Archispeak
Episodes
#382 - AI, Meetings, and the Architecture Grind
01 Dec 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Archispeak, we pull back the curtain on what modern practice actually feels like when AI, meetings, and the architecture grind all ...
#381 - Anthony Laney on Craft, Clarity, and the Definition of Home
25 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Archispeak, we sit down with architect Anthony Laney to explore the ideas behind his new book, Poetics of Home. We talk about what ...
#380 - The Vibe
17 Nov 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Archispeak, we talk about that elusive quality that aligns people with great art (and spaces)—but this time through the lens of a...
#379 - Step Back to Move the Work Forward
01 Oct 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode we discuss how taking a step back from work leads to better architecture. We talk about concrete ways to break free from constant busy...
#378 - Misalignments of Rigor
16 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Archispeak, we trade fresh field notes from Cormac’s latest midwestern architecture road trip and wrestle with the title theme: M...
#377 - The Disconnect Between Academia and Practice
08 Sep 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Archispeak, we dive into the tough reality of how the architecture profession often fails its own. From the way firms accelerate pr...
#376 - Across the Street from Genius: Yale’s A&A and Art Gallery
25 Aug 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Archispeak, we walk across the street in New Haven—literally and figuratively—to explore two masterworks by Paul Rudolph and Lo...
#375 - Yale Center for British Art by Louis Kahn
29 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Archispeak, we walk through the Yale Center for British Art by Louis Kahn and reflect on what makes this building truly great. From...
#374 - 2025 Summer of Architecture, Part 1
08 Jul 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In part 1 of our summer series centered on the 2025 AIA Conference on Architecture, we discuss Evan's first visit to Boston and share his and Cormac's...
#373 - ‘Slowing Down to Speed Up’, with Carla Johnson
16 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Archispeak, we’re joined by Carla Johnson—author, speaker, and innovation strategist—for a conversation that’s both energiz...
#372 - AU - The Future of Home Automation
09 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Archispeak, we explore the evolving frontier of home automation with Jeff Thomas of Control4 and Michael Smith of Bromic Heating. T...
#371 - Genius Loci
02 Jun 2025
Contributed by Lukas
What makes architecture memorable? Why do some spaces hit you in the chest while others feel hollow? In this episode of Archispeak, we explore a conce...
#370 - Rebuilding After The LA Fires
19 May 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Archispeak, we’re joined by Jessica Orlando, Vice President and President-Elect of the AIA Pasadena Foothill chapter, to explore ...
#369 - Salary Transparency in Architecture
28 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Archispeak, we sit down with Robert Yuen, CEO and co-founder of Monograph, to dive into the findings from their latest Architecture...
#368 - Architectural Ratchet Straps
22 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode we explore the intersection of structural engineering, adaptive reuse, and creative problem-solving in architecture. From a lightheart...
#367 - Level of Expected Standard of Care
14 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join us for an engaging discussion with Chad Clary where we explore how architectural projects differ from movies and video games in terms of creditin...
#366 - Why Architects MUST Question Everything to Create Memorable Spaces
07 Apr 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we have a discussion about the value of sketching for idea development, the importance of questioning everything in architecture, the...
#365 - Why Architects MUST Reimagine the Profession
31 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
William Dodge joins the podcast to discuss his latest article the integration of AI in architecture, its impact on creativity, the evolving role of ar...
#364 - AU - Outdoor Design Trends on Cruise Ships
17 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode we welcome Helena Sawelin from Tillberg Design to explore the evolution of cruise ship design. Helena shares her company's impressive ...
#363 - The Ramifications of Decisions
11 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we talk about design intent and construction tolerances. We examine how architectural designs intersect with construction realities, ...
#362 - A Brutal(ist) Review
03 Mar 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this thought-provoking episode, Evan and Cormac engage in a spirited critique of "The Brutalist," with an in-depth analysis of cinema through an ar...
#361 - ‘Does the Profession Value Specifiers?’, with Jeff Potter
12 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we dive deep into the often overlooked role of architectural specifiers. Our special guest, Jeff Potter, shares his unconventional pa...
#360 - Guiding Without Influencing
05 Feb 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we talk about early AEC exposure to high school students with a discussion of the ACE Mentorship Program. We share personal experienc...
#359 - Cormac’s Problem with Corbusier
27 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we discuss Cormac’s excitement about the Detroit Lions making the playoffs and explore the significant transformation happening in ...
#358 - AU - ‘Mastering Outdoor Space Design’, with Frank Cavanaugh
20 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Frank Cavanaugh from the Aria Group joins us to share insights on designing outdoor spaces, focusing on essential considerations for ...
