Design Development

Michael Waterbury, dubbed the "Tenth Man of Healthcare," is a bold advocate for industry transformation. With 25+ years of experience at leading U.S. healthcare organizations, he challenges misaligned incentives, rising medical debt, and outdated systems. His vision is a healthcare system where insured individuals aren’t overwhelmed by out-of-pocket costs.

This passion inspired him to create Goodroot, a community of companies committed to reimagining healthcare for greater affordability and accessibility. To date the Goodroot community of companies have already removed over $1B in waste from our healthcare system and brought solutions to market that are lowering cost for 1 out of every 10 Americans.

In this episode, he covers the inefficiencies in drug pricing, the impact of PBMs on healthcare costs, and the significant issue of medical debt. Mike also highlights his journey from a successful executive to an entrepreneur, founding RemedyOne and later Goodroot, a company aimed at revolutionizing healthcare one system at a time. He shares insights on building successful companies, the importance of mission and culture, and his bold predictions for the future of healthcare.

Thanks for being part of the Design Development community.

New episodes drop every Wednesday, featuring leaders across real estate, design, and construction.

The goal is simple: learn from how great people think, lead, make decisions, navigate setbacks, and create opportunity.

There is no single path to success.
Careers are not linear.
The lessons are in the story.

Subscribe so you don’t miss the next conversation.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Let’s go.

In this episode, Rens interviews Chris Bushnell of BisNow, diving deep into his intriguing career journey from multifamily development, to signing a record label deal in the music industry, and ultimately transitioning to his current role as Vice President of Bisnow's digital and business events in Boston, New York, and New Jersey. 

Chris shares his unique insights into brokering relationships, marketing and sales synergy, the importance of nurturing relationships, and leveraging platform-based strategies for connecting the right people. We also discuss effective storytelling, value-driven client interactions, business relationships through golf, and the significance of being proactive in demand generation. Listen in for valuable lessons on finding success through connecting the dots in the commercial real estate industry.

Thanks for being part of the Design Development community.

New episodes drop every Wednesday, featuring leaders across real estate, design, and construction.

The goal is simple: learn from how great people think, lead, make decisions, navigate setbacks, and create opportunity.

There is no single path to success.
Careers are not linear.
The lessons are in the story.

Subscribe so you don’t miss the next conversation.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Let’s go.

In this episode of Design Development, host Rens dives into the intersection of strategic planning, leadership development, and personal career growth. As strategic planning season kicks off, Rens shares insights from years of building a business, writing content, and recording podcasts—all while balancing the demands of leadership.

Key Takeaways:

1. Content Creation & Business Growth:
   • Content creation is a powerful tool to gain visibility in your industry. "It’s not who you know, it’s who knows you."
   • Consistency is key: sticking to a schedule (e.g., weekly podcast episodes) helps build credibility and a lasting impact.
2. The Essence of Strategic Planning:
   • Involving team members in strategic planning fosters alignment and inclusivity.
   • Strategic planning is about stepping back from day-to-day tasks to set a clear vision and priorities for the future.
3. Leadership Development Drives Growth:
   • Scaling a business requires forward-thinking leadership. Leaders must continually develop their skills to meet future needs.
   • Misplacing top performers in leadership roles without proper preparation can stagnate growth and lead to employee turnover.
4. Breaking Through Plateaus:
   • When businesses hit growth plateaus, the challenge often lies in leadership blind spots. Addressing these requires identifying and removing obstacles, whether operational, strategic, or talent-related.
5. Career Development as a "Company of One":
   • Reflect on your personal goals annually. Consider what skills you want to develop and how they align with your company’s vision.
   • Proactively contribute to your company’s success to open doors for career advancement.

Thanks for being part of the Design Development community.

New episodes drop every Wednesday, featuring leaders across real estate, design, and construction.

The goal is simple: learn from how great people think, lead, make decisions, navigate setbacks, and create opportunity.

There is no single path to success.
Careers are not linear.
The lessons are in the story.

Subscribe so you don’t miss the next conversation.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Let’s go.

In this episode, we welcome Patrick Mahoney, a real estate attorney and developer, as they dive into Patrick's transformative journey before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Starting as a journeyman electrician, Patrick shares how his strategic approach to business and real estate development evolved, highlighting pivotal moments in his career. He discusses his experience in Boston's intense real estate landscape, the significance of creating work-life balance, and personal growth milestones, including sobriety and joining YPO. Patrick also shares his innovative projects, mentorship initiatives, and the decision-making processes that led to his success. 

Key takeaways from the episode emphasize the importance of aligning stakeholder incentives, perseverance, continuous personal development, and empathetic understanding in community-based real estate projects.

