Confluence

In the final episode of season 2 of the Confluence podcast, Brent Seales of University of Kentucky joins the show to talk about his groundbreaking work using AI and CT scanning to digitally unwrap ancient Herculaneum scrolls buried by Mount Vesuvius, making previously unreadable texts accessible. The conversation includes insights on collaboration with Nat Friedman, the Vesuvius Challenge, and the intersection of technology and humanities scholarship, along with Seales' new role directing an AI and Humanities Institute funded by Eric Schmidt's foundation.Episode Links:Brent Seales on LinkedInUniversity of Kentucky websiteConfluence S2E8 - Audacity, Antiquity, and AI&nbsp;with Brent’s colleague Christy ChapmanThe Vesuvius Challenge websitePics of the scrolls and the fragments60 Minutes EpisodePBS DocumentaryNBC News StoryUniversity of KentuckyWatch this episode on YouTube or Spotify.About Brent Seales:Dr. W. Brent Seales is the Stanley and Karen Pigman Chair of Heritage Science and Professor of Computer Science at the University of Kentucky. He earned a Ph.D. in Computer Science at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and has held research positions at INRIA Sophia-Antipolis, UNC Chapel Hill, Google (Paris), and the Getty Conservation Institute. The Heritage Science research lab (EduceLab) founded by Seales at the University of Kentucky applies techniques in machine learning and data science to the digital restoration of damaged materials. The research program is funded by the National Science Foundation, the National Endowment for the Humanities, the Arts and Humanities Research Council of Great Britain, the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, and Google. Seales is a co-founder of the Vesuvius Challenge, an international contest formed around the goal of the virtual unwrapping of Herculaneum scrolls. He continues to work with challenging, damaged material (Herculaneum Scrolls, Dead Sea Scrolls), with notable successes in the scroll from En-Gedi (Leviticus), the Morgan MS M.910 (The Acts of the Apostles), and PHerc.Paris.3 and 4 (Philodemus / Epicureanism). The recovery of readable text from still-unopened material has been hailed worldwide as an astonishing achievement fueled by open scholarship, interdisciplinary collaboration, and extraordinary leadership generosity.-----The Confluence podcast is a collaboration between TRXL and AVAIL, and is produced by TRXL Media.Learn more about them at https://trxl.co/media and https://getavail.comLearn more about the Confluence podcast at <a...

Richard Harpham of Skema joins the podcast to talk about his insights from decades of experience in AEC technology. From witnessing the early days of BIM adoption to leading new software development initiatives, Harpham discusses the industry's evolution and current transformation. He explores how emerging technologies are reshaping architectural workflows, the challenges of market education, and his optimistic vision for the future of AEC software. This engaging conversation offers valuable perspective on where the industry has been and where it's heading.Episode Links:Richard on LinkedInSkema websiteSkema on LinkedInWatch this episode on YouTube.-----The Confluence podcast is a collaboration between TRXL and AVAIL, and is produced by TRXL Media.Learn more about them at https://trxl.co/media and https://getavail.comLearn more about the Confluence podcast at https://confluence.getavail.com/podcastLearn about the Confluence events at https://confluence.getavail.com

In this episode of the Confluence podcast, hosts Randall Stevens and Evan Troxel welcome John Cerone, Principal at SHoP Architects. John discusses his journey with SHoP Architects, emphasizing the integration of technology and design in architecture. He shares insights into SHoP’s use of 3D modeling, digital twins, and collaborative processes to streamline construction, reduce costs, and deliver better-built environments. Highlights include the Barclays Center project, automation in construction, empathy in design, and the future of data-driven architecture.Episode Links:John Cerone on LinkedInSHoP Architects websiteSHoP Architects on InstagramConfluence S1E5 - “Looking Forward with AI in AEC”, with Adam ChernickUpcoming Confluence EventsSan Fransisco, CA - April 23, 2025 (open to everyone)Lexington, KY - October 9-11, 2025 (by invitation)Watch this episode on YouTube.-----The Confluence podcast is a collaboration between TRXL and AVAIL, and is produced by TRXL Media.Learn more about them at https://trxl.co/media and https://getavail.comLearn more about the Confluence podcast at https://confluence.getavail.com/podcastLearn about the Confluence events at https://confluence.getavail.com

