EA642: Mark's Renovation Story on Home: The Second Story Podcast

Mark's Renovation Story on Home: The Second Story PodcastIn this special episode of the EntreArchitect Podcast, Mark R. LePage's renovation story on home takes center stage through a conversation on Home: The Second Story. Mark joins hosts Taylor Davis, Marilyn Moedinger, and Sheri Scott to reflect on architecture, business, and belonging.Mark shares the personal journey of renovating a 1934 stucco cottage in Chappaqua, New York. He and his wife Annmarie restored the home in thoughtful phases, choosing stewardship over a teardown. Along the way, they faced real homeowner challenges, even as architects.The discussion also includes lessons every architect can apply. Mark explores planning, phasing, and caring for a home beyond ownership. The episode highlights how love, strategy, and empathy shape better homes and better practices.This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Mark's Renovation Story on Home: The Second Story Podcast with Mark R. LePage.Check Mark and Annemarie's new North Carolina home on Instagram, and find this and more episodes of the Second Story podcast here.Please Visit Our Platform SponsorsArcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

Why AI Is Good for ArchitectsIn this episode, Mark R. LePage talks with Bryon McCartney about why AI is good for architects. Bryon is the CEO of Archmark and a longtime branding and business coach for firm owners. Together, they explore how AI can support architects instead of replacing them.Next, Bryon shares practical ways architects are using AI today. For example, he explains how AI can save time, reduce busywork, and improve focus. He also breaks down how to spot tasks that are ready for automation.Finally, the conversation looks ahead to what AI means for the future of practice. Therefore, Bryon encourages firm owners to lead with clarity, not fear. The result is a smarter, more sustainable way to run an architecture firm.This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Why AI Is Good for Architects with Bryon McCartney.Connect with Bryon online at Archmark.co, check out his free resource AI for Architects, or find him on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.Please Visit Our Platform SponsorsArcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

Stop to Reflect and Be Proud of Your Success Before You Prepare for the New YearAs the year winds down, many leaders rush ahead instead of pausing. In this episode of the EntreArchitect Podcast, we explore why it matters to stop to reflect before the new year. Mark R. LePage is joined by Shannon Hughes of Enliven Studios to talk about pride, progress, and presence.Shannon shares her path from corporate recruitment advertising to building a people-first coaching practice. Along the way, she explains how intentional culture keeps teams engaged and connected. She also walks through a real firm turnaround and introduces her Five Finger Reflection process as a simple planning tool.Finally, the conversation offers clear, practical guidance for small firm architects. Therefore, listeners learn how reflection builds confidence before setting new goals. The result is leadership with more clarity, trust, and momentum.This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Stop to Reflect and Be Proud of Your Success Before You Prepare for the New Year with Shannon Hughes.Learn more about Shannon at Enlivened Studios, and connect with her on LinkedIn.Please Visit Our Platform SponsorsArcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

A New Era for AIA Contract Documents and What It Means for Small FirmsA new era for AIA Contract Documents is reshaping how small firms manage risk, clarity, and collaboration. In this episode of EntreArchitect, Mark R. LePage talks with Nick Macey, CEO of AIA Contract Documents, about what this shift really means for practice today. Together, they explore why contracts matter more than ever in an increasingly complex design and construction landscape.Nick shares how AIA Contract Documents has evolved from static PDFs to smarter, digital tools. He explains how clear agreements support better relationships, fewer disputes, and stronger project outcomes. Along the way, the conversation highlights why small firms often feel the pain of poor contract processes first.The discussion looks ahead to the future of contract intelligence. Nick explains how AI and data-informed tools can make contracts more accessible and less intimidating. As a result, architects can spend less time managing risk and more time designing with confidence.This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, A New Era for AIA Contract Documents and What It Means for Small Firms with Nick Macey.Learn more about Nick at AIAcontracts.com, and find him on LinkedIn.Please Visit Our Platform SponsorsArcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

