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

Are your feelings steering your business decisions? In this episode, Enoch Sears explores the critical difference between perception and reality in running an architectural practice. He shares a surprising story about a bodybuilder that reveals why focusing on measurable data is essential to making better choices. You'll hear about a unique coaching session where architects tackled challenges like tracking profitability, setting the right fees, and balancing billable and non-billable time. Enoch teases a game-changing tool to assess your firm’s revenue potential and highlights the importance of asking smarter questions to build stronger client relationships. Want to know how architects can move beyond chaos to take control of their business? This episode offers eye-opening insights you won’t want to miss. Why did a bodybuilder feel smaller as he grew larger—and what’s the lesson for architects? What simple tool can reveal your firm's true revenue potential? How does one key shift in mindset lead to better client relationships? What’s the danger of relying on feelings over facts in your practice?   Link: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/capacity   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/BYTjl5PLhuok7KzK1fguJh_P9eQ?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!  

Hiring is one of the trickiest parts of growing your architecture firm. In this episode, Enoch Sears dives into the challenges and rewards of building the right team. Whether you’re overwhelmed with deadlines or stuck deciding who to hire, this episode offers powerful insights to guide you. You’ll discover what makes hiring a game-changing investment rather than a risky expense. Learn why the wrong hire can tie your hands and how the right hire can transform your workload, your stress levels, and your entire practice. Packed with stories, practical steps, and a surprising tool you can start using today, this episode is a must-listen for architects ready to scale their firms without losing their freedom. The surprising shift that makes hiring less risky and more rewarding. The #1 mistake most firm owners make when hiring their first team member. A proven exercise to uncover exactly what tasks you should delegate. Why the right hire can triple your revenue in just months.   Link: https://www.businessofarchitecture.com/delegate   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/A-nkVwzoavs906TFrgcwk7ifgsE?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 dives into the fascinating intersection of fashion, personal branding, and business success with tailor and stylist Victoria from Klein Epstein Parker. Victoria shares her journey into bespoke tailoring, revealing surprising challenges and unexpected collaborations that helped her business thrive. Together, they explore why what you wear says so much about who you are and how it can impact your confidence, career, and even the perception of your leadership. Discover how a bold outfit can transform your mindset and command respect, and why some style choices make a bigger statement than others. Victoria also touches on a major cultural difference in dressing well and how it reflects values of respect and professionalism. Why a single outfit can change how people see you—and how you see yourself. The secret power behind dressing like a leader. A fascinating story about a basketball team using fashion to gain an edge. The surprising way personal style connects to fast fashion and sustainability.   To learn more about Victoria, visit her: Website: https://kleinepsteinparker.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kleinepsteinparker/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kleinepsteinparker Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kleinepsteinparker Twitter: https://twitter.com/KEPRebels Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/kleinepsteinparker/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kleinepsteinparker/   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/CWJ-iprr4Qe6Qvo0E8SMihfUpk0?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!

Welcome back for Part II of this episode of the Business of Architecture Podcast with Enoch Sears and Rion Willard. In this episode, Enoch and Rion dive into the challenges and opportunities that come with running a practice. They reflect on the surprising relationship between personal growth and business success, sharing compelling stories and insights from a recent Design Council event in San Diego. If you've ever felt stuck in your practice or wondered how to unlock its next level of potential, this conversation is packed with eye-opening ideas. Discover how to navigate the "right kind of problems" as your business grows. Learn why some common leadership mistakes may be holding your team back. And hear a fresh perspective on creating opportunities for your team that can transform your practice into something truly extraordinary. What does “choosing your problems” mean, and how can it change your business? The hidden cost of clinging too tightly to control in leadership. A mindset shift that could turn team challenges into powerful growth opportunities. The surprising connection between adaptability and success, both personally and professionally.   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/6N6F5b2sIAKUVMFU_xh6-wS31UY?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!

Are you running your architecture firm like a thriving business—or are you just reacting to one crisis after another? In this episode of the Business of Architecture Podcast, Enoch Sears and Rion Willard dive into the hidden challenges successful firm owners face and how to break free from limiting patterns. Recorded on location in sunny San Diego, the conversation is packed with insights from their Design Council event with top-performing clients. Discover the traps that even thriving firms fall into and why some architects struggle to delegate effectively. Enoch and Rion discuss the pitfalls of playing it safe and how it can lead to stagnation. If you're ready to move beyond survival and start playing to win, this episode is for you.   The single mindset shift that separates stagnant firms from growing ones. What architects get wrong about solving client problems—and what to do instead. How to fix the #1 bottleneck in your firm’s efficiency. Why delegating isn’t as simple as it seems (and how to do it right).   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/8gXUudvTSXbaCv_CD_6zY76Q_Do?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!

