Published by Rachel Gresham, Ali Alsaleh
Built for Business is the AIA podcast on the business of architecture - covering firm leadership, practice management, client relationships, and how architects build profitable, thriving firms.
Listen on Apple PodcastsWhat if architects stopped working for developers and started becoming developers themselves? Joshua Zinder of JZA+D and Chris Farnum of Studio Hillier explore how adding development to an architecture practice can unlock new revenue streams, greater creative agency, and long-term wealth creation. They share practical advice on evaluating opportunities, understanding pro formas, building trusted partnerships, managing risk, and leveraging the skills architects already have to take a seat at the ownership table. Whether you're a sole practitioner or firm leader, this conversation offers a roadmap for expanding your impact beyond traditional practice.
Can transparency be a competitive advantage? Blake Daniels and Halie Chandler of DanielsChandler discuss how they built a thriving architecture firm by sharing business metrics with employees, embracing calculated risk, and creating a culture where everyone understands how the business works. Their approach challenges traditional firm leadership and offers a roadmap for sustainable growth.
Architecture firms can’t rely on the same playbook forever. Brad Lukanic, CEO of CannonDesign, discusses growth through innovation, the power of strategic frameworks over strategic plans, building long-term client relationships, and why AI may reshape how architects work, but not why they matter.
How do you build a firm that lasts and leads? Wendy Rogers, CEO of LPA and leader of the 2025 AIA Architecture Firm Award recipient, shares how a commitment to sustainability, integrated practice, and people-first culture helped transform LPA from a 40-person firm into a nationally recognized design leader. From business strategy and resilience to innovation and long-term growth, Wendy offers practical insights for architects looking to build stronger firms and create lasting impact.
Why do so many architects struggle with business, and what can be done about it? In this inaugural episode of AIA Built for Business , hosts Rachel Gresham, AIA,MBA and Ali Alsaleh, Assoc. AIA introduce the podcast, share their personal journeys through architecture and entrepreneurship, and explore the business acumen gap facing the profession. They discuss why firm culture, project management, and business prosperity matter, and how AIA resources can help architects build stronger, more successful practices.