“ If you're going to be an entrepreneur and you're going to accomplish anything and you're going to grow your business in spite of a lot of negative things happening, you've got to be positive. So it's absolutely essential.”

• Mark Zweig

Episode Summary:

In this episode of The Zweig Letter Podcast, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Mark Zweig for a candid conversation about leadership, optimism, and embracing change in the AEC industry. Drawing from decades of experience and stories from the design trenches, Mark unpacks how leaders can break with outdated thinking, foster resilience, and turn market challenges into opportunities.

From evolving workplace cultures—including tales of "buttoned down" firms in the '90s—to the importance of decisive leadership, Mark and Randy explore what it takes to maintain an entrepreneurial mindset in uncertain times. The conversation digs into strategies around client outreach, the risks of overanalyzing decisions, and why open-book management and broader ownership structures drive firm success.

Tune in for actionable advice and fresh perspectives on thriving through economic uncertainty.

Key Takeaways:

• Leadership in Uncertainty: In challenging times, leaders must combine realism with optimism, set the tone for their teams, and believe in success despite obstacles.
• Action Over Analysis: Effective leaders act decisively, avoid “paralysis by analysis,” and seize opportunities quickly—especially when others hesitate.
• Continuous Client Outreach: Consistent, genuine relationship-building (such as regular check-ins) pays off in business development—cold emails and calls still work!
• Break Old Rules: Firms that creatively rethink ownership, encourage wider stock participation, and adopt open-book management foster loyalty and long-term growth.
• Recruit Proactively: Treat recruitment like building a sports team—always be looking for top talent, even if you’re not filling a current vacancy.

All this and more on this episode of the Zweig Letter podcast.

Links referenced in this episode:

• Connect with Mark Zweig on LinkedIn
• Learn about the Zweig Letter and subscribe: https://thezweigletter.com/
• Connect with Randy Wilburn on LinkedIn

Get your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.

Stay tuned for more enlightening content from the Zweig Letter podcast, and make sure to subscribe for regular updates!

Other episodes you'll enjoy:

Architecture with Heart - Carley Chastain

From Specs to Stories with Cherise Lakeside

Bridging Design and Construction with Dan Crist

AI Transforming AEC with KP Reddy

Connect with Zweig Group:

Connect with Zweig Group:

Instagram: Zweig Group

Facebook: Zweig Group

Twitter: Zweig Group

LinkedIn: Zweig Group

Website: Zweig Group

“Vernacular is what you do when you can’t afford to get it wrong.”

• Carley Chastain

Episode Summary:

This episode of The Zweig Letter Podcast, hosted by Randy Wilburn and joined by marketing co-host Luke Carothers, traces Carley Chastain's unique path through the architecture profession. Carley, an emerging architectural professional at Marlon Blackwell Architects in Northwest Arkansas, shares how she was drawn to architecture not by tradition, but by curiosity, community, and a keen desire to make the built environment serve real people.

From Auburn University's Rural Studio—where students design and build for underserved communities—to Mass Design Group's healthcare infrastructure projects in Rwanda, Carley unpacks the transformative power of purpose-driven design. Her journey from Alabama to Montana, Boston, and Kigali has shaped her approach to design as one focused on social impact, community resilience, and equity. Listeners will gain perspective on how intentional architecture can shape lives, tackle rural housing and infrastructure gaps, and deliver facilities that truly respond to community needs.

The conversation also spotlights the next generation of AEC professionals prioritizing equity, resilience, and local advocacy. Carley's reflections offer valuable strategies for increasing diversity, retaining talent, and ensuring architecture's continued relevance for the future.

Key Takeaways:

• Community-first Design: Purposeful engagement with local people and issues creates projects that are meaningful and sustainable—whether it’s rural housing or urban centers.
• Tackling Obstacles Holistically: Carley’s experience on the $20K House and the Front Porch Initiative demonstrates how architects can identify and address systemic barriers like access to fire stations and insurance, not just building design.
• Value of Diverse Experience: Exposure to international practice and local development, as well as cross-disciplinary networking, gives young professionals context and resilience—qualities vital for evolving the AEC industry.
• Advocacy and Retention: To retain diverse talent, firms must foster strong community connections, empower staff with local resources, and invest in personal and professional development.
• Importance of Public Health: Architecture’s role extends to building infrastructure that supports public health and preventive care—a lesson Carley saw firsthand with Mass Design Group in Kigali and current healthcare projects in Arkansas.

