Advertise on podcast: Architecture Business Club with Jon Clayton

Jon Clayton discusses the issue of burnout with career and wellbeing coach Anna Wolas. The conversation digs into what burnout is, how to recognise its signs, and how it differs from stress. Anna explains the reoccurring nature of burnout and its connection to a misalignment between personal values and external expectations. She also outlines common causes of burnout, such as organisational changes, unrealistic workloads, and lack of recognition. Anna shares her DCP framework (Discover, Create, Perform) that helps professionals recover from burnout, prevent it in the future, and activate their full potential. Through practical strategies and real-life success stories, this episode aims to equip architects and business leaders with the tools they need to thrive in their careers without succumbing to burnout. Today’s Guest Anna Wolas is a Career & Wellbeing Coach who helps architects and leaders achieve (& earn) more. Anna's approach helps reduce stress, prevent burnout, and create a sustainable, values-driven definition of success. — Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction 01:22 Understanding Burnout 02:02 The Burnout Cycle 05:30 Burnout vs. Stress 06:27 Healthy Stress Management 09:27 Signs of Burnout 09:45 Physical Symptoms of Burnout 10:04 Psychological Symptoms of Burnout 10:32 Behavioural Symptoms of Burnout 11:00 Occupational Symptoms of Burnout 11:25 Personal Symptoms of Burnout 11:51 Common Causes of Burnout 11:56 Organisational Factors 12:42 Personal Factors 13:07 Lack of Recognition 13:47 Fear-Based Performance 14:15 Conflict in Relationships 14:34 Overcoming Burnout 14:55 Ineffective Solutions To Burnout 18:45 Effective Strategies For Burnout 18:55 The DCP Framework 19:34 Step 1: Discover 22:32 Step 2: Create 25:00 Step 3: Perform 28:03 Success Stories Of The DCP Framework 28:11 Case Study: High-Level Professional 29:15 Achieving Clarity 30:55 Promotion and Beyond 31:55 Main Takeaways 32:21 Act Now 33:32 Final Thoughts — Key Takeaways Burnout is a cycle, not just tiredness You need to understand that burnout isn't the same as feeling stressed. Stress can actually help you get things done if you have time to rest afterwards. But burnout happens when stress goes on for too long without recovery. It keeps coming back again and again if you don't fix the real problem. Burnout means you're living by other people's rules and goals instead of your own. When this happens over and over, your body and mind get worn out. Spot the warning signs early You can notice burnout in five main areas of your life. Physical signs include feeling tired all the time, headaches, and sleep problems. Mental signs include brain fog, forgetting things, and feeling hopeless. You might also get more emotional, angry, or eat differently. At work, you lose your passion and make more mistakes. In your personal life, your relationships suffer and you feel like you're not doing well anywhere. The sooner you spot these signs, the easier it is to fix the problem. Quick fixes don't work - you need a proper plan Taking holidays, doing more exercise, or waiting for a project to finish won't solve burnout on their own. Even changing jobs won't help if you don't fix the real causes. You need a proper strategy that helps you understand yourself, create healthy boundaries, and use your real skills and strengths. Don't wait to deal with burnout - the longer you leave it, the harder it becomes to fix. — Connect with Anna Wolas on LinkedIn 🤝 a href="http://www.careerwellbeing.coach" rel="noopener...