#357 - ‘The Value of Lifelong Learning in Architecture’, with Kevin Jones
14 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Today we welcome Kevin Jones who is an architect and professor of practice from Virginia Tech's School of Architecture. We talk about the importance a...
#356 - That ‘New Me’ Glow
06 Jan 2025
Contributed by Lukas
Join us as we discuss the end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025 which included Evan’s studio makeover (featuring a reveal if you’re watching on Yo...
#355 - Full Flip Flop Mode
26 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join us in our last episode of 2024 as we explore how to balance emotional energy while maintaining high service standards during the year-end rush. W...
#354 - Fighting Revit
09 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of 'Archispeak Theater,' we begin with some musical nostalgia and then transition into a detailed exploration of the complexities and ...
#353 - Architecture Students are Screwed
05 Dec 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we discuss a listener's concerns about the financial burden of architectural education. We explore various career paths and alternati...
#352 - ‘A 13-Year Architecture Project’, with Israel Peña
21 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we talk with Israel Peña, who shares his incredible 13-year journey working on a historic elementary school modernization project in...
#351 - Frank Lloyd Garbage
11 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we dive into Cormac’s hoarding tendencies (aka our mutual love for architectural collectibles) by unboxing a special edition set of...
#350 - Coffee, Hurricanes, and Leadership
04 Nov 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this special Episode 350 of the Archispeak podcast, we discuss the celebration of our milestone with an unboxing of fresh beans from “Coffee Boy”...
#349 - ’Experiencing Infratecture‘, with Slade Sheaffer
28 Oct 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join us on a captivating exploration of cutting-edge architecture with insights from our special guest, Slade Sheaffer. In this episode we dive into S...
#348 - Witnessing the Birth of Passion
23 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we kick off with discussions about favorite movies and documentaries, leading into the portrayal of architects in film, and eventuall...
#347 - Evan’s Summer Adventures
16 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join us as we discuss Evan’s summer family road trip, loaded with scenic stops, family adventures, and unexpected roadside attractions. And fear not...
#346 - Balancing Academia and Professional Practice
12 Sep 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode we have a conversation about Cormac's exciting new adventure as an adjunct faculty member at Lawrence Technical University. We discuss...
#345 - Cormac's Continued Architectural Summer Adventures
21 Aug 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join us as we dive into Cormac's continued architectural summer adventures. This time he’s exploring the East Coast, Prince Edward Island, and visit...
#344 - He Pulled it Out of His _____
22 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we discuss pen refills and alignment OCD, the significance of what makes some architecture lovable (e.g. the Farnsworth House), a rev...
#343 - Punching the Building
15 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we talk about our experiences with punch lists. What are they? Who should be creating them? Why do they exist? We also talk about the...
#342 - From Idea to Execution
02 Jul 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Evan is jealous. Cormac recently went on a road trip with special guest Angelo Pirali to explore many (yes many!) remarkable architectural landmarks, ...
#341 - The Kevin Bacon of Architecture
24 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, join Evan and Cormac as they reminisce about unique road trips, discuss the importance of taking time off, and share plans for exciti...
#340 - AIA'24 Recap
17 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Join us in this episode as we recount our time at the 2024 AIA Conference on Architecture recently held in Washington DC. We highlight the travel, key...
#339 - AU - Outdoor Design Innovation with StruXure and Bromic Heating
03 Jun 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Archispeak welcomes Scott Selzer, CEO of StruXure, and Scott Smith, CEO of Bromic Heating, to discuss the evolution, current state, and innovations in...
#338 - Musical Appreciation
20 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we use a critical analysis of Radiohead’s ‘In Rainbows’ album as a jumping-off point to discuss the parallels between creating ...
#337 - Time for a New Project
13 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
Cormac is on a new project. In this episode we explore the complexities of working with historic buildings and the nuances of adaptive reuse projects....
#336 - AU - Embracing Sustainability
06 May 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Archispeak podcast, Thomas Ventura of Gensler joins us to talk about evolving expectations in office and outdoor space design, ...
#335 - ‘Multiple Pathways to Architectural Licensure’, with Jon Baker
29 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Archispeak, Jon Baker shares his unique journey to becoming an architect and discusses the different pathways to licensure offered ...
#334 - ‘Evolving Architectural Practice’, with Je’Nen Chastain
16 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of the Archispeak podcast, Je’Nen Chastain, founder of Apostrophe Consulting, joins us to discuss the shifts and challenges in the r...
#333 - AU - Evolving Workplace Design
08 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The Archispeak University (AU) series provides educational content for architects and designers.In this episode of the Archispeak podcast, Primo Orpil...
