590: Recession-Proofing Your Design Business with Joel Tanner of SMPL Design Studio

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!

Joel Tanner, founder of SMPL Design Studio, joins Rion Willard to discuss the journey from a one-person team to a firm of 20, taking on complex and custom residential projects. Joel shares lessons from navigating major economic shifts and reveals the systems and strategies that keep his firm resilient. He also dives into his unique approach to marketing, handling client expectations, and expanding SMPL’s offerings with new product lines. How a single contract sparked SMPL Design Studio’s success The approach that helped SMPL navigate economic storms Key strategies Joel uses to attract high-end clients in a competitive market Discover the secret behind SMPL’s innovative product expansion   To learn more about Joel, visit his: Website: www.smpldesignstudio.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smpldesignstudio Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SMPLDesignStudio/   ► Transcription: https://otter.ai/u/jkIEc2Qj_po_vsw7g5lNEcd8IXU?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!

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!