From the Honeycomb

Celebrating five years of From the Honeycomb Podcast! In this special anniversary episode, Katerina takes a moment to reflect on the journey since launching the podcast in October 2021. Over the past five years, the podcast has evolved through different chapters of her life, exploring topics ranging from architecture, design, and Vastu Shastra to personal growth, career milestones, and the importance of building meaningful connections. Katerina reflects on the relationships and community that have developed through podcasting, and how sharing stories and experiences has created opportunities for learning and growth. As she looks toward the next chapter, Katerina shares how her own life and career continue to evolve, including the exciting growth of her architecture firm and the lessons that come with running a business. This episode is a celebration of five years of creativity, curiosity, connection, and the experiences that have shaped both the podcast and its host. Thank you to everyone who has listened, supported, and been part of the journey. Here's to many more stories from the honeycomb!   Mentioned: Architectette podcast Ep. 175 From Curiosity to Cultivation: Growing a Purposeful Business with Horticulturist Amanda Lehna Ep. 165 - Women in Architecture: Building Boundaries, Cultivating Joy, and Prioritizing Well-Being with Shadia Jaramillo Ep. 171 - Building a Business That Can Evolve with founder Tiffany Teoh   Grab your copy of The Mindful Blueprint for Launching Your Architecture Firm  Use code honeycomb20 for 20% off! Support the podcast on Patreon! Subscribe to the From the Honeycomb newsletter! Meditate with Katerina on Insight Timer   Follow From the Honeycomb on Instagram! Podcast Audio edit by @voiceoverangela Intro music provided by kabgig / Pond5   By accessing this Podcast, I acknowledge that the entire contents are the property of Katerina Burianova, or used by Katerina Burianova with permission, and are protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. Except as otherwise provided herein, users of this Podcast may save and use information contained in the Podcast only for personal or other non-commercial, educational purposes. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission or editing, of this Podcast may be made without the prior written permission of the Katerina Burianova, which may be requested by contacting [email protected] This podcast is for educational purposes only. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein.

Navigating a residential architecture project is about more than beautiful drawings—it’s about building a strong partnership between the client and architect. In this episode, Katerina shares practical advice for homeowners on how to become respectful, informed, and effective collaborators throughout the design and construction process. She explains the differences between architects and designers, clarifying their responsibilities and explaining how choosing the right professional can set a project up for success.  Katerina also discusses realistic project timelines, the importance of clear and timely communication, and how client decisions can directly impact the overall schedule. She addresses common challenges, including unpermitted work, navigating building codes, and the misconceptions created by social media and home renovation television shows. Whether you're planning your first remodel or building a custom home, this episode provides an honest look at the architectural process and offers practical guidance to help you create a smoother, more successful project from start to finish.   Mentioned: Episode 126 of FTH - different design stages   Grab your copy of The Mindful Blueprint for Launching Your Architecture Firm  Use code honeycomb20 for 20% off! Support the podcast on Patreon! Subscribe to the From the Honeycomb newsletter! Meditate with Katerina on Insight Timer   Follow From the Honeycomb on Instagram! Podcast Audio edit by @voiceoverangela Intro music provided by kabgig / Pond5   By accessing this Podcast, I acknowledge that the entire contents are the property of Katerina Burianova, or used by Katerina Burianova with permission, and are protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. Except as otherwise provided herein, users of this Podcast may save and use information contained in the Podcast only for personal or other non-commercial, educational purposes. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission or editing, of this Podcast may be made without the prior written permission of the Katerina Burianova, which may be requested by contacting [email protected] This podcast is for educational purposes only. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein.

Katerina sits down with Charlotte Lilley, founder of The Retreat Comany, to talk about her journey from the corporate tech world to building a business centered around connection, travel, and community for women. Together they dive into what inspired Charlotte to leave the traditional career path behind and how she turned the idea of curated retreats into a thriving business. Charlotte shares the behind-the-scenes of planning retreats, from choosing destinations and creating memorable experiences to fostering genuine relationships among attendees. They talk about the realities of entrepreneurship, scaling a business, and the challenges that come with growing while still keeping experiences intentional and personal. Throughout the conversation, they explore the power of community, the importance of creating spaces where women can connect, and what it really takes to build a business rooted in meaningful experiences. From networking and relationship building to the logistics of retreat planning and scaling a company, Charlotte offers an honest look into entrepreneurship and creating experiences that leave a lasting impact.   Mentioned:  The Retreat Company Website Subscribe to Newsletter Email Charlotte: [email protected] Follow on Instagram @_theretreatcompany The Ski Retreat - Check out 2027 dates!   Grab your copy of The Mindful Blueprint for Launching Your Architecture Firm  Use code honeycomb20 for 20% off! Support the podcast on Patreon! Subscribe to the From the Honeycomb newsletter! Meditate with Katerina on Insight Timer   Follow From the Honeycomb on Instagram! Podcast Audio edit by @voiceoverangela Intro music provided by kabgig / Pond5   By accessing this Podcast, I acknowledge that the entire contents are the property of Katerina Burianova, or used by Katerina Burianova with permission, and are protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. Except as otherwise provided herein, users of this Podcast may save and use information contained in the Podcast only for personal or other non-commercial, educational purposes. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission or editing, of this Podcast may be made without the prior written permission of the Katerina Burianova, which may be requested by contacting [email protected] This podcast is for educational purposes only. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein.  

