Not A 'Licensed' Architect

In this episode of Not A ‘Licensed’ Architect, Stefani Thatcher sits down with Meg Billings, owner of Meg & Co. Designer Homes, who went from building her own home out of necessity to becoming a certified master builder.Meg shares how stepping into construction without a roadmap shaped the way she runs her business today—from building strong trade relationships to creating systems that improve communication with clients. Her experience highlights what really makes a project successful beyond just good design.They also dive into one of the biggest gaps in the industry: what builders actually need from floor plans. If you’re a residential designer, this conversation will shift how you think about documentation, collaboration, and delivering plans that truly work in the field.What You’ll Learn✅ Why strong trade relationships are critical to project success✅ How communication systems reduce mistakes and client stress✅ What builders actually need (and don’t need) in floor plans✅ Why documentation matters: “If it’s not on paper, it’s not happening”✅ How weekly client meetings improve clarity and trust✅ The role of feedback in refining your design process✅ Why simplifying language helps clients feel more confidentChapters00:00 – Meg’s Path from First Build to Business Owner06:12 – The Power of Trade Relationships11:17 – Why Building Isn’t a Commodity18:19 – Learning Through Her First Projects24:01 – Handling Feedback & Improving Processes28:02 – Client Communication & Weekly Meetings33:05 – What Builders Need from Floor PlansWant to Be a Guest?Do you want to be a guest on Not A ‘Licensed’ Architect or nominate someone? 👉 https://www.dostudios.co/contact

In this episode of Not A ‘Licensed’ Architect, Stefani Thatcher sits down with Don Titus, founder of Haven Architecture Studio. With over 25 years in the field and nearly two decades running his own business, Don shares a unique perspective shaped by both unlicensed and licensed experience.They dive into the realities of the licensure journey—what it actually takes, where people get stuck, and why persistence matters more than perfection. Don opens up about failing multiple exams, stepping away for years, and eventually finding the support and strategy he needed to follow through.They also explore the value of community, the importance of aligning budget with expectations, and what it looks like to design homes that truly serve the people living in them. If you’ve ever questioned your path—or your pace—this episode will give you clarity and encouragement to keep going.What You’ll LearnWhy the path to becoming an architect isn’t always linearHow to stay motivated after repeated setbacks or failuresThe role of community and accountability in achieving big goalsWhat licensure actually changes (and what it doesn’t) in your careerHow to qualify clients and align budget with expectationsKey challenges in remodel and addition projectsWhy honesty and guidance are essential in client relationshipsChapters00:00 – From Childhood Inspiration to Architecture04:25 – Understanding the Licensure Process10:01 – Starting a Business During the Recession17:30 – Failing the ARE and Losing Momentum20:46 – Licensed vs. Unlicensed: Pros and Cons25:58 – Specializing in Remodels and Additions36:55 – Final Advice: Persistence and Finding SupportWant to Be a Guest?Do you want to be a guest on Not A ‘Licensed’ Architect or nominate someone?👉 https://www.dostudios.co/contact

In this episode of Not A ‘Licensed’ Architect, Stefani Thatcher sits down with Cole Hamilton, licensed architect and founder of Hamilton Home Design. With a non-linear path into architecture, Cole shares how he built a business focused on designing homes that truly reflect the people who live in them.They unpack the realities of the residential design industry—from confusion around titles to gaps in quality and service—and why clear communication and strong processes matter more than trying to impress with “perfect” design.If you’re an aspiring residential designer or working in the custom home industry, this episode will help you design with more clarity, confidence, and a stronger client-first approach.What You’ll LearnWhy designing for real people matters more than impressing with a portfolioHow to help clients find the right designer (and be the right fit)The importance of asking better questions before starting a designHow to balance guiding clients without overpowering their visionWhy clear processes improve both design outcomes and client experienceHow ongoing learning and code knowledge can set you apartThe role of honesty and communication in building trust with clientsChapters00:00 – From Accidental Architect to Residential Design02:31 – Cole’s Path to Licensure09:55 – Starting a Business Through Opportunity13:14 – The Gap in Residential Design Services16:50 – How Clients Can Choose the Right Designer24:56 – Communication, Revisions, and Client Expectations40:49 – Systems, Process, and Final AdviceWant to Be a Guest?Do you want to be a guest on Not A ‘Licensed’ Architect or nominate someone?👉 https://www.dostudios.co/contact

