LivLive: Design, Building, and the Business of Remodeling

AI isn’t replacing marketing—it’s exposing who actually understands it.In this episode of LivLive, David Pollard sits down with Kai Biami (KBiami Marketing, Builder Funnel contributor) for a grounded, no-BS conversation on what’s really happening at the intersection of marketing and AI.This isn’t a tools conversation. It’s about thinking differently.Kai breaks down why most companies are approaching AI completely backwards—focusing on shortcuts instead of strategy—and how the real opportunity is building systems that compound over time. The discussion moves into how content, SEO, and client acquisition are shifting, and why the firms that win won’t just be “using AI”… they’ll be structuring their business around it.You also get into the realities for design-build firms specifically—where trust, differentiation, and communication matter more than ever—and how AI can either dilute your brand or sharpen it depending on how it’s used.If you’re trying to figure out how to actually apply AI in a way that drives growth (not noise), this episode delivers.Why most businesses are using AI as a shortcut—and why that’s a mistakeThe shift from one-off marketing efforts to scalable, repeatable systemsHow AI is changing SEO, content strategy, and long-term visibilityWhat “good” content looks like now that anyone can generate contentHow builders and design firms can stand out in an AI-saturated marketWhere AI actually saves time vs. where it creates riskA practical mindset for integrating AI without losing your brand voice00:00 – Opening: Why This Conversation Matters Right NowYou frame the episode around the rapid shift in marketing and why AI is forcing a rethink—not just an upgrade.01:45 – Kai’s Background & Builder Funnel ConnectionKai walks through his path into marketing, his experience in the industry, and how he’s thinking about AI today.04:30 – The Core Problem: People Are Using AI BackwardsEarly thesis of the episode—most people are chasing efficiency instead of building strategy.08:10 – From Campaigns to SystemsDiscussion shifts into how marketing is evolving from one-off efforts into structured, repeatable systems.12:00 – Content Explosion vs. Content QualityWhy AI-generated content is flooding the market—and why most of it won’t perform.16:30 – What Actually Differentiates You NowPerspective, experience, and clarity vs. generic AI output.21:00 – SEO in an AI WorldHow search behavior and content discovery are changing, and what still matters.25:40 – Builders & Design Firms: Where This Hits HomeYou bring it back to real application—how this affects design-build companies specifically.30:15 – AI as Leverage (When Used Correctly)Where AI actually creates efficiency and allows smaller teams to scale impact.34:50 – The Risk: Losing Your VoiceHow over-reliance on AI can flatten your brand and make you indistinguishable.38:20 – Practical Use Cases That Make Sense TodayRealistic entry points—what to start doing now without overcomplicating things.42:10 – Where This Is Going NextKai’s perspective on how quickly this evolves and what businesses should be preparing for.45:00 – Closing Thoughts: Strategy > ToolsReinforcing the core idea—AI is only valuable if it’s built on clear thinking and positioning.

This week on LivLive, Dave sits down with David Supple, founder of New England Design & Construction, for a deep dive into the true meaning of design-build—and why the industry may have gotten it wrong.David shares his unconventional path from studying architecture at Tufts to realizing, early in his career, that he was designing buildings he didn’t actually know how to build. That realization pushed him into the trades, where he worked as a carpenter (briefly, by his own admission), before ultimately starting what would become a 20+ year design-build firm.The conversation centers around a powerful idea: that the separation between architecture and construction is historically recent—and fundamentally flawed. David breaks down how the role of the “architect” originally meant master builder, and how over generations, education systems and industry structures split design from execution, creating a lack of accountability that still exists today.Dave and David also explore what it really means to take responsibility for a project—from concept through completion—and why true design-build isn’t just a delivery method, but a mindset rooted in ownership, craft, and follow-through.This is a thoughtful, philosophical, and at times provocative conversation about the identity of architects, the evolution of the industry, and why bringing design and construction back together might be the key to doing better work.Why David felt unqualified designing buildings early in his career—and how that changed his pathThe original meaning of “architect” as master builderHow and why architecture and construction became separated over timeThe role universities played in reshaping the professionWhy the lack of a single point of accountability creates problems in projectsHow design-build restores responsibility from concept through executionWhy designing without owning the outcome doesn’t make sense in residential work00:00 – Intro & Guest BackgroundDave introduces David Supple and frames the conversation01:00 – Architecture School Reality CheckDavid reflects on Tufts and realizing he was designing without understanding construction02:00 – “I Didn’t Know How to Build Anything”The turning point that pushed him out of traditional architecture thinking02:45 – Trying the Trades (and Getting Fired)His short-lived but important experience working as a carpenter03:30 – Starting NEDCHow he launched the business and began integrating design + construction04:30 – What an Architect Originally WasThe “master builder” concept and historical definition05:30 – When Design and Construction SplitHow the industry evolved into separate roles06:15 – Education’s Role in the DivideHow universities reinforced specialization over integration07:00 – The Accountability ProblemWhy fragmented responsibility creates issues in projects07:45 – The Case for True Design-BuildOwning both design and execution as a better model08:30 – Residential Work vs Traditional ArchitectureDave connects it to real-world challenges in residential practice

In this episode of LivLive, Dave sits down with Nicholas Cooper, architect and leader focused on housing, community, and the long-term impact of the built environment.This conversation goes beyond architecture as a profession and gets into architecture as responsibility. Nicholas shares his journey—from early career influences and firm experience to stepping into leadership with a clear mission around housing, equity, and creating meaningful places for people to live.A major theme throughout the episode is housing as a system—not just buildings, but the social, economic, and generational implications tied to it. Nicholas brings a thoughtful perspective on everything from single-family homes to multi-family, senior living, and mixed-income communities, and how design can elevate outcomes across all of them.Dave and Nicholas also explore the intersection of personal life and professional risk—particularly how fatherhood and family can shape major career decisions. There’s an honest look at what it takes to step into something new, take a leap, and build with intention.From large-scale planning to individual responsibility as designers and builders, this episode is a grounded and meaningful conversation about where the industry is—and where it needs to go.Why housing should be viewed as a long-term societal system, not just a productHow architecture firms shape outcomes beyond design—through leadership and decision-makingThe role of mixed-income and intergenerational communities in the future of housingHow fatherhood and personal values influence career risk and entrepreneurshipThe difference between designing buildings vs. creating places people truly belongWhy architects and builders need to think bigger about impact, not just projects00:00 – Intro & Welcoming Nicholas CooperDave introduces Nicholas and sets the stage for a conversation around housing, design, and leadership.02:30 – Early Career & Path into ArchitectureNicholas shares his background, early influences, and the firms that shaped his thinking.07:45 – Chicago, Richmond & Career DecisionsA look at geographic decisions, missed opportunities, and how career paths evolve over time.12:10 – Fatherhood & Taking the LeapHow becoming a father influenced Nicholas’ decision to pursue a new direction.17:30 – Housing as a Core MissionWhy housing—across all types—is central to Nicholas’ work and worldview.23:40 – From Single Family to Mixed-Use CommunitiesDiscussion on scale: designing everything from homes to large master-planned environments.29:15 – Equity, Access & Responsibility in DesignThe role architects and builders play in creating more equitable housing opportunities.35:20 – What Makes a Great CommunityBreaking down the ingredients of successful, livable places.41:10 – The Future of Housing DevelopmentWhere Nicholas sees opportunity and change coming in the industry.47:00 – Advice for Architects & BuildersGuidance for those looking to grow, lead, and make a bigger impact.52:30 – Closing Thoughts & Final TakeawaysWrapping up with perspective on purpose, risk, and building a better future.

