Best MentorDINO Podcasts (2025)

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98: Firm Series: Small/Medium Firm Owners 1:01:48

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1d ago1:01:48

1:01:48

In this episode of the MentorDINO podcast, Katelyn Rossier introduces a firm series focusing on firms in AEC. This week is talking to firm owners that are in small to medium sized firms. What it is like growing and working with their team! Learn from Karen Herold, Nicole Dumont, Daniel Woodroff, and Bob Shelton! BIG THANK YOU TO OUR TEAM! Editing a…

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97: Firm Series: Partnerships 1:08:24

27m ago1:08:24

1:08:24

In this episode of the MentorDINO podcast, Katelyn Rossier introduces an architecture firm series. This episode hones in on firms that began as a partnership. If you are looking to start a business you don't have to do it alone! Check out my conversations with different types of firm partnerships. Learn from Contour Collective, 10K Architecture, an…

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96: Firm Series: Solo Firm Owners 42:43

5d ago42:43

42:43

In this episode of the MentorDINO podcast, Katelyn Rossier introduces an architecture firm series. This episode hones in on solo entrepreneurs in architecture. She highlights three professionals: Bhawya Joshi, who shares her journey as an immigrant architect in Phoenix; Katerina Burianova, who discusses the business side of architecture; and David …

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95: When Graphic Design + Interior Design Collide | Kai Ekbundit 1:17:53

12d ago1:17:53

1:17:53

In this episode of the MentorDINO podcast, join host Katelyn Rossier as she sits down with Kai Ekbundit, Creative Director and Owner of 23 by Kai. Dive into Kai's fascinating journey through the realms of graphic design, architecture, and experiential branding. Discover how personal experiences and industry challenges have shaped Kai's career pivot…

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94: Marketing in AEC 52:52

1M ago52:52

52:52

In this episode of the MentorDINO podcast, Katelyn Rossier discusses the evolving landscape of marketing for architects. She introduces three professionals who share insights on various aspects of marketing, including website design, branding, and proposal strategies. The conversation emphasizes the importance of effective website copy, the role of…

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93: Adapt & Thrive Navigating Architect Career Shifts | Luciana Braga Triplett 1:00:24

1M ago1:00:24

1:00:24

Luciana Triplett, a Brazilian architect and owner of Triplett Studio in Boston. Luciana shares her journey from Brazil to the United States, the challenges she faced in adapting to a new environment, and her experiences in the architecture field. She discusses the importance of flexibility in balancing work and family life, the lessons learned in h…

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92: Lessons for Architects 1:04:21

2M ago1:04:21

1:04:21

In this episode of the MentorDino podcast, Katelyn Rossier explores lessons learned for Architects from non-Architects. In discussions with 5 professionals from around the industry. Steve Albert, whom is an Architect but on the owner side in a hospital system. Jesse Robinson-Evans is a construction estimator. Nancy Kohout, a mechanical engineer tha…

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91: Building an Architecture Firm from Scratch | Katerina Burianova 1:03:02

2M ago1:03:02

1:03:02

Katerina Burianova shares her entrepreneurial journey in architecture, discussing her transition from employee to business owner, the challenges of starting her own firm, and the importance of networking and community support. She reflects on her experiences, the evolution of her podcast, and the launch of her ebook aimed at helping architects aspi…

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90: Career Paths for Specification Writing 1:01:14

2M ago1:01:14

1:01:14

In this episode of the MentorDino podcast, Katelyn Rossier discusses career transitions within the architecture field, focusing on specification writing. She highlights the journeys of three professionals: Melody Fontenot, who transitioned from architect to specification writer; Bob Bailey, a mentor who significantly impacted Katelyn's career; and …

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89: Alternative Way to Practice Architecture | Erin Fantozz 56:35

2M ago56:35

56:35

In this episode of the MentorDINO podcast, Katelyn Rossier speaks with Erin Fantozz, founder of EF Designs, about her journey from working in traditional architecture firms to creating her own remote design team. They discuss the challenges and benefits of freelancing, the importance of work-life balance, and the evolving landscape of architectural…

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88 : The Hard Truths from Women in the Construction Industry 1:01:47

3M ago1:01:47

1:01:47

In this episode of the MentorDINO podcast explores the experiences of women in male-dominated industries, particularly in architecture and construction. Katelyn Rossier highlights the stories of several female professionals who have navigated challenges and made significant contributions to their fields. The discussion emphasizes the importance of …

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87: From Studying Law to Real Estate Development | Zach Rapaport 49:54

3M ago49:54

49:54

Zach Rapaport shares his unique journey from aspiring lawyer to founder of Meerkat Development, a consultancy focused on real estate development in hospitality and retail. He discusses the importance of hands-on experience in construction, the entrepreneurial spirit that drives his career decisions, and the significance of clear communication and t…

