EA625: Robert Yuen - Why He Left Architecture Behind to Solve the Industry’s Biggest Problems
Why He Left Architecture Behind to Solve the Industry’s Biggest ProblemsRobert Yuen’s path to entrepreneurship didn’t begin in a boardroom, it started in the studio. Trained as an architect, Robert quickly realized that while architects loved design, they were struggling with the business side of running a firm. That insight led him to co-found Monograph, a platform built specifically to help architecture and engineering firms manage projects, budgets, and resources more effectively. In this conversation, he shares how Monograph evolved from a simple website builder into a comprehensive project management tool, highlighting the hard lessons and breakthroughs along the way.In this episode, listeners will hear Robert’s reflections on navigating funding rounds, scaling his team, and steering Monograph through the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. He opens up about mistakes that became turning points, how his perspective on leadership has shifted, and why resilience matters more than perfection when building a business. With candor and clarity, Robert shows how stepping away from traditional practice gave him the freedom to tackle the very problems that once frustrated him as an architect.Looking ahead, Robert envisions Monograph as more than just software—it’s becoming an operating system for the entire A/E industry. His mission is to empower architects and engineers to focus on what they love most: designing. By offloading the burden of business management, Monograph helps firms increase profitability and improve workflows, ensuring design professionals can keep shaping our built environment with creativity and confidence. This episode is a candid exploration of how leaving architecture behind allowed Robert Yuen to make an even greater impact on the profession.This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Why He Left Architecture Behind to Solve the Industry’s Biggest Problems with Robert Yuen.Find Robert online at RobertYuen.com, and connect with him on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.Please Visit Our Platform SponsorsArcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.
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EA624: Bryon McCartney - Building Websites That Work for Small Firm Architects
Building Websites That Work for Small Firm ArchitectsIn this episode of EntreArchitect, Mark R. LePage sits down with Bryon McCartney, co-founder and CEO of Archmark, to unpack the findings of a new business report on architecture firms. Together they explore why an effective online presence has become a non-negotiable for architects who want to grow their practices. Bryon explains how many firms still treat their websites as static portfolios when, in reality, they should function as dynamic business development tools. The conversation emphasizes the role of visibility, SEO fundamentals, and strong website content in reaching and engaging potential clients.Bryon shares common pitfalls he sees in the industry, from neglected websites with too little content to messaging that focuses more on the architect than the client. He stresses that architects who adopt a client-centered approach to their marketing see stronger results, attracting higher-value clients who understand and appreciate their expertise. Mark and Bryon also highlight how small changes in messaging and content strategy can have a dramatic impact on firm growth. Listeners will walk away with a clearer understanding of what it takes to align their digital presence with their business goals.With over 36 years of experience in international branding and digital strategy, Bryon brings deep expertise and a passion for helping architects succeed as business owners. Before launching Archmark in 2016, he led campaigns for global brands like Calvin Klein and General Motors, and today his agency has guided more than 5,000 architects worldwide. As a certified Business Made Simple, Small Business Flight School, and StoryBrand coach, Bryon blends education and strategy to equip architects with the confidence to grow their firms. His mission is simple: when architects thrive, more people get to experience and enjoy great architecture.This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Building Websites That Work for Small Firm Architects with Bryon McCartney.Connect with Bryon online at Archmark.co or find him on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn. Check out his website to apply for a Clarity Call with Bryon.Click here for a link to the report From Portfolio to Pipeline: How to Turn Your Architecture Firm's Website into a Business Development Engine.Please Visit Our Platform SponsorsArcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.
