In the second episode of Re:Form TN’s second season, we are discussing mentorship and its importance in the sphere of equity and diversity within architecture. Valarie Franklin Hernandez, Associate Principal at Moody Nolan, and Whitney Johnson, Project Architect at EOA Architects, join us as guests and share their unique experiences in being both mentors and mentees. As an established mentor-mentee pairing, Valarie and Whitney are an unbelievable duo, sharing a compassion for people and underrepresented groups that is incredibly needed and necessary for conversations around equity and diversity. We had a lovely time learning about their lives and experiences, and we know you will, too.

• Show Links:
  • AIA Middle TN
  • AIA Guides for Equitable Practice
  • NOMA Nash
  • NOMA Nash Project Pipeline
  • Creative Girls Rock
  • Valarie Franklin Hernandez
  • Whitney Johnson
• Credits: 
  • Production of AIA Middle Tennessee
  • Co-Hosts: Brittany Hodge & Lauren White
  • Guests: Valarie Franklin Hernandez and Whitney Johnson
  • Editing by: @BryanMurphy888 on Fiverr 
  • Music by: Mountaineer and Kaleidoscope
  • Venue: The Russell

In the debut episode of Re:Form TN's second season, the podcast delves into resilience within architecture, guided by the AIA's Equitable Practice principles. Tonya Spry, HR Director at Gresham Smith, and Rachel Gresham, Senior Director of Professional Practice Programs at AIA, join as guests, offering a wealth of experience and insights. Tonya's extensive leadership in HR, spanning over two decades, pairs with Rachel's unique journey from architect to industry advocate.

The conversation revolves around workplace culture, tackling stereotypes and sharing strategies for cultivating inclusivity. Both guests emphasize the pivotal role of communication, mentorship, and proactive initiatives in fostering positive environments. They highlight the importance of addressing shortcomings and implementing programs to drive cultural transformation.

Throughout the episode, practical advice intertwines with personal narratives, creating a dynamic dialogue that resonates with emerging and seasoned architects alike. Tonya and Rachel's passion for equity, inclusion, and mentorship shines through as they advocate for a more supportive and diverse architectural community.

By dissecting workplace dynamics and advocating for change, the episode sets a compelling tone for the season ahead, promising further exploration of resilience and progress within the profession.

• Show Links:
  • AIA Middle TN
  • Rachel Gresham
  • AIA Guides for Equitable Practice
  • AIA Compensation & Benefits Report 
  • AIA Firm Survey Report
  • AIA Conference on Architecture
  • AIA TN Conference on Architecture
  • AIA Women’s Leadership Summit
  • How to Win Friends & Influence People
  • Brene Brown
• Credits: 
  • Production of AIA Middle Tennessee
  • Co-Hosts: Brittany Hodge & Lauren White
  • Guests: Tonya Spry & Rachel Gresham
  • Editing by: @BryanMurphy888 on Fiverr 
  • Music by: Mountaineer and Kaleidoscope
  • Venue: The Russell 

In this new season of Re:Form TN, we are exploring how architects can be more resilient, through the lens of both emerging professionals and seasoned architects. It is going to be a wonderful journey, considering the past to understand our history, while looking to the future to support the next generation. This season, we're delving into the AIA’s Guides for Equitable Practice, covering a range of topics crucial to our profession. From dissecting Workplace Culture to the importance of Mentorship, we are looking forward to shared experiences, practical advice, and hopes for the future.

• Credits: 
  • Editing by: @BryanMurphy888 on Fiverr 
  • Music by: Mountaineer 
  • Venue: The Russell 
• Show Links:
  • AIA Middle TN
  • AIA Guides for Equitable Practice

On this episode of Re:Form Tennessee, we’re talking with Nick Dryden, founding principal at Dryden Architecture and Design. Nick is a third-generation architect in Tennessee and a graduate of the University of Tennessee College of Architecture.

After graduating from UTK - with honors - Nick started his career in Nashville to carry forward his family’s tradition of passionate design. Since establishing Dryden Architecture and Design in 2001, Nick has garnered many accolades for his work. You can find his award-winning work featured in Architectural Record, Metropolis, The Wall Street Journal, and The New York Times.

Currently, Dryden is focused on a diversity of project types including corporate offices, adaptive reuse, residential, commercial, neighborhood master planning, and mixed-use development in Nashville and throughout the Southeast. We talked with Nick about running a business through COVID, the changing fabric of Nashville, and why we all need to watch Ted Lasso. Let’s get started!