#332 - ‘Navigating Internships and Early Career Steps’, with Michael Ermann
01 Apr 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Michael Ermann of Amber Book and Virginia Tech joins us as we tackle the topic of architectural internships – both for those seeki...
#331 - ‘The Business of Architecture’, with Enoch Sears
25 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, podcaster Enoch Sears joins us to do a deep dive into the evolution of architectural podcasting over the last 12 years, the challenge...
#330 - Pseudo Productivity and the Right to Disconnect
18 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
We discuss Australia's 'Right to Disconnect' law, which aims to protect employees from having to engage in work-related communications outside of work...
#329 - AU - Designing the Future of Multifamily Living
11 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The Archispeak University (AU) series provides educational content for architects and designers.In this episode, Sara Schneider of TCA Architects join...
#328 - Losing Track of Time
04 Mar 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we talk about the things we do where we are so “in the zone” that we completely lose track of time. We also talk about the import...
#327 - Broke, Broken, and Broke-In
26 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Cormac reflects on the challenges, memories, and learnings from his most successful and intense project. He shares the story of the E...
#326 - The Culture of “ASAP”
19 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode of Archispeak, we discuss the overwhelming volume of emails we receive and the culture of "ASAP" that often accompanies it.We reflect ...
#325 - Unforeseen Conditions
12 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, Cormac tells us a story from the Army which sparks a discussion of various experiences on renovation and remodel projects which bring...
#324 - Archispeak Turns 12
05 Feb 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode we start off by acknowledging the 12th birthday of the Archispeak podcast. Our first episode titled “That Ah-ha Moment” ...
#323 - The Life Afforded
29 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
We discuss Cormac’s snow shoveling incident and then go deep into talking about work-life balance and how architects often struggle with this, and w...
#322 - A Special Place in Hell
22 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we discuss the importance of details in architectural designs, highlight the influence of technology and BIM on architectural drawing...
#321 - AU - New Trends in Custom Residential
15 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
The Archispeak University (AU) series introduces educational content for architects and designers. In this episode, Danny Wang of Danny Wang Design jo...
#320 - A Workaholic’s Resolution
08 Jan 2024
Contributed by Lukas
We all know architects work hard. Some work way too hard. In this episode, we discuss Cormac’s self-proclaimed workaholism and what he’s going to ...
#319 - Goodbye and Good Riddance
28 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Main topic: Evan leads us in an AI workshop.As we finish off 2023, we discuss the final printed Architect Magazine, the old ways of hoarding imagery f...
#318 - What Happened in Vegas
04 Dec 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Cormac gets more CEU’s bringing his HSW count to Jedi levels, Evan visits Las Vegas for the Autodesk University conference and gives a full report, ...
#317 - Siteseeing
27 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode we discuss a bit of site seeing, we discuss what not to say—even if it's too late—when visiting someone’s project house and they...
#316 - ‘Designing Your Career’, with David Bradley
20 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
David Bradley, AIA PCC joins us to discuss the importance of taking control of your career. We talk about defining outcomes, taking responsibility, se...
#315 - AU - Hospitality and Outdoor Spaces
06 Nov 2023
Contributed by Lukas
The Archispeak University (AU) series introduces educational content for architects and designers. Liz Neuffer of Aria Group joins the show to discuss...
#314 - Getting Called on the Carpet
23 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we discuss Cormac’s haunted house, rising license renewal fees, Evan’s first in-person (as an Oregonian) continuing education lun...
#313 - Cormac Phalen.PDF
16 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we kick things off with an unsolicited email that Cormac received inquiring about "just needing some plans drawn up”. Then, we wel...
#312 - Nerd Fest
09 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
Anger management kicks off our conversation where Cormac gets to deal with infrastructure replacement in his neighborhood and all of the joys that com...
#311 - Why We Glorify Overwork and Refuse to Rest
02 Oct 2023
Contributed by Lukas
First we refresh Evan’s memory on what an “ASI” is, then move on to talk about an article from the Harvard Business Review on the glorification ...
#310 - How Do We Manage It? Caffeine!
25 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode Evan tells us about “Riding the Rim” which to much of Cormac's chagrin is not an all-you-can-drink margarita bar. We also reminisc...
#309 - Field-trippin' with Frank
18 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TopicIn this episode of the Archispeak podcast, we continue to catch up with FLW and join Cormac as he continues his road trip adventure in search of ...
#308 - Road-trippin’ with Wright
11 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TopicWhen a project shouldn't go wrong… it will. After a brief counseling session we move beyond the trauma and discuss Cormac’s latest architectu...