Jon Clayton welcomes Tim Lewis, a seasoned podcaster and content creator who's been exploring AI and automation. Together, they discuss the distinctions between AI and automation, practical applications in day-to-day business, and the benefits of locally hosted AI over cloud-based tools. They also address common fears about AI replacing jobs. Gain valuable insights on leveraging AI for tasks like image and video generation, project management, and client presentations. Tim shares various tools and strategies to enhance productivity and maintain privacy when using AI. Learn how AI can help you build a better, more efficient business. Today’s Guest Tim Lewis is a long term podcaster and content creator. Tim’s background is in books and publishing, but he’s recently deep dived into AI Automation and AI Image and Video Generation, and how it can be used to help small business owners in their day to day work. — Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction 00:54 Meet Tim Lewis: AI and Automation Expert 01:40 What's The Difference Between AI and Automation Tools? 03:10 Practical Examples of AI in Automation 04:19 AI's Role in Simplifying Tasks 06:37 There's More To AI Than ChatGPT 07:35 Use Cases for AI Tools for Architects 10:23 Advanced AI Tools for Visualisation 12:18 Organizing Information with AI 14:22 Locally Hosted AI vs. Cloud-Based AI 16:51 Privacy and Security in AI 22:59 Using AI for Client Presentations 24:26 Should We Be Worried About AI Replacing Us 28:55 Embracing AI and Automation 29:43 Additional AI Tools and Resources 30:38 Connecting with Tim Lewis 31:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts — Key Takeaways AI and automation are different tools that work together AI is like a computer programme that thinks a bit like a human. It can look at a picture and tell you what's in it, or help you create images and videos. Automation is different - it's about setting up steps that happen automatically, like "when I get an email, add it to a spreadsheet." The exciting part is when you put them together. AI can now do the thinking parts that used to need a person, which makes automation much more powerful. You can use AI for more than just writing Most people think AI is only good for writing text, but that's just the start. You can use AI to create pictures and videos from your sketches, organise your notes and research, and even make presentations faster. For example, if you draw a simple building sketch, AI can turn it into a realistic image showing what it would look like in real life. This is really helpful if you work with designs or need to show ideas to clients. AI won't replace you, but someone using AI might You don't need to worry about robots taking your job. But you should pay attention to other business owners who are learning to use AI tools. They can work faster, finish projects quicker, and offer better prices because AI helps them save time. The key is to start learning about these tools now, so you can use them to do the boring tasks faster and spend more time on the important work you enjoy. — Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺 Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢 Connect with Tim Lewis on LinkedIn 🤝 Visit...

Jon Clayton reflects on the challenges and achievements of 2025, highlighting milestones in his podcasting journey and personal life. Jon shares his Christmas break activities, introduces a new service aimed at enhancing your online presence, and outlines exciting updates for the Architecture Business Club in 2026, including fortnightly episodes, YouTube content, and potential sponsorships. He invites listeners to contribute their thoughts and challenges to shape future content, all while offering a special gift to kick-start the New Year. — Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction 02:05 Personal Highlights of 2025 02:48 Christmas Break Activities 03:34 Exciting New Service Announcement 03:50 What's New for Architecture Business Club in 2026 05:41 Special Gift for the New Year 07:42 Engage with Us and Share Your Challenges 08:21 Wrapping Up and What's Next — Key Takeaways It is good to look back and learn from the past year. Jon shares both the hard times and the happy moments from 2025 - it’s normal to have ups and downs. Trying new things and making changes can help you grow. This show is adding video episodes, changing how often episodes come out, and offering new services - being open to change can bring new opportunities. Staying connected with your audience is important. Jon invites you to share your challenges and ideas, and encourages you to subscribe and join in, so you can be part of this community. — Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺 Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢 Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝 — 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. — Next Episode Jon is joined by Tim Lewis to explore the difference between AI and Automation.

Jon Clayton delivers a brief special episode to thank listeners for their support. He shares notable statistics from 2025, including the release of 52 episodes, the 100th episode celebration in September, and record downloads in October. He also recounts the top three episodes of the year based on download numbers, highlighting listener favourites. Jon encourages you to take a break from the podcast to enjoy the festive season. — Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction and Holiday Greetings 00:35 Podcast Achievements and Milestones 01:29 Top Episodes of 2025 02:57 Future Plans and Guest Invitations 03:54 Holiday Sign-Off and Advice — Key Takeaways Keep Going, Even When It’s Hard If you keep working on something, like making a podcast every week, you can reach big goals. You might even do better than most people if you don’t give up. People Like to Hear Real Stories When you share true stories about your life or work, others want to listen. You can help people by telling them what you have learned and what you have gone through. Take Time for Family and Friends It’s good to stop working sometimes and spend time with people you care about. You should enjoy special days, like Christmas, with your family and friends. — Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺 Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢 Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝 — 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. — Next Episode Tune in next week for a New Year's episode previewing 2026.

