In this episode of the Designers and Builders Podcast, host Alyssa Olson sits down with Mike Riddle, owner and CEO of Riddle Construction, to explore his unconventional journey from sports medicine to custom home building. Mike shares the profound lessons learned from overcoming significant challenges, including a major lawsuit and bankruptcy, and how these experiences transformed him into a better business owner, husband, and father.

Mike's story is one of resilience and growth. He candidly discusses how adversity shaped his approach to construction, relationships, and life itself. His emphasis on proactive communication, managing client expectations from the start, and building genuine relationships has become the cornerstone of his business philosophy. Mike believes that entering a construction project is like getting married, requiring alignment, trust, and ongoing collaboration to create something beautiful together.

Throughout the conversation, Mike and Alyssa explore the importance of team collaboration in enhancing the client experience, the balance between craftsmanship and client engagement, and how listening carefully allows him to tailor each project to his clients' unique needs. Mike also introduces his new venture, Mantle and Manor, a maintenance service designed to provide peace of mind and enhance clients' lifestyles long after construction is complete, filling a gap he identified in the industry.

Whether you're a builder, designer, or entrepreneur in the construction field, this episode offers valuable insights on turning setbacks into opportunities, fostering meaningful relationships, educating clients throughout the building process, and identifying new business opportunities by solving real problems. Mike's perspective on industry trends, investing in experiences, and building a collaborative team environment provides a roadmap for sustainable success.

Key takeaways include:

• How overcoming adversity can lead to profound personal and professional growth
• Why proactive communication is essential for managing client expectations
• Building genuine relationships as the foundation of successful construction businesses
• The importance of team collaboration in creating exceptional client experiences
• Balancing high-quality craftsmanship with meaningful client engagement
• Tailoring projects through careful listening and understanding client needs
• Identifying gaps in the industry to create new service opportunities
• The growing trend of clients investing in experiences over material possessions
• Educating clients on materials and processes to build trust and alignment

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Mike Riddle and His Journey

05:31 Building Relationships and Managing Expectations

11:23 Tailoring the Client Experience through Listening

16:52 Educating Clients on Materials and Processes

The Designers and Builders Podcast shares stories from industry leaders transforming the world of design and construction: covering behind-the-scenes insights, real-world strategies, and the trends shaping the future of the industry.

Empowering design/build professionals to grow and scale 

buildergrowth.io shares the tools, strategies, and insights you need to take your business to the next level.

Connect with us at: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designersandbuilders/

Join our newsletter: https://substack.com/@designersandbuilders

You can connect with Mike at:

https://riddleconstruction.co/

https://www.instagram.com/RiddleConstruction.CO/

https://www.facebook.com/RiddleConstruction.CO/

In this episode of the Designers and Builders Podcast, host Steve Larosiliere sits down with Sarah Allen of Sarah Allen Design to explore her journey in the interior design industry, the evolution of her design philosophy, and the mindset shifts that transformed her business. Sarah shares candid insights on the importance of investing in your own space, navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, and creating experiences that resonate deeply with luxury clients.

Sarah's path wasn't always straightforward. She reflects on being pushed into a corner during challenging times and how those moments sparked crucial mindset shifts that reshaped her approach to business and design. Her emphasis on building cohesive teams, understanding the emotional aspects of design, and maintaining transparent communication with clients has become the foundation of her success in the competitive luxury market.

Throughout the conversation, Sarah and Steve discuss the concept of scarcity as a competitive advantage, how to structure services that align with client needs and expectations, and the art of designing what Sarah calls "grounded luxury," a blend of comfort and elegance that creates truly livable spaces. Sarah also opens up about the roller coaster nature of running a design business, planning for the inevitable ups and downs, and her aspirations to help a broader audience access quality design in the future.

Whether you're a designer, builder, or entrepreneur in the creative industries, this episode offers valuable lessons on building sustainable businesses, creating unique client experiences, and understanding that luxury isn't just about aesthetics but about the entire journey and relationship. Sarah's honest reflections on her childhood influences, business evolution, and future vision provide inspiration for anyone looking to elevate their practice.