#307 - HA HA
04 Sep 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TopicIn this episode we discuss Evan’s earliest of 3D modeling and feeling slighted by Cormac’s reaction to the cutting edge imagery from decades ...
#306 - North, South, East, or West?
29 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode we discuss how Cormac plans (or not) for road trips and how Evan is similar but different in his planning strategy. We also talk about...
#305 - The Weather Episode
21 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode Cormac discovers that math can determine the age of his house faster than his mind can, Evan prepares his house and property for the i...
#304 - The Summer Vacation Happy Hour
14 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TopicIn this episode we discuss a much needed summer vacation for Cormac: a complete cold turkey detachment from architecture as he ventures into the ...
#303 - The X Episode
07 Aug 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TopicIn this episode, we chat about Twitter rebranding to X, Evan asks Cormac two questions about the potential impact of AI on the architecture profe...
#302 - We Absolutely Suck At It
31 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TopicIn this episode we discuss Wes Anderson’s Asteroid City, Cormac’s desire to design, own and operate an old timey feeling movie theater, Evan ...
#301 - NCARB the Gift That Keeps on Taking
24 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TopicThis episode we discuss Archispeak Podcast joining the new socials like Threads and Instagram (finally). Evan discusses the letter NCARB send out...
#300 - Coffee Sketch and Archispeak: A Crossover Episode Without Coffee
17 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TopicA conversation about the use of technology in architecture, including the evolution of tools and the importance of maintaining a creative mindset...
#299 - Networking and Community at the AIA Conference
10 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TopicIn this episode we discuss our experiences at the 2023 AIA Conference on Architecture and the election of Evelyn Lee, FAIA as the 2025 President ...
#298 - Prototyping Ideas and Making Stuff with Cam Anderson of BlacktailStudio
03 Jul 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TopicIn a conversation about woodworking and content creation, Cam Anderson of BlacktailStudio joins the podcast to discuss the importance of making i...
#297 - Literal and Figurative Scars
26 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TopicWe discuss scars from our youth and scars from the profession, object visualizers versus text-based learners, the lack of hands-on education in s...
#296 - From Ice Cubes to CEUs
19 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TopicSparked by a new offer, we revisit the value of NCARB membership. Episode linksDetails about the NCARB offer-----Thank you for listening to Archi...
#295 - AI in Architecture
13 Jun 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TopicIn this episode we discuss the use of AI in architecture, including image and text generation. We talk about the potential for AI to automate mun...
#294 - ‘Three Recessions Away from Extinction’, with Evelyn Lee
31 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TopicIn this episode with special guest Evelyn Lee, FAIA we discuss the pressing need for architectural firms to adapt to changing business models and...
#293 - Architecture School is ___K__
08 May 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TopicCormac and Evan discuss the importance of understanding the "why" in architecture education how that transitions into a career in architecture. T...
#292 - ‘Out of Architecture’, with Jake Rudin
24 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
We have a conversation with Jake Rudin, co-author of the recently published book titled "Out of Architecture" to discuss the need for architects to ap...
#291 - Architects are an Endangered Species
17 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TopicWe discuss the power of negotiation that an in-demand candidate has during a job search, the lack of training in architectural education about mo...
#290 - “Rough“ Inspections
10 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TopicWe discuss the value of doing home renovations and learning construction skills as an architect, talk about the importance of compromise, collabo...
#289 - An Architect Walks Into a Building
03 Apr 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TopicWe have a conversation about the process of becoming a licensed architect in the United States and discuss the challenges of taking multiple Arch...
#288 - Birth Control for Engineers
29 Mar 2023
Contributed by Lukas
TopicWe discuss Evan’s tireless experience of the “sufferfest” that is moving one’s family into a new home, Cormac’s recent experiences with...
#287 - 42 Degrees North Latitude
06 Dec 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Saying goodbye to a house, spaces that evoke memories and emotion, personal experiences of working (and living) remotely, mentoring emerging professio...
#286 - Skyhooks Are Real
29 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
We discuss the different types of architectural degrees offered and why one might pick one type over another (To B.Arch or not to B.Arch? That is the ...
#285 - What the Monterey Design Conference is All About
22 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we discuss Deborah Berke FAIA’s presentation and James Wines’ interview from the 2022 Monterey Design Conference which recently h...
#284 - Through the Lens of Others
15 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
Cormac talks about his recent attendance of a lecture about architectural ornamentation from yesteryear in Detroit while Evan is speaking at the inaug...
#283 - Injured by Architecture
08 Nov 2022
Contributed by Lukas
In this episode, we discuss various mental, psychological, and physical injuries sustained from architectural (or construction) projects.LinksArchispe...