Michael Anschel joins the show — builder, educator, and a driving force in pushing the remodeling industry to think more critically about how we build.What made this conversation different is how naturally it connected three worlds:building science, teaching, and emerging tools like AI.Michael talks about what actually drives him — not just building, but helping people understand why things work (or don’t). From teaching flashing details at IBS to getting follow-up emails months later, there’s a clear throughline:when people “get it,” everything changes.One of the more interesting threads is the tension between being a maker and using tools that remove the “making” part. That shift — mentally more than technically — might be the biggest hurdle for builders right now.This was a thoughtful, honest conversation about:what we build, how we think, and what might need to change next.Michael shared a few tools and projects he’s actively working on:• AI Pulse (Weekly Tech Roundup)https://aipulseweb-bqfxmg34.manus.space/search• Tech of Interest (Ideas, tools, experiments)https://technewslet-ysuopz87.manus.space/• ConstructAI (Drawing + Spec Analysis Tool)https://constructai-kears88n.manus.space/project/1→ Upload drawings + specs to identify conflicts, missing info, and query your project instantly.And the incredible Basement/Crawlspace tool that he has built: https://belowgrade-qthxut5u.manus.space/Chapters:00:00 – Intro + LivLive kickoff (and no Instagram today)02:00 – How Dave and Michael first connected (COVID + Remodelers circles)03:30 – Who Michael is + IBS demo / teaching background04:30 – Why teaching matters (and what makes it fulfilling)07:30 – Helping people “get it” — impact beyond the jobsite10:30 – Transition: building science mindset vs typical construction thinking14:00 – Where projects actually break down in the real world18:30 – Drawings vs reality: gaps, interpretation, and risk23:00 – The hidden time drain: reviewing documents and chasing info28:00 – Introducing AI in a practical way (not hype)32:00 – 3D printing, visualization, and using AI to generate models36:00 – The “maker vs machine” tension (big mindset shift)40:00 – Using AI for real applications (design, communication, tools)45:00 – Basement tool + building science applications50:00 – Where this is all heading for builders55:00 – Closing thoughts + future opportunities

LivLive Ep. 34 – Todd Hansen (QuarterSawn Design Build)Why “Director of Experience” Might Be the Most Important Role in Design-BuildIn this episode of LivLive, Dave sits down with Todd Hansen, Director of Experience at QuarterSawn Design Build in Minneapolis—a role that challenges the way most remodeling companies think about structure, culture, and client experience.Todd wasn’t a founder.He wasn’t brought up through the trades.He was brought in early—when the company had just nine people—to build something most companies talk about but never actually implement: a deliberate, managed experience for both clients and the internal team.The conversation unpacks how QuarterSawn’s founder, architect Jeff Nicholson, recognized that building culture and experience wasn’t his strength—and instead of ignoring it, made it a dedicated leadership function.From there, Todd has shaped a role that sits across client experience, team culture, trade relationships, and overall company alignment.This episode dives into what that actually looks like in practice—and why this kind of role may be one of the biggest opportunities in design-build today.What a “Director of Experience” actually does in a design-build companyWhy culture doesn’t happen by accident—and why most companies fail at itThe difference between talking about culture vs. actually building itHow experience applies to clients, trade partners, and internal teamsWhy Jeff Nicholson intentionally hired for this role early (at ~9 employees)How to address retention and turnover through experience designThe idea that leaders should build around their weaknesses—not ignore themWhy this role is starting to spread across top design-build firms00:00 – Intro + Todd’s role at QuarterSawn02:00 – What is a “Director of Experience”?05:00 – Why Jeff created this role early08:30 – Culture vs. actually doing the work12:00 – Internal vs. external experience16:30 – Retention, turnover, and team dynamics21:00 – Leadership self-awareness (playing to strengths/weaknesses)26:00 – How this role is spreading across the industry30:00+ – Applying this thinking to other design-build firmsWrap Up – Key takeaways

Spatial AI, Machine Intelligence, and the Future of BuildingIn this episode of LivLive, Dave sits down with Yu-Han Chang—Harvard graduate, MIT PhD, and longtime AI researcher—to unpack what artificial intelligence really is, where it came from, and where it’s headed—especially for the design and construction world.Yu-Han brings over 20 years of experience in AI, going back to a time when the term itself was avoided and the field was simply called machine learning. He walks through the evolution from early classification models—think reading handwritten mail or identifying simple patterns—to today’s explosive wave of generative AI and spatial intelligence.But this isn’t just a history lesson.The conversation digs into a much bigger idea: machines are no longer just recognizing the world—they’re starting to understand it.That shift—from classification to contextual understanding—is what opens the door to spatial AI: systems that can interpret environments, geometry, and human interaction in real-world spaces. And that’s where things get very real for architects, builders, and designers.Dave and Yu-Han explore what this means for the building industry:How AI could move from back-office automation into design thinking and decision-makingThe potential for machines to interpret drawings, spaces, and construction intentWhy the biggest opportunity isn’t replacing people—but augmenting human expertiseAnd the real challenge ahead: separating hype from meaningful, usable toolsA key theme throughout the episode is timing. While AI feels like it “arrived overnight,” Yu-Han makes it clear this has been decades in the making—and we’re still early in understanding how to apply it responsibly and effectively.The conversation stays grounded in reality: AI is powerful, but only when paired with human judgment, domain knowledge, and clear intent. Especially in an industry like construction, where context, nuance, and execution matter.This episode is less about tools—and more about mindset.If you’re in design, construction, or development and trying to make sense of AI beyond the headlines, this is a conversation worth paying attention to.Why “AI” used to be a dirty word—and what changed around 2016 and again in 2023The difference between early machine learning (classification) and today’s AI (understanding + generation)What spatial AI actually means—and why it matters for architecture and constructionWhere AI can realistically support (not replace) designers and buildersWhy the biggest risk right now is misapplying AI—not missing itHow to think about AI as a long-term shift, not a short-term tool00:00 – Intro & Guest BackgroundDave introduces Yu-Han Chang and his deep academic and industry experience in AI.02:00 – The Early Days of AI (Before It Was “AI”)Why the field avoided the term and focused on machine learning instead.05:00 – What Machine Learning Actually Did Back ThenFrom OCR and classifiers to the limitations of early models.10:00 – The Inflection Point (2016 → 2023)How breakthroughs—and public awareness—changed everything.18:00 – From Recognition to UnderstandingThe critical shift that unlocks real-world applications.28:00 – What Is Spatial AI?How machines begin to interpret physical space, not just data.40:00 – Implications for Design & ConstructionWhere AI could realistically impact workflows, drawings, and decisions.52:00 – Hype vs. Reality in AIWhy most people are either overestimating or misapplying the technology.1:05:00 – The Human + AI FutureWhy domain expertise becomes more valuable—not less.

