EntreArchitect Podcast with Mark R. LePage

Join Altaf Ghanihar, founder of Snaptrude, as he delves into his journey of developing a revolutionary design tool for architects. With a research background in geometry and computer graphics, Altaf contributed to a large-scale national project focused on reconstructing a UNESCO World Heritage site in 3D. This experience exposed him to the outdated tools and workflows of architects from the 80s and 90s, sparking his desire to assist. Initially creating plugins to address specific workflow needs, Altaf realized that these were mere band-aids for a much larger issue. Over a decade, it became clear that the entire design ecosystem needed an overhaul.

In this podcast, Altaf shares the story behind Snaptrude, a tool that combines the simplicity of SketchUp with the power of BIM. Discover how Snaptrude aims to connect people, data, and tools in a cloud-first environment, creating a single source of truth for design software. Altaf explores the future of design tools, emphasizing collaborative and intelligent design mechanisms and the integration of code analysis and regulations. Tune in to learn how Snaptrude is set to transform the architecture and design industry.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, The Collaborative Building Design Platform with Altaf Ganihar.

Connect with Altaf online at Snaptrude, and find him on LinkedIn.

As an architect or firm owner, you might find yourself swamped with drawings that take up most of your day, leaving you with little time to manage your business. MGS Global Group can lighten your load by handling all your drafting and rendering needs! Visit MGSGlobalGroup.com and book your free consultation today.

ARCAT.com is much more than a product catalog, with CAD, BIM, and specifications created in collaboration with manufacturers. ARCAT.com also offers LEED data, continuing education resources, newsletters, and the Detailed podcast. Visit ARCAT.com to learn more.

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

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Join Mark as he sits down with Scott Specht, the founding partner of Specht Novak, who brings over 30 years of experience in designing and managing institutional, commercial, and residential projects. Before establishing Specht Novak (formerly Specht Architects), Scott honed his skills as a senior designer at Studio Daniel Libeskind, where he contributed to the winning New York World Trade Center master planning proposal. 

In this episode, Scott delves into the significance of experimental projects in architecture and how they have influenced his practice. He shares insights from his latest venture, the Next American House—a groundbreaking windowless house design that uses internal courtyards for natural illumination. Scott explains the innovative concept behind this project and its potential as a prototype for future developments. He also emphasizes the importance of documenting and promoting experimental projects to gain recognition and enhance business growth.

Scott’s independent design work has been showcased in prominent exhibitions, including two SoHo gallery shows, Yale University, the Van Alen Institute, the Municipal Art Society of New York, The University of Texas at Austin, and the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council. Additionally, he has shared his expertise as a featured TEDx speaker and co-authored the book "Coffee Lids" for Princeton Architectural Press.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, The Windowless Home with Scott Specht.

Connect with Scott online at Specht Novak, and find him on LinkedIn.

As an architect or firm owner, you might find yourself swamped with drawings that take up most of your day, leaving you with little time to manage your business. MGS Global Group can lighten your load by handling all your drafting and rendering needs! Visit MGSGlobalGroup.com and book your free consultation today.

ARCAT.com is much more than a product catalog, with CAD, BIM, and specifications created in collaboration with manufacturers. ARCAT.com also offers LEED data, continuing education resources, newsletters, and the Detailed podcast. Visit ARCAT.com to learn more.

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

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Join Steve Griggs, New York's premier landscape designer, on a journey through the world of landscape design and client satisfaction. In this episode, Steve shares his insights and experiences on keeping even the most demanding clients happy. Discover the importance of hard work, honesty, and taking extreme ownership of projects.

Steve emphasizes the power of handling crises head-on and the significance of referrals and word-of-mouth marketing in growing his business. Learn why architects need to follow through on their promises and take full responsibility for their projects.

Steve's approach is unique—he collaborates closely with clients to understand their visions and transform ordinary outdoor spaces into extraordinary masterpieces. With a portfolio that includes lush gardens, waterfalls, swimming pools, and outdoor chef kitchens, Steve continues to redefine outdoor living.

Whether you're a homeowner, a designer, or simply an enthusiast, tune in for expert advice on creating happy clients and stunning outdoor spaces.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, The Secret to Happy Clients with Steve Griggs.

Connect with Steve online at Steve Griggs Design, and find him on LinkedIn.

As an architect or firm owner, you might find yourself swamped with drawings that take up most of your day, leaving you with little time to manage your business. MGS Global Group can lighten your load by handling all your drafting and rendering needs! Visit MGSGlobalGroup.com and book your free consultation today.

ARCAT.com is much more than a product catalog, with CAD, BIM, and specifications created in collaboration with manufacturers. ARCAT.com also offers LEED data, continuing education resources, newsletters, and the Detailed podcast. Visit ARCAT.com to learn more.

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 sits down with Ryan Sullivan, PE, the founder and lead financial planner of Off the Beaten Path Financial. Ryan's unique journey from mechanical engineer to financial planner equips him with a distinct perspective on managing finances in the architecture industry.

