589: Why Most Architecture Firms Fail at Succession Planning with Rion Willard

Succession planning is a daunting task for many architecture firm owners. The thought of transitioning leadership brings up fears of losing firm culture, financial instability, and operational chaos. In this episode of Business of Architecture, host Rion Willard dives deep into the essential blueprint for legacy in architecture firms. Discover why many practices struggle to hand over the reins smoothly and how this can impact leadership, firm culture, and financial stability. Learn how proactive strategies can transform a challenging transition into a seamless experience that secures the future of your firm. Rion shares insights from real-world examples and practical advice that will resonate with firm owners at every stage of their journey. Whether you’re just beginning to think about leadership succession or seeking to refine your plan, this episode offers valuable perspectives you won’t want to miss. What hidden risks are threatening your firm’s future? Why does succession planning often go wrong—and how can you prevent it? How can strong leadership planning increase client confidence? What unexpected benefits come from a well-thought-out succession plan?   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/y2LbDCD271c6OKsep59uPelnUy0?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at [email protected]   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates: https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!

Architects juggling marriage and business often face intense pressures, from blurred work-life boundaries to conflicts that spill from office to home. These challenges can strain even the strongest relationships, adding stress to both personal and professional lives. In this episode of the Business of Architecture, hosts Rion Willard and Enoch Sears dive into the unique dynamics of running an architecture practice as a married couple. With over 25% of their clients in this position, they explore the balancing act between personal and professional lives. From sharing personal stories to hard-won lessons from other couples, Rion and Enoch offer practical insights on making this challenging setup work. They discuss common challenges faced by couples in business together, such as finding boundaries, defining roles, and building mutual respect. And for those seeking support, they reveal strategies to make your relationship and practice thrive. Why over 25% of architecture firms run by married couples face unique challenges. The top mistakes married partners make – and how to avoid them. How setting boundaries can transform both your business and your relationship. Visit https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/married for a free resource that is filled with advice from experienced married partners who’ve been there.   Link: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/marriage   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/VJE36ioNXITKk2dM2BmCIAx1HY4?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at [email protected]   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!

In this episode of the Business of Architecture podcast, Rion Willard talks with Ben Parco, founder of Parco Studio. Ben shares his journey from working at large firms to starting his own practice and the challenges that came with that leap. He reveals his innovative approach to projects and how he navigated the complexities of development while balancing creativity and business. What surprising opportunities can arise from a chance conversation? How does embracing risk change your perspective on projects? What unique strategies can architects use to create value in development? Why is understanding your financial landscape crucial for success? Join us for an insightful discussion that explores the intersection of architecture and development, as Ben shares lessons learned and exciting new ventures on the horizon. Don't miss the chance to hear how a creative mindset can reshape the architectural landscape!   To learn more about Ben, visit his: Website: http://parcostudio.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parcostudio/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ParcoStudio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminparco/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzP-v9ic3eBBb6v44TkVnmA   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/EBXkxTfs_bpFA1wvwkdnwNUfCIg?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at [email protected]   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!

In this episode, Enoch Sears dives into one of the toughest challenges facing architectural firms today—hiring the right people. He shares stories from real architects who’ve recently lost key team members, highlighting the stressful impact this can have on small firms. Enoch offers valuable advice on how to tackle these hiring struggles and what you can do to make sure you’re bringing the best talent into your practice. He also reveals a unique perspective on why hiring should be treated like something you’re already doing every day in your business. You’ll learn the surprising connection between marketing and hiring, and how a small change in mindset can completely transform your process. Plus, Enoch shares a little-known tool to make your next hire a success. Discover why your hiring process might be broken. Learn how one small shift can change everything. Find out what most firms get wrong about their job ads. Hear a surprising solution that can unlock better hires.   Link: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/delegate   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/MNcXTMVMEOCmlkCBCnXs7yOXts0?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at [email protected]   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!  

In this episode of the Business of Architecture podcast, Enoch Sears sits down with David Supple, the CEO of New England Design & Construction. David shares his unconventional journey from architecture school to becoming a leader in design-build. Along the way, he talks about hard lessons learned and how he built a thriving business with a team of 25. David also reveals the surprising reason why he chose not to become a licensed architect and how it impacted his career. He discusses the challenges of building a company, including a difficult moment that could have ended it all. Finally, David opens up about the biggest mistake he made and how it set him back for years. What major challenge almost forced David to close his business? Why does David believe architects don’t always need a license? Discover the unexpected strategy that helped David find success. What one decision did David regret that nearly cost him everything?   To learn more about David, visit his: Website: https://www.nedesignbuild.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nedesign.construction/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nedesignconstruction LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-england-design-&-construction   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/M3J_gtTc4d5firVdJ_Xj6ssPJjE?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at [email protected]   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!

Architects often face the daunting challenge of growing a firm while juggling client demands, managing teams, and navigating competitive markets. Balancing creativity with the need for profitability can be overwhelming. In this episode of Business of Architecture, Rion Willard interviews Blima Ehrentreu, founder of The Designers Group. They dive into how she grew her architecture and design firm from scratch to over 30 employees, with projects spanning multiple cities. Blima shares the challenges of starting fresh in a new city and how she broke into highly competitive markets. They also discuss her approach to working in various sectors, including a surprising transition into healthcare. Blima offers key insights on how her team keeps projects profitable while continuing to deliver high-quality results. You’ll also hear Blima’s unique approach to leadership and the one philosophy she uses to keep her team engaged. Plus, she reveals how her firm’s charitable efforts shape its identity and future goals. What is Blima’s secret to growing a firm in one of the most competitive cities? How did a chance meeting lead to big opportunities in a new sector? What’s the biggest challenge Blima faces in managing her large team? How does her firm’s pro bono work contribute to its growth?   To learn more about Blima, visit her: Website: http://www.thedesignersgroup.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thedesignersgroup/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedesignersgroup/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedesignersgroup/?hl=en   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/w0ZWJJyrT4ATtwGJnyW_4A6Ro8o?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at [email protected]   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!