Thanks for being part of the Design Development community.

New episodes drop every Wednesday, featuring leaders across real estate, design, and construction.

The goal is simple: learn from how great people think, lead, make decisions, navigate setbacks, and create opportunity.

There is no single path to success.
Careers are not linear.
The lessons are in the story.

Subscribe so you don’t miss the next conversation.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Let’s go.

In this episode, we welcome John Dolan, the Managing Director for the New England region at Avison Young. John shares his extraordinary career journey from a childhood interest in broadcasting to leading a top brokerage firm. John discusses his early experiences in television and radio, the transition to commercial real estate, and his current role overseeing Avison Young's New England region. Gain valuable insights into the flexibility of career paths, the importance of client-first mentality, and the evolving state of the office environment in Boston. This episode is packed with leadership advice, personal anecdotes, and professional tips for anyone navigating the business world.

Key Takeaways:

• Focus on One Person: When speaking publicly, especially in an extemporaneous or radio-style setting, remember that you're talking to one person. Even though you're addressing a group, keep the mindset that your conversation is meant for an individual. This approach helps maintain a personal connection and makes the communication feel more natural.
• Confidence in Your Material: People want to hear what you have to say because they value your insights and experiences. Be confident in your knowledge, even if you don't have all the answers. You are offering more information than your audience likely knows, and they are eager to learn from you.
• Embrace Pauses: If you lose your train of thought, don’t panic. A brief pause to regroup is perfectly fine, and it won’t seem as long to the audience as it feels to you. Use the pause to collect your thoughts and regain your composure, knowing that a short break in speaking is natural and can help you get back on track.

Thanks for being part of the Design Development community.

New episodes drop every Wednesday, featuring leaders across real estate, design, and construction.

The goal is simple: learn from how great people think, lead, make decisions, navigate setbacks, and create opportunity.

There is no single path to success.
Careers are not linear.
The lessons are in the story.

Subscribe so you don’t miss the next conversation.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Let’s go.

James Miner is the former CEO of Sasaki, a globally recognized architecture and urban design firm. With a rich educational background from MIT and Harvard, James transitioned from urban planning and architecture into leadership roles, culminating in his tenure as CEO of Sasaki. His career at Sasaki spans over two decades, where he worked on pivotal projects like the Beijing Olympics Master Plan. Throughout his career, James has emphasized interdisciplinary collaboration and strategic planning, contributing significantly to Sasaki's development and acclaim in the real estate design industry.

Episode Summary:

 In this Design Development episode, host Rens Hayes interviews James Miner, former CEO of Sasaki, about his journey from MIT and Harvard to leading in urban planning and architecture. Miner reflects on his unique path, from a passion for environmental psychology to overseeing major projects like the Beijing Olympics. He emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, strategic planning, and leadership in design, advocating for meaningful projects over volume. Miner also discusses the challenges of managing a globally dispersed firm and adapting Sasaki’s strategic direction in a dynamic market. 

Key Takeaways:

• Interdisciplinary Integration: Success in design and urban planning hinges on integrating multiple disciplines, such as architecture, landscape design, and urban planning, to optimize outcomes.
• Strategic Project Pursuits: Focusing on fewer, high-impact projects enhances a firm’s ability to deliver quality work and foster long-term client relationships.
• Leadership and Vulnerability: Effective leadership involves vulnerability and empowering others while maintaining strategic oversight and decision-making capabilities.
• Professional Growth and Mentoring: Continuous learning and mentorship are crucial for adapting to new roles and responsibilities, especially in leadership transitions.
• Value Beyond Time: Architects often generate immense value that isn't directly tied to billable hours, highlighting a need to rethink traditional billing and valuation strategies.

Resources:

• Sasaki - Official website of Sasaki, where James Miner held the role of CEO.
• Books Mentioned:
  • How Big Things Get Done
  • Working Identity

Thanks for being part of the Design Development community.

New episodes drop every Wednesday, featuring leaders across real estate, design, and construction.

The goal is simple: learn from how great people think, lead, make decisions, navigate setbacks, and create opportunity.

There is no single path to success.
Careers are not linear.
The lessons are in the story.

Subscribe so you don’t miss the next conversation.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Let’s go.

Rens Hayes IV, the host of "Design Development," is a structural engineering expert and co-founder of H+O Structural Engineering. With a lifelong commitment to learning and growth, Rens is passionate about high-powered organizations and leadership. He brings extensive experience in real estate development, design, and construction, aiming to share actionable insights drawn from top industry performers through his podcast.