Rob Sinclair of Wade Trim joins hosts Randall Stevens and Evan Troxel on the Confluence podcast to talk about how their innovative AI initiatives and their strategic partnership with Yegatech has evolved their business. Rob shares insights on the firm's AI journey, from establishing an AI task force to developing enterprise-level chatbots and automated image recognition tools. The episode also highlights the cultural challenges of AI adoption and the importance of ongoing education and communication. Additionally, Rob recounts his fascinating international work on reality capture projects in Italy, showcasing the integration of cutting-edge technology with historic preservation. EPISODE LINKSRob on LinkedInWade Trim on LinkedInPaul Aubin on LinkedInYegatechWade Trim Innovation Alley podcast on AIWatch this episode on YouTube.-----The Confluence podcast is a collaboration between TRXL and AVAIL, and is produced by TRXL Media.Learn more about them at https://trxl.co/media and https://getavail.comLearn more about the Confluence podcast at https://confluence.getavail.com/podcastLearn about the Confluence events at https://confluence.getavail.com

In this episode of the Confluence Podcast, hosts Randall Stephens and Evan Troxel are joined by special guest Christy Chapman from the University of Kentucky to discuss how AI has unlocked antiquity.The discussion focuses on the origins of the Vesuvius Challenge, highlighting its key figure, Brent Seales, a research professor at the University of Kentucky. Christy, who works closely with Brent, shares insights about the ambitious goal to virtually unroll and read ancient scrolls carbonized by the eruption of Mount Vesuvius.Using advanced technology and AI, Christy explains the significant progress made, including the pivotal role of the open-source contest funded by Nat Friedman from GitHub. The conversation covers the technical and human aspects of the project, emphasizing the importance of clear communication, community involvement, and the relentless pursuit of seemingly impossible ideas.Later in the interview, the discussion around communication in technical projects has direct implications for both the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry and software development teams. Just as the Vesuvius Challenge team had to bridge the gap between technical experts and conservators, AEC professionals and software developers must effectively communicate complex technical solutions to various stakeholders, from clients and product managers to contractors and end users. The emphasis on understanding stakeholder concerns, building trust, and creating clear communication channels is particularly relevant when implementing new technologies or methodologies in construction projects and software development cycles. The conversation highlights how successful innovation requires not just technical excellence, but also the ability to bring people along through empathy, clear explanation, and careful consideration of their perspectives and concerns.Episode Links:Brent Seals - University of KentuckyVesuvius ChallengeForbes: AI Peers Inside Burned 2,000-Year-Old Vesuvius Scroll, Finds ‘Disgust’How students teamed up to decode 2,000-year-old texts using AI&nbsp;on the GitHub blogA team of students deciphered a 2000-year-old papyrus scroll, with some help from AI&nbsp;- interview with Brent Seals on NPREn-Gedi Scroll (Wikipedia)KaggleDiamond Light Source facilityUncovering ancient text from the Oxford Herculaneum scrollThe Vesuvius challenge solved! We can read the first scroll60 Minutes - Deciphering the...

Robert Otani of CORE Studio at Thornton Tomasetti joins the show to talk about about his journey from a structural engineer in the 90s to leading the CORE Studio at Thornton Tomasetti. This episode covers the importance of computational design, BIM, and the impact of AI and machine learning in the engineering and architecture industries. Rob also shares insights from their recent AEC hackathon, the creation of CORE Studio, and innovative projects like developing an AI tool by capturing the depth of knowledge shared in the emails of a late colleague. Episode Links:Connect with Rob Otani on LinkedInThornton Tomasetti’s CORE groupWatch this episode on YouTube or Spotify.-----The Confluence podcast is a collaboration between TRXL and AVAIL, and is produced by TRXL Media.Learn more about them at https://trxl.co/media and https://getavail.comLearn more about the Confluence podcast at https://confluence.getavail.com/podcastLearn about the Confluence events at https://confluence.getavail.com

Join us in this episode with special guest Aaron Vorwerk from Egnyte. Today Aaron tells us about Egnyte's role in AI and machine learning within the AEC industry. He shares his background, discusses data governance, the evolution of cloud platforms, and Egnyte's focus on cybersecurity. Listen as we explore how Egnyte enhances workflow efficiencies and manages content lifecycle, making it an indispensable tool for AEC professionals.Episode Links:Aaron on LinkedInEgnyte on LinkedInEgnyte websiteWatch this episode on YouTube or Spotify.-----The Confluence podcast is a collaboration between TRXL and AVAIL, and is produced by TRXL Media.Learn more about them at https://trxl.co/media and https://getavail.comLearn more about the Confluence podcast at https://confluence.getavail.com/podcastLearn about the Confluence events at https://confluence.getavail.com