In this episode of Not A ‘Licensed’ Architect, Stefani Thatcher sits down with Brian Free, co-founder of VirtuActive, a residential design firm that has grown from a small side operation into a nationwide business serving builders and homeowners. With a background in construction and drafting, Brian brings a practical, process-driven perspective to residential design.Together, they explore what it really takes to scale a design business, from building a team and training designers to creating efficient systems that improve both workflow and client experience. Brian shares how speed, iteration, and early feedback can lead to better outcomes than trying to perfect a design upfront.They also dive into the importance of communication and collaboration—especially with builders—and how tools like 3D visualization help clients better understand their homes. If you’re an aspiring residential designer or working in the custom home industry, this episode will help you deliver stronger designs with more confidence and efficiency.What You’ll LearnWhy speed and iteration matter more than trying to create the “perfect” first draftHow strong processes improve both efficiency and the client experienceWhy collaboration with builders leads to better design outcomesThe role of 3D visualization in helping clients understand their homesHow to train and scale a design team effectivelyWhy tracking performance improves productivity and accountabilityThe importance of clear communication and setting expectations with clientsChapters00:00 – Introduction & Brian’s Background02:36 – From Side Work to Scaling a Design Business08:36 – Working with Builders vs. Homeowners14:02 – Building and Training a Design Team19:16 – Speed, Process, and Client Experience25:07 – Using 3D to Improve Communication32:25 – Final Lessons: Feedback, Efficiency, and DeliveryConnect with Brian & VirtuActiveFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/VirtuActive/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/virtuactiveomahaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/virtuactive/Want to Be a Guest?Do you want to be a guest on Not A ‘Licensed’ Architect or nominate someone?👉 https://www.dostudios.co/contact 

In this episode of Not A ‘Licensed’ Architect, Stefani Thatcher sits down with Jennie Leigh Jones, a residential designer with over 30 years of experience and a deeply rooted background in the design/build world. From sketching floor plans as a child to working at Southern Living Magazine and eventually building her own design studio, Jennie brings a practical, client-first perspective shaped by decades of real-world experience.Together, they dive into what truly sets great designers apart—going beyond drawings to interpret what clients actually mean, not just what they say. They unpack the role of communication, how to prevent costly mistakes before construction begins, and why guiding clients (instead of just following directions) leads to better outcomes.If you’re an aspiring residential designer or working in the custom home industry, this episode will sharpen how you think, communicate, and design.What You’ll LearnWhy great design starts with understanding how clients live, not just what they say they wantThe power of clear communication—and how to avoid costly misunderstandingsWhy asking deeper follow-up questions can completely change a design outcomeHow to create flexible, long-term “master plans” that evolve with clients’ livesThe importance of guiding clients without overpowering their visionHow to handle difficult conversations while maintaining a great client experienceWhy overdelivering matters in an industry with little repeat businessReal-life lessons from design mistakes—and how to prevent themChapters00:00 – Translating What Clients Actually Mean01:33 – Podcast Intro & Who This Is For04:39 – Jennie’s Background in Design/Build08:22 – Learning from Real Plans at Southern Living13:36 – The Real Role of a Residential Designer24:39 – Communication Mistakes & Client Clarity35:47 – Designing for the Future (Master Planning)Want to Be a Guest?Do you want to be a guest on Not A ‘Licensed’ Architect or nominate someone?👉 https://www.dostudios.co/contact 