All this and more on this episode of the Zweig Letter podcast.

Links referenced in this episode:

• Marlon Blackwell Architects: https://www.marlonblackwell.com/
• Mass Design Group: https://www.massdesigngroup.org/
• Auburn University Rural Studio: https://ruralstudio.org/
• Contact Carley Chastain: [email protected]
• Connect with Carley Chastain on LinkedIn
• Learn about the Zweig Letter and subscribe: https://thezweigletter.com/
• Connect with Randy Wilburn on LinkedIn

Get your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.

Stay tuned for more enlightening content from the Zweig Letter podcast, and make sure to subscribe for regular updates!

Other episodes you'll enjoy:

From Specs to Stories with Cherise Lakeside

Bridging Design and Construction with Dan Crist

AI Transforming AEC with KP Reddy

Connect with Zweig Group:

Instagram: Zweig Group

Facebook: Zweig Group

Twitter: Zweig Group

LinkedIn: Zweig Group

Website: Zweig Group

“Whatever is the hardest path is probably the path we should be on. The hardest path is also the least traveled.”

• Robert Yuen

Episode Summary:

In this episode of The Zweig Letter Podcast, host Randy Wilburn is joined by Robert Yuen of Monograph and Mark Zweig of Zweig Group for a candid conversation around the future of A/E firm management. Together, they explore the recent industry benchmarks released by Monograph, unpack persistent pain points for design firm leaders, and discuss how technology is reshaping project visibility, profitability, and firm culture.

The discussion dives into the importance of real-time data, transparency, and the need to rethink how AEC firms measure success—challenging outdated norms that stifle both business growth and employee engagement. With stories from Robert’s career and practical lessons for both emerging and established leaders, this episode delivers actionable strategies for navigating the evolving landscape of architecture and engineering firm management.

Key Takeaways:

• Prioritize Real-Time Financial Data: Accurate, daily time tracking and monthly invoicing transform firm cash flow and profitability, while improving financial literacy at all levels.
• Culture Is as Critical as Tools: Transparency, communication, and a willingness to share essential financial metrics with staff help reshape and elevate firm culture, supporting sustainable growth.
• Small Firms, Big Potential: Success isn’t determined by size—firms pursuing excellence at any scale should aim for profitability, intelligent processes, and strong client relationships.
• AI for Better Processes: Automation and AI-driven workflows, like contract parsing and resource allocation, can instantly streamline operations and reduce manual data entry.
• Simplicity Drives Adoption: Keeping time tracking and project categorization simple increases accuracy and efficiency, preventing costly misattributions and confusion.

All this and more on this episode of the Zweig Letter podcast.

Links referenced in this episode:

• Monograph Website: https://www.monograph.com/
• Connect with Robert Yuen: [email protected]
• Connect with Robert Yuen on LinkedIn
• Connect with Mark Zweig on LinkedIn
• Learn about the Zweig Letter and subscribe: https://thezweigletter.com/
• AI in AEC and Benchmarks: Explore Monograph’s Benchmark Reports  (linked from monograph.com)
• Connect with Randy Wilburn on LinkedIn

Get your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.

Stay tuned for more enlightening content from the Zweig Letter podcast, and make sure to subscribe for regular updates!

Other episodes you'll enjoy:

From Specs to Stories with Cherise Lakeside

Bridging Design and Construction with Dan Crist

AI Transforming AEC with KP Reddy

Connect with Zweig Group:

Instagram: Zweig Group

Facebook: Zweig Group

Twitter: Zweig Group

LinkedIn: Zweig Group

Website: Zweig Group

ElevateAEC 2025 Preview: Growth, Innovation, and Networking Opportunities in San Antonio“Proximity is a place of power. If you are a design firm leader or design firm owner and you’re trying to take your firm to the next level, sometimes it means you need to get around other people that have actually already done it.”