In this week's episode Katerina sits down with horticulturist and entrepreneur Amanda Laney for a conversation about curiosity, reinvention, and the courage to follow an unexpected path. Amanda shares how her professional journey began in the culinary world before evolving into horticulture, a transition that reshaped both her career and her perspective on growth. Through hands-on experience and exploration, Amanda discovered the value of learning by doing and embracing change as an essential part of personal and professional development. She reflects on how gratitude has played a central role in shaping her mindset, helping her navigate uncertainty while building a business rooted in intention and purpose. The conversation explores the realities of entrepreneurship, including the patience and resilience required to move through challenges and the understanding that success rarely follows a linear path. Amanda speaks openly about the importance of community and connection, highlighting how networking and collaboration have supported her journey and led to meaningful opportunities, including her involvement with the Ladies Lifestyle Network. This episode is a reminder that careers evolve, passions deepen over time, and growth often comes from stepping into the unknown. Amanda’s story encourages listeners to trust their curiosity, embrace their unique journeys, and build businesses aligned with who they truly are becoming.   Mentioned:  Ladies lifestyle Network Email Amanda at [email protected] Follow @amanda.lehna and  @botanical_horizons   Grab your copy of The Mindful Blueprint for Launching Your Architecture Firm  Use code honeycomb20 for 20% off! Support the podcast on Patreon! Subscribe to the From the Honeycomb newsletter! Meditate with Katerina on Insight Timer   Follow From the Honeycomb on Instagram! Podcast Audio edit by LadyToluu Soile  https://www.fiverr.com/users/bamisesoile/seller_dashboard. Intro music provided by kabgig / Pond5   By accessing this Podcast, I acknowledge that the entire contents are the property of Katerina Burianova, or used by Katerina Burianova with permission, and are protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. Except as otherwise provided herein, users of this Podcast may save and use information contained in the Podcast only for personal or other non-commercial, educational purposes. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission or editing, of this Podcast may be made without the prior written permission of the Katerina Burianova, which may be requested by contacting [email protected] This podcast is for educational purposes only. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein.  

In this week's episode Katerina sits down with Jayven Colon, passionate salsa and bachata dancer and founder of Alliance Dance Academy, for a heartfelt conversation about movement, community, and what it really takes to build something of your own. Jayven shares how his journey into dance began almost by accident in high school, where he started teaching friends during lunchtime without realizing it would one day lead to owning a dance academy. What began as a hobby gradually became a calling. Jayven opens up about the support systems that shaped his path and the pivotal moment when entrepreneurship became less of a dream and more of a necessary leap. He reflects on the challenges of stepping into business ownership, especially when he never imagined himself running a dance academy, and how that transition required courage, adaptability, and deep self-trust. At the heart of this conversation is Jayven's commitment to inclusivity. Through Alliance Dance Academy, he is intentionally creating a safe and welcoming space where dancers of all backgrounds and identities feel seen and supported. He speaks about disrupting binary norms in social dancing, encouraging fluidity in dance roles, and fostering an environment where expression is celebrated rather than confined. This episode is a beautiful reminder that community can be built anywhere people feel safe to move, express, and belong. Through dance, Jayven has found joy and purpose—and he is dedicated to helping others discover the same.   Website: alliancedancecademy.net IG: @alliancedance_academy   Grab your copy of The Mindful Blueprint for Launching Your Architecture Firm  Use code honeycomb20 for 20% off! Support the podcast on Patreon! Subscribe to the From the Honeycomb newsletter! Meditate with Katerina on Insight Timer   Follow From the Honeycomb on Instagram! Podcast Audio edit by LadyToluu Soile  https://www.fiverr.com/users/bamisesoile/seller_dashboard. Intro music provided by kabgig / Pond5   By accessing this Podcast, I acknowledge that the entire contents are the property of Katerina Burianova, or used by Katerina Burianova with permission, and are protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. Except as otherwise provided herein, users of this Podcast may save and use information contained in the Podcast only for personal or other non-commercial, educational purposes. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission or editing, of this Podcast may be made without the prior written permission of the Katerina Burianova, which may be requested by contacting [email protected] This podcast is for educational purposes only. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein.  