From Client to Industry Insider: Renovating Your Own Home While Working in Building ProductsIn this episode of LivLive, Dave sits down with Noor Boyle from James Hardie, who brings a unique dual perspective to the conversation: she works inside the building products industry and she was once a LivCo client herself.See Noor's family's Western Springs house here!**** Also credit to Kevin Harris, AIA on the "Funk Chart"Noor shares the story behind her family’s major home renovation in Western Springs, Illinois, including how they decided to remodel instead of move, the rigorous process she used to evaluate contractors, and what it’s really like to experience a full home addition from the homeowner side.Because Noor works in the building products world, the conversation also dives into the intersection between manufacturers, builders, architects, and homeowners—and why collaboration between those groups matters more than most people realize.Dave and Noor explore how homeowners evaluate remodeling partners, how the renovation process feels from the client’s side of the table, and how the building industry can better support both homeowners and contractors.It’s a great conversation about trust, design decisions, industry relationships, and what happens when the professional world of construction meets the personal world of home.• How Noor evaluated over a dozen remodeling companies before choosing a design-build partner• Why many homeowners ultimately choose to renovate instead of move• What it feels like for a homeowner when their house is “blown up and expanded” during a major remodel• The advantages and tradeoffs between architect-builder vs. design-build approaches• How building product manufacturers like James Hardie interact with builders and designers• Why collaboration between manufacturers, contractors, and homeowners leads to better projects• Lessons Noor learned going through a renovation as both a client and an industry professional00:00 – IntroductionDave introduces Noor Boyle from James Hardie and explains the unique crossover of having both a building-products professional and former LivCo client on the show.05:00 – Why Renovate Instead of MoveNoor explains how her family outgrew their home during COVID and how they ultimately decided to renovate instead of relocating.10:00 – Interviewing 12 Remodeling CompaniesA deep dive into Noor’s rigorous selection process and how homeowners evaluate architects, builders, and design-build firms.15:00 – Choosing a Design-Build TeamWhy the design-build model made sense for Noor’s project and how LivCo approached the renovation.20:00 – Renovating While Working in the IndustryNoor shares the perspective of working for a major building-products company while also experiencing a renovation personally.25:00 – Lessons from the Homeowner SideKey takeaways from living through construction, communication expectations, and what makes the renovation experience successful.30:00 – Builders, Manufacturers, and CollaborationHow companies like James Hardie support builders and why relationships across the construction ecosystem matter.35:00 – Final ThoughtsReflections on the renovation, industry relationships, and advice for homeowners considering a major remodel.

In this episode of LivLive, Dave sits down with Ben Blodgett, owner of TDS Design Build in Madison, Wisconsin, to unpack one of the most interesting career paths in the design-build industry: going from employee to owner.Dave and Ben first met years ago through their Remodelers Advantage roundtable, when Ben was still the general manager at TDS Custom Construction while founder Sam was preparing to transition out. What followed was a six-year journey toward ownership—filled with uncertainty, financial risk, leadership growth, and ultimately purchasing the company right before COVID.Ben shares how he went from farm kid to carpenter to business owner, why the opportunity to buy the company wasn’t something he originally pursued, and what it actually takes to step into ownership when you’ve spent most of your career in production.The conversation explores the real challenges behind ownership transitions: learning financials, developing leadership skills, navigating economic uncertainty, and deciding whether the responsibility of ownership is actually worth it.For anyone in the design-build world who has ever asked themselves “Should I start a company or buy one?”, this episode is full of hard-earned lessons.• How Ben Blodgett transitioned from carpenter to owner of TDS Design Build• What a 6-year ownership transition actually looks like behind the scenes• Why buying a company during COVID created unexpected challenges• The mindset shift required to go from manager to true business owner• How industry peer groups like Remodelers Advantage shape leadership growth• Why many talented builders hesitate to take the leap into ownership• The financial and emotional risks involved in buying a construction company• How TDS evolved from TDS Custom Construction to TDS Design Build00:00 – Introduction to Ben Blodgett and TDS Design Build02:30 – How Dave and Ben met through Remodelers Advantage05:10 – Ben’s background growing up on a farm08:00 – Getting started in construction and becoming a carpenter11:30 – Moving into leadership at TDS as general manager15:40 – When the opportunity to buy the company first appeared19:30 – The six-year journey negotiating the ownership transition24:15 – Learning how to become a business owner29:10 – Buying the company right before COVID33:40 – The financial and operational challenges of that timing37:20 – The mindset shift from employee to owner42:10 – Lessons for builders considering ownership

LivLive Ep. 30 – With Adam Steiner of Birnam DesignIn Episode 30, Dave sits down with Adam Steiner, founder of Birnam Design in Indiana, to unpack the intersection of engineering, home design, and the evolving business of residential plans.Adam’s story starts long before Birnam Design. He grew up in a multi-generation construction family — great-grandfather with a historic octagon house in Ohio, grandfather a builder, father a builder. Though he earned a civil engineering degree from Purdue, he quickly realized he was more drawn to the creative + structural tension of home design than pure engineering.The conversation covers:How growing up inside a builder family shaped Adam’s design lensWhy he chose to start his own firm in 2020The difference between being close to construction… and intentionally staying one step removedWhat he saw and learned at IBS in OrlandoHow engineering thinking influences residential floor plansThe stress divide between designers and buildersThere’s a candid thread throughout the episode about distance from the jobsite. Adam respects what builders endure daily — coordination chaos, dust control, sequencing trades, HVAC protection — but has intentionally structured his role around design rather than construction management. Dave, now rebuilding a construction arm in North Carolina, offers the counterpoint from inside the field.This episode is less about flashy architecture and more about the mindset behind great residential design.How a civil engineering background can sharpen residential design thinkingWhy constraint (structure, mechanicals, code) actually fuels creativityThe emotional and operational difference between designing a house and building oneWhat IBS in Orlando revealed about where the building industry is headedWhy some designers intentionally stay at “arm’s length” from construction stressHow starting a firm in 2020 reshaped Adam’s trajectory00:00 – Episode 30 & How Adam and Dave MetA callback to Adam’s “Builder vs. Buyer” podcast and how the relationship started.05:00 – Construction in the BloodAdam’s family history, the octagon house legacy, and growing up inside the industry.10:00 – Purdue, Engineering, and Finding DesignWhy Adam pursued civil engineering — and why he ultimately gravitated toward home design.18:00 – Creativity Within Structural ConstraintsThe tension between engineering rigidity and residential creativity.25:00 – Starting Birnam Design in 2020Launching an independent firm and defining his role in the marketplace.32:00 – IBS Orlando TakeawaysReflections from the Builder Show: scale, industry energy, and what stood out.40:00 – Designers vs. Builders: The Stress GapA candid discussion about jobsite chaos, trade coordination, and why some designers choose distance.50:00 – The Future of Residential DesignTechnology, AI, online floor plan culture, and how specialization may shape the next era.This episode is a thoughtful look at what happens when engineering discipline meets residential creativity — and how defining your lane inside the design-build world can protect both your sanity and your edge.

