 📥 Want to go deeper into AI for architecture? Download our AI for Architects White Paper — a 100+ page guide where we've tested and scored over 50 tools to help architects work smarter: 👉 https://aiforarchitects.ai/c/whitepaper Listen to the Podcast: Spotify: Architect My Business Apple Podcasts: Architect My Business Podcast Website: www.architectmybusiness.com Connect with Us! Instagram: @architectmybusinesspodcast LinkedIn: Architect My Business Get in Touch: Ask Aya anything: www.speakpipe.com/AskAya Be a Guest: bit.ly/AMBPodcastGuest

March 28, 2025Episode 729 min

How Architects Can Adapt, Lead, and Grow in Uncertainty

How are women architects leading the charge and shaping conversations in today's evolving industry? In this episode, Aya Shlachter explores their vital contributions—from practice leadership to influential podcasting—while also addressing how the profession can better support women amidst challenges like labor shortages and economic uncertainty. Aya also explains why mentoring new architects is so important for their growth. She talks about the need to clearly show clients the real value architects bring to their projects. If you want practical tips on facing today's challenges and building a stronger practice, this episode has you covered. Curious about the future of architecture and the vital role women are playing? Tune in now for eye-opening perspectives! Episode Takeaways: The AIA is seeing more women in leadership roles. Women podcasters are uplifting the architecture industry. Producing a podcast is a significant challenge. Labor shortages are affecting the architecture profession. Mentorship is crucial for new graduates in architecture. Economic uncertainty requires firms to adapt quickly. Recessions historically last 10 to 11 months. Educating clients on architectural value is essential. Collaboration within the profession is vital. Women in architecture are making a significant impact. Listen to the Podcast: Spotify: Architect My Business Apple Podcasts: Architect My Business Podcast Website: www.architectmybusiness.com Connect with Us! Instagram: @architectmybusinesspodcast LinkedIn: Architect My Business Get in Touch: Ask Aya anything: www.speakpipe.com/AskAya Be a Guest: bit.ly/AMBPodcastGuest