In this episode of the Archispeak podcast, Je’Nen Chastain, founder of Apostrophe Consulting, joins us to discuss the shifts and challenges in the realm of architectural practice and running a successful firm, emphasizing leadership, business management, mentorship, and the need for adaptability within organizations. Je’Nen also touches on her personal challenges and professional evolution, the impact of the economic downturn on her generation, and the crucial role of mentorship and internal communication in fostering a supportive and engaging workspace.

Episode Links:

• Je’Nen on LinkedIn
• Apostrophe Consulting website
• Apostrophe Consulting on LinkedIn
• Apostrophe Consulting on Instagram
• Leadership Is an Art by Max Depree (Amazon)

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Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

The Archispeak University (AU) series provides educational content for architects and designers.

In this episode of the Archispeak podcast, Primo Orpilla, Principal and Owner of O+A Architecture, shares his extensive experience in workplace design, tracing his experiences in the evolution of office spaces over the last 30 years.

Starting his career during a challenging period, Primo talks about how he adapted to the needs of tech companies in Silicon Valley, contributing to the transformation from traditional cubicle setups to dynamic, agile work environments.

Today he discusses the shift towards accommodating a variety of work styles within the office environment, emphasizing choice and flexibility for employees. Primo highlights the impact of amenities, cultural shifts, and the post-COVID landscape on workspace design, aiming to attract talent and foster productivity. Moreover, he explores the significance of creating diverse outdoor workspaces and integrating technology to support and enhance the work experience.

The conversation concludes with valuable advice for architects and designers on engaging with clients to craft spaces that resonate with current and future workforce expectations.

Episode Sponsor:

This episode has been made possible with the generous support of Bromic Heating.

Episode Links:

• Studio O+A website
• Studio O+A on LinkedIn
• Studio O+A on Instagram
• Primo on LinkedIn
• Primo on Instagram
• Bromic website
• Eclipse heaters
• Bromic heater Revit and CAD files
• Design service with a heating expert

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Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.

In this episode, Michael Ermann of Amber Book and Virginia Tech joins us as we tackle the topic of architectural internships – both for those seeking and for the firms providing them.

We kick off by sharing our early internship experiences and comparing them to modern practices. We discuss the treatment of internships as a scarce resource by many architectural firms and its impact on the industry and transition from education to professional roles.

We also reveal essential tips for students seeking summer internships and provide advice for firms on how to create a meaningful internship program and identify the best internship candidates. The conversation also explores the benefits of early licensure for emerging professionals and the pitfalls that hold people back within the profession.

Episode Sponsors

Amber Book

Pass the ARE® with Amber Book. Get your architecture license and build your career with our immersive, visually engaging ARE 5.0 exam prep. It’s time to pass the ARE 5.0 and have fun doing it.

Episode Links:

• Amber Book website
• Amber Book on LinkedIn
• Amber Book on Instagram
• Michael on LinkedIn

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Thank you for listening to Archispeak. For more episodes please visit https://archispeakpodcast.com.

Support Archispeak by making a donation.