Leadership Lessons with Joe CliggottLive from the International Builders’ Show in Orlando, Dave sits down with Joe Cliggott, Studio Director and Principal at HKS, for a deep conversation about leadership, humility, and building culture inside major architecture firms.Joe shares his journey from graduating during a recession at Penn State, packing up a U-Haul without a job, and moving to Chicago — to eventually leading one of the most influential studios in the city. But this episode isn’t about titles. It’s about what actually drives long-term impact: people, trust, culture, and consistency.Dave and Joe dig into what makes Chicago’s architecture community unique, how firm culture is shaped (and reshaped), and why humility and steady leadership matter more than ego in scaling teams. They also unpack the realities of navigating downturns, earning influence inside large organizations, and building a reputation that lasts decades.If you’re an architect, design leader, or builder trying to grow without losing your values, this one hits.Why starting a career in a recession can be an advantageHow to build influence inside large architecture firmsThe difference between having a title and earning leadershipWhat actually shapes culture inside design organizationsWhy humility may be the most underrated trait in architectureHow Chicago became a proving ground for architectural careersThe mindset required to sustain a decades-long career in design00:00 – Live from IBS & Chicago Architecture RootsDave introduces Joe and sets the stage from Orlando. Joe reflects on Chicago as the “capital city of architecture” and why it drew him there.05:00 – Graduating Into a RecessionJoe’s Penn State graduation story, moving to Chicago without a job, and how economic downturns shape resilience early in a career.10:00 – Building a Career Without a Master PlanWhy Joe didn’t have a perfectly mapped-out path — and how opportunity plus initiative created momentum.15:00 – Chicago’s Architecture CultureWhat makes the Chicago design community unique, interconnected, and influential.20:00 – From Team Member to Studio LeaderJoe’s evolution through major firms and what changes when you move from contributor to culture-setter.25:00 – Leadership Inside Large FirmsHow influence works in big organizations, earning trust, and aligning teams around shared goals.30:00 – Titles vs. ImpactPrincipal. Senior VP. Studio Director. Why titles matter less than how you show up daily.35:00 – Culture Isn’t a Poster on the WallHow firm culture is created through behavior, mentorship, and consistency — not mission statements.40:00 – Humility as a Leadership AdvantageWhy Joe sees himself as a “prince, not a king” — and how that mindset sustains long-term success.45:00 – Navigating Change & GrowthLessons from moving firms, scaling teams, and adapting across economic cycles.50:00 – Advice to the Next GenerationJoe’s perspective for young architects: risk, relationships, resilience, and showing up.55:00 – Final Thoughts on Legacy & InfluenceWhat it really means to have an impact in architecture — beyond projects.

In this episode of LivLive, Dave sits down with Christopher Lawton and Micah Stanley, co-founders of Lawton Stanley Architects, for a deep conversation about architectural authorship, restraint, and building a practice rooted in clarity rather than noise.Based in Chicago, Lawton Stanley is known for highly refined hospitality and residential work, including landmark restaurant projects like Ever and Grace. Throughout the conversation, Christopher and Micah reflect on how restaurant design fundamentally shaped their approach to architecture — teaching them to think about sequence, pacing, light, materiality, and experience as inseparable from form.Rather than chasing trends or signature gestures, they discuss the discipline of editing, the value of restraint, and the importance of trust — both between partners and with clients. The episode also explores how their partnership functions in practice, how design intent survives real-world constraints, and why smaller, more intentional studios can produce deeply meaningful work.This is a thoughtful, practice-level discussion for architects, designers, builders, and anyone interested in how great spaces are actually made — from concept through experience.How hospitality projects influence architectural thinking at every scaleWhat restaurant design teaches about sequence, mood, and human experienceHow Christopher and Micah navigate partnership, authorship, and trustWhy restraint and editing are often the hardest — and most important — design movesHow design intent can survive budgets, construction realities, and real-world constraintsWhy staying intentionally small can be a strategic advantage for design studios00:00 – Introduction & backgroundDave introduces Christopher Lawton and Micah Stanley and their Chicago-based practice.04:30 – Founding Lawton Stanley ArchitectsHow the firm began and the shared values that shaped its direction.11:45 – Partnership & authorshipHow collaboration works without ego and how responsibilities evolve.20:10 – Designing restaurants as architectureLessons learned from hospitality projects and why experience drives form.34:40 – Restraint, editing, and clarityWhy doing less often creates more powerful spaces.49:15 – Translating hospitality thinking to residential workApplying sequencing, materiality, and mood to homes.1:03:30 – Growth, focus, and staying intentionalWhy Lawton Stanley resists scale for scale’s sake.1:15:50 – Closing reflectionsWhat continues to motivate them as architects today.

In this episode of LivLive, Dave sits down with Adam Reed Tucker — architect, artist, and the original creator of the LEGO® Architecture Studio series.Adam’s work sits at the intersection of architecture, sculpture, and storytelling. From designing the first fifteen LEGO Architecture sets to exhibiting massive brick-built skyscrapers around the world, Adam shares how his architectural training shaped his creative philosophy — and why stepping outside traditional practice unlocked an entirely new path.The conversation explores what it means to make versus design, how constraints fuel creativity, and why physical craft still matters in a digital-first world. Adam also dives into his current work with Atom Brick, reflecting on how experimentation, play, and curiosity continue to drive his process decades into his career.This episode is a deep, thoughtful look at creativity beyond labels — and a reminder that architecture education can be a launchpad, not a box.How architectural thinking translates into art, sculpture, and product designWhy constraints (like LEGO bricks) can actually expand creative freedomThe shift from traditional architecture practice to creative authorshipHow physical making influences problem-solving and design intuitionWhy play, experimentation, and curiosity are essential to long-term creative growth00:00 – IntroductionWhy this episode stands out and Adam’s impact on architecture and LEGO culture01:00 – From Architecture School to Brick ArtHow architectural training shaped Adam’s creative foundation06:30 – Designing the LEGO Architecture SeriesThe origins of the first LEGO Architecture sets and design philosophy behind them14:45 – Making vs. DesigningWhat changes when architects move from drawings to physical craft23:10 – Exhibitions, Scale, and SkyscrapersLessons learned from building massive brick-based architectural works32:40 – Constraints as Creative FuelWhy limited systems often produce the strongest ideas41:15 – Atom Brick and What’s NextAdam’s current work and how his creative practice continues to evolve49:30 – Closing ThoughtsAdvice for architects and designers exploring non-traditional paths