• Randy Wilburn

Episode Summary:

Randy Wilburn and Luke Carothers deliver an exclusive preview of the 2025 Elevate AEC Conference, September 9–11 in San Antonio, Texas. Drawing on extensive industry experience and insights from previous events, they explore what makes Elevate Conference a critical growth catalyst for AEC firm owners, emerging leaders, and rising talent.

The conversation covers the conference's complete experience—from industry award celebrations to transformative workshops and strategic peer networking opportunities. Randy and Luke examine how Elevate AEC drives firm growth, fosters innovation, and strengthens organizational culture across all career levels. They dive into this year's theme, "The Speed of Business," and discuss the enhanced opportunities created by Zweig Group's recent integration with Stambaugh Ness.

For AEC professionals celebrating recent successes or navigating strategies in today's fast-evolving marketplace, this episode demonstrates why Elevate AEC stands as the industry's premier annual gathering.

Key Takeaways:

• Power of Proximity: Connecting in person with successful peers and industry leaders at Elevate AEC provides real-world insights, mentorship, and examples to follow—no matter your firm size or discipline.
• Holistic Recognition: The conference celebrates the full spectrum of AEC professionals—from designers to marketing and operations—reinforcing the idea that everyone contributes to a firm’s success.
• The Speed of Business: 2025’s theme focuses on innovation and acceleration in the AEC industry, challenging the notion that the sector is slow to change and spotlighting transformative technologies and practices, including AI.
• Action-Oriented Learning: Participants can expect workshops, roundtables, and panels covering recruitment/retention, ownership transition, diversity, marketing, and AI—ensuring actionable insights for every attendee.
• Unmatched Networking & Culture: The camaraderie, energy, and actionable conversations foster business deals and lifelong professional relationships—plus, the celebration is second to none, from the Black Tie Awards Gala to “next-level snacks.”
• Firm Growth Stories: Alumni share firsthand accounts of executing major business improvements inspired by past Elevate conferences, underscoring the event’s tangible ROI.

All this and more on this episode of the Zweig Letter podcast.

Links referenced in this episode:

Reserve Your Spot at ElevateAEC 2025 in San Antonio, TX

Luke Carothers on LinkedIn

Randy Wilburn on LInkedIn

Get your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.

Stay tuned for more enlightening content from the Zweig Letter podcast, and make sure to subscribe for regular updates!

Other episodes you'll enjoy:

From Specs to Stories with Cherise Lakeside

Bridging Design and Construction with Dan Crist

AI Transforming AEC with KP Reddy

Connect with Zweig Group:

Instagram: Zweig Group

Facebook: Zweig Group

Twitter: Zweig Group

LinkedIn: Zweig Group

Website: Zweig Group

“I think the employee experience—and we've seen over the last five years how important the employee experience has been with how tight the labor market has been and how everybody is competing for the same people… To ensure good retention, you must survey your employees to see what they think of your firm.”

• Kyle Ahern

About our Guests:

Keith Sequeira serves as Senior Director of Analytics and Technology at Zweig Group, where he leads research, analytics, and technological innovation, driving new approaches in data collection and delivery for the AEC sector. Kyle Ahern, Manager of Awards and Analytics, has spent over ten years at Zweig Group, with deep expertise running the Best Firms To Work For (BFTWF) program and integrating employee survey data into actionable insights for the industry. Supporting the conversation is co-host Luke Carothers, a guiding voice in exploring the data-driven evolution of AEC firm management.

Episode Summary:

This episode dives into the evolving landscape of research, data, and industry benchmarking within the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) space. Host Randy Wilburn teams up with co-host Luke Carothers to interview Keith Sequeira and Kyle Ahern, uncovering how Zweig Group’s research initiatives—especially the Best Firms To Work For (BFTWF) program—are reshaping the value of employee sentiment and firm benchmarking. Keith and Kyle discuss how design firms’ needs have shifted from simply seeking award recognition to actively using detailed survey data to drive strategy, foster better workplaces, and compete more effectively for talent.

The conversation highlights the innovations in delivering real-time, actionable analytics through platforms like Zweig Insights. The team details the new research calendar and tiered participation incentive program, aimed at driving engagement and ensuring the most up-to-date data for all Zweig Group reports. From the transition away from static reports to the implementation of dynamic benchmarking tools, this episode offers practical wisdom for firm leaders looking to leverage industry data for recruitment, retention, and firm growth.