Key takeaways include:

• Why investing in your own space is essential for well-being and business credibility
• How mindset shifts during challenging times can transform your business trajectory
• Building cohesive teams that ensure project success and client satisfaction
• Using scarcity as a competitive advantage in the luxury design market
• The importance of transparency and communication with high-end clients
• Creating unique experiences that go beyond aesthetics to emotional connection
• Structuring services to align with client expectations and business sustainability
• Designing grounded luxury that blends elegance with comfort and livability
• Planning strategically for the ups and downs of entrepreneurship

Chapters:

• 00:00 Investing in Your Space
• 01:45 The Journey of Sarah Allen Designs
• 02:49 Mindset Shifts in Business
• 05:46 Creating Cohesive Teams
• 09:28 Scarcity as a Competitive Advantage
• 16:45 The Evolution of a Designer
• 18:46 Understanding Luxury Design
• 24:42 Defining Client Experiences
• 25:57 Understanding the Service Structure
• 31:41 Designing Grounded Luxury
• 36:24 Redesigning Experiences Beyond Interiors
• 39:22 Navigating the Roller Coaster of Business
• 42:53 Future Aspirations and Helping Others

The Designers and Builders Podcast shares stories from industry leaders transforming the world of design and construction: covering behind-the-scenes insights, real-world strategies, and the trends shaping the future of the industry.

Empowering design/build professionals to grow and scale 

buildergrowth.io shares the tools, strategies, and insights you need to take your business to the next level.

Connect with us at: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designersandbuilders/

Join our newsletter: https://substack.com/@designersandbuilders

You can connect with Sarah at:

Website: https://www.sarahallen.design/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahallendesign/?hl=en

In this episode of Designers and Builders, host Alyssa Olson sits down with Evan Goldenberg, Architect/Owner of Design Build Consultants Inc., to explore his decades-long journey in architecture, his specialized expertise in wine cellar design, and his unwavering commitment to quality craftsmanship. Evan's approach to construction management and client relationships reveals how treating every project with care and accountability builds a thriving, referral-based business.

Evan's path into architecture began with mechanical drawing in high school, sparking a lifelong passion for blending technical precision with creative design. His emphasis on hands-on construction experience has shaped his unique perspective that quality craftsmanship isn't just about aesthetics but about creating long-lasting, functional spaces that clients truly love. From full-scale home construction management to designing wine cellars he considers functional works of art, Evan's work demonstrates the power of understanding client needs and delivering solutions that exceed expectations.

Throughout the conversation, Evan and Alyssa discuss the evolution of wine cellar design, the importance of building genuine client relationships that lead to repeat business, and how honesty and accountability form the foundation of successful projects. Evan shares insights on solving complex design challenges in unique spaces, his thoughts on the role of AI in architecture and contract writing, and why passion for design cannot be replicated by technology.

Whether you're a designer, builder, or entrepreneur in the construction industry, this episode offers valuable lessons on maintaining high standards, building trust through expertise, and caring deeply about every aspect of your work. Evan's extensive experience and client-first philosophy provide a roadmap for creating not just beautiful spaces, but lasting professional relationships.

Chapters:

00:00 Evan Goldenberg's Journey into Architecture

06:19 The Art of Wine Cellar Design

10:02 Full-Scale Home Construction Management

11:47 Building Client Relationships

21:16 The Importance of Genuine Connections

22:19 Client Growth and Excitement in Design

24:44 The Art of Designing Wine Cellars

26:09 Impactful Projects and Client Relationships

28:04 Challenges in Unique Spaces

29:32 Embracing Technology in Design

32:10 Future Vision and Global Projects

34:28 Building Trust Through Expertise

39:18 Advice for Designers and Builders

If you're passionate about quality craftsmanship, building meaningful client relationships, and creating spaces that stand the test of time, this conversation will inspire you to elevate your practice. Tune in now and discover how caring deeply about your work translates into business success and client loyalty. Don't forget to subscribe for more conversations with dedicated designers and builders shaping the industry.