Ryan shares his insights on the critical importance of understanding how money works and the necessity for architects to educate themselves on personal finance. He emphasizes the need to find trusted advisors who prioritize their clients' best interests. Throughout the discussion, Ryan highlights the significance of creating effective systems to manage cash flow and differentiating between variable and fixed expenses.

Listeners will gain valuable advice on planning for the future and building a business that can be either sold or passed on. With a strong belief that cash flow is the cornerstone of financial stability, Ryan helps architects ensure their money aligns with their values, providing peace of mind, financial clarity, and better decision-making.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Financial Planning for Architects with Ryan Sullivan.

Connect with Ryan online at OBP Financial, subscribe to his newsletter, and find him on Twitter and LinkedIn.

As an architect or firm owner, you might find yourself swamped with drawings that take up most of your day, leaving you with little time to manage your business. MGS Global Group can lighten your load by handling all your drafting and rendering needs! Visit MGSGlobalGroup.com and book your free consultation today.

ARCAT.com is much more than a product catalog, with CAD, BIM, and specifications created in collaboration with manufacturers. ARCAT.com also offers LEED data, continuing education resources, newsletters, and the Detailed podcast. Visit ARCAT.com to learn more.

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

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Join Ray Brown, an experienced business coach and entrepreneur, as he delves into the essential business fundamentals that architects need to master. In this podcast, Ray breaks through the myth that architects aren't trained in business, offering insights on how to specialize, systematize, and scale architectural practices for success.

Discover the importance of strategic monthly board meetings, understand the crucial difference between cash and profit, and learn how to build a profitable, sustainable business without compromising on design standards. With a background in coaching startups, major banks, and top executives, Ray brings his expertise to the world of architecture through Archibiz, an educational platform tailored for ambitious architects.

Tune in to transform your practice with actionable business strategies and expert guidance.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Business Foundations for Architects with Ray Brown.

Connect with Ray online at Archibiz, check out the courses, and find him on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

EA444: Ray Brown – Business Coaching for Architects

Go to https://betterhelp.com/architect for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help. Thank you to our sponsor BetterHelp for supporting our community of small firm entrepreneur architects.

ARCAT.com is much more than a product catalog, with CAD, BIM, and specifications created in collaboration with manufacturers. ARCAT.com also offers LEED data, continuing education resources, newsletters, and the Detailed podcast. Visit https://ARCAT.com to learn more.

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

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Join us for an inspiring episode featuring Matias Daroch, an accomplished architect, entrepreneur, and real estate developer based in Miami. Matias began his architectural journey in his hometown in Chile, where his passion for architecture and entrepreneurship took root. While still in architecture school, he explored creative business ventures, solidifying his ambition to become an architect.

After completing his studies, Matias co-founded a firm with a friend, diving into the architecture business with little prior knowledge. His career took a pivotal turn when he moved to Miami, gaining valuable experience in real estate development and the intricacies of designing and permitting projects. This led to the creation of MIK Architecture, a firm dedicated to crafting modern, market-driven residential spaces in South Florida.

In this episode, Matias shares insights on founding and growing a development group, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with builders, realtors, and other professionals. He highlights the necessity of being client-focused and open to compromise. Matias also touches on the advantages of being bilingual in the diverse Miami market and the growing demand for high-end, contemporary residential architecture.

Looking ahead, MIK Architecture aspires to become a client-free firm, focusing solely on developing waterfront properties. Tune in to hear Matias’s journey from Chile to Miami, and his expert advice for architects looking to venture into real estate development.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Establishing a Development Group as an Architect with Matias Daroch.

Connect with Matias at MIK Architecture, or follow him on LinkedIn.

Go to https://betterhelp.com/architect for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help. Thank you to our sponsor BetterHelp for supporting our community of small firm entrepreneur architects.

ARCAT.com is much more than a product catalog, with CAD, BIM, and specifications created in collaboration with manufacturers. ARCAT.com also offers LEED data, continuing education resources, newsletters, and the Detailed podcast. Visit https://ARCAT.com to learn more.

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, we sit down with Carl Gish, co-founder and co-CEO of Aro Homes, a pioneering company reshaping the housing industry. Aro Homes is on a mission to revolutionize homebuilding through tech-driven solutions, producing fast, efficient, and carbon-negative homes. Carl shares the inspiring origin story of Aro and how the company aims to replace end-of-life homes with environmentally friendly designs that are as beautiful as they are sustainable.

Discover how Aro Homes is an end-to-end developer, seamlessly managing every step from property acquisition to after-sales support. Learn about their collaboration with renowned architect Olson Kundig to create stunning homes that appeal to both aesthetics and environmental consciousness. Carl elaborates on Aro's scalable, offsite construction model that enables them to build homes more quickly and efficiently while generating more energy than they consume, thereby offsetting carbon emissions from construction.