In this episode of Not A 'Licensed' Architect, Stefani Thatcher sits down with David Holtzclaw, principal of Transduction Technologies and a mechanical engineer specializing in building science and high-performance homes.With a background in aerospace and biomedical engineering, David brings a unique, science-driven perspective to residential design—challenging common assumptions about comfort, energy efficiency, and how homes actually perform.Together, they unpack why many homes that look great don’t always feel great to live in, and how designers can bridge that gap. From window placement and insulation strategies to HVAC systems and moisture control, this conversation breaks down building science in a way that’s practical, approachable, and directly applicable to your projects.If you want to design homes that are not only beautiful—but comfortable, efficient, and built to perform—this episode will change how you think about your plans.What You’ll LearnWhy comfort—not energy efficiency—should be your starting point• How the building “shell” drives 60–80% of heating and cooling performanceThe biggest mistakes that lead to mold, drafts, and uncomfortable homesHow window placement and orientation impact both comfort and efficiencyWhy tighter homes require controlled ventilation—not “breathing”When systems like heat pumps and radiant heating make sense• How to balance aesthetics, budget, and performance in real-world designConnect with David Holtzclaw🌐 Website: http://www.transductiontechnologies.com/💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-david-holtzclaw-1364b35/📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/transductiontechnologies/Want to Be a Guest?Do you want to be a guest on Not A ‘Licensed’ Architect or nominate someone?👉 https://www.dostudios.co/contact

In this episode of ‘Not A Licensed Architect’, Stefani Thatcher talks with Grant Fuellenbach, founder of GO First Consulting and host of the Beyond the Bid podcast.Grant helps builders and construction professionals implement better systems, automation, and AI tools to streamline their businesses and improve the client experience.Together, they discuss how residential designers can identify workflow bottlenecks, use simple tech tools to save time, and build stronger processes that support growth. They also explore how better communication and systems lead to a smoother experience for homeowners.If you want to work smarter, reduce overwhelm, and improve your design business operations, this episode offers practical insights you can start applying today.What You’ll Learn• Why clients don’t buy your service — they buy your process• How residential designers become their own business bottleneck• A simple AI-powered time audit that reveals where your time actually goes• Tools that can streamline communication and project workflows• How automation and systems improve the homeowner experience• Strategies for scaling a design business without burning out• Why better processes build trust and lead to more referralsChapters00:00 — Welcome to Not A “Licensed” Architect + Meet Grant Fuellenbach01:34 — The Time Audit Every Designer Should Try06:09 — Using AI Tools to Organize Your Design Business08:37 — Why Designers Become Their Own Business Bottleneck11:25 — “People Don’t Buy Your Service — They Buy Your Process”15:35 — The Biggest Communication Problems in Construction Projects25:12 — Simple Frameworks to Prioritize Work and Avoid BurnoutDo you want to be a guest on Not a ‘Licensed’ Architect or nominate someone? https://www.dostudios.co/contact Listen to Beyond The Bid hosted by Grant FuellenbachYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@beyondthebid/Website: beyondthebid.co

Every beautiful home is built twice — first on paper, then on-site. But what happens in between those stages is where most projects fall apart. In this episode, I’m joined by Kimberly Parker, founder of Kimberly Parker Design and creator of Four Stripes, a new app helping design teams stay aligned from concept to construction. With 15+ years of experience in luxury residential projects, Kimberly shares how strong systems, clear documentation, and professional respect between trades can make or break a build.Her approach flips the script on traditional design. It’s not just about creativity — it’s about communication, precision, and advocacy. Because when your design packet runs 50 pages deep, you’re not just handing off drawings… you’re leading a process.💡What You Can’t Miss:🏠 The Trade Trifecta ExplainedWhy builders, architects, and designers must align early to avoid chaos, change orders, and miscommunication.🏠 Designer vs. DecoratorLearn the difference — and why using the right title protects your credibility and your clients.🏠 Advocating for the Build TeamWhy your most important clients might actually be your builder and architect, and how that mindset shift fuels long-term success.🏠 Design Systems That ScaleHow Kimberly’s 50-page design packets, custom workflows, and new Four Stripes app make collaboration seamless.If you’re a builder, designer, or simply curious about how real collaboration can transform projects, this episode will show you what’s possible when everyone builds together.🎧 Hit play to see how process, partnership, and purpose can turn every project into a success story.🔗 Helpful Tools + Resources for Smarter DesignKimberly Parker Design kimberlyparkerdesign.commyfourstripes.comwww.dostudios.co/courses