In this episode of Architecture Business Club, hosted by Jon Clayton, productivity mentor Louise Miller joins to discuss a new definition of productivity that focuses on doing what's important rather than doing more in less time. Key topics include the importance of creating space over relying on systems, how productivity begins before taking action, and why recognising capacity can prevent burnout. The episode also explores practical strategies like taking a pause to reassess goals and the benefits of changing environments. Louise's insights are aimed at helping business owners achieve more with a sense of fulfilment and well-being. Today’s Guest Louise Miller is a productivity mentor, the founder of Make It Happen Club and host of the Unfrazzle podcast. She’s on a mission to change the world by helping her clients change the world. She partners with coaches, consultants and community-builders who have a big, exciting vision, helping them land their ideas in reality, reach more people and make a bigger impact, whilst being kind to themselves along the way. — Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction to Productivity 00:42 Meet Louise Miller 01:30 Challenging Traditional Productivity 02:26 The Importance of Doing What's Important 03:21 The Busy Trap 04:34 Productivity Before Action 04:45 The Treehouse Analogy 09:32 The Progress Cycle 10:56 Space vs. Systems 11:47 The Chaos of Systems 14:23 The Emotional Weight of Productivity 15:52 The Vicious Cycle of To-Do Lists 17:04 Six Pillars of Productivity 17:44 The Life-Friendly Approach 19:01 The Rhythm of Productivity 19:30 The Neuroscience of Productivity 22:50 The Real Reasons for Not Getting Things Done 25:23 The Power of the Treehouse 29:49 Final Thoughts and Resources — Key Takeaways Prioritise Space and Reflection Over Constant Action True productivity is not about relentless activity or doing more in less time, but about creating space to pause, reflect, and make intentional choices. Taking time to step back. Louise’s “treehouse” analogy allows for clarity, better decision-making, and prevents the cycle of busywork and burnout. Focus on What’s Important, Not Just What’s Urgent Productivity isn’t simply ticking off tasks. Instead, it’s about identifying and working on what truly matters, rather than being caught up in the “busy trap”. This means aligning your actions with your values and long-term goals, and letting go of tasks that do not serve your bigger purpose. Systems Are Secondary to Self-Awareness and Capacity While productivity systems and tools can be helpful, they are not a cure-all. If you’re overwhelmed or unclear, new systems will only organise your chaos. The real key is self-awareness: understanding your own needs, capacity, and life context, and building a rhythm of regular reflection. Productivity is personal. Experiment to find what works for you, and don’t feel broken if someone else’s method doesn’t fit. — Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺 Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢 Connect with Louise Miller on LinkedIn 🤝 Take Louise’s Productivity Quiz 🖥️ Curious...

Want to streamline your least favourite tasks? In this episode of Architecture Business Club, host Jon Clayton explores innovative ways to leverage AI for automating routine and time-consuming tasks in architecture. Joined by Bryon McCartney, CEO of Archmark, the discussion covers identifying tasks AI can optimise, the Teach framework for deciding what to automate, and practical tips for training AI to match your unique tone. Bryon shares insights on creating efficient workflows using AI, recounts his experiences enhancing his agency's profitability through AI integration, and underscores the importance of starting small for those new to AI. Additionally, the episode details Bryon's approach to building an AI-powered advisory board and a successful workshop using AI tools, emphasising the role of AI in freeing up time for creative and strategic work. Today’s Guest Today's guest is Bryon McCartney, CEO of Archmark, a leading business coaching, branding, and marketing firm working exclusively with architecture firms. Bryon has more than 35 years of experience and has led digital marketing initiatives for Calvin Klein, General Motors Europe, Lipton Foods, and many others. He has founded and led six successful creative service firms since 2002 and has helped more than 5,000 architects transform their practices. He's the only Business Made Simple, Small Business Flight School, and StoryBrand certified coach serving the architecture industry, and he's on a mission to help 10,000 firm leaders by 2030. — Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction: Tackling Your To-Do List with AI 00:47 Welcome to Architecture Business Club 01:06 Meet Bryon McCartney: Transforming Architecture Firms 01:51 The Power of AI in Architecture 05:42 Identifying Tasks for AI Automation 06:04 Streamlining Meeting Notes and Emails with AI 11:20 The TEACH Framework for AI Automation 14:37 Treating AI Like a Summer Intern 20:17 Balancing Instructions for AI 21:14 Five-Step Formula for Writing AI Prompts 22:59 Creating a Blog Post with AI 24:39 Structuring Your AI Prompts 25:15 Avoiding Common AI Pitfalls 26:11 AI's Impact on Agency Profitability 26:32 Early Experiences with AI 27:13 Adopting AI Tools in Business 28:07 Streamlining Client Onboarding with AI 29:54 AI-Powered Workshops and Presentations 31:29 Efficiency Gains and Profitability Boost 31:49 Using AI in Podcast Production 32:40 Building an AI Advisory Board 35:38 Getting Started with AI 39:10 Choosing the Right AI Tools 41:00 Creating AI-Powered Workshops 46:05 Final Thoughts on AI Integration 50:15 Connecting with Bryon McCartney — Key Takeaways View AI as a powerful tool to free up your time by automating repetitive and routine tasks. By letting AI handle admin, meeting notes, and standard email responses, you can focus more on creative and strategic work that you truly enjoy. You need to approach AI like you would a summer intern: provide clear instructions, context, and feedback. AI is not a magic solution; it requires you to define what a good result looks like and to iterate, refining your prompts and expectations as you go. You will benefit most from AI if you start small, choosing tasks you know well and can clearly explain. As you build confidence, you can gradually integrate AI into more areas of your work and life, ultimately gaining a competitive edge and improving your efficiency. — Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺 Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen