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86: What is FELLOWSHIP for the AIA? 1:05:16

3M ago1:05:16

1:05:16

In this episode of the MentorDino podcast, Katelyn Rossier discusses the AIA fellowship, highlighting the diverse paths to achieving this recognition within the architecture community. She introduces three AIA fellows, sharing insights into their journeys and the impact they have made in their respective fields. The conversation emphasizes that bec…

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85: Community & People First Architecture | Yiselle Santos Rivera 1:07:19

3M ago1:07:19

1:07:19

Yiselle Santos Rivera, an architect, professor, and 2027 AIA President! She shares her journey in architecture, the intersection of architecture and psychology, and the importance of organizational design and leadership in the field. They discuss the challenges of transitioning from traditional architectural roles to leadership positions, the signi…

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84: Bring Architecture to Life with Storytelling 41:44

3M ago41:44

41:44

In this episode of the MentorDINO podcast, Katelyn Rossier discusses the vital role of storytelling in architecture. She emphasizes the importance of communicating effectively with clients and the public, not just through images but also through words and videos. The episode features insights from three guests who share their perspectives on storyt…

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83: From Architecture to Recruiting | Alex James 42:12

4M ago42:12

42:12

Alex James, head of US recruitment at The Crowd and founder of the nonprofit Assemble. Alex shares his journey from architecture to recruitment, discussing the challenges faced in the architecture industry, the importance of soft skills, and the mission of his nonprofit to support neurodivergent individuals in finding employment in creative fields.…

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82: From Music to Acoustics: Acoustical Consultant | Greg Coudriet 1:07:03

4M ago1:07:03

1:07:03

Greg Coudriet, the principal and founder of Auxia Design, an acoustic consulting firm. We discuss Greg's journey into the field of acoustics, the importance of mentorship, communication between architects and consultants, and the challenges and rewards of starting a business after a long tenure at one firm. Greg shares insights on career paths in a…

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81: Architect's Career in Historic Preservation | Jessica Stuck 48:41

4M ago48:41

48:41

Jessica Stuck, an Associate and Senior Project Manager at LGA Partners. Jessica shares her journey from studying architecture and history to her passion for historic preservation and adaptive reuse. The conversation delves into the challenges faced in preservation projects, the importance of finding the right firm, and the misconceptions surroundin…

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80: The Intersection of Architecture and Engineering | Scott Farbman 51:21

4M ago51:21

51:21

Scott Farbman, a Senior Policy and Ratings Manager at Energy Solutions. Scott shares his diverse journey through the built environment industry, transitioning from architecture to engineering, and now to policy. He discusses the importance of sustainability, energy efficiency, and the role of professional organizations in shaping his career. Scott …

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79: Following Passion: Your Financial Engineer | Ryan Sullivan 50:21

5M ago50:21

50:21

Ryan Sullivan, founder of Off the Beaten Path Financial. Ryan shares his journey from a mechanical engineer to a financial advisor, discussing the challenges and opportunities he faced along the way. He emphasizes the importance of flexibility, freedom, and understanding the financial needs of architects and engineers. Ryan also highlights the serv…

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78: How to Find a Mentor 1:13:45

5M ago1:13:45

1:13:45

In this episode of the MentorDINO podcast, Katelyn explores the multifaceted nature of mentorship, emphasizing the importance of having multiple mentors from diverse backgrounds. She shares insights from various guests on their unique experiences with mentorship, the challenges they faced, and how they navigated their careers. The conversation high…

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77: Building an Inclusive Architecture Practice | Darguin Fortuna 1:01:02

5M ago1:01:02

1:01:02

Darguin Fortuna, a principal of Flow Design in Salem, Massachusetts. Darguin shares his journey from the Dominican Republic to becoming a licensed architect in the United States, discussing the challenges he faced during his education and the ARE exams. He emphasizes the importance of perseverance and the lessons learned from failures. Darguin also…

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76: From Architecture to Business Strategy | Je'nen Chastain 47:44

5M ago47:44

47:44

Je’nen Chastain, a business strategy consultant and founder of Apostrophe Consulting. Je’nen shares her journey from studying architecture to navigating various roles within the industry, including her decision to pivot into business strategy and consulting. She discusses the challenges faced during the Great Recession, the importance of pursuing a…

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75: Setting BOUNDARIES and FIRM OWNERSHIP | Nicole Dumont 1:00:01

6M ago1:00:01

1:00:01

Nicole Dumont, the principal and founder of NR Design. Nicole shares her journey from studying architecture at SCAD to starting her own firm in Ohio. She discusses the challenges of balancing athletics and academics, the importance of mentorship, and the process of obtaining her architectural license. Nicole also reflects on the decision to start h…

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74: Educating Architects + Engineers Specifications | Cherise Lakeside 1:10:26

