In this episode of Reflections & Balance: Architects Unplugged, Ar. Ashok John Oommen opens up about the realities behind the title. He walks us through his journey from college chaos to professional clarity, revealing how architecture reshaped his life, priorities, and identity.

He shares practical insights on balancing passion and pressure, managing time without losing purpose, and navigating the demanding world of architecture while protecting what truly matters. If you’re an architecture student, a young professional, or someone fighting to find equilibrium in the grind, this conversation hits home.

Insiders Podcast

A student-led podcast from TKM School of Architecture, offering perspectives on design education, academic culture, and the lived experiences of architects.

⸻

know the Insiders Podcast Team

• Podcast Head: Sharon Salmon

• Host: Ria Shaiju

• Research: Ria Shaiju, Sreeparvathi, Sharon Salmon, Shanza Reeha, Timnah, Natasha, Hibah Fathima, Shezminn, Hana Haris, Angleline

• Advisors: Vishnu Bhasi, Liza Iris, Teena Thampy

• Recording / Technical: Sharon Salmon, Aswin Thomas

• Camera: Mazin Mohammad, Amal Dev, Althaf PP

• Video Editing: Ryan Philip, Sharon Salmon

Can design truly be taught, or does it need to be discovered from within? In this episode, Ar. Dipu George—academic dean at TKM School of Architecture—unpacks the philosophy behind design thinking, emphasizing the power of unlearning, having a flexible mind, and approaching design with empathy.From personal experiences to progressive teaching methods, he reveals how innovation, empathy, and curiosity fuel purposeful design.Whether you're a student, educator, or aspiring architect, this episode will reshape how you see the design process.

Insiders Podcast

A student-led podcast from TKM School of Architecture, offering perspectives on design education, academic culture, and the lived experiences of architects.

⸻

know the Insiders Podcast Team

• Podcast Head: Sharon Salmon

• Host: Ria Shaiju

• Research: Ria Shaiju, Sreeparvathi, Sharon Salmon, Shanza Reeha, Timnah, Natasha, Hibah Fathima, Shezminn, Hana Haris, Angleline

• Advisors: Vishnu Bhasi, Liza Iris, Teena Thampy

• Recording / Technical: Sharon Salmon, Aswin Thomas

• Camera: Mazin Mohammad, Amal Dev, Althaf PP

• Video Editing: Ryan Philip, Sharon Salmon

Insiders Podcast

A student-led podcast from TKM School of Architecture, offering perspectives on design education, academic culture, and the lived experiences of architects.

⸻

know the Insiders Podcast Team

• Podcast Head: Sharon Salmon

• Host: Ria Shaiju

• Research: Ria Shaiju, Sreeparvathi, Sharon Salmon, Shanza Reeha, Timnah, Natasha, Hibah Fathima, Shezminn, Hana Haris, Angleline

• Advisors: Vishnu Bhasi, Liza Iris, Teena Thampy

• Recording / Technical: Sharon Salmon, Aswin Thomas

• Camera: Mazin Mohammad, Amal Dev, Althaf PP

• Video Editing: Ryan Philip, Sharon Salmon

Is Architecture Only for Creatives? In this thought-provoking talk, Ar. George Jacob shares from his rich experience as a practicing architect and educator, challenging the common belief that architecture is only for those born with artistic talent. He emphasizes that while creativity plays a role, architecture is equally about observation, logic, discipline, and a deep understanding of human needs. Through his personal journey, he encourages aspiring architects to see beyond the myth and realize that dedication, curiosity, and the ability to solve problems matter just as much as sketching skills.

Insiders Podcast

A student-led podcast from TKM School of Architecture, offering perspectives on design education, academic culture, and the lived experiences of architects.

⸻

know the Insiders Podcast Team

• Podcast Head: Sharon Salmon

• Host: Ria Shaiju

• Research: Ria Shaiju, Sreeparvathi, Sharon Salmon, Shanza Reeha, Timnah, Natasha, Hibah Fathima, Shezminn, Hana Haris, Angleline

• Advisors: Vishnu Bhasi, Liza Iris, Teena Thampy

• Recording / Technical: Sharon Salmon, Aswin Thomas

• Camera: Mazin Mohammad, Amal Dev, Althaf PP

• Video Editing: Ryan Philip, Sharon Salmon