The Designers and Builders Podcast shares stories from industry leaders transforming the world of design and construction: covering behind-the-scenes insights, real-world strategies, and the trends shaping the future of the industry.

Empowering design/build professionals to grow and scale 

buildergrowth.io shares the tools, strategies, and insights you need to take your business to the next level.

Connect with us at: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designersandbuilders/

Join our newsletter: https://substack.com/@designersandbuilders

You can connect with Evan at:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/evan-goldenberg-r-a-ncarb-8578874/

https://archartistry.com/

In this episode of the Designers and Builders Podcast, host Alyssa Olson sits down with Dr. Diane Jones Allen, Principal Landscape Architect with Design Jones LLC and Professor at The University of Texas at Arlington. Dr. Jones Allen's remarkable career bridges academia and practice, community engagement and environmental design, revealing how landscape architecture can be a powerful tool for storytelling, social justice, and ecological restoration.

Dr. Jones Allen traces her journey into landscape architecture back to her urban upbringing and family roots in farming, influences that continue to shape her community-centered approach to design. From urban farming initiatives to significant memorial projects like the Fred Rouse Memorial, her work demonstrates how thoughtful design can honor history, transform public spaces, and meet the real needs of the communities they serve.

Throughout the conversation, Diane and Alyssa explore the evolving nature of landscapes and why adaptive design approaches are essential in addressing modern environmental challenges. Dr. Jones Allen shares insights from her research on historical landscapes, particularly maroon communities, and how lessons from historical resilience can inform coastal restoration and climate action today. She emphasizes the critical importance of integrating equity and justice into every aspect of landscape design and environmental planning.

Whether you're a designer, builder, or entrepreneur working in the built environment, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the power of community-driven projects, the intersection of research and practice, and how embracing fear and learning from mistakes fuels creative growth. Dr. Jones Allen's approach to balancing academic research with hands-on practice provides a model for professionals seeking to make a meaningful, lasting impact through their work.

In this episode:

00:01 Introduction to Diane Jones Allen

00:58 Diane's Journey into Landscape Architecture

03:42 Community Engagement and Urban Design

08:07 Professional Experiences and Projects

14:42 Balancing Academia and Practice

16:22 Current Projects and Memorials

31:34 Research on Historical Landscapes

39:52 Future Vision and Advice

If you're passionate about creating designs that honor community, address environmental challenges, and promote equity, this conversation will inspire you to approach your work with renewed purpose and vision. Tune in now and discover how landscape architecture can be a force for positive change. Don't forget to subscribe for more conversations with visionary designers, builders, and makers shaping the future.

The Designers and Builders Podcast shares stories from industry leaders transforming the world of design and construction: covering behind-the-scenes insights, real-world strategies, and the trends shaping the future of the industry.

Empowering design/build professionals to grow and scale 

buildergrowth.io shares the tools, strategies, and insights you need to take your business to the next level.

Connect with us at: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designersandbuilders/

Join our newsletter: https://substack.com/@designersandbuilders

You can connect with Diane at:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/diane-jones-allen-58122b27

https://www.designjonesllc.com/

In this episode of Designers and Builders, host Alyssa Olson sits down with Drew Lang of Lang Architecture, architect and founder of Brick and Wonder, to explore how taking agency over your career, generating your own projects, and fostering genuine collaboration can transform your path in architecture and design.

Drew's journey into architecture didn't follow the traditional route. Starting with a liberal arts education, he learned early on that waiting for opportunities wasn't enough. Instead, he embraced the power of creating his own work, building meaningful relationships, and giving value without expecting anything in return. This mindset led him from New Orleans to New York and eventually to founding Brick and Wonder, a global community of nearly 400 architects, designers, builders, and craftspeople who believe in the power of collaboration over competition.

Throughout the conversation, Drew and Alyssa dive into the evolution of the Brick and Wonder community, the lessons learned from developing Hudson Woods, and how his architectural practice blends the built environment with nature and landscape. Drew shares candid insights on overcoming the scarcity mindset that plagues many creatives, the importance of extending yourself to others in your industry, and why generating your own projects is one of the most powerful tools for business growth and creative fulfillment.

