Episodes

Jon welcomes William Ringsdorf, founder of William Ringsdorf Consulting, who shares insights on how architecture firms can master profitability and process. William explains that most pricing issues stem from a failure to clearly communicate value and set proper boundaries. He discusses the systemic problem of undervaluing expertise in the field, highlights the importance of knowing one's numbers, and suggests implementing tiered service proposals to offer clear value to clients. William also of...

Jon celebrates the major milestone of 100 episodes by featuring reflections, tips, and good wishes from past guests and listeners. This special 100th edition features messages from diverse voices, including architects, entrepreneurs, and business experts, who discuss the impact of the podcast on their personal and professional lives. The episode highlights the show's commitment to providing valuable insights and practical advice for running a successful architecture business. Tune in for heartfe...

Jon shares practical advice on how to manage when life throws unexpected challenges your way. He discusses the importance of prioritising essential tasks, surrounding yourself with positive people, celebrating small wins, and the value of taking a break when needed. Throughout the episode, Jon draws on his recent personal experiences and offers tips on how to maintain balance and well-being during difficult times. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, these insights will...

From Award-Winning Homes to Transformative Community Projects - Jon continues his chat with Carl Turner about his journey from traditional residential projects to pioneering public and community-focused developments. Carl shares the pivotal moment of selling his award-winning home to fund Pop Brixton, a transformative community workspace made from shipping containers. This bold move opened new opportunities for Carl's practice, leading to more impactful projects like Peckham Levels and Hackney B...

Jon chats with award-winning architect Carl Turner, founder of Turner.Works. Carl shares the first part of his career journey. From his beginnings as a mature student to building an amazing reputation for residential projects. He won a string of prestigious awards along the way. Several of Carl’s projects have featured on TV shows like George Clarke's Ugly House To Lovely House & Grand Designs. In 2013, Carl’s own home, Slip House, won the RIBA Manser Medal, and in 2021, Hove House won Grand Des...

Only 17% of small teams write down what they do. Most just try to remember everything, which leads to stress and feeling overwhelmed. Layla Pomper, CEO of ProcessDriven and a systems expert, talks about how to build strong systems in your business. She shares her own journey from running a carpentry business with her husband to helping over 2,100 clients and 119,000+ YouTube followers. Layla explains the difference between good tools and good systems, and why writing down what you do is so impor...

Declutter Your Mind with Bullet Journaling! Jon shares how bullet journalling can help you reduce mental clutter and focus on what’s important. John, who has been using the bullet journal method for over a year, explains how it works and debunks common myths about it needing to be artistic. He highlights the ease and flexibility of this analogue method, making it a better alternative to digital tools that can be distracting. Jon provides simple instructions on getting started and the benefits of...

Jon chats with Susie Lober, a marketing expert with over 20 years of experience working with architects. Jon and Susie discuss the pressures and challenges of modern marketing for architecture practices. They highlight the importance of focusing on quality over quantity and avoiding common marketing time wasters like chasing trends, fixating on social media metrics, producing content without strategy, endlessly tweaking websites, and ineffective networking. Susie emphasises the need for a sound ...

Jon is joined by Antoinette Chappell, an expert in executive thought leadership and content creation. They discuss the importance of standing out with original insights and effective content implementation. Antoinette shares her journey from translation to copywriting, and the necessity of strategic, long-form content to build authority in your field. They explore the role of thought leadership in career growth, the impact of AI on content creation, and the significance of having a strong conten...

Jon welcomes Susanna Reay, the UK's authority architect and creator of the Spark process. They discuss the importance of building authority over visibility for sustainable business growth in architecture. Susanna shares her expertise on how architectural firms can effectively position themselves as the go-to experts in their field by focusing on their unique methods, offers, and distinctive content. The episode also highlights success stories of interior designers who transformed their businesse...

Jon shares practical tips for managing work and family life during the school holidays. Jon offers advice on how to maintain productivity by designing flexible routines, prioritising essential tasks, batching work, and using technology. He shares the importance of setting expectations with clients, involving children in planning, and taking care of your own well-being to avoid burnout. Jon also highlights the benefits of outsourcing and the value of connecting with peers for support and ideas. T...

Jon is joined by brand photographer Catherine Turner to discuss the vital role personal brand photography can play for architecture firms. They explore how showcasing the people behind the designs can build trust and differentiate firms in a competitive market. Catherine shares her insights on effectively using these photos beyond just the about page, choosing the right photographer, and understanding photo licensing. Additionally, she provides practical tips for making professional photos work ...