In this first solo episode of the year, Katerina reflects on a year marked by growth and meaningful transformations—both personally and professionally. She shares honest insights into the expansion of her business in late 2025, the lessons learned through navigating a full workload, and the importance of tracking project timelines with intention. Katerina also opens up about experiencing personal loss and how it shaped the way she showed up in her work. With deep gratitude, she acknowledges the clients who offered understanding and support during a difficult season. Looking ahead, she introduces her word of the year for 2026: “luxurious fun.” It’s a reminder that ambition and enjoyment can coexist—that building a business doesn’t have to come at the expense of living fully. As she steps into this next chapter, Katerina shares her commitment to elevating the client experience and prioritizing quality over quantity. This episode is a heartfelt reflection on resilience, alignment, and building a business—and life—that feels expansive.   Mentioned:  Check out my website Liz Sydnor AWAD (Association of Women of Architecture and Design) events   Grab your copy of The Mindful Blueprint for Launching Your Architecture Firm  Use code honeycomb20 for 20% off! Support the podcast on Patreon! Subscribe to the From the Honeycomb newsletter! Meditate with Katerina on Insight Timer   Follow From the Honeycomb on Instagram! Podcast Audio edit by LadyToluu Soile  https://www.fiverr.com/users/bamisesoile/seller_dashboard. Intro music provided by kabgig / Pond5   By accessing this Podcast, I acknowledge that the entire contents are the property of Katerina Burianova, or used by Katerina Burianova with permission, and are protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. Except as otherwise provided herein, users of this Podcast may save and use information contained in the Podcast only for personal or other non-commercial, educational purposes. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission or editing, of this Podcast may be made without the prior written permission of the Katerina Burianova, which may be requested by contacting [email protected] This podcast is for educational purposes only. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein.  

In this episode, Katerina sits down with Avideh Haghighi, architect and founder of Zero Houz, to explore what it truly means to commit to sustainable living through architecture. Avideh shares her unconventional path into the profession, rooted in a deep love for art, and how sustainability captured her interest long before it had a name.  The conversation dives into the financial realities of building sustainably and why understanding costs is essential to making meaningful change. Avideh discusses renovating her own decades old home as a living case study, transforming it into a net-zero energy residence and proving that high-performance, energy-efficient homes do not have to come with significant cost premiums. She also unpacks the sometimes contradictory nature of building codes, including solar requirements that may not always align with the most efficient design solutions. Throughout the episode, Avideh opens up about entrepreneurship in architecture as an ongoing process of learning, adaptation, and values-driven decision-making. Together, she and Katerina explore how Zero Houz is evolving into a broader model for sustainable development and how architects can lead by example in shaping a more resilient, intentional built environment.   Mentioned: Sign up for Zerohouz newsletter here! www.zerohouz.com https://www.instagram.com/zero.houz/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/zero.houz/   Grab your copy of The Mindful Blueprint for Launching Your Architecture Firm  Use code honeycomb20 for 20% off! Support the podcast on Patreon! Subscribe to the From the Honeycomb newsletter! Meditate with Katerina on Insight Timer   Follow From the Honeycomb on Instagram! Podcast Audio edit by LadyToluu Soile  https://www.fiverr.com/users/bamisesoile/seller_dashboard. Intro music provided by kabgig / Pond5   By accessing this Podcast, I acknowledge that the entire contents are the property of Katerina Burianova, or used by Katerina Burianova with permission, and are protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. Except as otherwise provided herein, users of this Podcast may save and use information contained in the Podcast only for personal or other non-commercial, educational purposes. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission or editing, of this Podcast may be made without the prior written permission of the Katerina Burianova, which may be requested by contacting [email protected] This podcast is for educational purposes only. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein.  