Key Takeaways:

• Actionable Benchmarking: Firms increasingly participate in BFTWF for the employee data and benchmarking tools, not just for the award, using insights for internal strategy and improvement.
• Technology-Driven Insights: Zweig Insights platform provides interactive, real-time benchmarking and analysis, moving beyond traditional static PDF reports.
• Participation Incentives & Timely Data: A new research calendar and tiered discount structure incentivize timely survey participation, ensuring fresher, more accurate reports for all firms.
• Employee Experience Drives Success: Surveying for employee sentiment is vital for recruitment, retention, and competitive advantage—and firms must communicate the survey's purpose and act on the findings.
• Continuous Recognition and Industry Celebration: Zweig’s award programs, culminating at Elevate AEC, play a critical role in celebrating firm achievements and motivating ongoing improvement within the industry.

All this and more in this episode of the Zweig Letter podcast.

Links referenced in this episode:

Keith Sequiera on LinkedIn

Kyle Ahern on LinkedIn

Luke Carothers on LinkedIn

Randy Wilburn on LInkedIn

Get your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.

Call-to-Action & Next Steps: Stay ahead in the AEC industry by actively participating in Zweig Group’s surveys and award programs. Visit zweiggroup.com to access the latest research calendar, download reports, or reach out to Keith and Kyle for guidance. 

Stay tuned for more enlightening content from the Zweig Letter podcast, and make sure to subscribe for regular updates!

Other episodes you'll enjoy:

From Specs to Stories with Cherise Lakeside

Bridging Design and Construction with Dan Crist

AI Transforming AEC with KP Reddy

Connect with Zweig Group:

Instagram: Zweig Group

Facebook: Zweig Group

Twitter: Zweig Group

LinkedIn: Zweig Group

Website: Zweig Group

"Mistakes are not fatal, but don't keep them to yourself.”

• Mike Makris

About our Guests:

Originally from Washington, Duncan Robertson has spent the past six years honing his marketing and public relations expertise and now brings those skills to the design industry. After earning a Communication degree with a business emphasis from Boise State University, he dove straight into his career, channeling his versatile communication background to connect with diverse audiences. Duncan’s passion and creativity in marketing and PR continue to shine, fulfilling his early aspirations in this dynamic field. Go Broncos!

Mike Makris is an engineer who has spent nearly a decade at the heart of the AEC industry, driven by a desire to act as a change agent within both his organization and the field at large. He focuses on employee development, innovative fee billing structures, and forward-thinking marketing strategies that keep the industry ahead of the curve. Revered for his efforts to foster productive conversations and elevate professional standards, Mike takes pride in contributing to these ever-evolving discussions.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of The Zweig Letter Podcast, host Randy Wilburn teams up with Luke Carothers to spotlight two of the AEC industry’s brightest emerging professionals: Mike Makris and Duncan Robertson, both recognized with the Rising Stars Award from Zweig Group. From engineering and land development to marketing and business growth, Mike and Duncan share real-life perspectives on innovation, leadership, and the career impact of earning such a notable distinction. If you’re looking to strengthen your firm’s approach to talent development—or seeking first-hand insight into accelerating your own career—this discussion provides practical strategies and lessons learned from two award-winning paths. Join us to discover how these rising talents are shaping the future of the AEC industry and what it means for your own professional journey.

Key Takeaways:

• Mentorship is Essential: Establish genuine mentorship relationships within firms to support and guide young professionals.
• Embrace Diverse Roles: Successful AEC firms recognize the value of both technical and non-technical roles in achieving growth.
• Navigate Imposter Syndrome: Open communication and strong leadership support help new entrants overcome self-doubt.
• Innovate Beyond Conventional Paths: Encourage flexibility and exploration in career choices within the AEC industry to fulfill personal and organizational goals.

All this and more in this episode of the Zweig Letter podcast.

Links referenced in this episode:

Mike Makris on LinkedIn

Duncan Robertson on LinkedIn

Luke Carothers on LinkedIn

Randy Wilburn on LInkedIn

BHC Website

Tamarack Grove Engineering

Get your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.