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EA623: Solo Sessions - How to Become Irreplaceable as a Small Firm Architect
How to Become Irreplaceable as a Small Firm ArchitectIn this solo session of the EntreArchitect Podcast, Mark R. LePage addresses the urgent question many architects are asking: how do we remain relevant as AI and automation reshape the profession? He emphasizes that the answer doesn’t lie in outpacing technology at technical tasks, but in doubling down on what machines cannot replicate. Authority, strategy, and authentic human connection are where architects can build irreplaceable value for their clients. This episode reframes the role of the architect as more than a designer—positioning you as a trusted leader who guides people through some of the most significant decisions of their lives.Mark introduces five key commitments every architect can adopt to stay ahead in this new landscape. These commitments focus on building trust, communicating with authority, and thinking strategically about the client’s full experience. Rather than allowing automation to reduce your role, these practices expand your influence and ensure you remain at the center of the project. With clarity and encouragement, Mark shows how to shift from being task-focused to being impact-driven.This is not a conversation about resisting technology—it’s about embracing the unique human qualities that set you apart. By committing to growth, empathy, and leadership, you can position yourself as indispensable in a rapidly changing industry. Tune in for practical steps and empowering insights to help you evolve and thrive as an architect in the age of AI.This week at EntreArchitect Podcast Solo Sessions, How to Become Irreplaceable as a Small Firm Architect.Please visit Our Platform SponsorsArcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.The Small Firm Breakthrough Series is a free three-part webinar from EntreArchitect designed to help small firm architects master profitability, delegation, and project systems. Over three sessions, you’ll gain tools, templates, and clarity to build a stronger, more sustainable practice—plus you’ll earn 3 AIA CES credits. Register now at EntreArchitect.com/breakthrough.Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.Mentioned in this episode:EmergingUnstruct
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EA622: Solo Sessions - They’re Not Hiring You for Your Drawings
They’re Not Hiring You for Your DrawingsIn this solo session of the EntreArchitect Podcast, Mark R. LePage explores how artificial intelligence and automation are reshaping the profession of architecture. While efficiency tools continue to evolve, Mark reminds us that technology alone cannot define success for small firm architects. What sets you apart is not how quickly you complete tasks, but how deeply you connect with the people you serve. This episode challenges architects to think beyond productivity and focus on building the kinds of human relationships that truly matter.Mark breaks down the shift from being seen solely as experts to being trusted guides for clients. He shares why empathy, attentive listening, and transparent communication are no longer optional, but central to a thriving practice. By prioritizing trust over transactions, architects can move away from being commoditized service providers and instead become indispensable advisors. Through real-world examples and practical steps, Mark paints a clear picture of how these skills create long-term value for both architects and their clients.Ultimately, this session is a call to embrace what machines cannot replicate: authentic human connection. Technology will continue to accelerate, but the architect’s role as a guide and relationship-builder is what will secure the future of the profession.This week at EntreArchitect Podcast Solo Sessions, They’re Not Hiring You for Your Drawings.Please visit Our Platform SponsorsArcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.
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EA621: Mark Orttung - Why Most Firms Stall (And How to Scale Without Breaking)
Why Most Firms Stall (And How to Scale Without Breaking)In this episode of the podcast, Mark Orttung, CEO of Projectworks and Chair of Provoke, unpacks why so many service-based firms hit growth plateaus—and how to scale without breaking. Drawing from his decades in the tech industry, Mark shares lessons learned leading high-growth companies like Nexient and Bill.com, as well as his time in product leadership at GetThere, Genesys, and Rearden Commerce. He explains the critical balance between selling work and hiring staff, why defining a unique value proposition is non-negotiable, and how transparency in financial management drives long-term success. Listeners will gain actionable insights on adopting a growth mindset and structuring operations to support sustainable scaling.Mark also offers an inside look at how Projectworks is using AI to transform service firm management. He highlights how leveraging technology can help smaller firms optimize staffing, forecast revenue, and improve project delivery without sacrificing culture or quality. The conversation blends strategic thinking with practical examples, showing leaders how to prepare their businesses for both rapid growth and unexpected market changes. From startup founders to established firm executives, the takeaways are designed to help leaders unlock new growth opportunities.Beyond the boardroom, Mark’s diverse experiences—from inventing 43 U.S. patents to creating Andersen Consulting’s Palo Alto tech center—inform his approach to leadership and innovation. He also shares personal passions, from running and snowboarding to traveling and exploring great food and wine. This mix of professional expertise and personal perspective makes for a compelling conversation that inspires leaders to reimagine what’s possible for their organizations. Whether you’re scaling a consultancy, agency, or tech-enabled service firm, this episode offers a roadmap for building a thriving, future-ready business.This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Why Most Firms Stall (And How to Scale Without Breaking) with Mark Orttung.Learn more about Mark online at Projectworks and Provoke, or connect with him on LinkedIn.Please Visit Our Platform SponsorsArcatemy is Arcat's Continuing Education Program. Listen to Arcat's Detailed podcast and earn HSW credits. As a trusted provider, Arcat ensures you earn AIA CE credits while advancing your expertise and career in architecture. Learn more at Arcat.com/continuing-education.Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.Mentioned in this episode:UnstructEmerging
Architect Mark R. LePage explores the business of architecture, firm leadership and the everyday life of an architect. From Gābl Media, EntreArchitect Podcast features weekly interviews with inspiring, passionate people who share their knowledge and expertise... all to help you build a better business as a small firm entrepreneur architect. Proven business strategies for architects, including financial management, profit, marketing, sales, productivity, and planning.
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