Architects often struggle with balancing leadership while managing their practice, where creative vision, profit, and team dynamics can clash. Many find themselves overwhelmed, stressed, and stuck in a cycle of decisions, unable to move beyond being the central figure in their business. In this episode of the Business of Architecture podcast, Rion Willard dives deep into an often overlooked aspect of leadership that many mistake as being weak. He challenges common perceptions and offers a new way to think about leading with purpose, rather than letting profit or ego take control. Along the way, Rion introduces ideas from spiritual traditions that can help shift your approach to business leadership. What is the one thing Rion says should take priority over profit in your business? Why does he believe most businesses unknowingly sabotage themselves? Discover the surprising truth behind "ruthless compassion" and how it can strengthen your leadership. Learn how an ancient leadership model could transform your team's success.   Link: https://inaspaciousplace.wordpress.com/2017/02/12/thomas-merton-on-love/   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/ys-50gTciPXWTNIBYew0TW0Omro?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at [email protected]   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!

Architects often face uncertainty and fear when a recession hits. Projects get canceled, clients pull back, and the ripple effect can lead to layoffs and financial strain. In this episode, Enoch Sears dives into these challenges and how architects can navigate them. He shares personal stories from past recessions and explains why architecture is especially vulnerable to these cycles. Instead of worrying about the next downturn, he outlines key skills every architect should master. Discover how to shift your mindset and take proactive steps to secure your practice. Enoch offers a fresh perspective on how to turn challenging times into opportunities for growth. Learn what it takes to build a resilient architecture practice. What surprising event almost derailed Enoch’s early career? Why do some architects suffer from "architectural PTSD"? What is the one mindset shift that can help you thrive in tough times? Which four "savage skills" are crucial for every architect?   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/eRHklwu_RHvsZKZCqP1FXcGRcn4?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at [email protected]   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates: https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!

Architects often struggle to balance client expectations, business management, and the creative demands of design. Managing client relationships while ensuring high-quality design work, all within the constraints of time and budget can be overwhelming. Technology adds another layer of complexity but also offers solutions. In this episode of the Business of Architecture podcast, Rion Willard talks with Chris Kempel, an experienced architect who shares his journey from co-founding Rockefeller Kempel Architects to starting his new venture. Chris reflects on the challenges and successes of his 21-year career, offering invaluable insights into managing client relationships, maintaining design integrity, and leveraging technology. He also dives into the lessons learned from his past experiences and how he's shaping the future of his boutique firm. Listen in as Chris reveals how he balances creativity with the practical side of running a business, and find out how he builds strong, lasting client connections. The conversation touches on unexpected insights that might change how you approach projects. What’s one thing that can make or break a client relationship? How can architects effectively juggle design and business management? The surprising role technology plays in creating stunning designs. What Chris looks for when turning down a project.   To learn more about Chris, visit his: Website: https://www.kempelarchitects.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christopherkempel   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/eb8EbLBCME70vxJEXSbbDAPJVXo?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at [email protected]   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!  

Architects often struggle with balancing leadership roles, managing design integrity, and navigating the complexities of construction development. As project demands increase, they face the challenge of maintaining control while collaborating with contractors who often take on more design responsibility. In this episode of Business of Architecture, Rion Willard sits down with Chris Butler, managing director of Walter Lily, to explore his remarkable career journey. Chris shares insights from his 26-year career with a single company, including a surprising start and an unexpected twist that led to his current role. He also touches on the evolution of contractor-architect relationships, the challenges of modern construction, and the importance of nurturing team dynamics. Chris reveals the key strategies he uses to manage a large organization, balance client demands, and foster innovation, all while reflecting on the shifts in the construction industry. His thoughts on leadership, psychology, and building successful teams offer lessons for anyone looking to improve their business. How a chance event altered the course of Chris’s career The surprising shift in the balance of power between architects and contractors The one major change that improved his company’s structure Why Chris believes some critical skills in construction are disappearing   To learn more about Chris, visit his: Website: https://www.walterlilly.co.uk/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/walterlilly1924/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/walterlilly1924/mycompany/?viewAsMember=true Twitter: https://twitter.com/WalterLilly1924   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/DFxj8mQhYXPpBFp1LuEqRIxEpZo?utm_source=copy_url   ► Feedback? Email us at [email protected]   ► Access your free training at http://SmartPracticeMethod.com/   ► If you want to speak directly to our advisors, book a call at https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/call   ► Subscribe to our YouTube Channel for updates:   https://www.youtube.com/c/BusinessofArchitecture   *******   For more free tools and resources for running a profitable, impactful, and fulfilling practice, connect with me on: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/businessofarchitecture Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessofarch/ Website: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/yt Twitter: https://twitter.com/BusinessofArch Podcast: http://www.businessofarchitecture.com/show iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/business-architecture-podcast/id588987926 Android Podcast Feed: http://feeds.feedburner.com/BusinessofArchitecture-podcast Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9idXNpbmVzc29mYXJjaGl0ZWN0dXJlLmxpYnN5bi5jb20vcnNz   *******   Access the FREE Architecture Firm Profit Map video here: http://freearchitectgift.com   Carpe Diem!