Designing Resilient Homes for a New Climate Reality (Case Study House 2.0)In this episode of the EntreArchitect Podcast, we explore designing resilient homes for a new climate reality with architects Harper Halprin and Aaron Leshtz of AAHA Studio. They share the story behind their Case Study 2.0 project, a modern reimagining of the iconic Case Study House Program built for an era marked by wildfire risk and climate urgency. As they explain, this initiative grew from both professional experience and personal encounters with fire-damaged communities in Southern California.Harper and Aaron walk through the origins of AAHA Studio, their early careers in New York, and the creative influences that shaped their approach to architecture. They describe how Crest Real Estate enlisted them to develop a catalog of fire-resilient prototype homes with predictable fees and targeted construction budgets. Their courtyard-based design responds to real burn-site conditions, strengthens defensible space, and supports indoor–outdoor living while keeping residents safer. Through each step, they emphasize that design is about more than aesthetics; it is about how a building performs, protects, and supports the people who live in it.The conversation also highlights the vital leadership role architects play after disasters. Harper and Aaron share how the architectural community mobilized through roundtables, AIA coordination, and shared resources to help neighborhoods rebuild. They close with practical encouragement for small firm architects: stay curious, keep learning, be open to opportunity, and always lead with service. This episode offers a timely reminder that resilient design isn’t just a trend—it’s a responsibility.This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Designing Resilient Homes for a New Climate Reality (Case Study House 2.0) with Harper Halprin and Aaron Leshtz.Learn more about Harper and Aaron at AAHA Studio, check out Case Study 2.0, follow them on Instagram, and connect with Harper and Aaron on LinkedIn.Please Visit Our Platform SponsorsArcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

Your Next Hire Should Be a Systems ChampionYour next hire should be a systems champion, especially if you’re an architect drowning in day-to-day operations. In this episode of the EntreArchitect Podcast, Mark R. LePage talks with David Jenyns, founder of Systemology and author of Systems Champion. David explains why architects must build systems that work without them and how a dedicated systems champion can transform the way a small firm runs. He also shares why systemization feels hard for creatives, and how to make it simpler and more sustainable.David and Mark break down the mindset shift required to step out of daily production. They also explore the role accountability plays in keeping systems alive, not just documented. Because AI is now part of every firm’s workflow, David outlines simple ways to use it to make systems easier to create and maintain. The conversation feels practical, encouraging, and rooted in real-world firm experience.By the end, you’ll know where to start, what to delegate first, and how a systems champion can unlock more time, profit, and clarity in your business. You’ll also gain tools to empower your team, improve consistency, and build a business that supports your life instead of consuming it. This is a must-listen for any architect ready to scale with less stress and more intention.This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Your Next Hire Should Be a Systems Champion with David Jenyns.Learn more about David at systemHUB, check out the book Systems Champion, listen to the Business Processes Simplified Podcast, and connect with him on Facebook, X and LinkedIn.Please Visit Our Platform SponsorsArcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.

Using the Right Words: How Copywriting Builds a Better Architecture BrandIn this episode, Mark R. LePage talks with award-winning copywriter Larry Lindner, opening the door to a conversation many architects overlook: why the right words matter just as much as great design. Larry explains how strong storytelling helps architects stand out in a crowded market and connect with the clients they want to serve.As the conversation unfolds, Larry shares the biggest communication mistakes he sees architects make and how simple shifts in messaging can dramatically change how a firm is perceived. He also breaks down what editors look for when publishing architect-written articles and why authentic narratives easily outperform generic marketing language. Furthermore, Mark and Larry discuss how AI can support, not replace, a strong human-driven voice.Listeners will walk away with practical steps they can apply today. From tightening up website copy to pitching a story to a magazine, Larry outlines clear actions to strengthen any firm’s brand. Even small improvements in communication can build trust, deepen relationships, and fuel long-term business growth.This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Using the Right Words: How Copywriting Builds a Better Architecture Brand with Larry Lindner.Learn more about Larry at Larry Lindner and connect with him on LinkedIn.Please Visit Our Platform SponsorsArcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.Mentioned in this episode:SpacesBuild Your BrandContext & Clarity