What does it actually take to design and build your forever home — without losing your patience (or your mind)?In this episode, I’m joined by a former client, Mandy Wilkinson, a homeowner who spent 2.5 years turning her Pinterest-perfect colonial dream into a real, living home. From navigating COVID delays and truss troubles to rethinking design decisions mid-build, Mandy shares the truth about the emotional, financial, and creative journey behind a forever home.So why does her story matter? Because behind every “dream home” is a thousand micro-decisions — and knowing how to make them (and when to ask for help) is what separates a beautiful build from a stressful one.💡What You Can’t Miss:🏠 Pinterest to Blueprint:How Mandy’s deep research, Pinterest boards, and product binders set the foundation for her design vision, and what other homeowners can learn from her process.🏠 Patience Through the Process:From concrete shortages to truss do-overs, discover how she navigated 2.5 years of construction challenges and stayed grounded along the way.🏠 Designing for Longevity:Why thinking ahead — wider hallways, single-level layouts, and smart storage, can make your home functional for decades.🏠 When to Call in the Pros:Mandy handled her own interiors but shares why most homeowners should bring in specialists to save time, stress, and money.If you’re designing, building, or dreaming about your own forever home, this episode gives you a real-world look at what it takes — from first sketch to final nail.🎧 Hit play to learn how to plan smarter, build better, and create a home that’s truly yours.🔗 Helpful Tools + Resources for Home Builderswww.dostudios.co/resources

What happens when builders and designers stop working in silos, and start building together? In this episode, I’m joined by Garrett Greenhalgh, owner of GPD Builders in Cache Valley, Utah, whose approach to custom homebuilding flips the traditional “us vs. them” dynamic on its head.From growing up on job sites with his dad to leading a respected custom home company today, Garrett’s story is a masterclass in collaboration. He shares how clear communication, trust, and mutual respect between builders and designers don’t just make construction smoother, they make homes better, clients happier, and teams stronger.So why does this matter? Because too many projects fall apart not from lack of talent, but from lack of alignment. Garrett reveals what it looks like when everyone’s on the same page — and how that level of teamwork becomes your biggest competitive advantage.💡 What You Can’t Miss: 🏠 Production Roots, Custom ResultsHow Garrett’s background in production building shaped his systems, precision, and efficiency in the world of custom homes.🏠 Blueprints That Build TrustWhy complete, detailed plans save everyone — and how design alignment sets the stage for success long before breaking ground.🏠 The Feedback Loop That Changes Everything How open communication and on-site collaboration between builders and designers lead to smarter solutions (and fewer surprises).🏠 Collaboration is the New Competitive EdgeWhy Garrett now refuses projects without a communicative designer — and how that standard transforms every client experience.If you’ve ever wondered what separates a good project from a great one, this episode pulls back the curtain. It’s not just about the house you build — it’s about the relationships that build it.🎧 Hit play to discover how collaboration can turn construction chaos into creativity, and why the best homes are never built alone.🔗 Helpful Tools + Resources for Smarter Building GPD Builders – Cache Valley, Utah www.dostudios.co/courses

What really defines a beautiful, functional home?When most people think about building their dream home, they obsess over finishes — countertops, flooring, paint colors, lighting fixtures. But here’s the truth: finishes are the last 5%. In this episode, I’m joined by Liz Powell, owner of Liz Powell Design, whose work proves that true design success starts long before you’re picking tile and paint colors. With decades of experience balancing function, flow, and timeless aesthetics, Liz shares why a strong architectural foundation is the key to every stunning finish that follows.So why does this matter? Because too many homeowners get caught up in surface-level design choices, only to realize later that their home doesn’t work the way they imagined. Liz’s perspective reframes the conversation — reminding us that great homes aren’t styled, they’re designed.💡 What You Can’t Miss:🏠 Beyond the Pretty PictureWhy a home that functions beautifully is always more valuable than one that just looks beautiful.🏠 Trust Over TrendWhy building trust with your designer matters more than chasing Pinterest-perfect ideas.🏠 Avoiding Costly MistakesThe real risks of focusing on finishes before getting the architecture right.If you’re dreaming, designing, or already building, this conversation will shift how you see your home — and why architecture is always the true starting line.🎧 Hit play to rethink what “good design” really means and how to get it right from the ground up.🔗 Helpful Tools + Resources for Smarter Designhttps://www.lizpowelldesign.com/ www.dostudios.co/courses

