EntreArchitect Podcast with Mark R. LePage

The Unexpected Truth About Architect Led Development
In this episode of the EntreArchitect Podcast, architect to developer journey takes center stage with Jared Banks, AIA, founder of Shoegnome Architects. Based in Seattle, Jared blends residential design, BIM expertise, and entrepreneurship to help architects build smarter careers. He shares how his path evolved from running a BIM consultancy to designing homes and launching a development company.
Along the way, Jared breaks down what it really takes to step into small-scale real estate development. He explains financing strategies, partnership structures, and the realities of market timing. In addition, he offers honest lessons from his first townhouse project in Bothell, which was completed in 2025. These insights make the process feel more approachable for architects who want to expand beyond traditional practice.
Jared reflects on his role supporting small firm architects through leadership with AIA Seattle and beyond. He shares practical advice for those curious about development but unsure where to begin. As a result, this episode provides both inspiration and a clear starting point. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn design skills into ownership opportunities, this conversation is for you.
This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, The Unexpected Truth About Architect Led Development with Jared Banks.
Learn more about Jared at Shoegnome, or follow him on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram.
Referenced in this Episode
EA550: Jared Banks – Your Business Journey as a Small Firm Architect
EA493: Jared Banks – Learning to BIM with Shoegnome
EA524: Jared Banks – Sharing a New Paradigm for the Profession of Architecture
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Arcatemy 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.
WeCollabify helps small architecture firms build sustainable capacity through an insourcing model that integrates skilled BIM and technical professionals directly into your team—working in your time zone, inside your systems. Learn how to scale with intention at wecollabify.com/entrearchitect.
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Mentioned in this episode:
Frosty & Fired Up

The Training Gap Holding Architecture Firms Back (mentorDINO)
The training gap holding architecture firms back (mentorDINO) is more than a skills issue, it’s a systems problem. In this episode, Katelyn Rossier shares how the disconnect between school and practice creates daily inefficiencies. As a result, firms face burnout, costly mistakes, and lost profit.
Katelyn explains how mid- and senior-level staff carry the hidden burden of training while managing projects. However, without structured support, this cycle continues. That’s why she founded mentorDINO, a platform built to turn chaos into clarity. Through practical, on-demand training, firms can build stronger, more confident teams.
Katelyn highlights the power of mentorship and community in shaping a healthier industry. From the mentorDINO Academy to its podcast and network, her work supports architects at every stage. Ultimately, this conversation offers a clear path forward. It shows how better systems can transform both people and practice.
This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, The Training Gap Holding Architecture Firms Back (mentorDINO) with Katelyn Rossier.
Learn more about Katelyn at mentorDINO, check out the podcast, and connect with her on Instagram, YouTube and LinkedIn.
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Arcatemy 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.
WeCollabify helps small architecture firms build sustainable capacity through an insourcing model that integrates skilled BIM and technical professionals directly into your team—working in your time zone, inside your systems. Learn how to scale with intention at wecollabify.com/entrearchitect.
Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.
Mentioned in this episode:
Frosty & Fired Up

How Small Firm Architects Can Compete and Win
In this EntreArchitect Podcast episode on marketing strategies for small architecture firms, Pam Raymond and Jayme Gately of Blueprint share how smaller practices can stand out and win better work. Together, they bring decades of experience leading marketing and communications at top global firms. Now, they help design professionals build smarter, more strategic approaches to growth.
First, Pam and Jayme explain why relationship-based marketing still matters most. They show how trust, consistency, and clear positioning can outperform big budgets. In addition, they break down how firms can tell a compelling story that resonates with the right clients.
Finally, they offer practical steps for building a focused marketing plan that actually works. From refining your message to strengthening your network, their advice is simple and actionable. As a result, small and mid-sized firms can compete with confidence and clarity.
This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, How Small Firm Architects Can Compete and Win with Pam Raymond and Jayme Gately.
Learn more about Pam and Jayme at GotBlueprint.com, and connect with them on Instagram and LinkedIn.
Please Visit Our Platform Sponsors
Arcatemy 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.
WeCollabify helps small architecture firms build sustainable capacity through an insourcing model that integrates skilled BIM and technical professionals directly into your team—working in your time zone, inside your systems. Learn how to scale with intention at wecollabify.com/entrearchitect.
Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.
Mentioned in this episode:
Frosty & Fired Up
Context & Clarity
Context & Clarity

What Wright’s Apprentices Taught Me About Architecture and Life
In this episode of the EntreArchitect Podcast, we explore organic architecture principles with Ryan Thewes, founder of a Nashville-based design studio. He shares how early influences, including Frank Lloyd Wright’s philosophy, shaped his approach to modern, site-driven design.
Ryan walks through his journey from Ball State University to working alongside architects connected to Wright’s legacy. Along the way, he built a practice rooted in bold geometry and environmental harmony. As a result, his work has earned recognition for blending sustainability with contemporary residential design.
He also offers practical advice for small firm architects who want to build meaningful, lasting work. From developing a clear design voice to honoring legacy while innovating, Ryan brings both inspiration and clarity. Ultimately, this conversation is a reminder that great architecture begins with intention and connection to place.
This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, What Wright’s Apprentices Taught Me About Architecture and Life with Ryan Thewes.
Learn more about Ryan at Ryan Thewes Architect, and connect with him on LinkedIn.
Please Visit Our Platform Sponsors
Arcatemy 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.
WeCollabify helps small architecture firms build sustainable capacity through an insourcing model that integrates skilled BIM and technical professionals directly into your team—working in your time zone, inside your systems. Learn how to scale with intention at wecollabify.com/entrearchitect.
Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.
Mentioned in this episode:
Context & Clarity
Context & Clarity
Frosty & Fired Up

Your Design to Permit Ready in Less Than 10 Days
AI in architecture is changing how projects move from concept to construction. In this episode, Maor Greenberg, founder of Spacial AI, shares how automation is transforming permit sets, compliance, and engineering workflows. He explains how AI can reduce manual work while improving accuracy and speed across the design process.
Maor brings nearly two decades of experience in architecture, real estate, and construction. Over the years, he has built and led multiple companies, including Greenberg Construction and VRchitects. As a result, he understands the real challenges firms face with permitting, codes, and coordination.
Now, through Spacial AI, Maor is focused on solving those challenges at scale. He discusses how intelligent systems can automate permit-ready drawings and streamline project management. Ultimately, this conversation explores what the future of design looks like when technology removes friction and frees architects to focus on creativity.
This week at EntreArchitect Podcast, Your Design to Permit Ready in Less Than 10 Days with Maor Greenberg.
Learn more about Maor at Spacial.io, and connect with him on LinkedIn.
Please Visit Our Platform Sponsors
Arcatemy 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.
WeCollabify helps small architecture firms build sustainable capacity through an insourcing model that integrates skilled BIM and technical professionals directly into your team—working in your time zone, inside your systems. Learn how to scale with intention at wecollabify.com/entrearchitect.
Visit our Platform Sponsors today and thank them for supporting YOU... The EntreArchitect Community of small firm architects.
Mentioned in this episode:
Context & Clarity
Context & Clarity
Frosty & Fired Up