Jon Clayton and guest Louise Brogan discuss the importance and strategic use of LinkedIn company pages. You’ll learn the distinct roles of LinkedIn profiles and company pages, how to properly set up and manage a company page, and the type of content to post. Louise shares valuable insights on leveraging a company's LinkedIn page to boost visibility, attract talent, and enhance credibility. The episode also covers how small business owners and larger teams can optimise their LinkedIn presence and the reasons behind these strategies. Today’s Guest Louise Brogan is a Consultant, YouTuber, Podcaster and International speaker. Louise works with small businesses and professionals who want to raise their visibility on LinkedIn and YouTube. She is also a Small Business Champion in the UK. Her proudest work moments are meeting the King at Buckingham Palace in recognition of her work and getting her coveted silver play button for YouTube. — Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction to LinkedIn Company Pages 01:23 Understanding LinkedIn Profiles vs. LinkedIn Company Pages 02:08 Creating a LinkedIn Company Page 03:19 The Importance of Company Branding 07:40 SEO Benefits of LinkedIn Company Pages 08:03 Optimising Your LinkedIn Company Page 08:50 LinkedIn's AI and Algorithm Updates 10:04 Filling Out Your Company Page Details 10:18 The Value of Company Values 13:49 Posting on Your LinkedIn Company Page 14:38 LinkedIn Company Page Content Strategy for Solopreneurs 16:36 Balancing LinkedIn Personal Profiles and LinkedIn Company Pages 17:38 Leveraging Your Team for LinkedIn Success 18:25 Client Success Stories 22:43 Project-Based Content Ideas for LinkedIn 24:38 Employee Advocacy on LinkedIn 25:25 LinkedIn Training and Workshops 26:00 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways 28:39 Free Resources and Conclusion — Key Takeaways Establish a LinkedIn Company Page for Professional Credibility Even if you are a sole trader or a small business, having a LinkedIn company page is essential. It allows you to showcase your brand, display your logo, and provide a professional 'shop front' for potential clients and collaborators. This increases your chances of being discovered by your target audience and lends credibility to your business. Maintain Consistent and Strategic Posting Regularly update your company page, ideally once a week or at least fortnightly, to demonstrate that your business is active and engaged. Share project updates, company news, and team achievements. Remember to write posts from the company’s perspective, which differs from the more personal tone used on individual profiles. Empower and Involve Your Team in Advocacy Encourage your team members to engage with and share company page content on their own LinkedIn networks. Explain the purpose and benefits of this advocacy, as it amplifies your reach and can generate more leads and business opportunities. Providing guidance and training ensures everyone understands how to contribute effectively. — Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺 Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢 Connect with Louise Brogan on LinkedIn 🤝 Get Louise’s Free LinkedIn Success Guide...