Episode Summary:

In this insightful episode of "Design Development," host Rens Hayes shares ten actionable steps for young professionals aiming to advance their real estate development, design, and construction careers. Rens emphasizes an "abundance mindset" and the importance of self-reflection and openness to growth, while illustrating effective career strategies drawn from his own professional journey. This episode offers a roadmap for leveraging skills and mindsets to achieve career goals, ultimately helping professionals feel less stuck and more empowered in their career trajectories.

Throughout the episode, Rens explores core concepts such as the four stages of contribution, viewing oneself as a "business of one," and the critical nature of planning. By understanding these principles, young professionals can more effectively navigate their growth trajectories, manage expectations, and break through hurdles that might otherwise lead to career stagnation or burnout. Key strategies like delivering complete work, owning one's future, and recognizing the compound effect are highlighted, ensuring listeners walk away with actionable insights for immediate implementation.

Key Takeaways:

• Four Stages of Contribution: Understand your progression from being dependent to eventually contributing strategically, and strive to acquire skills to move you independently through your career.
• View Yourself as a Business: Treat your role as a "business of one" where your sole client is your manager. Focus on delivering value instead of partial efforts.
• Accountability and Planning: Own your career path and plan your professional development, keeping a clear view of your goals and desired achievements.
• Continuous Learning: Invest in your growth with daily habits and long-term planning, recognizing the power of compound growth in skill development and career success.
• Proactive Problem-Solving: Always propose solutions when seeking input from mentors or managers, transforming every question into a learning opportunity.

Listen to the full episode for deeper insights and practical advice on advancing your career. Stay tuned to "Design Development" for more valuable content, and embrace the journey towards achieving your professional aspirations.

Thanks for being part of the Design Development community.

New episodes drop every Wednesday, featuring leaders across real estate, design, and construction.

The goal is simple: learn from how great people think, lead, make decisions, navigate setbacks, and create opportunity.

There is no single path to success.
Careers are not linear.
The lessons are in the story.

Subscribe so you don’t miss the next conversation.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Let’s go.

Rens Hayes IV is the co-founder of H+ O Structural Engineering, a pioneering firm focused on innovative solutions in real estate development, design, and construction. With a background in steel construction and engineering, Rens's journey in the industry has been fueled by an early influence from the family business and a commitment to lifelong learning. He is a certified value growth advisor and has utilized his expansive knowledge to scale H+O nationally, emphasizing alignment in design processes and financial efficiency.

Joe Walker, principal at Walker Architects, operates in Georgia and Florida. A previous guest on "Design Development," Joe is recognized for his insights on agile design and leadership in the architecture industry. 

Episode Summary:

Dive into a captivating exploration of cutting-edge design and structural engineering with Rens Hayes IV on the episode of "Design for an Agile World." In this engaging dialogue with Joe Walker, Rens shares his revolutionary approach to engineering through the H+O Cost Index, a model that aligns design efficacy with economic practicality. Learn how H+O Structural Engineering blends innovative business acumen with top-tier engineering talent to create sustainable value in the construction and real estate industry.

Explore the mindset at H+O that drives success in a dynamic industry. Rens shares his philosophy of lifelong learning, applying MBA-level insights to shape H+O's strategic and operational model. He outlines how financial management and enterprise value creation foster balanced organizations, aligning client goals with employee success, and highlights the future of structural engineering's role in real estate development. 

Key Takeaways:

• The H+O Cost Index leverages trained personnel and proprietary data to bring efficiency and cost-effectiveness to structural design.
• Lifelong learning and open book financial management are pivotal to scaling and improving organizational processes.
• Crafting a "design process" rooted in understanding construction costs can lead to significant client value and project optimization.
• Aligning business operations with strategic goals allows for sustainable growth and profitability in the design and construction sectors.
• Embracing technological advancements and AI could revolutionize site planning and the future of architectural design.

Resources:

• Connect with Rens Hayes on LinkedIn: Rens Hayes IV LinkedIn
• Learn more about H+O Structural Engineering: H+O Engineering
• Podcast Recommendation: The Game by Alex Hormozi
• Book Mentioned: "Atomic Habits" by James Clear

Thanks for being part of the Design Development community.

New episodes drop every Wednesday, featuring leaders across real estate, design, and construction.

The goal is simple: learn from how great people think, lead, make decisions, navigate setbacks, and create opportunity.

There is no single path to success.
Careers are not linear.
The lessons are in the story.

Subscribe so you don’t miss the next conversation.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Let’s go.

Eric Sullivan is the managing partner and co-founder of Sullivan Capital, a Greater Boston-based real estate investment and development firm. With $70 million in assets, the firm specializes in condo conversions, hotel development, and long-term holds. Prior to his real estate ventures, Eric was a serial entrepreneur with a unique career journey, which included launching his first business in high school, engaging in software tech, clothing, and gaming industries, and successfully executing four business exits. His background is marked by adaptability, strategic vision, and an ability to capitalize on market opportunities.

