EntreArchitect Podcast with Mark R. LePage

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