Stay tuned for more enlightening content from the Zweig Letter podcast, and make sure to subscribe for regular updates!

Other episodes you'll enjoy:

From Specs to Stories with Cherise Lakeside

Bridging Design and Construction with Dan Crist

AI Transforming AEC with KP Reddy

Connect with Zweig Group:

Instagram: Zweig Group

Facebook: Zweig Group

Twitter: Zweig Group

LinkedIn: Zweig Group

Website: Zweig Group

"Every time we give an award to someone, there is one of our six values that's tied in with the citation."

• Don Young

In this episode of the Zweig Letter Podcast, we share a panel session from the Zweig Group's 2024 ElevateAEC event. We delve into the evolving landscape of modern work environments and the importance of maintaining a thriving culture in the architectural, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. Host Chad Coldiron is joined by industry leaders Joseph Campos, Don Young, and Shelby Harvey, who share their insights on what it means to be recognized as one of the Best Firms to Work For.

The panel discusses their unique journeys into the AEC industry, the significance of employee engagement surveys, and how to turn feedback into actionable change. Listeners will gain valuable perspectives on fostering a positive workplace culture, tackling challenges in remote work, and the essential qualities of effective leadership. This episode is a must-listen for professionals looking to enhance their firms and create an environment where employees thrive.

Key Takeaways:

• Employee Engagement: Regular surveys and feedback mechanisms are vital for understanding employee needs and improving workplace culture.
• Celebrating Success: Acknowledging achievements, both big and small, fosters a sense of belonging and motivates teams.
• Flexibility in Work: Balancing remote work with in-office presence is crucial for maintaining team dynamics and productivity.
• Leadership Qualities: Effective leaders embody humility, vulnerability, and a positive mindset, which are essential for building trust and collaboration within teams.
• Cultural ROI: Investing in professional development and creating clear career paths can significantly improve employee retention and satisfaction.

• Chapters:
• (00:00) Introduction
• (01:30) Panelist Introductions
• (05:00) Discovering a Career in AEC
• (15:00) Importance of Employee Engagement
• (25:00) Insights from the Best Firms to Work For
• (35:00) Maintaining Company Culture
• (45:00) Q&A Session
• (55:00) Conclusion

All this and more on this episode of the Zweig Letter podcast.

Links referenced in this episode:

Connect with Chad Coldiron on LinkedIn

Connect with Joseph Campos on LinkedIn

Connect with Don Young on LinkedIn

Connect with Shelby Harvey on LinkedIn

Get your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.

We highly encourage you to listen to the full episode to gain deeper insights into how AI is poised to revolutionize the design industry. Stay tuned for more enlightening content from the Zweig Letter podcast, and make sure to subscribe for regular updates!

Other episodes you'll enjoy:

Elevate AEC Keynote - Empowering AEC Professionals: Trends and Strategies for Success with Chad Clinehens and Bill McConnell

AI Transforming AEC: From Design to Recruitment and Beyond with KP Reddy

Reg Prentice on simplifying data management for design firms

Connect with Zweig Group:

Instagram: Zweig Group

Facebook: Zweig Group

Twitter: Zweig Group

LinkedIn: Zweig Group

Website: Zweig Group

From Specs to Stories: Cherise Lakeside's Podcasting Adventure!

"A lot of architects are rather introverted as well, so it takes some work to pull that out. And for me, my win is, did I get you out of your shell to share your passion for what you do for a living and what you create?"

• Cherise Lakeside

About the Guest:

Cherise Lakeside is a seasoned Senior Spec Writer at RDH Building Science. With a rich career path spanning construction, architecture, and building science, Cherise has acquired a profound understanding of the design industry. She has been actively involved in teaching and mentorship, notably being a long-time instructor for the Construction Specifications Institute Education Program. In addition to her professional work, Cherise is the host of the detailed podcast produced by ARCAT, where she shares her industry insights and engages in deep discussions about architectural design and project execution.

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Zweig Letter Podcast, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Cherise Lakeside, a notable figure in the architecture and design sector. With a career that began unexpectedly in high school, Cherise narrates her journey from administrative roles to becoming a respected spec writer and public speaker in the industry. She emphasizes the importance of mentorship and shares her experiences with speaking engagements and the impact of social media on her career. This episode offers listeners a compelling narrative about career evolution and the diverse paths within the architectural industry.