Whether you're a builder, designer, or entrepreneur looking to expand your network and elevate your craft, this episode offers actionable wisdom on building community, embracing collaboration, and creating work that reflects your values. Drew's approach to sustainable relationships and thoughtful craftsmanship will inspire you to rethink how you show up in your professional world.

Key takeaways include:

• Why generating your own projects gives you agency and creative control
• How building genuine relationships leads to long-term business growth and opportunities
• The power of a giving mindset in fostering meaningful professional collaboration
• Lessons from developing Hudson Woods and integrating architecture with landscape
• How the Brick and Wonder community is redefining success in the design industry
• The future evolution of the podcast to include voices beyond the built environment

In this episode:

00:00 Introduction to Drew Lang

00:40 Drew's Journey into Architecture

05:36 Transitioning from New Orleans to New York

08:53 Hudson Woods: A Development Project

14:43 Building the Brick and Wonder Community

23:39 Redefining Collaboration in Architecture

32:59 The Importance of Generating Your Own Projects

37:46 Future Directions for the Podcast and Community

The Designers and Builders Podcast shares stories from industry leaders transforming the world of design and construction: covering behind-the-scenes insights, real-world strategies, and the trends shaping the future of the industry.

Empowering design/build professionals to grow and scale 

buildergrowth.io shares the tools, strategies, and insights you need to take your business to the next level.

Connect with us at: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designersandbuilders/

Join our newsletter: https://substack.com/@designersandbuilders

You can connect with Drew at:

Website: langarchitecture.com

LinkedIn: Lang Architecture

Instagram: @langarchitecture

In this episode of the Designers and Builders Podcast, host Alyssa Olson sits down with Roberto J. Rovira, a remarkable professional whose career spans mechanical engineering, U.S. Navy service, and landscape architecture. Roberto's unconventional path from serving as a naval officer to becoming a leading voice in landscape design reveals how diverse experiences shape creative vision and innovative thinking.

Roberto shares the story behind one of his most celebrated projects, the Sky Lounge in Miami at Florida International University, a stunning fusion of art and engineering that demonstrates how thoughtful design can transform spaces and communities. His approach to landscape architecture goes beyond aesthetics. It's about observation, collaboration, and creating environments that bring people together while respecting the natural world.

Throughout the conversation, Roberto and Alyssa explore how his military background instilled discipline and precision that now informs his creative work, the role of travel in expanding a designer's perspective, and why he believes in the concept of "tabula rasa," approaching each project with fresh eyes and openness to discovery. Roberto also discusses his passion for teaching, mentoring the next generation of designers, and his innovative use of materials that push the boundaries of what's possible in landscape architecture.

Chapters:

00:01 Introduction and Background

00:30 From Engineering to Architecture

02:20 Naval Service and Design Philosophy

04:12 The Sky Lounge Project

07:24 Travel and Design Perspective

09:21 Teaching and Community Impact

12:26 Creative Processes and Observations

21:59 Innovative Projects and Materials

32:38 Design Education and Community

The Designers and Builders Podcast shares stories from industry leaders transforming the world of design and construction: covering behind-the-scenes insights, real-world strategies, and the trends shaping the future of the industry.

Empowering design/build professionals to grow and scale 

buildergrowth.io shares the tools, strategies, and insights you need to take your business to the next level.

Connect with us at: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designersandbuilders/

Join our newsletter: https://substack.com/@designersandbuilders

You can connect with Roberto at:

http://www.robertorovira.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertorovira/

In this episode of the Designers and Builders Podcast, host Alyssa Olson sits down with Jake Weber of Giulietti Schouten Weber Architects to explore how thoughtful architecture can transform ordinary experiences into extraordinary ones.

Jake believes that architecture isn't reserved for the privileged few. It's something everyone encounters daily, yet so much of our built environment lacks the careful consideration it deserves. From volume-built homes to custom designs, Jake shares his vision for making quality architectural design accessible to the masses. He dives into the challenges of working with volume builders who rarely involve architects, the importance of sustainability and timeless materials in modern craftsmanship, and how his client-centric philosophy puts people at the heart of every project.