This week on LivLive, Dave Pollard is joined (again) by Zach Snider, co-owner of Alloy Architecture + Construction in Charlottesville, VA, for a nuts-and-bolts conversation on the KPI that quietly changes everything in design-build: Gross Profit per Day (GP/Day).Zach breaks down why GP/Day is more than a finance metric — it’s a behavior driver. When you price and manage projects around a daily gross profit target, the team naturally starts protecting the schedule, tightening sequencing, and making smarter field decisions that improve both profitability and client experience. The result: fewer “this took forever” projects, clearer priorities, and a stronger link between operational discipline and customer satisfaction.They dig into how Alloy uses GP/Day to price projects (sometimes creating very different margins depending on project size), how GP/Day reveals whether a job is actually worth doing, and why “more margin” isn’t always the point — more predictable gross profit dollars, delivered on time, is.Then the conversation turns to the design side: how do you measure productivity in a design-build architecture department when “billable hours” doesn’t tell the whole story? Zach shares Alloy’s emerging approach: tracking construction revenue produced per day by the design team, and why siloed metrics can miss the real win — when extra design effort increases construction scope and total company margin.To close, you get a fun look inside Alloy’s culture (including a LEGO minifig org chart), hiring plans, and a book recommendation that nails the design-build paradox: plan slow, execute fast.What GP per Day actually is and why it’s a stronger operational lens than GP% aloneHow Alloy uses GP/Day as both a pricing input and a project performance measuring stickWhy the same GP/Day target can produce wildly different margins (ex: ~22% on big jobs vs ~40% on small jobs)How GP/Day influences field decisions (including when it makes sense to pay more to bring a trade back multiple times to shorten duration)The “compressed timeline” insight: why overlapping scopes (ADU + reno + pool) can justify a lower margin while still hitting target GP/DayWhy design productivity can’t be measured only by “profit on design” or “hours vs budget” in a design-build modelAlloy’s emerging metric for design: construction revenue produced per day (and how it reframes design’s value)A practical leadership lesson: metrics should “push the right way… but not too much”A cultural takeaway: how small rituals (like a LEGO org chart) build identity and team cohesionChapters: 0:00 Welcome + why Zach’s back2:30 KPIs + dashboards by department4:35 GP/Day defined + where it lives5:55 Why GP/Day drives behavior + schedule focus8:15 “Bring the trade back” example (pay more, finish faster)10:05 Building the budget backward (profit → GP dollars → GP/Day)13:05 Alloy’s target (~$850/day) + sweet-spot project size (~$650–700k)15:05 Why it’s not about expensive materials (time matters more)16:30 Overlapping scopes (ADU/reno/pool) + competitive pricing via GP/Day20:55 Applying the idea to design: construction revenue/day25:00 Silo problem: design “loss” can create big construction margin31:00 LEGO org chart + culture + hiring35:10 “How Big Things Get Done”: plan slow, execute fast39:10 Fixed price vs cost plus + wrap

In Episode 25 of LivLive, host Dave Pollard sits down with Phil Read (Read/Thomas + Chaos) — a longtime AEC tech voice and an “OG” of BIM-era thinking — for a real talk about AI, the hype curve, and the parts that will actually stick.Phil connects the dots between past “religious wars” in our industry (BIM, digital twins, definitions, buzzwords) and what’s happening now with AI. The twist: he’s not excited because it’s new… he’s excited because it’s a return to an old, powerful workflow: create an emotional vision first, then resolve the details.They dig into why “rendering in order to design” got flipped into “designing in order to render,” why that matters for client clarity, and how text-prompt rendering may change early alignment (without replacing accountability, judgment, or craft). Along the way, Phil shares practical patterns behind his responsiveness and consulting approach: get the context, solve the real stress, and stop selling features.And yes… the episode about AI hype is (very appropriately) the one where an AI writes the YouTube description. We contain multitudes.What You'll Learn:Why AEC tech keeps cycling through hype (BIM → digital twins → AI), and how to stay sane inside itPhil’s take on AI’s real value: “render in order to design” (and why that’s a return to first principles)How text-prompt visualization can help clients give emotional direction earlier (before everything is “resolved”)Why AI won’t replace architects/designers — but will change how iteration and discussion happensA simple consulting/sales truth: people pay you to take their stress awayA mindset shift: using AI as “billions of helpers in your pocket” (and learning to actually ask better questions)

In Episode 24 of LivLive, Dave sits down with Eric Schlickman — an architect-turned-hospitality operator who’s helped reshape downtown Wheaton, IL through a growing family of restaurants and concepts.Dave and Eric go back to their early architecture years together (including the 2008-era international work through Goettsch), before digging into Eric’s pivot: from architecture school at Kansas and the accountability of Studio 804, to realizing he wasn’t drawn to “architecture as drawings,” but to creating places where people connect — and where the experience actually has to work day after day.Eric tells the origin story of buying Shane’s Deli in 2018 (knowing “nothing about restaurants”), learning business fundamentals behind the register, and then taking the bigger leap: raising roughly $1M to buy and renovate a former gas station into 302 Wheaton, pitched first as a community hub (craft beer and burgers came after).From there, the episode becomes a tour of Eric’s Wheaton ecosystem and the intentionality behind each concept:302 Wheaton (and 302 South) built around young familiesSubourban, a semi-private cocktail bar / speakeasyDough and the Backyard, a pizza sports bar + event spaceThe Guild, a bookstore + café + bar + bistro (layered into the same building as Subourban)They close with what Eric wants next: a small hotel concept layered above the existing building — and why hospitality, at its best, is architecture that never stops being tested.

Kicking off 2026 with a fun one: Dave sits down with Ian Schwandt of TDS Custom Construction (Madison, WI). Ian’s the Operations/Production Manager at TDS, a writer for JLC (Journal of Light Construction), and a guest host on the Fine Homebuilding Podcast.We talk about Ian’s fast-tracked path from union carpenter apprenticeship to the business + leadership side of residential remodeling, including how the “craft culture” (and even Passive House / net-zero training) shaped how he thinks about teams, processes, and what makes this industry worth the grind.Later, we get into the practical stuff: problem-solving culture, shop/prefab advantages, and how Ian is using Google Sheets, JobTread, and AI tools (ChatGPT/Gemini) to get sharper about labor constraints, duration, and whether projects are actually returning the gross profit they need to.What You’ll Learn :How Ian went from early trade work to a union carpentry apprenticeship, and what pushed him toward operations + leadershipWhy the Yestermorrow / Passive House orbit attracts a certain “craftsmanship + thinking” mindset (and how it shows up in remodeling)A clear snapshot of TDS Custom Construction: history (“Two Dumb Swedes”), project mix, and the “neighborhood people” nicheWhy remodelers need a culture that assumes mistakes will happen, and how to normalize problem-solving across design + field teamsHow shop work / pre-milling can help a smaller crew punch above its weight on schedule and executionPractical ways Ian and Dave are thinking about AI for documentation, repeatable reports, and contract/package reviewIan’s approach to evaluating work through the lens of labor as the constraint (hours + dollars) and gross profit per labor load

Dave sits down with Aaron Greven—an architect turned AEC technology consultant—to talk about the career path that led from the Chicago architecture circuit into founding AG Design Works during the 2008–09 downturn. Aaron explains how he built a niche helping teams actually use BIM/3D modeling for coordination, documentation, and construction clarity—especially when firms or contractors are struggling to make the tech practical.They get into the real value of “information,” not just software: how to translate design intent into systems that reduce confusion, how modeling can support coordination before construction, and why the best deliverables are often the ones that help the field understand complex conditions faster (sometimes a picture really is worth a thousand words).How Aaron pivoted during the 2008–09 slowdown and built an AEC tech consulting practiceWhat “BIM support” actually means in practice (coordination, documentation, workflows, clarity)How to think about information flow across architect/engineer/GC/fieldWhy modeling and coordination must be tied to real outcomes, not just “more detail”How to justify tech/process investment by connecting it to reduced confusion and better executionWhy visual context (3D + clear intent) can dramatically help field teams solve complex conditions