In this episode of the Confluence podcast, hosts Randall Stevens and Evan Troxel sit down with Phillip Miller from Chaos Group. The discussion navigates through Phil's extensive background in the 3D technology and AEC industry, highlighting his contributions to Autodesk, Adobe, and NVIDIA. Phil introduces Chaos Group’s latest product, Envision, a standalone real-time ray tracing tool designed for the architectural industry. He breaks down the journey of its development, the intended user personas, and its innovative features. Tune in to get a behind-the-scenes look at how Envision aims to revolutionize architectural visualization and animation workflows.Episode Links:Chaos Group - Learn more about real-time ray tracing and visualization tools: https://chaos.comChaos V-Ray - Visualize anything imaginable with V-Ray: https://www.chaos.com/vrayChaos Envision - Effortless storytelling &amp; unmatched realism with Envision: https://www.chaos.com/envisionNVIDIA RTX Technology - Details about ray tracing hardware capabilities: https://www.nvidia.com/en-us/geforce/rtx/Autodesk 3ds Max History - Evolution of 3D modeling and rendering software: https://www.autodesk.com/products/3ds-max/overviewComputer Graphics History - Computer History Museum's perspective on the evolution of CG: https://computerhistory.org/blog/computer-graphics/Watch this episode on YouTube or Spotify.-----The Confluence podcast is a collaboration between TRXL and AVAIL, and is produced by TRXL Media.Learn more about them at https://trxl.co/media and https://getavail.comLearn more about the Confluence podcast at https://confluence.getavail.com/podcastLearn about the Confluence events at https://confluence.getavail.com

Carl Veillette of Newforma joins the Confluence podcast to talk about the transformation and integration of BIM Track with Newforma to revolutionize project management in the AEC industry, while bringing it all to the cloud for collaboration.In this episode, Carl shares his journey from architecture to leading product development and the challenges of merging two powerful platforms. Dive into the evolving role of 3D models and data integration, the impact of AI on project activities, and strategies for bridging communication gaps between field and office teams. Learn how they are enhancing user experience, adopting asynchronous communication tools, and balancing AI trust with human judgment to reshape the industry's future.Episode Links:Carl on LinkedInNewforma on LinkedInNewforma websiteWatch this episode on YouTube or Spotify.-----The Confluence podcast is a collaboration between TRXL and AVAIL, and is produced by TRXL Media.Learn more about them at https://trxl.co/media and https://getavail.comLearn more about the Confluence podcast at https://confluence.getavail.com/podcastLearn about the Confluence events at https://confluence.getavail.com

Charles Portelli of Perkins&amp;Will joins the show to talk about the themes presented in his talk at the Confluence event in Brooklyn, New York, focusing on the application of AI and machine learning in architectural practice. Key discussion points include strategies for handling unstructured data, the practical implications of AI for project management and design, and how emerging technologies can revolutionize architectural practices.As a Digital Innovation Strategist at Perkins&amp;Will, Charlie takes us behind the scenes and offers a deep dive into the dynamics and evolving processes within architectural teams and shares his experiences in integrating AI tools to enhance productivity and innovation. The episode also explores the future of the profession and provides valuable advice for architecture students and professionals.Episode Links:Charlie on LinkedInCharlie on Twitter/XCharlie on InstagramCharlie’s websitePerkins&amp;Will IO websitePerkins&amp;Will on LinkedInPerkins&amp;Will on Twitter/XPerkins&amp;Will on InstagramWatch this episode on YouTube or Spotify.-----The Confluence podcast is a collaboration between TRXL and AVAIL, and is produced by TRXL Media.Learn more about them at https://trxl.co/media and https://getavail.comLearn more about the Confluence podcast at https://confluence.getavail.com/podcastLearn about the Confluence events at https://confluence.getavail.com