Jon discusses the importance of personal branding with expert Christine Gritmon. Christine breaks down what personal branding is, why it matters, especially for solopreneurs and small business owners, and shares her five-part Inside Out personal branding methodology: Purpose, Passion, Person, Personality, and Personal Brand. The conversation delves into the significance of authenticity, how to make a memorable impression, and offers practical exercises for identifying and leveraging your unique gifts. The episode concludes with actionable tips for starting to develop an authentic personal brand today. Today’s Guest We’re joined by Christine Gritmon - Christine reconnects solopreneurs, freelancers, and small business owners with their purpose and passions for a more aligned personal brand that’s joyful, authentic, and impossible to ignore! She’s spoken on stages worldwide and is a frequent expert guest on podcasts, live streams, chats, and blog posts, as well as hosting her own podcast, Let’s Talk About Brand. — Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction 00:42 Meet Christine Gritmon 01:15 What really is Personal Branding? 02:03 Personal Branding Misconceptions 04:11 Why Personal Branding Matters So Much 05:40 Building Trust Through Branding 06:13 The Power of Authenticity 11:44 The Inside Out Branding Framework 12:05 Purpose and Passion 15:25 Identifying Your Gifts 20:42 How You Show Up In The World 21:57 The Role of Personality 23:50 Expanding Your Personal Brand 24:38 Jon's Gift 28:24 Leading with Your Gifts 29:35 Christine's Personal Branding Evolution 30:30 The Flexibility of Personal Branding 31:15 Embracing Your Unique Gifts 32:22 Final Takeaways on Personal Branding 32:52 Connecting with Christine Gritmon — Key Takeaways Be authentic and true to yourself Your personal brand should come from who you really are, not from trying to fit into someone else’s idea of success. When you show your true self, people are more likely to trust you and remember you. Lead with your unique gifts Everyone has something special to offer. Focus on the skills and qualities that make you different, and use them in your work. This not only helps you stand out, but also makes your brand flexible if you change direction in the future. Your personal brand goes further than you do A strong personal brand can open doors and create opportunities, even when you are not in the room. The impression you leave with others can travel far, helping your reputation and bringing new connections your way. — Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺 Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢 Click here to connect with Christine on LinkedIn 🤝 Click here to learn more about Christine Gritmon 🖥️ Ready to start podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝 — 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or...

In this episode of the Architecture Business Club podcast, host Jon Clayton reflects on the podcast's impact and announces several upcoming changes aimed at broadening its audience and improving content delivery. Key changes include the transition to both audio and video formats, a shift to fortnightly episode releases, and a tighter editing process to focus on core topics. Jon also discusses the possibility of releasing video versions of past episodes and explores securing a long-term sponsor that aligns with the show's mission. Listeners are encouraged to provide feedback on these updates and suggest potential sponsorship partners. — Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction 01:01 New Audio and Video Formats 02:01 Content and Format Adjustments 05:25 Editing and Production Process 07:05 Release Schedule Update 08:48 Focus on Interview-Based Episodes 10:57 Exploring New Podcast Ideas 11:27 Sponsorship and Ads 15:22 Summary and Conclusion — Key Takeaways The importance of adaptability: The episode demonstrates how being flexible and open to change can help you overcome unexpected challenges and seize new opportunities. Effective communication is key: Clear, honest, and timely communication between all parties involved helps to prevent misunderstandings and ensures that everyone is aligned towards common goals. Continuous learning drives progress: Embracing a mindset of ongoing learning and self-improvement allows for personal and professional growth, keeping individuals and organisations competitive in a rapidly evolving environment. — Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺 Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢 Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧 Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community waitlist 🤝 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝 — 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. — Next Episode Next time Jon chats with Christine Gritmon about personal branding.