Throughout the conversation, Jake and Alyssa discuss designing across diverse environments, the role of AI and innovation in shaping the future of architecture, and practical ways architects can prototype better homes for everyday living. Whether you're a woodworker, builder, designer, or entrepreneur looking to elevate your craft, this episode offers valuable insights on business growth, sustainable design practices, and the power of community-driven craftsmanship.

Key takeaways include:

• How thoughtful architecture enhances daily life and creates better living spaces
• Why making design accessible to everyone matters for the future of our communities
• Practical approaches to prototyping homes and working with volume builders
• The intersection of sustainability, timeless materials, and client-focused design
• Inspiration and advice for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact through their work

Chapters:

00:00:00 Introduction and Jake's Background

00:00:12 Influence of Family and Early Experiences

00:01:11 Client-Centric Design Philosophy

00:03:54 Sustainability and Timeless Materials

00:11:35 Designing in Diverse Environments

00:15:39 AI and Innovation in Architecture

00:36:10 Inspiration and Advice for Aspiring Architects

If you're passionate about woodworking, craftsmanship, and building businesses that prioritize quality and intention, this conversation will leave you inspired to think differently about the spaces you create. Tune in now and discover how design can be a force for good in everyday life. Don't forget to subscribe for more conversations with makers, builders, and visionaries shaping the future of craftsmanship.

The Designers and Builders Podcast shares stories from industry leaders transforming the world of design and construction: covering behind-the-scenes insights, real-world strategies, and the trends shaping the future of the industry.

Empowering design/build professionals to grow and scale 

buildergrowth.io shares the tools, strategies, and insights you need to take your business to the next level.

Connect with us at: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designersandbuilders/

Join our newsletter: https://substack.com/@designersandbuilders

You can connect with Jake at:

https://www.gswarchitects.net/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakemweber

What does it take to build a thriving design and construction business from the ground up, especially when you arrive in a new country with nothing but determination?

In this episode of Designers and Builders, host Alyssa Olson sits down with Timothy Roman, founder of Imperial Kitchen & Bath, to uncover the remarkable journey behind his success.

Timothy opens up about immigrating to the United States from the former Soviet Union at just 12 years old, and how that experience shaped his relentless work ethic and appreciation for opportunity. From his passion for interior architecture to building a multifaceted business spanning high-end renovations, construction, and real estate investment, his story is a masterclass in entrepreneurship and resilience.

You'll hear how he navigated the pandemic by retaining his entire team while optimizing operations, his insights on the power of focus and continuous learning, and why comparing yourself only to your past self is key to sustainable growth. Timothy also shares his vision for wellness and experiential hospitality ventures while building a lasting legacy for his family.

Whether you're a craftsman, designer, builder, or entrepreneur, this conversation is packed with actionable wisdom on business growth, maintaining a growth mindset, and staying true to your values in a competitive industry.

Tune in to be inspired and discover what's possible when dedication meets opportunity. Follow Designers and Builders for more conversations with the makers and entrepreneurs shaping the world of craftsmanship and design.

Chapters

00:00 Timothy Roman's Journey: From Immigrant to Entrepreneur

10:28 Navigating Challenges: Lessons from the Pandemic

12:57 The Evolution of a Business: From Renovation to Real Estate

18:19 Growth Mindset: Balancing Speed and Reflection

24:16 Building a Legacy: The American Dream and Family Values

29:24 Future Aspirations: Wellness and Experiential Hospitality

34:01 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Focus, Dedication, and Learning

The Designers and Builders Podcast shares stories from industry leaders transforming the world of design and construction: covering behind-the-scenes insights, real-world strategies, and the trends shaping the future of the industry.

Empowering design/build professionals to grow and scale

buildergrowth.io shares the tools, strategies, and insights you need to take your business to the next level.