Episode Summary:

 In this episode of Design Development, host Rens Hayes interviews Eric Sullivan, an entrepreneur and real estate investor, about his journey from software startups to real estate. They discuss his transition into real estate, focusing on condo conversions and boutique hotels in Greater Boston. Eric highlights the importance of adaptability, strategic thinking, and recognizing market opportunities, offering insights on risk management, partnerships, and aligning personal and business goals. A valuable listen for aspiring entrepreneurs and real estate enthusiasts. 

Key Takeaways:

• Entrepreneurial Beginnings: Eric Sullivan's journey began in high school with a focus on software development and tech-related ventures, eventually leading to four successful business exits before shifting to real estate.
• Strategic Real Estate Development: Sullivan Capital's focus is on strategic condo conversions and developing boutique hotels in lucrative markets, demonstrating controlled growth and investment acumen.
• Importance of Partnership: Eric underscores the necessity of finding complementary partners who add value, emphasizing one plus one equals three.
• Data-Driven Decisions: The use of financial acumen crucially informs project evaluations, highlighting the significance of thorough market and financial analysis in real estate endeavors.
• Risk Mitigation: Emphasizes understanding and mitigating risks in entrepreneurship, whether in early business ventures or in real estate investments, reflecting on

Resources:

• LinkedIn: Eric Sullivan
• Sullivan Capital Website: https://sullivan.capital/
• Books referenced: "The Compound Effect" and "Atomic Habits"

For a full exploration of Eric Sullivan’s entrepreneurial insights and real estate strategies, be sure to listen to the entire episode. Stay tuned to Design Development for more valuable disc

Thanks for being part of the Design Development community.

New episodes drop every Wednesday, featuring leaders across real estate, design, and construction.

The goal is simple: learn from how great people think, lead, make decisions, navigate setbacks, and create opportunity.

There is no single path to success.
Careers are not linear.
The lessons are in the story.

Subscribe so you don’t miss the next conversation.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Let’s go.

Matt Cooper  is the CEO of BQE Software, which offers business management solutions for the architecture and engineering industries. He holds an industrial engineering degree from the University of Michigan and an MBA from Stanford. With experience at GE Healthcare, Boston Consulting Group, Bain Capital, and Serent Capital, Matt has a strong background in optimization, strategy consulting, and software growth, positioning him to lead BQE’s mission to enhance efficiency in the AE sector. 

Episode Summary:

In this episode of Design Development, host Rens Hayes talks with Matt Cooper, CEO of BQE Software, about leadership and the evolution of the architecture and engineering (AE) industry. Matt shares insights from his career at GE Healthcare, Bain Capital, and Serent Capital, highlighting key strategies that shaped his leadership style.

He discusses the founding of BQE Software, which serves over 5,000 firms globally with tools for financial management, project accounting, and resource scheduling. Emphasizing a customer-centric mission, Matt introduces BQE's CORE values: Customer Obsession, Openness, Respect for Everyone, and Excellence.

The conversation addresses common inefficiencies faced by smaller AE firms and how BQE’s solutions improve project-level financial management and operational efficiency. This episode provides a thorough overview of the industry’s challenges and the impact of leveraging the right software for growth and productivity.

Key Takeaways:

• Customer Obsession: Focusing on customer needs and feedback drives BQE Software’s growth.
• Efficiency in AE Firms: Automating tasks and managing project-level financial data reduces inefficiencies.
• Leadership Values: The CORE values—Customer Obsession, Openness, Respect, and Excellence—are crucial for organizational success.
• Industry Challenges: Many small to mid-sized AE firms lack purpose-built software, leading to missed optimization opportunities.
• Continuous Improvement: Ongoing customer feedback and investment in product development are key to long-term success.

Resources:

• BQE Software Official Website
• Book Mentioned: The Jolt Effect by Matthew Dixon and Ted McKenna
• Book Mentioned: The Challenger Sale by Brent Adamson and Matthew Dixon
• Book Mentioned: Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck

For more insights and to hear the full conversation, tune into the episode and stay connected for more enlightening discussions on Design Development.

Thanks for being part of the Design Development community.

New episodes drop every Wednesday, featuring leaders across real estate, design, and construction.

The goal is simple: learn from how great people think, lead, make decisions, navigate setbacks, and create opportunity.

There is no single path to success.
Careers are not linear.
The lessons are in the story.

Subscribe so you don’t miss the next conversation.

Follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram & YouTube

Find out more at https://h-o.engineering/podcasts/

Let’s go.