What does it really mean to be a design advocate in residential architecture? 🏡In this episode, I’m joined by Jeff Fry, founder of Fry Design Company, who has spent decades raising the bar on what custom home design should look like. From pioneering CAD and BIM in the ’90s to running his own firm today, Jeff shares why clear, comprehensive plans matter — and how being an advocate for clients sets great designers apart from the rest.So why does this matter? Because in today’s industry, too many homes are built from incomplete, 5-page plan sets that leave clients with confusion, delays, and costly mistakes. Jeff’s mission is to change that — one well-designed home at a time.💡What You Can’t Miss:🏠 The Industry’s Identity CrisisWhy the lack of clear distinctions between architects, designers, and draftsmen is hurting clients — and ideas on how to fix it.🏠 Minimal Plans = Maximum ProblemsDiscover why builders often resist detailed plans (and why that’s a huge red flag for homeowners).🏠 Design Advocacy in ActionLearn how Jeff acts as a true partner for clients, guiding them through every step — from concept sketches to the final build.If you’re building, designing, or simply curious about what makes a home project actually work, this episode will open your eyes to the real value of comprehensive design and advocacy.🎧 Hit play to rethink how homes get designed, built, and lived in — and why every homeowner deserves a design advocate on their side.🔗 Helpful Tools + Resources for Smarter DesignAmerican Institute of Building Design (AIBD)www.dostudios.co/courses

What can 31 years in the plumbing trade teach us about building homes that actually work? 🚰In this episode, I’m joined by Clay Wengreen, a Navy veteran turned plumbing expert, whose career has spanned service work, large-scale construction, and running his own business. Clay’s story begins with learning steam propulsion systems in the Navy — and comes full circle to helping homeowners design kitchens, bathrooms, and whole-house systems that truly fit their lives.So why does this matter? Because too often, plumbing is treated as an afterthought in design — leading to awkward layouts, code conflicts, and costly mistakes. Clay’s perspective shows us why details matter, and how good communication between homeowners, builders, and designers can make or break a project.💡 What You Can’t Miss:🏠 From Navy to New HomesHow military training on complex systems shaped Clay’s career in plumbing.🏠Designing for Function FirstWhy kitchens and bathrooms need more thoughtful planning than just fixtures and finishes.🏠 The Hidden Cost of Poor CoordinationHow missed communication between architects, plumbers, and framers leads to stacked bathrooms, tight plumbing walls, and venting challenges.🏠 The Comfort of Radiant HeatWhy hot water radiant heating provides a different level of home comfort compared to forced air.If you’re a homeowner, builder, or designer, this episode will change how you think about plumbing — not just as pipes behind walls, but as a critical part of creating a comfortable, functional home.🎧 Hit play to hear Clay’s 31-year journey and discover why great plumbing design is more than a trade skill — it’s a craft that shapes how we live.🔗 Helpful Tools + Resources for Smarter Design www.dostudios.co/resourceshttps://www.facebook.com/Canyonph

Ever wondered what makes a roof really work — structurally, financially, and aesthetically? 🤔In this episode, I’m joined by my go-to truss engineer and creative problem solver, Ron Anderson, a true master of roof trusses with 25+ years of hands-on experience across every corner of construction and turning complicated plans into buildable, beautiful homes. After a career shift sparked by an accident, Ron found his sweet spot designing trusses that are both buildable and cost-efficient (while flexing his creative side).What really makes for great truss design?Together, we chat about how detailed plans, clear communication, and smart design choices make all the difference in creating homes that are easier (and less expensive!) to build.💡What You Can’t Miss:🏠 The Secret Ingredient to a Smoother Build? Clear Plans + Thoughtful Dimensions.Learn how accurate wall heights, ceiling details, and simple layouts can save you (and your builder!) from headaches down the line.🏠 Math, Magic, and Making Bonus Rooms WorkFrom attic trusses to bonus spaces, discover Ron’s insider math tricks to create rooms that feel right and hold up over time.🏠 Design + Truss Engineering: The Power PartnershipSee how ongoing conversations between designers and truss engineers can make or break your home’s success.If you’re designing a custom home — or just truss-curious — this one’s packed with practical insight. One episode = fewer build headaches later. 🎧 Hit play and learn how to design smarter from the top down and avoid the truss troubles that even seasoned pros can fall into.🔗Helpful Tools + Resources for Smarter Designwww.dostudios.co/coursesUtah Ground Snow Load MapGround and Roof Snow Loads for Idaho | Ground and Roof Snow Loads for Idaho