This is a production-team roundtable on what it’s really like executing remodels and additions in the field—especially in older homes where unknowns and contradictions are the norm. The team talks about how they make assumptions to keep projects moving while staying ready for Plan B / Plan C, and how field leaders solve problems when drawings meet reality.There are real examples: two homes that looked similar from the outside but were framed totally differently (including a surprise solid clay tile wall), plus a memorable “tile door” detail that required serious planning just to keep grout lines aligned and the door from sagging.How production teams handle unknown conditions without freezing a jobWhy assumptions are necessary—and how to make them responsiblyReal examples of “same-looking house, totally different structure” and what that means in the fieldHow oddball details (like a tiled door) create hidden technical risks (weight, alignment, sag)How schedules become a “chess game” when trades, sequencing, and site realities collideWhy production success is often about communication + adaptability, not just plans

Dave talks with Charlie Raith—also his nephew—about Charlie’s path through youth hockey, into the USHL, and then four years of D1 hockey at Notre Dame. The conversation focuses on what actually separates strong programs and it's parallels in the professional world of business: coaching culture, leadership systems inside the locker room, and how players develop decision-making under pressure.They get into the difference between parent-led and professional coaching environments, what a real “culture” looks like, and how Notre Dame’s staff built a program through consistency and leadership groups—not just star players.How the jump from youth hockey to USHL/D1 changes expectations and paceWhy coaching culture matters as much as talent (and what “culture” actually looks like day-to-day)The role of leadership groups beyond captains—how strong teams distribute leadershipHow decision-making under pressure is trained (not just hoped for)What athletes carry into the “real world” from high-performance team environmentsWhat parents and young athletes should look for in programs (structure, coaching stability, development focus)

This episode is a live, behind-the-scenes look at LivCo’s Feasibility Design process with the design team walking through an active concept plan for a home in Orland Park. The team breaks down what’s not working in the existing layout—especially a dated plan with too many columns, awkward circulation, and strange geometry (including a 45-degree wall)—and how those constraints shape early concept options.They talk through real decisions: kitchen flow, island layout, how to treat columns, what to open up (and what not to), and how ceiling/flooring conditions and budget realities affect what’s feasible at this stage.What LivCo’s Feasibility Design phase looks like in real timeHow designers diagnose “why the plan doesn’t work” (flow, choke points, sightlines, circulation)How odd conditions like random angled walls and excess columns drive design strategyPractical kitchen layout thinking (island placement, appliance logic, daily use)How early concepts balance “dream solution” vs. budget and existing constraintsHow a design team collaborates live—multiple perspectives, fast iteration, clear reasoning

Todd Kuhlman returns for a sequel episode and goes deeper on the Illinois Tech athletics master plan work—specifically how to rethink the baseball field / stadium area, spectator experience, and support spaces on IIT’s campus. Todd and Dave talk through the campus context (including Mies’ planning logic and later buildings like the Kaplan/McCormick era), and how a new athletics footprint can feel intentional on the campus rather than “leftover.”The conversation gets very practical: field positioning, parking lot realities, seating/covered seating, locker rooms, concessions, and the idea of a student-athlete center/fieldhouse-type program to bring the facilities up to a true varsity level.What “athletics master planning” actually includes beyond fields (support spaces, circulation, spectator needs)How Todd thinks about moving/positioning the field to align with campus geometry and edgesWhy parking, entries, and circulation often drive the plan as much as architectureWhat needs to be solved to make facilities feel varsity-level (locker rooms, concessions, restrooms, covered seating)How to respect a strong campus DNA (Mies logic) while acknowledging later campus buildingsHow to think in phases and “versions” instead of pretending there’s one perfect master plan

In this episode of LivLive, host Dave Pollard sits down with Todd Kuhlman for a wide-ranging conversation that blends architecture culture, prototyping, and real-world project delivery.Todd walks through his early career at Optima, including how he came up under David Hovey, and what it was like working in an environment where nearly every project felt like a prototype. They talk about the practical realities of iterating in real time—how design evolves through repetition, constraints, and problem-solving, not just “final drawings.”The conversation then shifts into what Todd is working on today at Illinois Tech, including a north campus athletics plan and the vision for upgrading facilities—everything from the current state of the baseball field to the bigger picture of creating an environment that supports student athletes, fundraising, and long-term campus investment.Listeners will learn:What it was like coming up at Optima and why that environment produced “prototype thinking”How Todd became “head architect” early in his career and what that responsibility teachesWhy iteration (not perfection) is often the real path to strong buildingsHow conceptual sketching and decision-making actually translate into buildable systemsHow Todd thinks about being an advisor—helping translate an original vision across generations/teamsWhat’s involved in developing a campus athletics plan (scope, stakeholders, priorities, constraints)Why projects like IIT’s stadium/facilities upgrades hinge on fundraising as much as designHow improving facilities connects directly to recruitment, student experience, and program growth

In this episode of LivLive, host Dave Pollard reconnects with Brad Novak, a longtime colleague who recently moved into a Senior IT Manager role at HOK in Atlanta, supporting multiple offices across the Southeast. Brad shares what it looks like to run technology inside a global architecture firm — from supporting teams day-to-day to scaling systems across regions and offices.A major thread of the conversation is the often-overlooked backbone of great project delivery: standards. Dave and Brad dig into why file naming, folder structure, layer standards, and consistent templates aren’t just “admin” work — they create clarity, enable automation, reduce errors, and make onboarding dramatically easier. They reflect on the systems they built together earlier in their careers (including AutoCAD automation and later Revit implementation) and why those habits matter even more as firms grow and collaborate across teams, offices, and consultants.The episode also touches on how shared language and process (internal acronyms and “how we do things here”) becomes part of a firm’s culture — reinforcing consistency and reducing friction across design and production teams.Listeners will learn:What Brad does as a Senior IT Manager at HOK, including supporting multiple offices across a regionWhy standardization (not just software) is a major driver of efficiency in architecture and production environmentsHow file naming and folder structure create clarity, reduce mistakes, and make work easier to automateWhy naming conventions extend beyond files to groups, servers, and even physical stations in a networked environmentHow strong standards become “invisible” over time — and why that’s the goalHow AutoCAD automation (e.g., routines that depend on layer names) only works when standards are enforcedThe Revit-side equivalent: why naming families, components, and standards matters—especially when consultants are involvedHow process language (internal acronyms like IFP / PPR) reinforces culture and consistent deliveryWhy mentorship and onboarding improve when teams can rely on a consistent system

In this episode of LivLive, host Dave Pollard sits down with Matt and Becky, the founders of Rough Bones Creative, for a candid conversation about creativity, storytelling, and building a values-driven creative business.Matt and Becky share how Rough Bones Creative approaches branding and visual storytelling, focusing on authenticity, narrative clarity, and helping clients articulate who they really are. The conversation explores how creative teams translate abstract ideas into tangible stories, how trust is built with clients, and what it takes to balance creative vision with real-world business constraints.They also discuss the realities of running a creative studio as a partnership — navigating collaboration, decision-making, growth, and sustainability while staying aligned with their creative values. This episode offers insight for creatives, entrepreneurs, and business owners interested in how meaningful brands and stories are built from the inside out.In this episode, listeners will learn:How creative studios approach branding through story, not just visualsWhy authenticity and clarity are foundational to effective brand workHow creative teams translate abstract ideas into compelling narrativesWhat collaboration looks like inside a creative partnershipHow client relationships shape the creative processThe balance between creative vision and business realitiesWhat it takes to grow a creative studio without losing identityLessons for creatives and entrepreneurs building values-driven businesses