6M ago1:10:26

1:10:26

Cherise Lakeside, a Senior Specification Writer at RDH Building Science Inc. Cherise has experience with many facets of the project team in the built environment. She has worked mostly in architecture but also in construction, MEP Engineering, and now Building Science. Cherise is passionate about mentorship/young professional development, public sp…

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73: Navigating Leadership in Architecture | Carol Rickard-Brideau 49:36

6M ago49:36

49:36

Carol Rickard-Brideau, CEO of Little Diversified Architectural Consulting. Carol shares her unique journey into architecture, influenced by her multicultural upbringing and early education in drafting. She discusses her career path, transitioning from small firms to a large firm, and the importance of finding the right fit in a workplace. Carol emp…

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72: How to Craft a Career in Sustainability? 56:19

6M ago56:19

56:19

In this episode of the MentorDINO podcast, Katelyn highlights some opportunities you'd have if you want to focus your career in Sustainability or Resilience! This week I bring together stories of professionals on various career paths. I pulled together 4 clips from season 1 for you to be inspired and learn from just a few of these conversations. Do…

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71: Taking the DESIGN BULD Approach | Bob Shelton 46:11

6M ago46:11

46:11

Bob Shelton, the principal and owner of Shelton Design Build, who shares his journey from a young intern in construction to leading a successful design-build firm. Bob discusses the importance of construction experience for architects, the challenges of starting and growing a business, and the significance of mentorship and community engagement wit…

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70: Learn the BUSINESS of ARCHITECTURE | Lucas Gray 57:26

7M ago57:26

57:26

Lucas Gray, Director of Content and Community at BQE Software. Lucas shares his journey from practicing architecture to becoming a business consultant, emphasizing the growing importance of the business side of architecture. He discusses the challenges architects face in managing firms, the need for transparency in the industry, and effective hirin…

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69: Understanding Business Development | Janki DePalma 59:22

7M ago59:22

59:22

Janki DePalma, the Director of Business Development at WE O'Neill Construction. Janki shares her journey from marketing to business development in the AEC industry, discussing the importance of building relationships, navigating economic challenges, and the role of business development in project success. She emphasizes the need for early engagemen…

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68: Hands-on Training is Crucial for Construction | Jeff Konkle 1:09:06

7M ago1:09:06

1:09:06

Jeff Konkle, an independent sales representative in the construction industry. Jeff shares his journey from corporate America to running his own sales rep company, discussing the intricacies of his role, the importance of building relationships in the construction field, and the challenges of navigating payment structures. The conversation also del…

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67: Your Guide to Copywriting for Architects | Nikita Morell 37:04

7M ago37:04

37:04

Nikita Morell, a copywriter specializing in architecture. Nikita shares her journey from working in marketing for major firms to starting her own business focused on helping architects communicate effectively. The conversation covers the importance of clear communication in architecture, the leap to entrepreneurship, building trust through website …

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66: Discover Alternative Career Paths! 1:07:32

8M ago1:07:32

1:07:32

In this episode of the MentorDINO podcast, Katelyn brings together a series based on topics! This week I bring together stories of professionals on alternative career paths. During season 1 there were several professionals that pivoted their careers to a non-traditional path for architects and engineers. I pulled together 6 clips from season 1 for …

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65: Looking to Start Your Own Firm? 47:22

8M ago47:22

47:22

In this episode of the MentorDINO podcast, Katelyn brings together a series based on topics! This week I bring together stories of professionals starting their own firm. During season 1 there were several professionals that started their own firm so this is just a small sampling but I tried to bring together different aspects of the process. Don't …

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64: Are your feeling BURNED OUT? 50:41

8M ago50:41

50:41

In this episode of the MentorDINO podcast, Katelyn brings together a series based on topics! This week I review a hot topic in the AEC industry, burnout! Don't miss this episode this collection of stories about different experience with burnout along a career from season 1. Katelyn also looks forward to Season Two, promising exciting new content an…

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63: Understand All Sides of the AEC Industry 55:51

8M ago55:51

55:51

In this episode of the MentorDINO podcast, Katelyn brings together a series based on topics! This week I review why I interview professionals in and around the AEC industry. Don't miss this episode this review and collection of stories about different sides of the industry from season 1. Katelyn also looks forward to Season Two, promising exciting …

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62: Top Episodes of Season 1 33:10

9M ago33:10

33:10

In this episode of the MentorDINO podcast, Katelyn reflects on the highlights of Season One, sharing insights from the top episodes and guests. She emphasizes the importance of career transitions, storytelling in architecture, and the role of women in the AEC industry. Katelyn also looks forward to Season Two, promising exciting new content and gue…

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61: What I Learned from Season 1 59:42

9M ago59:42

59:42

Hello! In this reflective episode of the MentorDINO podcast, Katelyn and Gus discuss the journey of the podcast through its first season, the evolution of podcasting and editing, the importance of networking and connections, and the challenges of remote recording. They also touch on the impact of recommendations and the transition to freelance work…