Jon is joined by Natalie Doremieux, a membership and tech strategist with over 10 years of experience. They delve into the numerous benefits of podcast guesting for business growth. Natalie shares her expertise on why podcast guest appearances are valuable, the importance of having a podcast guesting strategy, and how to find the right podcasts to guest on. Listeners will also learn effective strategies to repurpose guest appearances for maximum value. Additionally, they discuss building trust, connecting with the audience, and crafting a compelling narrative to achieve business objectives. Tune in to discover how you can leverage podcast guesting to enhance visibility, build trust, and align with your business goals. Today’s Guest Nathalie Dorémieux is a membership and tech strategist with over 10 years experience helping coaches and course creators design high-retention programs that drive real results. In 2025, she co-created Podcast LeadFlow, a tool that turns podcast episodes into high-quality lead magnets using smart automations and AI. Nathalie’s work blends strategy, tech, and a human-first approach - with a dash of French flair. — Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction to Podcast Guesting 00:30 Welcome to Architecture Business Club 00:49 Meet Natalie Doremieux 01:40 Why Be a Podcast Guest? 03:02 Building Trust Through Podcasting 04:05 The Importance of a Podcast Guesting Strategy 07:15 Defining Your Podcast Guest Strategy 08:30 Connecting with Your Audience 10:32 Finding the Right Podcasts To Guest On 15:29 The Power of Networking 16:03 Researching Podcast Guest Opportunities 16:35 Making a Good Impression as a Podcast Guest 19:56 Crafting Your Message as a Podcast Guest 23:31 Sharing Your Unique Approach as a Podcast Guest 28:40 Leveraging Podcast Appearances 31:38 Repurposing Podcast Content 35:13 The Value of Podcasting 36:59 Getting Started with Podcasting 38:49 Commitment and Podcast Seasons 40:28 Final Thoughts and Connection — Key Takeaways Having a clear podcast guesting strategy is essential for aligning your appearances with your business goals and reaching your ideal audience. Building trust and authentic connections through podcast guesting is far more effective than simply promoting your expertise; sharing your story and values helps you stand out. The value of podcast guesting extends beyond the interview itself—repurposing your appearances and treating them as lead-generating assets can significantly boost your business growth. — Click here to take your next step after listening 🖥️ Click here to connect with Nathalie 🤝 Ready to start podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝 — 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

Jon interviews Nicla Diceglie, founder of Nicla D Interiors. Nicla shares her transformative journey from a stressful career as a project manager in London to embracing bold biophilic design inspired by her own battle with depression. She discusses the importance of nature and colour in creating spaces that nurture and restore well-being. The conversation touches on the therapeutic benefits of nature, the challenges of starting a new business during COVID-19, and the unique aspects of bold biophilic design. Nicla also shares her love of travel, architecture, and some of her favourite places around the world. Tune in to learn how embracing biophilic design can enhance your health, happiness, and personal growth. Today’s Guest Nicla Diceglie is the founder of Nicla D. Interiors. After experiencing the healing power of nature and colour in her own life, Nicla founded Nicla D. Interiors to help others create bold biophilic spaces that support happiness, health, and personal growth. Nicla helps people turn their homes into joyful, nature-inspired sanctuaries - spaces that heal, energise, and make them happier and healthier. — Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction 00:56 Meet Nicla Diceglie: Founder of Nicla D Interiors 03:34 Nicola's Journey: From Italy to London 05:06 The Turning Point: Leaving the Job 08:06 Embracing Nature: The Healing Power of the Outdoors 09:37 Starting Fresh: A New Career in Interior Design 14:49 Launching Nicla D Interiors 19:34 Challenges of Starting a Business During COVID 21:46 Finding Your Passion and Alignment 22:49 Introduction to Biophilic Design 27:03 The Journey to Biophilic Design 31:43 Benefits of Biophilic Design 37:09 A Day in the Life of a Biophilic Designer 39:07 Final Thoughts and Takeaways 40:23 Favourite Travel Destinations 42:08 Connect with Nicla 42:51 Closing Remarks — Key Takeaways Spending time in nature can improve your mood and well-being. Even simple activities like walking in the park or adding plants to your home can make a positive difference. The spaces where you live and work should help you feel comfortable and happy. Bright colours, natural light, and personal touches can turn any space into a place that supports your health. It is possible to change your career or life direction if you are not satisfied. Following your interests and passions can lead to a more fulfilling and enjoyable life. — Click here to connect with Nicla on Instagram 🤝 Click here to learn more about Nicla D Interiors 🖥️ Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧 Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝 — 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. — Next Episode Next time Jon is joined by Nathalie Doremieux to learn how to get the most value from your podcast guest appearances.