Connect with us at:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designersandbuilders/

Join our newsletter: https://substack.com/@designersandbuilders

You can connect with Timothy at:

https://kbimperial.com/

https://www.instagram.com/imperialcabinetry/

https://www.facebook.com/imperialcabinetryus/

In this episode of the Designers and Builders Podcast, host Alyssa Olson speaks with Michael DeGregorio, a principal at Hood Design Studio, about the art and practice of transformative landscape architecture. Michael shares Hood's distinctive design philosophy—creating site-specific, narrative-driven solutions rather than formulaic designs—and discusses how client trust enables creative risk-taking and innovation in public spaces.

The conversation explores the integration of art into landscape projects, the concept of "intrapreneurship" within design firms, and the importance of maintaining focus in an age of distraction. Michael concludes with valuable advice for emerging designers: embrace patience, prioritize quality over quantity, and have the courage to specialize. This episode offers essential insights for design professionals, students, and anyone curious about how meaningful public spaces come to life.

Key Topics Covered

• Michael DeGregorio's career path and his decision to return to Philadelphia to join Hood Design Studio
• Hood's design philosophy: Creating unique, research-driven, site-specific solutions rather than cookie-cutter designs
• The importance of client relationships: How trust enables innovation and creative risk-taking in landscape architecture
• Strategies for pushing creative boundaries: Using narrative, research, and evidence to gain client buy-in for bold ideas
• Art integration in landscape projects: How Hood incorporates artistic elements to create meaningful, memorable public spaces
• Current and upcoming projects: A diverse portfolio including work in multiple cities and community-focused initiatives
• Intrapreneurship in design: How designers can contribute to firm growth and strategic direction beyond traditional roles
• Focus and deep work: Maintaining concentration and producing quality design in an age of digital distraction
• Specialization vs. generalization: The value of developing expertise while maintaining a broad skill set
• Career advice for aspiring designers: Emphasizing patience, quality craftsmanship, and long-term thinking over quick wins

Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction to Michael DeGregorio

02:02 – Michael's journey in landscape architecture

05:37 – Design process at Hood Design Studio

11:24 – Client trust and project management

13:17 – Pushing the envelope in design

19:21 – Art and landscape architecture

24:17 – Current and future projects

29:55 – Intrapreneurship in design

34:13 – Focus and deep work

44:38 – Advice for future designers

The Designers and Builders Podcast shares stories from industry leaders transforming the world of design and construction — covering behind-the-scenes insights, real-world strategies, and the trends shaping the future of the industry.

Empowering design/build professionals to grow and scale — buildergrowth.io shares the tools, strategies, and insights you need to take your business to the next level.

Connect with us at: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designersandbuilders/

Join our newsletter: https://designersandbuilders.co/

You can connect with Michael at:

https://www.hooddesignstudio.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-degregorio/

In this conversation, Steve Larosiliere and Alyssa Olson discuss their current goals, business opportunities in design, and the challenges of navigating personal and professional chaos. They reflect on the importance of focus, meditation, and the unexpected connections that can lead to significant life changes. The discussion also touches on sustainable building materials and potential collaborations in the future.

Takeaways

• Alyssa is excited about future opportunities after her job ends
• Steve is exploring new business models in design
• Dropping interest rates signal a good time for home investments
• Meditation helps regulate emotions during chaotic times
• The noise-to-signal ratio in life affects focus and clarity
• Unexpected life changes can lead to new directions
• Collaboration can enhance business opportunities
• Sustainable materials are a growing area of interest
• Networking with past connections can open new doors
• Life is about adding value through relationships and experiences

Chapters

• 00:00 Setting Goals and Future Plans
• 02:48 Exploring Business Opportunities in Design
• 05:31 Navigating Chaos and Personal Growth
• 07:50 Life Changes and Unexpected Connections
• 13:12 Sustainable Building Materials and Future Collaborations

The Designers and Builders Podcast shares stories from industry leaders transforming the world of design and construction — covering behind-the-scenes insights, real-world strategies, and the trends shaping the future of the industry.

Empowering design/build professionals to grow and scale — buildergrowth.io shares the tools, strategies, and insights you need to take your business to the next level.

Connect with us at: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designersandbuilders/

Join our newsletter: https://designersandbuilders.co/