In this episode of LivLive, host Dave Pollard talks with Greg Woleck, a carpenter by trade, about the role of craft, hands-on experience, and learning by doing in the construction world.Greg shares his path through carpentry and residential construction, discussing how working with his hands shaped the way he thinks about quality, responsibility, and leadership. The conversation focuses on what it means to truly understand a project from the ground up — not just managing work, but having lived experience in the field.They also talk about how craftsmanship informs decision-making, how builders grow from trade work into broader responsibility, and why respect for the trades matters in delivering good work. This episode offers a grounded look at construction through the lens of someone who came up through carpentry and still carries that mindset forward.In this episode, listeners will learn:How starting out as a carpenter shapes long-term thinking in constructionWhy hands-on experience matters in understanding quality and executionHow craft influences leadership and decision-makingWhat learning “in the field” teaches that classrooms cannotHow builders grow from trade work into greater responsibilityWhy respect for the trades is essential to good project outcomesHow craftsmanship connects design intent to real-world executionLessons from building a career rooted in making, not just managing

In this episode of LivLive, host Dave Pollard sits down with Allie Rood, filmmaker and storyteller, to dig into her decade-long journey making Prickly Mountain: And My Design/Build Life, a feature documentary rooted in her upbringing in the Mad River Valley of Vermont and the unconventional architecture movement that shaped her life. Allie shares how living in and around the design/build community in Warren and the Mad River Valley influenced her worldview and ultimately inspired her to tell this story through film. She talks about the countercultural design/build ethos — a movement that emerged in Vermont in the late 1960s and 70s when architects rejected academic rigidity and instead built by hand, embraced experimentation, and turned architecture into a lifestyle. The conversation explores how Prickly Mountain traces that history through archival material, interviews, and location — not just as a film about architecture, but as a story about community, creative risk-taking, and how place shapes identity. Allie also reflects on the creative process, the intersections between build culture and storytelling, and what it means to document a philosophy of making that values imperfection, learning by doing, and collective connection. In this episode, listeners will learn:The story behind Prickly Mountain: And My Design/Build Life — a documentary about a unique architectural and cultural movement in Vermont. Why the Mad River Valley and Warren, VT became fertile ground for experimental architecture in the late 1960s and 70s. How a filmmaker’s personal history and environment shaped the film’s narrative and thematic direction. What the design/build philosophy meant to the architects and builders who landed in Vermont — prioritizing community, creativity, and learning by doing. How archival storytelling, interviews, and place-based footage bring historical and emotional depth to documentary filmmaking. The challenges and rewards of documenting a philosophy that values imperfection and process over perfection. How Allie balances creative intention with practical constraints over a multi-year filmmaking process. What it’s like to turn a deeply personal project into a universal story about community, creativity, and making.

In this episode of LivLive, host Dave Pollard sits down with David Hercules, founder of Hercules Design Build, to talk about the realities of running projects, leading teams, and delivering residential construction work day in and day out.David shares his perspective as an owner-operator, discussing how builders manage risk, client expectations, and real-world constraints once construction begins. The conversation focuses on accountability, communication, and the systems required to consistently deliver quality work in residential remodeling and custom projects.This episode offers grounded insight for builders and remodelers navigating the operational side of owning and running a construction business.What owner-operators actually deal with on real projectsHow builders manage risk and expectations in the fieldWhy communication is critical during constructionHow systems support consistency and qualityLessons from leading teams while staying close to the work

In this episode of LivLive, host Dave Pollard speaks with Gregg Cantor of Murray Lampert Design, Build, Remodel about leading and evolving a long-standing residential remodeling firm.Gregg shares lessons from decades in the industry, including how the company has adapted to changing markets, client expectations, and internal growth while maintaining quality and culture. The conversation explores leadership development, succession thinking, and the discipline required to sustain a successful remodeling business over time.This episode offers perspective for remodelers and business owners navigating longevity, transition, and long-term leadership.How legacy remodeling firms adapt over decadesWhat leadership looks like as companies matureHow culture and quality are preserved through changeLessons from long-term ownership and responsibilityWhy disciplined decision-making matters over time

In this episode of LivLive, host Dave Pollard sits down with Kimberly Canada of Park & Patina for a thoughtful conversation about interior design, collaboration, and the realities of working across design and construction.Kimberly shares her perspective on building a design practice rooted in clarity, trust, and intentional decision-making. The discussion explores how interior designers navigate client relationships, creative vision, and the practical constraints of budget, schedule, and construction — and how strong collaboration between designers and builders leads to better project outcomes.They also talk about leadership, growth, and the importance of process in maintaining quality as a business evolves. This episode offers valuable insight for designers, builders, and homeowners interested in how successful residential projects are shaped through teamwork and shared accountability.In this episode, listeners will learn:How interior designers balance creative vision with real-world constraintsWhy collaboration between designers and builders is critical to project successHow clear communication improves client trust and decision-makingWhat role process plays in delivering consistent, high-quality residential workHow designers manage complexity across selections, timelines, and executionThe leadership mindset required to grow a design-focused businessHow strong relationships lead to better outcomes for clients and teamsPractical lessons for designers and builders working together on residential projects

In this episode of LivLive, host Dave Pollard sits down with Zach Snider of Alloy Design + Build for a candid conversation about residential remodeling, leadership, and the realities of operating within a growing design-build organization.The discussion draws from real project and business experience to explore how design intent translates into construction, how teams manage complexity at scale, and why communication and accountability are critical as firms grow. Dave and Zach talk through the day-to-day decisions that shape project outcomes, company culture, and long-term success in residential work.This episode offers practical perspective for architects, builders, and remodelers navigating growth, leadership responsibility, and the challenges of delivering consistent, high-quality projects in a design-build environment.In this episode, listeners will learn:How design-build teams operate effectively as organizations growWhy communication and clarity become more critical at scaleHow leadership shows up in everyday decisions, not just titlesWhat accountability looks like across design, construction, and management teamsHow real-world constraints influence design and construction outcomesThe challenges of maintaining consistency and quality in residential remodelingLessons from working within a larger design-build organizationTakeaways applicable to architects, builders, and project leaders alike

