Episodes

Jon continues his chat with filmmaker, author, and master storyteller Jude Charles to explore the power of storytelling in business. They discuss how capturing and sharing personal and professional stories can humanise a brand and attract more clients. Jude offers practical advice on building a 'story bank,' the importance of video storytelling, and how speaking engagements can enhance your business. Real-world examples from architects and interior designers illustrate how storytelling can be le...

Jon is joined by Jude Charles, an expert in storytelling and documentary filmmaking for entrepreneurs. They discuss the three types of stories every business should share: origin stories, success stories, and vision stories, to build a strong connection with their audience. Jude shares his insights from over 18 years of experience, highlights from his book 'Dramatic Demonstration,' and personal anecdotes to demonstrate the power of effective storytelling in business. Additionally, Jude reveals t...

Jon discusses the benefits of podcasting for small architecture firms and other service-based businesses that deliver complex or technical services. He explains how podcasting can help articulate complex services, build trust, and attract the right clients. Jon also debunks common myths around podcasting, such as the need for expensive equipment or being an expert before starting. He shares practical tips on getting started, including using guest appearances to ‘dip your toe’ into podcasting. Be...

Jon is joined by Helen Nurse, co-founder of Digital Agency Capture One, to discuss innovative ways to use WhatsApp for business communication. Helen shares insights on how WhatsApp can improve engagement with clients, facilitate seamless communication during projects, and even serve as a powerful lead generation tool. The episode also highlights ways to automate responses and manage data effectively through WhatsApp API, offering practical tips for small business owners to enhance their customer...

Jon interviews mindset expert and business strategist Mark Franklin about The Four Fears® that every business owner faces: fear of not being ready, fear of not being good enough, fear of not having enough time, and fear of failure. Mark shares his insights and strategies to help listeners overcome these fears and achieve their business goals. Along the way, Mark and Jon discuss their mutual love of music and how it ties into their professional journeys, with personal reflections on perfectionism...

Jon is joined by copywriter and careers advisor Mel Barfield to explore the concept of luck in your career. They discuss whether luck is just about being in the right place at the right time or if it can be maximised through strategic actions. Mel shares insights from 'The Luck Factor' book, highlighting factors like maximising chance opportunities, listening to lucky hunches, expecting good outcomes, and learning from bad experiences. She also dives into the importance of self-promotion and how...

Jon discusses the importance of digital sustainability with web designer and developer Molly Scanlan. The conversation covers how websites have a carbon footprint, actionable steps to make websites more sustainable, and why it's essential for architecture practices to integrate sustainability into their digital presence. Molly shares tips on optimising website content, choosing eco-friendly hosting, and the importance of mindful digital practices. The episode also highlights the broader benefits...

Jon dives deep into the details of the Architecture Business Club membership community. Launched last year for small firm founders in architecture, the membership aims to provide a supportive network for business growth, shared knowledge, and professional fulfillment. The doors to new members will open on March 1, 2025. Jon explains the community's features, including weekly Zoom sessions, a WhatsApp chat group, a member directory, and in-person meetups. He covers membership costs, inclusivity, ...

Jon discusses effective marketing strategies for small architecture firms with marketing expert Sarah Noel Block. Sarah, founder of Tiny Marketing, shares her expertise on creating a lean marketing engine, including identifying dream clients, crafting a signature offer, choosing core content, and setting up lead generators. The episode also illustrates how to convert initial client interactions into profitable gateway offers, providing invaluable tips for architects to grow their businesses effi...

Jon is joined by May King Tsang, the original FOMO creator, to discuss strategies for generating excitement and urgency for your business. They explore how to build buzz around your events, products, and services using May King’s proven techniques. Learn the importance of consistent social media presence, branding, and relationship-building, and discover the power of pre, live, and post FOMO. Plus, May King shares her personal journey and insights on maintaining authenticity online. Today's G...

Jon is joined by LinkedIn personal branding expert Beatrice Ronchetti. They discuss how architecture practices can use LinkedIn as a powerful tool to generate business opportunities, even with a free plan. Beatrice introduces her CLEAR framework (Clients, Link Up, Expose & Educate, Active Engagement, Reach Out) for standing out on LinkedIn. They also cover the importance of understanding your audience, engaging authentically, and providing valuable content. And you’ll learn about tracking succes...

Jon discusses the challenges of building an architecture business as a sole practitioner and highlights the importance of community support. He introduces the Architecture Business Club community, sharing its benefits, member testimonials, and resources available. The episode provides insights into how the community can address issues like loneliness, lack of experience, and business decision-making by offering a supportive network of like-minded professionals. Jon also shares information on how...