We also explore Aro Homes' ambitious plans to expand across multiple U.S. markets, aiming to build 800 to 1000 homes annually. Carl discusses their commitment to addressing affordable housing and offering customization options to meet diverse needs.

Tune in to hear Carl Gish's unique perspective, drawn from his extensive experience in product development, brand management, and leadership roles at industry giants like Unilever, Amazon, and Dyson.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, The Tech-Driven Home with Carl Gish.

Connect with Carl at Aro Homes, or follow him on LinkedIn.

Go to https://betterhelp.com/architect for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help. Thank you to our sponsor BetterHelp for supporting our community of small firm entrepreneur architects.

ARCAT.com is much more than a product catalog, with CAD, BIM, and specifications created in collaboration with manufacturers. ARCAT.com also offers LEED data, continuing education resources, newsletters, and the Detailed podcast. Visit https://ARCAT.com to learn more.

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

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Mike Tadros, Director of Product Management at Trimble and SketchUp, shares his journey from designer to tech leader, discussing how SketchUp has evolved under Trimble to become the leading 3D modeling platform. Explore SketchUp's AI-driven capabilities and VR/AR applications that are revolutionizing the design industry.

Mike highlights SketchUp's focus on human-centric design, leveraging new technologies to enhance creativity and collaboration. Hear about the impact of the Apple Vision Pro headset and how SketchUp aims to create powerful yet enjoyable tools for designers. Discover the company's commitment to building a more beautiful, sustainable future through innovative software.

Whether you're an architect, designer, or tech enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights into the transformative power of technology in design.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, How SketchUp Fosters Human-Centric Design with Mike Tadros.

Connect with Mike at Trimble and SketchUp, or follow him on LinkedIn.

Trimble Early Engagement Program

Go to https://betterhelp.com/architect for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help. Thank you to our sponsor BetterHelp for supporting our community of small firm entrepreneur architects.

ARCAT.com is much more than a product catalog, with CAD, BIM, and specifications created in collaboration with manufacturers. ARCAT.com also offers LEED data, continuing education resources, newsletters, and the Detailed podcast. Visit https://ARCAT.com to learn more.

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 chats with Keith Brooks, co-founder of Sloped and owner of kBrooks Design Studio. Keith shares his journey from architecture to carpentry, leading to the creation of Sloped, a platform connecting design firms with SketchUp and Layout professionals. They discuss the challenges small firms face in hiring freelancers and the importance of trust and relationship building.

Keith highlights the transition from drafting to 3D modeling, the revolutionary potential of layout-ready modeling, and the need for architects to embrace new technologies. With a diverse background in architecture, carpentry, and design, Keith emphasizes that success lies in building strong relationships and continuously learning.

Tune in to learn how to sell your products and services to small firm architects, leveraging insights on technology adoption, community engagement, and freelancing platforms like Sloped.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, How To Sell Your Products and Services To Small Firm Architects with Keith Brooks.

Connect with Keith online at Sloped.io, or follow him on LinkedIn and Instagram.

EA464: Keith Brooks – SketchUp Experts

Go to https://betterhelp.com/architect for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help. Thank you to our sponsor BetterHelp for supporting our community of small firm entrepreneur architects.

ARCAT.com is much more than a product catalog, with CAD, BIM, and specifications created in collaboration with manufacturers. ARCAT.com also offers LEED data, continuing education resources, newsletters, and the Detailed podcast. Visit https://ARCAT.com to learn more.

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

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Join us in this episode as we explore the innovative mind of Dries Carmeliet, the CPO and Co-founder of AceLab. With a unique perspective shaped by his global experience and academic excellence, Dries shares his journey from practicing architecture in Belgium to revolutionizing the U.S. construction industry.

AceLab, the platform he co-founded, aims to streamline communication and collaboration among construction stakeholders. Featuring tools like a comprehensive product finder, live chat with experts, and a firm library, AceLab helps architects navigate the complex world of building product selection. Dries' vision is to boost industry efficiency by fostering a culture of knowledge transfer and collaboration.

Discover how Dries’ approach, inspired by MIT's "Mind and Hand" philosophy, is set to transform construction workflows and create a more sustainable knowledge ecosystem.

This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Creating a Sustainable Knowledge Ecosystem with Acelab with Dries Carmeliet.

Learn more about Dries at Acelab, and connect with him on LinkedIn and Instagram.

EA518: Dries Carmeliet – Acelab

Go to https://betterhelp.com/architect for 10% off your first month of therapy with BetterHelp and get matched with a therapist who will listen and help. Thank you to our sponsor BetterHelp for supporting our community of small firm entrepreneur architects.

ARCAT.com is much more than a product catalog, with CAD, BIM, and specifications created in collaboration with manufacturers. ARCAT.com also offers LEED data, continuing education resources, newsletters, and the Detailed podcast. Visit https://ARCAT.com to learn more.

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

Mentioned in this episode:

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