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60: Career Success can be Defined on your Own Terms - Angela Mazzi 1:04:07

10M ago1:04:07

1:04:07

Angela Mazzi, a Principal and Senior Medical Planner at GBBN Architects. Angela shares her journey into architecture, her experiences in education, and how she found her niche in healthcare design. She discusses the importance of professional organizations, the impact of design on well-being, and her mission to help architects reclaim their passion…

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59: Role of Community in Landscape Architecture - Daniel Woodroffe 1:02:44

10M ago1:02:44

1:02:44

Daniel Woodroffe, the principal and founder of DWG in Austin, Texas. Daniel shares his journey from growing up in East Texas to becoming a landscape architect, discussing the diverse nature of landscape architecture and its impact on urban design. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration in his work, the challenges and rewards of starting his …

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58: Architect Specializing in MENTAL & BEHAVIORAL Health Design - Stephen Parker 49:29

10M ago49:29

49:29

Katelyn interviews Stephen Parker, a Mental and Behavioral Health Planner Specialist at Stantec. Stephen shares his personal journey into the field of mental health design, influenced by his family experiences and a desire to improve environments for those with mental health challenges. He discusses the evolution of mental health design over the pa…

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57: Challenging Gender Norms & Biases in Construction - Barb Allen 1:19:54

10M ago1:19:54

1:19:54

Barb Allen, a trailblazer in the construction industry known as Construction Barb. Barb shares her journey from being the first female jobsite superintendent at J.A. Dunn construction to transitioning into office roles and ultimately advocating for women in construction. The conversation delves into the challenges of gender bias, the importance of …

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56: Let's Talk Managing Your Risk in AEC - Megan Shapiro 58:02

10M ago58:02

58:02

Katelyn interviews Megan Shapiro, a construction attorney and founder of Construction Contract Coach. They discuss Megan's journey in construction law, the complexities of tripartite contracts, the importance of negotiation, and the impact of COVID-19 on construction contracts. Megan emphasizes the need for clarity in contracts and the empowerment …

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55: Business & Career as Accessibility Consultants - Contour Collective 53:26

11M ago53:26

53:26

Katelyn speaks with Elaine Anderson and Andrea Lacour, founders of Contour Collective, about their unique journeys into the field of accessibility consulting. They discuss their backgrounds in architecture and design, the founding of their women-owned business, and the importance of accessibility in various projects. The conversation also touches o…

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54: Empowering Women Working in Hazardous Professions - Emily Soloby 37:49

11M ago37:49

37:49

Emily Soloby, founder of Juno Jones Safety Boots. Emily shares her diverse background, from being a domestic violence advocate to launching a safety boot company aimed at empowering women in the AEC industry. The conversation delves into the importance of proper PPE, the challenges women face in male-dominated fields, and the journey of building a …

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53: TRUST is the Backbone of Every Architecture Practice - Chad Haller 51:56

11M ago51:56

51:56

Chad Haller, principal at 10K Architecture, about his journey in the architecture field, the transition from large firms to starting his own, and the unique challenges of balancing residential and commercial projects. Chad shares insights on the importance of professional relationships, the significance of choosing the right business partners, and …

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52: From Fashion to Interior Design Firm Owner - Karen Herold 52:46

11M ago52:46

52:46

Karen Herold, principal at Studio K in Chicago, shares her journey from studying fashion in Holland to owning her own interior design company. She discusses how her fashion education influences her interior design work, using fashion images as inspiration for color palettes, textures, and overall mood. Karen specializes in designing restaurants, ho…

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51: Transforming Communities through Architecture - Derwin Broughton 41:24

12M ago41:24

41:24

Derwin Broughton, architect and vice president at KAI Enterprises, shares his journey in the architecture industry and his passion for public sector projects. He discusses his experience working on public safety, transit, and healthcare projects, and emphasizes the importance of creating practical and impactful designs for communities. Broughton al…

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50: Creating Healthy & Sustainable Residential Spaces - Bhawya Joshi 51:08

12M ago51:08

51:08

Bhawya Joshi, a principal architect at Sallaka Studio, shares her experience and journey in the field of architecture. She discusses her education and work experience in India and the United States, as well as the challenges she faced as an immigrant. She provides advice for others looking to come to the US for work or education. Bhawya also talks …

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49: Twists, Turns, & Lessons Learned. Passion for Architecture - Steve Lodge 1:15:55

12M ago1:15:55

1:15:55

Steve Lodge, an architect and director of architecture at Smith Group. Steve shares his journey in the field of architecture, starting from his early interest in drawing houses to his experiences working at various firms. He discusses the challenges he faced in his education, including low grades and difficulties getting into graduate school. Steve…