What’s the future of architecture? Architect and entrepreneur Nourah Said joins the podcast to explore groundbreaking ideas that could change how architects work and earn. From her Cambridge Judge School thesis to her own entrepreneurial journey, Nourah sheds light on challenges in the profession and how architects can reclaim creative and financial control. Learn why the traditional role of architects may no longer fit the modern world. Nourah discusses how breaking free from old systems could unlock new growth opportunities. Along the way, she reveals surprising lessons architects can learn from developers and entrepreneurs. Could architects really take on a different role in the construction process? Nourah shares insights from her research and conversations with industry leaders that might make you rethink what’s possible for architects today.   A controversial idea that merges two traditionally separate roles in construction. Why one business model might be holding architects back—and how to break free. A shift that could make architects more innovative, influential, and profitable. What young architects are doing today could reshape the future of the industry.   To learn more about Nourah, visit her: Website:  https://nas-colab.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nourah-said-riba-14752059/   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/CHSo19PDlVy4HRBJJKlV1CJuQGE?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, RIon Willard has an intriguing conversation with Jack Chaffin, partner at Johnston Architects, as he reveals the surprising strategies his team uses to bring designs to life in new ways. Jack shares how they blend digital tech with hands-on creativity, breaking down the usual limits of architectural practice. From crafting custom components to reimagining client interactions, Johnston Architects is rewriting the playbook on what architects can do. Jack also discusses a unique tool that lets clients shape their own projects online and hints at the firm’s future plans for even bolder innovations. Discover the unexpected way Johnston Architects bridges design and construction Find out how clients are now shaping their own homes with just a few clicks Hear Jack’s take on what could redefine the architect’s role in project delivery Learn about a new approach that could make your next project both faster and cheaper   To learn more about Jack, visit his: Website: https://www.johnstonarchitects.com/ Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/johnstonarchitects Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnston_architects/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/johnston-architects/mycompany/   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/7R2wO1hPC_hpqTwYbWJzLPwCDfc?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 eye-opening episode of Business of Architecture, Rion Willard sits down with Dr. Ray Andrew to explore the hidden drivers behind burnout and chronic fatigue, particularly in high-achieving professionals. Dr. Andrew reveals surprising truths about modern medicine's limitations and offers alternative approaches to health that go beyond traditional treatments. This conversation challenges what we think we know about wellness and introduces practices that may redefine vitality in 2024. Discover why common medical advice might not be enough for lasting health. Hear an unexpected story of recovery from pain that went untreated for years. Learn the simple, yet overlooked, steps to reignite your energy and passion. Understand the crucial factor most doctors miss that affects true health.   To learn more about Dr. Andrew, visit his: Website: https://www.prestigewellnessinstitute.com/   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/DMH4gddtJUbNb_Fe03pCPAaSSo0?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 dives into a single, game-changing shift that can boost performance for both you and your team. Through stories, lessons from personal coaching, and an impactful conversation with seasoned firm owners, Enoch explores the hidden factor that could be keeping you from hitting your goals. He shares why traditional methods often fall short and what truly drives sustained success. Discover how one insight from a well-known figure led Enoch to rethink his approach to goals and results. Hear relatable stories about business struggles and the surprising realizations that follow. This episode sheds light on how our deepest motivations shape outcomes in unexpected ways. What powerful insight did Enoch’s mentor share that changed everything? Why do some architects feel unfulfilled, even after achieving great success? What is the invisible factor that drives all your actions? Could you be approaching your business goals backward?   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/9U97uSRMyjrLExNdHXVr4PFf_V0?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, Rion Willard sits down with FCA leaders Jennifer Kenson and Aran McCarthy. They share their unique journeys to their current roles and offer insights into how FCA manages growth, especially through recent acquisitions. Their approach to culture, transparency, and leadership is refreshing and could change how you view the dynamics of large architecture firms. They also reveal FCA’s approach to building a collaborative, supportive work environment. Listen in to discover how this multi-office firm integrates new teams without losing its values and keeps the culture strong across locations. Curious how a major architecture firm stays true to its roots after 70 years? Want to know FCA’s secret to successfully blending cultures after acquisitions? Hear the surprising way FCA handles financial transparency with employees. Discover why “culture eats strategy for breakfast” at this firm.   To learn more about Aran & Jennifer, visit their: Website: www.fcarchitects.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fcarchs/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Francis-Cauffman-110456185686383/ Twitter: https://www.fcarchitects.com/contact Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/FCArchitects_Inc/   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/72WAOC-ZlwVP6gtf67WO1iaKPZY?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!