In this episode of LivLive, host Dave Pollard sits down with Paul McManus of McManus Kitchen & Bath for a practical conversation about what actually drives growth in a design-focused remodeling business: marketing that feels real, systems that scale, and pricing that supports the work.Paul breaks down how they think about website strategy (why portfolio posts don’t move the SEO needle the way blogs do), and why he’s come back to writing key content himself—because when marketing gets handed off, it can lose the project-specific nuance that makes it believable. Dave and Paul also dig into what happens as AI makes “baseline marketing” easy for everyone, and why the differentiator becomes voice, authenticity, and a point of view.From there, the conversation gets into lead quality and filtering: people calling without reading the site, calling off “five stars,” experimenting with chat bots, and using heatmap tools (Paul mentions Lucky Orange) to see what users actually do (including the reality that people often click just to close the chat).Paul also shares his business evolution—being “design-build in a half-ass way” at first, opening a showroom after being nudged into it, hiring his first designer (with a Home Depot kitchen-design background), building a good/better/best estimating framework, learning through peer groups like SEN Design Group, and the big turning point: reading Markup & Profit and finally charging in a way that made the business healthier.Listeners will learn:Why blog content can outperform portfolio/case-study posts for SEO—even if clients love the project storiesHow Paul built personality into branding (including naming projects after 80s TV shows/sitcoms)Why handing off blog/case-study writing often makes content more generic—and what to do insteadHow AI changes marketing: why “robust website + weekly blog” becomes baseline, and voice/authenticity becomes the edgeHow to filter leads when people call without researching (and what Paul/Dave do with sequences + an intake assessment)What Paul learned from experimenting with website chat tools—and how heatmaps (Lucky Orange) revealed what users really clickHow opening a showroom changed his business (and why he admits, if he’d known the cost upfront, he might not have done it)How he hired/design-staffed early (including a first designer with Home Depot kitchen-design training)Why good / better / best estimating became a core operating system for his companyThe pricing turning point: what changed after reading Markup & Profit, raising prices, and “charging correctly”Paul’s longer-term thinking about the future—including interest in an architect-driven design-build model in his market

In this episode of LivLive, Dave talks with Jeremy Steinruck of Axis Construction about what it’s like building a construction business in Wichita Falls, Texas—and how the local economy, culture, and client base shape the work.Jeremy gives a grounded snapshot of the region: the stabilizing influence of Sheppard Air Force Base (a NATO training base), the presence of Midwestern State University, and the broader context of ranching and oil. He describes Wichita Falls as stable and blue-collar, with fewer “big city” dynamics—but plenty of real-world challenges.They also get into Axis’ work mix, including commercial DOD/government work, private commercial projects, and selective residential projects—and why many business “downs” aren’t market-driven as much as they are leadership, systems, and recipe (his word).What drives the Wichita Falls market: Air Force base + university + regional economyHow a stable market changes business strategy compared to volatile metro areasWhat it’s like balancing commercial DOD work with private/commercial/residential projectsJeremy’s framing of business struggles as “leadership vs. recipe” (and what that means operationally)How internal accountability and team structure affect outcomes more than people admitA candid look at regional lifestyle/culture (including Jeremy’s memorable “river looks like the Oompa Loompa river” line)

In this episode of LivLive, Dave sits down with Scott Edmondson, founder of C-Studio, to talk about the realities of running a practice split between coastal work in Bethany Beach and a growing presence in Philadelphia.They start with shared roots at Virginia Tech Architecture and reflect on the culture of architecture school—critiques, confidence, and the very real undercurrent of imposter syndrome that follows many designers into practice. Scott also shares the story of relocating to Bethany Beach (including the family/professional catalyst), and what it takes to operate a small firm while staying sharp about process.A recurring theme is the tension between repeatable systems and custom creativity—including Scott’s point that sometimes the best workflow is building a light “framework” in something like SketchUp/Revit, then sketching/designing over it to keep speed without losing intent.What C-Studio’s practice looks like across Bethany Beach + PhiladelphiaWhy architecture culture produces imposter syndrome—and how to manage itHow coastal markets and developer patterns shape design (including the “10 lots / 10 identical houses” problem)How to introduce design quality even when the market pushes repetitionA practical workflow approach: build a model framework (SketchUp/Revit), then sketch over it to design fasterWhy clarity of process can preserve creativity (instead of killing it)

In this episode of LivLive, Dave reconnects with Ross Barney to talk about building a practice that spans teaching, public-sector work, and design experimentation—and what led to the founding of TUMU Studio.Ross shares the origin story of TUMU and why operating a small studio changes how you think about growth (including the practical realities of expanding across locations). They also get into Ross’s “practice” mindset—why architecture is called practice for a reason—and swap stories from past work and studios.A standout portion is Ross describing a client moment where he presented something “too crazy” (a playful, curvilinear nook under a stair) and the client pushed him to be more adventurous—a lesson in creative courage and saying “yes” when a client invites the risk.How TUMU Studio started and how Ross thinks about running a small firmWhy Ross emphasizes architecture as “practice” (time + repetition + understanding)How client feedback can push a design further (the “be more adventurous” moment)A concrete example of design iteration: the under-stair study nook evolving into something more experimentalHow teaching and practice cross-pollinate (and why studio culture matters)How Ross thinks about balancing creative exploration with the realities of delivery

In this episode of LivLive, host Dave Pollard sits down with Anna Zurek, LivCo’s lead interior designer, for a real-world look at what interior design actually looks like inside a design-build firm—especially once a client moves into Detailed Design.Anna walks through how selections really happen (and why they take time): starting with appliances, then working into cabinetry, tile compositions, and the small details that can make or break a cohesive look. They talk candidly about the common “hang-ups” that stall decisions, how clients get overwhelmed by options, and why the design team has to keep a steady hand on budget while still honoring the client’s goals.Why LivCo often starts selections with appliances first (and how that impacts the rest of the design)The difference between picking “a tile” vs. building a tile composition (wall tile, floor tile, accents, transitions)Why trim/edge conditions (they mention Schluter/Jolly-style trims) matter more than clients expectHow cabinetry customization creates both opportunity and decision fatigueHow the team keeps design moving while still respecting budget constraintsHow to manage clients through the overwhelm of high-choice selections

In Episode 0000003 of LivLive, Dave sits down with LivCo Co-founder Russ Head for a personal, behind-the-scenes conversation about how he found his way into construction—and how that background shaped the way he thinks about building, problem-solving, and partnering with design.Russ starts with his Chicago upbringing (including the “kids taking the bus + the L to Cubs games” era), then walks through a surprisingly non-linear path: a vague-but-useful communications degree, early twenties in California’s Bay Area doing union drywall/carpentry-company grunt work (“drywall scrapper and stocker”), and eventually moving into project management. From there, he returns to the Chicagoland area to run a production subdivision, shifts into commercial work in Chicago (including his memorable “suit story”), and even shares what it was like to build his own house in under three months while still working a city job (with Connie doing daily site check-ins and Russ managing the coordination).A key section dives into a formative project during a down market—building 26 city-style “row house” single-family homes on 25-foot lots—and how that’s where Russ and Dave’s partnership truly began. The episode lands on the healthy tension between design and construction: function vs. fashion, and why the push-and-pull is often what makes the final work better.Listeners will learn:How Russ went from a communications degree to a real construction career path (and why it worked)What early “boots-on-the-ground” work looked like: union drywall/carpentry firm, deliveries, cleanup, and being the “gopher”How he transitioned from field support into project managementWhat it’s like running a production home subdivision (and how that differs from custom work)The reality of commercial work in Chicago—including the culture of “the suit,” and Russ’s infamous first-day suit storyHow Russ built his own house fast—under three months—and the practical coordination that made it possibleA real example of old-house chaos: “owner completion” logic and discovering things like a floor joist cut through for a tubHow a downturn-era opportunity led to building 26 narrow-lot, city-style homes—and how that project connected Russ and DaveWhy the design/construction relationship works best as a productive friction: “function over fashion” vs. design ambition, with the goal of a better finished product