Jon sits down with creative freelance copywriter Ellie Senior to dig into the benefits of public relations (PR) for small architecture practices. Ellie shares insider tips on finding the right publications, writing engaging press releases, and common misconceptions about PR. The discussion includes practical advice on content ideas, the significance of a strong marketing funnel, and the effective use of email platforms for sending out press releases. Ellie also explains how you can use advertori...

In part two of Jon's conversation with Ange Lyons they chat about the challenges of freelancing. They discuss dealing with tricky clients, avoiding scope creep, and combating loneliness. They also share practical tips on contracts, invoicing, and handling social isolation. If you're a small business owner in architecture, this episode offers valuable advice to help you build your dream business and enjoy more freedom and fulfillment. Today's Guest... Ange Lyons is a brand and marketing graphi...

Jon speaks with Ange Lyons, a seasoned graphic designer, about common challenges freelancers face. They discuss marketing strategies, setting charge rates, and the importance of networking. Jon also shares info on joining a supportive community for architects and designers. The episode offers simple, practical advice for freelancers looking to avoid isolation and grow their businesses. Don’t miss part two of this conversation in the next episode! Today's Guest... Ange Lyons is a brand and mar...

Jon helps you start 2025 on a strong note by recommending three key podcast episodes. He highlights the importance of the Architecture Business Club's membership community for architects, technologists, and designers. Jon shares updates on upcoming episodes and guest interviews, providing tips for writing business plans, quarterly planning, and PR in your business. He also invites you to join the waitlist for the community to gain support and connect with like-minded professionals. Episode Hi...

In this special Boxing Day episode of Architecture Business Club, Jon looks back at 2024 and counts down the top five podcast episodes of the year. Jon, who helps small architecture firm founders build their dream businesses, celebrates the podcast's achievements, including reaching 10,000 total downloads and launching a membership community. He shares personal Christmas traditions and highlights, shares the year’s top five (most downloaded) episodes, and states the importance of community and c...

Jon talks with branding expert Vardeep Edwards. They discuss what it takes to build a unique brand in a crowded market. You will learn about the importance of understanding and developing your brand, and how to make a real connection with people. Vardeep shares her experience and gives practical tips on defining your brand identity, creating emotional connections, and using different content types to raise brand visibility. They also touch on the role of AI tools in branding. This episode aims t...

Have you had bad experiences outsourcing your architectural drafting work? Don't give up yet! In this episode Jon talks to Derek Timms about avoiding common outsourcing mistakes and finding the right partner. Derek, a chartered architect with 25 years of experience, shares tips on building long-term, trusted partnerships and the benefits of early planning. Derek also talks about his role as a school governor and the importance of communication and setting clear expectations. If you're a small pr...

Jon chats with Laura Pearman, an expert in personal branding about the importance of personal branding for solo and small firm architecture practice owners. They discuss how you can adapt your personal brand as your business grows. Laura shares tips on how to start and build a strong personal brand, and explains common misconceptions people have about it. They also discuss how external factors like your views on the environment and technology may influence your personal brand. Jon and Laura also...

In this special episode of Architecture Business Club, Jon marks the podcast's one-year anniversary, celebrating 57 episodes. Jon shares his journey of starting the podcast, its initial reception, and future plans. Catch interesting stats about podcast longevity, listener demographics, and download milestones. Jon also reflects on his motivations, lessons learned, and the hard work required to maintain a podcast. He thanks listeners for their support and talks about exciting future guests and pr...

Jon continues his chat from the previous episode with sales expert Helen Tebay. They discuss practical tips to convert cold leads into hot sales. Helen shares advice on dealing with unresponsive clients and the importance of booking follow-up steps during initial calls. They also cover strategies for getting video testimonials and staying focused during slow periods. Jon shares why proactive outreach and customer-focused communication are so important. Today's Guest... Helen Tebay helps servi...

Jon and guest Helen Tebay discuss how small architecture firms can overcome a sales slump. They talk about the importance of staying calm, being consistent, and focusing on problem-solving. They share tips on how to re-engage with past clients, use content to answer questions, and look back at successful months to find patterns. Helen also compares sales strategies to dog training, highlighting the need for consistency and the right energy. Tune in for practical advice on getting more sales for ...

Jon talks to Prachi Rampuria, co-founder of Eco Responsive Environments, about how collaboration can change small architecture practices and help solve big problems like climate change. Prachi discusses the benefits of working together and shares real-life examples from her projects. They also talk about the challenges of professional silos and how to overcome them. Learn tips on communication, maintaining relationships, and the importance of listening. Discover how teamwork can lead to innovati...