Jon welcomes Daniel Patterson, an experienced business growth strategist, to discuss smart strategies for doubling profit without hiring more staff or increasing marketing expenses. They explore the pitfalls of trying to please everyone, the importance of discussing money early on, and effective pricing strategies. Daniel shares his insights on reducing overhead by optimising team roles and asks the critical question of knowing who your dream client is. Tune in to uncover practical tips and transformative strategies to enhance profitability in your architecture practice. Today’s Guest Daniel Patterson is a former RIBA Part 1 with nearly two decades of experience helping businesses grow and scale. He is the founder of Masterplan.pro and branding agency Highly, and has worked with the RIBA and RSAW to deliver CPD training on business and marketing strategy. Daniel is also the creator of The Architect’s Masterplan™, a 12-month growth system for architects who want to escape the tender trap and run highly profitable, sought-after practices. — Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction 00:37 Meet Daniel Patterson 01:57 Daniel's Personal Interests 03:20 The Profitability Challenge in Architecture 09:20 Understanding the Value of Money in Architecture 23:33 Strategies to Double Your Profit 32:10 Maximising Profit Through Fractional Support 34:33 The Power of Asking for Referrals 37:13 Effective Pricing Strategies for Architects 43:10 Identifying and Fixing Profit Leaks 44:42 Real-Life Success Stories 48:04 Practical Tips for Immediate Profit Improvement 51:40 Overcoming the Fear of Failure 57:16 Exploring the World: Travel Stories 59:08 Final Thoughts and How to Connect — Key Takeaways Know Your Best Clients and Say No Sometimes You do not have to please everyone. When you try to make everyone happy, your best clients may not feel special. It is better to know who you really want to work with and focus on them. If someone is not a good fit, it is okay to say no. Talk About Money Early Do not be afraid to talk about money with your clients. If you talk about price at the start, you save time for both you and your client. This helps you find out quickly if you are a good match. It also stops you from working for less than you should. Ask for Referrals and Show Your Value If you do a good job, ask your clients if they know anyone else who might need your help. This is a simple way to find new work. Also, show your clients the value you bring, not just your price. When people see your value, they are happy to pay more. — Click here to connect with Daniel Patterson 🤝 Click here to learn how much profit you are missing out on each year 🖥️ Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝 — 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. — Next Episode Next time, Jon is joined by Nicla Diceglie, who shares her career journey to Bold Biophilic Design.

Jon addresses what to do when facing a shortage of clients or work. He shares his personal story of recent hardships* and explains the common mistakes to avoid when trying to attract new clients. He provides practical advice for fast sales, focusing on hot leads, and high-touch outreach. Jon also emphasises the importance of asking for help and using available resources to manage cash flow issues. The episode concludes with recommendations for related podcast episodes that delve deeper into lead generation and sales strategies. * Trigger warning: between 01:43 to 02:22 Jon briefly mentions death and bereavement. — Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction 01:28 Personal Struggles and Business Impact 03:14 Common Mistakes When Seeking Clients 05:04 Effective Strategies for Fast Sales 05:38 Practical Tips for Faster Sales 08:45 Recap and Additional Resources 10:25 Closing Remarks and Call to Action — Key Takeaways Focus on hot leads - When you need more clients, you should talk to people who already know you, like your past or current clients. They are more likely to work with you again. Try not to panic - If you feel worried because work is slow, try not to panic. Take a moment to calm down, then make a plan to help your business. Talk to someone - You do not have to do everything alone. If you need help, ask someone you trust or talk to a professional for advice. — Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧 Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝 — 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. — Next Episode Next time Jon is joined by Daniel Patterson to explore how to double your profits (without hiring or spending more on marketing!).