In the first episode of 2026, Katerina welcomes back Tiffany Teoh the founder of The Traveller Series for an honest conversation about growth, resilience, and evolution—both in life and in business. The discussion reflects on how personal transformation can directly influence leadership, decision-making, and the way a company moves forward. Tiffany shares her decision to merge two brands into one, the importance of delegation, and why flexibility often serves entrepreneurs better than rigid long-term plans. There is a deep dive into the realities of running an e-commerce business, including understanding sales cycles, making strategic investments during slower seasons, and approaching scale with intention rather than urgency. Throughout the conversation, the value of mentorship and community stands out, highlighting how shared support and guidance can ease the challenges of entrepreneurship and create a more sustainable path forward. At the end of the episode, Tiffany shares an exciting new chapter for the jewelry brand, including the launch of mystery boxes designed to add surprise, joy, and creativity to the customer experience!   Mentioned: Listen to Tiffany's previous episode #140 Turning Passion into Gold www.thetravellerseries.co Pinterest/Tiktok Instagram: @thetravellerseries and @thetiffanyteoh Shop the Mystery box   Grab your copy of The Mindful Blueprint for Launching Your Architecture Firm  Use code honeycomb20 for 20% off! Support the podcast on Patreon! Subscribe to the From the Honeycomb newsletter! Meditate with Katerina on Insight Timer   Follow From the Honeycomb on Instagram! Podcast Audio edit by LadyToluu Soile  https://www.fiverr.com/users/bamisesoile/seller_dashboard. Intro music provided by kabgig / Pond5   By accessing this Podcast, I acknowledge that the entire contents are the property of Katerina Burianova, or used by Katerina Burianova with permission, and are protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. Except as otherwise provided herein, users of this Podcast may save and use information contained in the Podcast only for personal or other non-commercial, educational purposes. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission or editing, of this Podcast may be made without the prior written permission of the Katerina Burianova, which may be requested by contacting [email protected] This podcast is for educational purposes only. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein.  

In the final episode of From the Honeycomb for 2025, Katerina and her husband Jesse reflect on a year that brought both unexpected challenges and meaningful wins. In this honest conversation, they share what it looked like to run their businesses through shifting economic conditions, client and consultant dynamics, and increasing responsibilities—while staying grounded in purpose and discipline. They pull back the curtain on the less-visible parts of entrepreneurship: raising fees, expanding and trusting a team, managing uncertain timelines, and navigating external pressures that impact daily decision-making. Along the way, they make space for gratitude, acknowledging the simple joys that helped anchor them through it all. This episode is a thoughtful close to the year—rooted in reflection, resilience, and the lessons learned from uncertainty. It honors the progress made, the challenges faced head-on, and the steady commitment required to keep moving forward. Mentioned: Grab your copy of The Mindful Blueprint for Launching Your Architecture Firm  Use code honeycomb20 for 20% off! Support the podcast on Patreon! Subscribe to the From the Honeycomb newsletter! Meditate with Katerina on Insight Timer   Follow From the Honeycomb on Instagram! Podcast Audio edit by LadyToluu Soile  https://www.fiverr.com/users/bamisesoile/seller_dashboard. Intro music provided by kabgig / Pond5   By accessing this Podcast, I acknowledge that the entire contents are the property of Katerina Burianova, or used by Katerina Burianova with permission, and are protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. Except as otherwise provided herein, users of this Podcast may save and use information contained in the Podcast only for personal or other non-commercial, educational purposes. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission or editing, of this Podcast may be made without the prior written permission of the Katerina Burianova, which may be requested by contacting [email protected] This podcast is for educational purposes only. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein.  

In the last guest episode of the year, Katerina sits down with landscape architect and founder of Milliman Design Studio, Emily Milliman, for an inspiring conversation about creativity, entrepreneurship, and community. Emily shares how her journey into landscape architecture began with a deep love of art and design, and how she continues to weave those passions into her work today. Emily opens up about the importance of having a supportive community of solopreneurs and how networking through boards and local events has been key to building lasting client relationships. She discusses how balancing art and landscape architecture is an organic process and how the material she works with — nature itself — is living and ever-changing. The conversation also explores the realities of entrepreneurship: from diversifying income streams and maintaining transparency with clients to staying flexible and adaptable through change. Emily encourages aspiring designers to start building their personal brand early and to approach design with both short and long-term goals in mind. This episode is a thoughtful look at how creativity, connection, and adaptability shape not only our work but also the communities we grow within.   Mentioned: www.millimandesignstudio.com (landscape architecture site) www.emilymilliman.com (art site) Connect with Emily on Linkedin Follow Emily on Instagram @emilliman Follow Emily's landscape firm on Instagram @millimandesignstudio Follow Emily's artwork on Instagram @millimanprints   Grab your copy of The Mindful Blueprint for Launching Your Architecture Firm  Use code honeycomb20 for 20% off! Support the podcast on Patreon! Subscribe to the From the Honeycomb newsletter! Meditate with Katerina on Insight Timer   Follow From the Honeycomb on Instagram! Podcast Audio edit by LadyToluu Soile  https://www.fiverr.com/users/bamisesoile/seller_dashboard. Intro music provided by kabgig / Pond5   By accessing this Podcast, I acknowledge that the entire contents are the property of Katerina Burianova, or used by Katerina Burianova with permission, and are protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. Except as otherwise provided herein, users of this Podcast may save and use information contained in the Podcast only for personal or other non-commercial, educational purposes. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission or editing, of this Podcast may be made without the prior written permission of the Katerina Burianova, which may be requested by contacting [email protected] This podcast is for educational purposes only. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein.