Danilda Polanco is unapologetically redefining what it means to be a woman in architecture and construction. As the founder of DOPE Architecture Inc., a woman-owned design-build firm in Denver, Danilda shares how her journey from the Dominican Republic to running a successful practice is fueled by purpose, intuition, and a passion for transforming lives through design. In this episode, she walks us through her early dreams of becoming a scientist, her pivot to architecture, and the pivotal moments that shaped her bold, people-first approach to building.

More than just creating beautiful spaces, Danilda is committed to empowering clients, especially women, to feel seen, heard, and supported throughout the design process. She shares the behind-the-scenes challenges of launching her own firm, the lessons she’s learned about marketing and boundaries, and how she stays rooted while navigating the demands of motherhood, entrepreneurship, and community leadership. Her honesty, heart, and deep respect for collaboration make this conversation both practical and inspiring for anyone dreaming of doing things differently.

From trusting her gut when selecting projects to envisioning a future where women have a bigger seat at the construction table, Danilda’s story is one of courage, conviction, and creativity. She invites us to think bigger, lead with integrity, and, above all, stay dope in the process.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Unapologetically DOPE: Building an "Empire" on Her Own Terms with Danilda Polanco.

Learn more about Danilda online at DOPE Architecture, or connect with her on LinkedIn or Instagram.

Arcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.

Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

In this episode of EntreArchitect podcast, Mark R. LePage sits down with Jane Frederick, FAIA, 2020 President of the American Institute of Architects and principal of Frederick + Frederick Architects. Jane reflects on the path that led her to co-found her award-winning firm in Beaufort, South Carolina, and how her passion for sustainability shaped their focus on climate-responsive residential design. She also shares insights from her co-authored book, Contemporary Southern Vernacular, which offers strategies for building sustainable homes in hot, humid climates.

As a leader in the architectural community, Jane opens up about her role as AIA President during the pandemic, a time that tested adaptability and resilience. She discusses the realities of running a small firm, the value of collaboration, and the importance of architects staying engaged with their local communities and policy decisions. From planning boards to zoning appeals, Jane’s civic involvement exemplifies how design professionals can influence positive change beyond the drafting table.

Throughout the conversation, Jane advocates for sustainable design not just as a practice, but as a mindset. She urges architects to embrace their leadership potential, whether through public service, writing, or mentorship, and to always keep climate and context at the forefront of their work. Her story is one of purpose, persistence, and a deep commitment to the future of the profession.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Contemporary Southern Vernacular: Designing Sustainable Homes for Hot, Humid Climates with Jane Frederick.

Learn more about Jane online at Frederick + Frederick, check out her book Contemporary Southern Vernacular, or connect with her on LinkedIn.

Arcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.

Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

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In this episode of EntreArchitect Podcast, Mark R. LePage speaks with Mike Koger, Associate General Counsel at Perkins&Will, about the critical role of AIA Contract Documents in small firm practice. Mike shares his unique path from architect to attorney, offering insights into how legal expertise can strengthen architectural practice. He discusses the importance of setting clear expectations with clients and how small firm architects can use contracts to manage risk and protect their businesses.

The conversation also explores common legal challenges small firms face, including the need for limitations of liability and the impact of rapidly advancing technology. Mike encourages architects to adopt new tools like AI while maintaining a strong understanding of their professional responsibilities. He offers practical advice on how to take smart risks and ensure contracts support the long-term success of a firm.

Mike’s background in both design and law gives him a powerful perspective on the intersection of architecture and legal strategy. His tips and stories offer small firm architects actionable steps for navigating contracts with confidence. Whether you're drafting your first client agreement or reviewing long-standing templates, this episode is packed with knowledge that can help you build a more resilient practice.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, AIA Contract Documents for Small Firm Architects with Mike Koger.

Learn more about Mike online at Perkins&Will, check out AIA Contract Documents, or connect with him on LinkedIn.

Arcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.

Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

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In this episode of the EntreArchitect Podcast, architect and general contractor Zach Sunderland shares how his dual expertise fuels the mission behind Haven, a certified B Corp based in Durham, North Carolina. Haven is working to solve the affordable housing crisis by creating high-quality, community-centered developments for underserved populations. Zach unpacks the challenges and opportunities within design-build delivery and how Haven integrates vision, construction, and social impact.

Zach also dives into what it means to lead with purpose, from building a strong internal culture to embedding community collaboration into every phase of development. As both a leader and practitioner, he discusses how Haven is redefining what it means to be an architect-led design-build firm, balancing business operations with long-term impact. His ambitious goal? To house one million people over the next 100 years.

Listeners will hear valuable insights on B Corp certification, community-focused entrepreneurship, and the power of aligning values with practice. Zach’s story is a reminder that housing can be more than shelter, it can be a foundation for flourishing communities.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Design Build Architects Creating Housing Where Communities Thrive with Zach Sunderland.

Learn more about Zach online at Haven, or connect with him on Instagram, Facebook, X, and LinkedIn.

Arcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.

Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

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In this episode, Mark R. LePage sits down with Jim Zack, an accomplished architect and master craftsman, and Je’Nen Chastain, a business strategist and creative entrepreneur, to explore the path to achieving AIA fellowship. Jim reflects on his roots growing up on the Northern California coast, his journey from builder to architect, and his lifelong passion for merging design and construction. He shares how his early DesignBuild projects shaped his career and led to his advocacy for architect-led DesignBuild practices nationwide.

Je’Nen brings her unique perspective as a strategist helping architects shape their stories and advance their careers. She discusses her collaboration with Jim on his fellowship submission, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build a compelling portfolio and gain recognition within the AIA. Together, they highlight the critical role of mentorship, storytelling, and community support in elevating small firm architects to new levels of leadership.

Listeners will come away with practical advice and inspiring insights on navigating the fellowship process, overcoming challenges, and celebrating professional milestones.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, AIA Fellowship for Small Firm Architects with Jim Zack & Je’Nen Chastain.

Connect with Jim online at zackdevito.com or find him on LinkedIn, and connect with Je’Nen at apostropheconsulting.com or find her on LinkedIn. Check out Jim's fellowship submission and learn more about applying for AIA Fellowship here.

EA102: Risks and Rewards with Architect Developer Jim Zack [Podcast]

EA185: The Passion, The Process and Problems of Running a Design/Build Architecture Firm [Podcast]

EA572: Je’Nen Chastain – Guiding Architects Through The Process of Change [Podcast]

Arcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.

Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

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In this episode of the podcast, Gayathri (G3) Venkataraman, founder and CEO dodda.ai, shares her inspiring journey from leading product teams at Microsoft and DocuSign to launching her own startup focused on transforming site feasibility and permitting in the construction industry. Frustrated by outdated, fragmented data systems, G3 created dodda.ai to consolidate information on land use, zoning, and building codes into one streamlined, accessible platform. She explains how AI can dramatically speed up the pre-development process, allowing architects and developers to make smarter, faster decisions.

G3 dives into the unique challenges of integrating advanced technology into the traditionally conservative construction sector and discusses the future potential of AI to reshape urban planning and civic tech. She also reflects on her mission to empower real estate and design professionals, ultimately driving both operational efficiency and community impact. As a nonprofit board chair, G3 believes deeply in using technology for the greater good and shares insights on balancing innovation with societal responsibility.

Throughout the conversation, she offers practical advice to small firm architects on embracing change and cultivating a mindset of continuous improvement in their practices.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, AI for Site Feasibility: Streamlining Zoning, Codes, and Permits for Architects with Gayathri (G3) Venkataraman.

Connect with G3 online at dodda.ai or find her on LinkedIn and Instagram.

Arcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.

Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

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In this episode, experiential architect and design entrepreneur Kitae Kim shares how his early love for art evolved into a mission to transform how designers connect with clients. Drawing from his experiences with large-scale public art and architectural installations, Kitae discusses the communication gaps that plague traditional design presentations. He explains how current methods often fail to convey the emotional and functional depth of a design, which can hinder trust, collaboration, and profitability.

Kitae introduces Foveate, a platform he co-founded to help designers present their ideas using immersive 3D tools and intuitive storytelling. By leveraging technology like VR and interactive design environments, Foveate enables a more human-centered design process that strengthens the architect-client relationship. He emphasizes that in an increasingly digital world, the future of design will belong to those who can build connection, not just concepts.

Kitae also shares advice for small firms looking to stand out, urging them to focus on brand clarity and the emotional impact of their work. As the design industry evolves with AI and immersive tech, he argues that architects must evolve too—by mastering the art of storytelling and redefining the way they sell ideas. 

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Why Human Connection Will Define the Future of Design with Kitae Kim.

Connect with Kitae online at foveate.com or find him on Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Arcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.

Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

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In this episode, architect and contractor Marcos Santa Ana shares how his journey—from growing up in a family of artists in Woodstock, New York to launching a design-build firm in Los Angeles—shaped his philosophy on resilient, high-performance architecture. Drawing on his international education in Denmark, Spain, and the U.S., Marcos explains how cultural influences and feng shui principles inform the aesthetic and functional qualities of his work at Alloi. He reflects on launching his firm during an economic downturn and how becoming both a licensed architect and contractor allowed him to bridge the gap between design and construction.

The conversation dives into the impact of California wildfires on the built environment and how Marcos is helping redefine architecture in fire-prone areas. He details new fire protection systems, the challenges of rebuilding communities, and the evolution of high-performance design in response to climate realities. His certification from the Passive Haus Institute in Germany reinforces his technical approach to reducing energy loss while improving human comfort. Marcos emphasizes the importance of resilience, craftsmanship, and cross-disciplinary knowledge in modern architecture.

Beyond the drafting table, Marcos is also a seasoned mountaineer who draws inspiration from high-altitude climbs like Cotopaxi and Mount Eolus—adventures that mirror his passion for pushing personal and professional limits.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Architecture After the California Wildfires with Marcos Santa Ana.

Connect with Marcos online at www.alloi.us or find him on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

Arcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.

Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

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In this episode, Sam DeBiasi, CPA and founder of ArchiCPA, dives into why financial clarity is essential for small architecture firms. Drawing on his background in tax and ERP consulting for large corporations, Sam shares how he transitioned to working exclusively with architects and what makes their financial needs unique. He explains the most common financial blind spots firms face and how a proactive, technology-driven approach can help architects avoid them.

Sam also breaks down why architects need to think like business owners—tracking key metrics, setting up the right systems, and building sustainable growth strategies. With a focus on long-term success, he outlines how ArchiCPA supports firms with everything from cash flow forecasting to tax strategy and profitability planning. His approach combines deep industry knowledge with practical tools to help architects focus more on design and less on spreadsheets.

Whether you're a solo practitioner or managing a growing firm, this episode offers actionable tips to elevate your financial game and lead with clarity.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, From Chaos to Clarity: Financial Systems for Small Firm Architects with Sam DeBiasi.

Connect with Sam online at ArchiCPA.com.

Arcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.

Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

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In this episode, Andy McIntyre, Vice President of Marketing & Communications at NCARB, shares how data helps shape the architecture profession. He breaks down licensure trends, reciprocity, and the evolving role of architects, while emphasizing the power of storytelling to make complex data more accessible.

The episode announces the launch of a new six-part podcast series, spotlighting key trends in licensure and the real-life experiences behind the data, "Inside NCARB by the Numbers". Andy discusses policy changes, firm culture, and NCARB's efforts to improve access to the Architect Registration Examination® (ARE®), while advancing equity and inclusion across the profession.

With over a decade of marketing experience, Andy reflects on his journey from the UK to NCARB and the future of licensure. He explores how technology and evolving practice standards are shaping the profession, offering insights for emerging architects on the path to licensure.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Inside NCARB By The Numbers with Andy McIntyre.

Listen to the podcast here.

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