Intentional Visibility for Small Architecture FirmsIn this episode of the EntreArchitect Podcast, Mark R. LePage explores the concept of intentional visibility for small architecture firms with marketing experts Katie Alessi and Kelly Donahue. Together, they unpack what it truly means to be visible in a crowded market and how small firms can strategically connect their message to the right audience. Listeners will gain clarity on how to define their ideal client and make consistent marketing decisions that support long-term growth.Katie and Kelly share real-world insights from decades of experience helping AEC firms build brands that resonate. They break down the difference between marketing and public relations, offering actionable steps for architects who feel unsure where to start. Through practical examples and approachable strategies, they show how intentional visibility can transform a firm’s reputation and attract the right kind of work.The conversation also touches on the evolving role of AI in marketing and the importance of staying consistent, even when results take time. By the end, listeners will feel empowered to align their marketing efforts with their values and goals—proving that visibility isn’t about shouting the loudest, but about showing up with purpose.This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Intentional Visibility for Small Architecture Firms with Katie Alessi and Kelly Donahue.Learn more about Katie and Kelly at Trifecta Collaborative, and connect with them on LinkedIn: Katie & Kelly. Please Visit Our Platform SponsorsArcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.Mentioned in this episode:SpacesContext & ClarityBuild Your Brand

How Lighting Design Shapes Our Health and Business SuccessHow lighting design shapes our health is more than an architectural trend—it’s a business advantage. In this episode, lighting designer and educator David Warfel reveals how light influences our sleep, productivity, and mood in both homes and workplaces. He explains how natural light strengthens our circadian rhythm and why better lighting can lead to sharper thinking and higher energy.David breaks down the science of how we absorb and process light. He shares simple design strategies that boost well-being, even when natural light is limited. Plus, he explains why balanced lighting is not just a luxury but a critical tool for healthier living and working.Finally, David explores what the future of lighting could look like for those designing spaces. You’ll hear practical takeaways to improve your next project and to elevate your client experience. After listening, you’ll never look at lighting the same way again.This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, How Lighting Design Shapes Our Health and Business Success with David Warfel.Learn more about David at Light Can Help You, and connect with him on LinkedIn and YouTube. Stay tuned for more information on the online community coming in 2026.Please Visit Our Platform SponsorsArcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.Mentioned in this episode:SpacesContext & ClarityBuild Your Brand

The Power of Placemaking at Skylab ArchitectureIn this episode of the EntreArchitect Podcast, Mark R. LePage explores holistic design process architecture with Susan Barnes and Robin Wilcox of Skylab. Based in Portland, Skylab integrates architecture, interiors, and master planning into one seamless approach. Their work shows that design is more than solving problems. It is storytelling and placemaking. Susan and Robin share how curiosity and a deep understanding of people and place guide every project. The result is memorable environments that connect with both users and communities.Susan Barnes discusses her path into architecture and what motivates her design leadership. She believes that architecture should be timeless and anchored in material quality. Susan led the team behind Nike’s World Headquarters Serena Williams Building, a project shaped by careful listening and stakeholder collaboration. She explains why holistic design process architecture puts people first and helps teams make decisions that stay true to project goals. For Susan, a refined concept emerges only when everyone feels valued and heard.Robin Wilcox brings the conversation into the world of resort, hospitality, and large-scale commercial projects. He has guided the design of destinations like the Deer Valley Masterplan, the A-Frame Club in Colorado, and new work at Telluride Ski and Golf. Robin explains how collaboration and storytelling drive alignment among large project teams. He believes design must respond to the land and the culture of a place to create lasting value. Together, Susan and Robin offer a clear message: meaningful architecture happens when relationships, story, and place lead the process.This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, The Power of Placemaking at Skylab Architecture with Susan Barnes & Robin Wilcox.Learn more about Susan and Robin at Skylab Architecture, and connect with them on Instagram and LinkedIn.Please Visit Our Platform SponsorsArcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.Mentioned in this episode:SpacesContext & ClarityBuild Your Brand