Why do many people hate their custom home experience?In this episode,  I’m joined by one of my favorite builders to collaborate with, Steve Coppieters, general contractor and founder of Stonegate Homes, who brings over three decades of building experience (including $20M homes in Park City!) and a reputation for putting the client first, always.Steve’s approach? Build homes that don’t just look good on paper—they actually feel right to live in. His superpower lies in spotting small issues before they become expensive regrets, and he’s got stories to prove it.What really makes for a great floor plan from a builder’s point of view?We dive into why detailed plans, builder-designer collaboration, and constant client communication are the real foundation of a smooth build.💡What You Can’t Miss:🏠 Buildability Begins on PaperDiscover what details (like accurate elevations, wall heights, and product specs) can prevent costly miscommunication and rework later on.🏠 Collaboration as the Competitive AdvantageWhy walking your own projects post-construction—and actually asking builders for feedback—will elevate your future designs.🏠 Client Communication is a Design ToolHear how Steve navigates indecisive clients, gets to the root of what they want, and keeps the experience positive even through big changes.🏠 Architect vs. Builder Plans: What’s Missing?Understand the gap between architectural drawings and field execution—especially when builders default to what they’ve “always done.”🏠 Designing for Decisions, Not Just LooksFrom electrical walkthroughs to laundry layouts, learn how to design spaces that work for how people actually live.🏠 What Builders Wish Designers KnewSteve shares what slows builders down, what makes a plan a dream to work from, and how to be the kind of designer builders want to work with again.If you’re designing a custom home, working with builders, or just trying to avoid costly construction surprises—this episode is packed with perspective from someone who’s seen it all.🎧 Hit play and learn what builders wish you knew before you print your plans.🔗Helpful Tools + Resources for Smarter Designwww.dostudios.co/coursesI’m Listening, Too!What’s been your biggest “plan vs. build” moment? Leave a comment down below—I’d love to hear your story. And don’t forget to check out our free guides on builder hiring, client communication, and selections.https://www.dostudios.co/resources

I’m Stefani Thatcher—home designer, detail geek, and proud owner of a travel gallery full of random doors, windows, and the built environment. (Yes, sometimes more architecture pics than family ones. Oops.)Here’s the deal: I’ve been designing homes for 25+ years, and I am insanely passionate (bordering on obsessed) about helping people create beautiful, personal spaces they actually love living in.Spoiler alert! I’m technically not a licensed architect. And that tiny word “licensed” carries a lot of weight in this industry.This show is about pulling back the curtain, clearing up the noise, and making the design + build process less intimidating—and maybe even joyful for everyone involved.💡 In This Episode, You’ll Hear:The real reason behind the name Not a Licensed ArchitectWhy the word “architect” is so heavily guarded (yep, even if you’ve been designing homes for decades)The gray area where thousands of professionals—like me—actually workWhy your dream home doesn’t have to be a nightmare projectA sneak peek at the conversations ahead: licensed architects, designers, builders, contractors, and more🌱 Why This MattersThis podcast isn’t about turf wars or job titles—it’s about making home design more transparent, practical, and human. Whether you’re a homeowner dreaming big or a pro geeking out on great design, my hope is you’ll walk away with clarity, confidence, and maybe a few laughs along the way.🔗Helpful Tools + Resources for Smarter Designwww.dostudios.co/courses