Jon welcomes David Drazil, an architect, author, and creator of 'Sketch like an Architect.' They discuss how technology has overshadowed and nearly replaced the craft of architectural sketching in schools, leading to a decline in this essential skill among young professionals. David shares insights from his journey and mission to revive this art form, drawing on his experiences in Denmark and his global platform, which has helped thousands master architectural sketching. He highlights the cognitive benefits of sketching, from aiding in problem-solving and brainstorming to enhancing client interactions. They also discuss the advantages of using both traditional and digital sketching methods, and share success stories from students and professionals who have benefited from David's teachings. The episode underscores sketching as a universal, learnable language that enriches both the creative process and business communication in architecture. — Today’s Guest David Drazil is an architect, author, and creator of Sketch Like An Architect, a global platform helping architects and designers build confident drawing skills through a clear step-by-step method. Originally from the Czech Republic, David studied architecture in Denmark, where he noticed a big gap: sketching was expected, but rarely taught. That insight sparked a mission that’s grown into a worldwide movement — with over 300,000 followers, 15,000 students in his online courses, and three popular books. Today, David empowers creatives to communicate their ideas visually with clarity and confidence. — Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction 00:45 Meet David Drazil: Architect and Sketching Advocate 01:45 David's Personal Interests and Background 03:56 The Importance of Sketching in Modern Architecture 06:59 Personal Benefits and Practical Applications of Sketching 13:26 Sketching as a Differentiator in Client Interactions 23:11 Success Stories and Testimonials 27:37 Final Thoughts on Sketching and Technology 30:54 David's Favourite Places and Conclusion — Key Takeaways Sketching is a Timeless Skill That Sets You Apart You learn that, even in an age dominated by digital tools and AI, the ability to sketch by hand remains a powerful differentiator. Sketching helps you communicate ideas quickly, build trust with clients, and stand out in interviews or meetings. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being able to think and express visually in the moment. Anyone Can Learn to Sketch - It’s Not About Talent You discover that sketching isn’t a gift reserved for the naturally talented. It’s a learnable skill that you can develop with practice. By embracing sketching, you open up new ways to brainstorm, solve problems, and engage with others, regardless of your starting point. Sketching Fosters Human Connection and Collaboration You realise that sketching is more than just a technical skill; it’s a tool for collaboration and dialogue. When you sketch in front of others, you invite them into the creative process, encourage feedback, and create a shared understanding. This approach not only speeds up decision-making but also makes your work more engaging and client-focused. — Click here to connect with David Drazil 🤝 Click here to learn more about Sketch Like An Architect 🖥️ Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧 a...

Jon welcomes internationally renowned architect Kevin Kennon, the founder and CEO of Beyond Zero DDC, to discuss his journey and innovative approach to sustainable design. Kevin shares his experiences, including his involvement in the World Trade Center design competition, and the concept of distributed practice. He explains how this model can help studios access the best talent while remaining competitive and nimble. Kevin also touches on the advantages of working with remote teams, the importance of harnessing new technologies like AI, and the future direction of the architecture profession. The episode provides valuable insights for architects on balancing tradition with innovation in the architecture industry. Today’s Guest Kevin Kennon is an internationally renowned architect with over 40 years’ experience in sustainable and innovative design. He’s the founder and CEO of Beyond Zero DDC, leading the creation of zero-carbon luxury eco-resorts around the world. His portfolio includes major projects such as the Barclays North American Headquarters, the Rodin Museum in Seoul, and award-winning Bloomingdale’s stores. A finalist in the World Trade Center design competition, Kevin has received over 40 international design awards and has work in MoMA’s permanent collection. He also lectures at top universities and contributes widely to discussions on urban development and climate change. — Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction 00:45 Meet Kevin Kennon 04:10 Understanding Distributed Practice 10:19 Challenges and Misconceptions of Remote Teams 16:49 Success Stories of Distributed Practice 22:24 Kevin's Career Journey 25:20 9/11, Ground Zero, and the World Trade Centre Design Competition 27:56 Advantages of Running Your Own Practice 30:46 The Future of Architecture and AI 39:08 Advice for Younger Practices 43:55 Main Takeaways 45:32 Favourite Travel Destination 46:42 Final Thoughts — Key Takeaways You can achieve more by building teams for each project and working with people from different places. This helps you find the right skills and makes your work stronger. You should be open to new ideas and ways of working. Using technology and working with others online can help you keep up with changes in your field. You will grow if you keep learning and share your knowledge with others. Every project is a chance to learn something new, and working together makes your work better. — Liked our guest? Click here to connect with them 🤝 Click here to learn more about Kevin’s work 🖥️ Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧 Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝 Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝 — 👇 And if you enjoyed this episode… Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode. — Next Episode Next time, Jon chats with David Drazil to explore whether design professionals still need sketching skills.