Jon is joined by the acclaimed writer Rachel Extance to discuss how architects can keep their practice websites engaging even between projects. They explore the concept of treating your website like a magazine, sharing six key blog ideas that can maintain interest and boost search engine rankings. Topics covered include case studies, unpacking key concepts, origin stories, sales page support articles, news stories, and event write-ups. Rachel also shares valuable tips for creating compelling blo...

Jon is joined by imposter syndrome life coach and fire engineer Jason McDaid. The discussion dives into the widespread issue of imposter syndrome, which affects 78% of professionals. Jason shares actionable strategies to combat this debilitating self-doubt, explains its core traits, and discusses the impact it has on individuals, particularly in the architecture and engineering sectors. He also opens up about his personal struggles and the coping mechanisms that people adopt. Additionally, the e...

Jon addresses the challenging question of whether it's time for you to quit your architecture business. He explores indicators that might suggest it's time for you to step away, such as changes in the market, personal circumstances, and diminishing passion. He explores the emotional aspects of closing your business and reframes the concept of failure as a learning opportunity. Offering three potential paths—staying the course, stopping, or starting something new—Jon provides actionable insights ...

Jon and special guest Heidi Suter, co-founder and CEO of Arkiste, discuss effective ways to build and maintain an online presence for architects and designers. They explore SEO tactics, the importance of having a detailed and updated portfolio, and using platforms like Pinterest for increased visibility. Heidi shares her journey into the architecture space and offers valuable tips for repurposing content and optimising your website. Jon provides insights into leveraging digital tools to avoid bu...

Jon is joined by leading architect marketing coach Richard Petrie. They discuss effective marketing systems tailored to consistently attract the right clients and projects for architects and design professionals. Richard, co-founder of the Architect Marketing Institute, shares insights into building a systematic approach to marketing, shares the importance of niche marketing and a consultative sales process. They explore specific strategies such as creating offers that appeal to clients at diffe...

Jon is joined by marketing coach Maya Kovacic-Kalra, a former architect who provides a comprehensive guide on optimising LinkedIn profiles to attract more clients and better projects. The discussion covers essential elements like the importance of a compelling headline, an effective LinkedIn banner, a professional profile photo, and a strong about section. Maya stresses the importance of clear call-to-actions and using the featured section to enhance profile engagement. The episode includes exam...

Behind the Scenes of Podcast Production: Jon offers a behind-the-scenes look at the extensive work involved in relaunching CIAT's 'Where it's AT' podcast. The episode covers the planning, strategy meetings, content brainstorming, and technical setups necessary to reboot an existing show. Jon explains the importance of having clear goals, appropriate branding, and well-thought-out audio and visual elements. He also discusses the meticulous editing and promotional efforts required to produce quali...

Jon shares tips on how to stay positive when feeling down about your business. Drawing from his 20+ years in architecture, Jon highlights common challenges and offers strategies to boost morale. He discusses the importance of changing perspectives, leveraging community support, utilising coaching exercises like the circle of control, and the benefits of networking and co-working. Jon also stresses the value of celebrating small successes and managing overwhelming to-do lists through bullet journ...

Jon is joined by productivity and habits coach Haley Watts to discuss the psychology of habits and offer practical tips for small firm founders in architecture. They discuss the Four Tendencies of habit formation, strategies for managing to-do lists, and the importance of balancing work with personal interests. Haley also shares insights on creating small, actionable habits and provides advice on how to leverage energy levels for better task management. The conversation offers valuable guidance ...

Jon chats with business coach and entrepreneur Ray Brown about a simple yet powerful business framework for architecture practices. They discuss the 'Four Ps' - Practice, Projects, People, and Perception - that can dramatically improve business results. Key insights include being intentional about business perceptions, understanding and managing project hours, the importance of clear roles and strategic hiring, and the value of a foundational business education. They also introduce ArchiBiz's ne...

Jon is joined by architect Joe Wright, who shares his journey from working in a large architecture firm to running his own small practice. Joe shares the challenges and rewards of this transition, including his changing approach to business and the importance of client collaboration. He also discusses personal anecdotes, his love for a local gospel choir, and the significance of sustainable design in his projects. The episode offers valuable insights for small firm founders aiming to build their...

Jon discusses how much money is enough for both you and your architecture business. Jon guides listeners through a step-by-step exercise to calculate personal and business income requirements, dispels common myths, and offers practical advice to maintain profitability. He emphasises the importance of considering both short-term needs and long-term financial goals. Additionally, Jon introduces the Profit First method for allocating business revenue. Tune in to gain clarity on your financial targe...