Cherise Lakeside discusses her unexpected foray into the world of podcasting as the host of the detailed podcast on ARCAT. Initially hesitant, Cherise embraced the opportunity and has since relished the engagement with various experts in the field. Her podcast focuses on sharing knowledge and offering practical insights, making it a valuable resource for professionals in the design world. Throughout the conversation, Cherise highlights the importance of authenticity and connection, which resonates deeply with the podcast's growing audience of listeners seeking technical and inspirational content.

Key Takeaways:

• Career Evolution in Design: Cherise Lakeside shares her unique journey within the architectural industry and the benefits of exploring cross-disciplinary opportunities.
• The Power of Mentorship: Emphasizing the significance of mentorship, Cherise elaborates on her teaching ventures and the impact of guiding the next generation of design professionals.
• Insights into Podcasting: Learn how Cherise transitioned to becoming a podcast host, her strategies for engaging conversations, and the benefits for both mentors and mentees within her content.
• Industry Impact: The detailed podcast serves as an educational platform, addressing real-life challenges in architecture and offering detailed insights that encourage positive changes within the industry.
• Networking and Collaboration: The episode highlights how developing relationships through conferences, social media, and podcasting can lead to substantial professional growth and brand elevation.

Chapters:

• 00:03 - Introduction to the Zweig Letter Podcast
• 02:49 - The Journey of Shareese Lakeside: From Receptionist to Spec Writer
• 14:15 - The Importance of Mentorship in the Design Industry
• 21:32 - Mentorship: A Two-Way Street
• 25:56 - The Journey of Speaking and Podcasting
• 36:25 - The Beginnings of a New Adventure in Podcasting
• 44:36 - Starting a Podcast: Overcoming Challenges and Misconceptions
• 45:33 - The Value of Consistent Content Creation
• 57:22 - The Path to Spec Writing: A Student's Journey
• 59:10 - Exploring New Opportunities in Architecture

All this and more on this episode of the Zweig Letter podcast.

Links referenced in this episode:

Email Cherise Lakeside

Website ARCAT

Detailed Podcast

Facebook

LinkedIn

YouTube

Flipping Book

Get your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.

We highly encourage you to listen to the full episode to gain deeper insights into how AI is poised to revolutionize the design industry. Stay tuned for more enlightening content from the Zweig Letter podcast, and make sure to subscribe for regular updates!

Other episodes you'll enjoy:

Exploring Avail's Impact on AEC Content Management with Randall Stevens

AI Transforming AEC: From Design to Recruitment and Beyond with KP Reddy

Reg Prentice on simplifying data management for design firms

Connect with Zweig Group:

Instagram: Zweig Group

Facebook: Zweig Group

Twitter: Zweig Group

LinkedIn: Zweig Group

Website: Zweig Group

ElevateAEC - How we Inspire and Transition Ownership to the Next Generation

"The ownership transition is not just about percentages; it's about value and creating a legacy."

• John R. McAdams

About the Guest:

John R. McAdams is the founder of McAdams, a leading engineering, planning, and design firm that has shaped communities for over 40 years. Known for his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to innovation, John has led transformative projects in land development and infrastructure. In this episode, he shares his journey as an industry leader, offering valuable insights into business growth, leadership, and passing the torch to the next generation of design professionals.

Episode Summary:

This episode of the Zweig Letter Podcast dives into the journey of founding the John R. McAdams Company in 1979 by John R. McAdams himself. He discusses the company's initial funding, the deliberate planning, and the establishment of a professional services firm rather than a solo practice. The episode focuses on the company's continuous ownership transition program, highlighting the importance of valuation, crafting a shareholder's agreement, and the procedures for transitioning ownership. McAdams elaborates on the criteria for inviting new owners and the benefits of a systematic ownership distribution to retain talent, ensure fairness, and promote growth without needing to sell the firm at retirement. Specific strategies, including leveraging Zweig Group's industry ratios and avoiding ESOPs to concentrate ownership among key contributors, are explained. The episode concludes with McAdams's personal story and plans for his shares as he approaches retirement.

