In this episode, we explore how architects move beyond design to build trust, lead teams, and win complex projects. Nick and Paul sit down with longtime collaborator Nino Samardzic to discuss career growth, mentorship, and the strategies that set firms apart in competitive markets - while never losing sight of design passion.
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42:48
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42:48
Two Projects We Love (And We Need Your Vote)
Today we explore two very distinct design stories in Ohio. The Cliffs is a modern residence imagined for the dramatic terrain of Hocking Hills, while BeAligned Health is a completed wellness space in Powell that reshaped a business through thoughtful design. Both projects are part of this year’s AIA Ohio People’s Choice Awards, and we’ll share how they came together — and why they stand out. Vote for us at Arcfluence.com/vote
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30:40
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30:40
Leadership, Growth, and Everything In Between
What really goes on behind the scenes of a growing architecture firm? In this episode, we talk with Emily Hall, president of CVG, about the real dynamics that shape design teams - how leadership evolves, where firms tend to get stuck, and what it takes to grow without losing clarity or culture. From hiring and delegation to communication and client experience, we explore what makes a firm strong beneath the surface. Whether you're planning a project or building a firm, this conversation offers a grounded look at what truly keeps a design practice on track.
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50:10
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50:10
Architecture Connections: From First Project to Full Studio
In this episode, we talk with Darguin Fortuna of Flow Design Architects about how architecture firms are built—from compelling design visions to the operational systems that bring them to life. The conversation unpacks what clients rarely see but always experience: how fee structures are set, how teams are organized, and how firms decide what work they’re equipped to take on. For developers, builders, and homeowners working in a fast-moving market like Columbus, it’s a direct look at the internal systems that shape your external results. What you’re really hearing is how smart firms make decisions, control quality, and stay accountable - so your project runs smoother, faster, and more predictably.
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55:36
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55:36
Boston AIA 2025: Conference Highlights (Clam Chowder Included)
Nick and Paul share their experience at the 2025 AIA National Conference in Boston, held June 4–7. They recount tours of notable projects, including Boston’s largest residential tower, a 61-story structure with a Four Seasons hotel, and adaptive reuse developments like a repurposed Masonic temple and a medical office campus. Keynotes by Ali K. Miller on AI’s evolving role in design, Pete Buttigieg on sustainable infrastructure, and Dami Lee on architectural storytelling provide insights into industry trends. They also discuss Boston’s unique urban fabric, networking with peers, and practical takeaways for architects, emphasizing AI tools, community-focused design, and long-term planning.
Colombia