Key Takeaways:

• Founding and Vision: John R. McAdams established the John R. McAdams Company in 1979 with initial funding and deliberate planning to create a professional services firm, distinguishing it from a solo practice.
• Ownership Transition Program: The company emphasizes a structured ownership transition program, including valuation, crafting a shareholder's agreement, and defined procedures to transition ownership, ensuring talent retention, fairness, and growth.
• Strategic Ownership Distribution: The firm uses industry ratios from Zweig Group and avoids ESOPs, focusing on concentrated ownership among key contributors to sustain the firm's success and avoid selling at retirement.
• Criteria for New Owners: McAdams outlines specific criteria for inviting new owners, ensuring that ownership is distributed to those who significantly contribute to the company's success and align with its long-term vision.
• Personal Reflections and Plans: The episode concludes with McAdams sharing his personal story and discussing his plans for his shares as he nears retirement, providing insight into his leadership philosophy and succession planning.

All this and more on this episode of the Zweig Letter podcast.

Links referenced in this episode:

McAdams Website

The Zweig Letter

Zweig Group

Flipping Book

Get your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.

This episode serves as a masterclass for firm leaders looking to navigate ownership transitions effectively while maintaining sustainable growth. McAdams’ story is a powerful reminder of the importance of deliberate planning, inclusive growth, and adaptability in professional services firms.

Don’t miss the opportunity to subscribe to The Zweig Letter Podcast for more insightful discussions on leadership, strategy, and growth in the AEC industry.

Other episodes you'll enjoy:

Exploring Avail's Impact on AEC Content Management with Randall Steven

AI Transforming AEC: From Design to Recruitment and Beyond with KP ReddyReg Prentice on simplifying data management for design firmsConnect with Zweig Group:

Connect with Zweig Group:

Instagram: Zweig Group

Facebook: Zweig Group

Twitter: Zweig Group

LinkedIn: Zweig Group

Website: Zweig Group

"You never know where you are going to learn information that is going to potentially be game-changing for you."

• Justin Smith

About the Moderator:

Justin Smith is a renowned expert in project management strategies and tactics, providing strategic consulting and training for the Zweig Group. With an impressive track record in business growth and leadership, Justin brings a wealth of knowledge to the discussion.

Episode Summary:

Join us as Justin Smith moderates a panel of esteemed experts, including Aaron Lauinger, Tiara Marcus, and Brian Sielaff, representing firms excelling in client engagement, project leadership, and culture protection. Discover how to drive return on investment (ROI) and ownership of your most valuable initiatives throughout your organization in this engaging panel discussion from the ElevateAEC Conference. Industry experts share their insights on the essential role of high-level sponsorship and the importance of aligning initiatives with company culture. They emphasize that achieving significant change requires a commitment to client engagement and empathy, which ultimately enhances brand identity and client experience. The conversation also highlights the necessity of ruthless prioritization and accountability in implementing successful strategies. Through real-world examples and candid reflections on missteps, this episode offers valuable takeaways for any firm looking to elevate its operations and foster long-term growth.

Key Takeaways:

• Client Engagement: Developing a differentiated brand through meaningful client interactions is crucial for standing out in a crowded market.
• Project Leadership: Empathy and client-centric approaches are essential for transforming project management into project leadership.
• Culture Protection: Maintaining a strong organizational culture requires intentional decision-making and aligning office environments with company values.
• Strategic Initiatives: Successful initiatives require high-level sponsorship, clear ROI measurement, and a commitment to long-term goals.
• Change Management: Adapting to change involves ruthless prioritization and ensuring the right people are driving initiatives forward.

All this and more on this episode of the Zweig Letter podcast.

Links referenced in this episode:

The Zweig Letter

Zweig Group

Flipping Book

Get your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.

We highly encourage you to listen to the full episode to gain deeper insights into how AI is poised to revolutionize the design industry. Stay tuned for more enlightening content from the Zweig Letter podcast, and make sure to subscribe for regular updates!

Other episodes you'll enjoy:

Innovative Startup Pirros Revolutionizes Detail Management for Design Firms

Connect with Zweig Group:

Instagram: Zweig Group

Facebook: Zweig Group

Twitter: Zweig Group

LinkedIn: Zweig Group

Website: Zweig Group