Jesse Vander Does and Adrian Hatch of Sitelink join the Confluence podcast to talk about their work in the construction tech industry.Sitelink is developing a location-aware augmented reality (AR) BIM viewer for iOS devices. This tool helps general contractors and field workers access and interact with information rich building information models in real-world construction environments.Today we go behind the scenes of the current development of their app and cover the history, challenges, and future outlook of AR technology in construction, the importance of real-time data, and technology adoption on job sites.We also talk about how Sitelink is making BIM more intuitive and accessible, as well as their recent developments in model viewing and AR capabilities ultimately bridging the gap between design and construction to minimize rework and improve communication on job sites.Episode Links:Adrian on LinkedInJesse on LinkedInSitelink websiteSitelink on LinkedInWatch this episode on YouTube or Spotify.-----The Confluence podcast is a collaboration between TRXL and AVAIL, and is produced by TRXL Media.Learn more about them at https://trxl.co/media and https://getavail.comLearn more about the Confluence podcast at https://confluence.getavail.com/podcastLearn about the Confluence events at https://confluence.getavail.com

Christopher Parsons of Knowledge Architecture joins the show to talk about In this episode of the Confluence podcast, Chris Parsons of Knowledge Architecture joins us to discuss bringing AI to their Synthesis intranet platform. He takes us behind the scenes showing various functionalities including activity streams, document libraries, and project directories, with a focus on the upcoming integration of AI into Synthesis’ search and video transcriptions.Chris also shows advancements in next-generation search, vector search, and future LMS capabilities. We also explore AI's impact on firm-wide knowledge capture, improved search relevance, and the creation of AEC-specific models through what Knowledge Architecture calls “Community AI”.Episode Links:Christopher Parsons on LinkedInKnowledge Architecture websiteKnowledge Architecture on LinkedInKnowledge Architecture on TwitterConfluence podcast S1E7 - Overhauling Knowledge Architecture’s Synthesis v6 with Chris Parsons&nbsp;(YouTube)Synthesis roadmap&nbsp;- Bringing AI to SynthesisSynthesis intranet platformKA Connect Talk ArchivePerplexity AIDeep Smarts: How to Cultivate and Transfer Enduring Business Wisdom by Dorothy Leonard&nbsp;(Amazon)The 3-Click Rule for Navigation Is False&nbsp;(full article)Stop Counting Clicks: The 3 Click Rule is Nonsense&nbsp;(short YouTube video)Watch this episode on YouTube or Spotify.-----The Confluence podcast is a collaboration between TRXL and AVAIL, and is produced by TRXL Media.Learn more about them at https://trxl.co/media and https://getavail.comLearn more about the Confluence podcast at https://confluence.getavail.com/podcastLearn about the Confluence events at https://confluence.getavail.com

In this Confluence podcast episode, host Randall Stephens talks with Reg Prentice from TonicDM to discuss the development and evolution of architectural, engineering, and construction (AEC) technology. Reg shares his journey from working with Frank Gehry and dabbling in amateur coding, to developing a project management web app called iShare at Gehry's office, which laid the groundwork for TonicDM. The conversation touches on early experiences with software development, the principles of keeping technology simple and intuitive, and the importance of user feedback in shaping software features. Reg and Randall get into the features and philosophies driving TonicDM, focusing on ease of use, automation, and the significance of supporting a customer's needs without unnecessary complexities. Additionally, they explore the backend aspects of software development, such as data import facilitation for new customers, data residency preferences, and the future directions TonicDM is heading towards in response to evolving market demands.Episode Links:TonicDM websiteReg Prentice on LinkedInWatch this episode on YouTube or Spotify.-----The Confluence podcast is a collaboration between TRXL and AVAIL, and is produced by TRXL Media.Learn more about them at https://trxl.co/media and https://getavail.comLearn more about the Confluence podcast at https://confluence.getavail.com/podcastLearn about the Confluence events at https://confluence.getavail.com

Benjamin Guler of EvolveLab joins the show to talk about Veras, the AI rendering tool for Revit, Rhino, SketchUp, Vectorworks, and most recently Autodesk Forma that is used for creating stunning architectural diffusion-based visualizations. Ben takes us behind the scenes to give us a glimpse into its unique features, its development process, and the team's ambition to further innovate it.EPISODE SPONSORChaosFor a limited time, get a 20% discount on Fixed and Floating Annual License of Enscape. Head to https://chaos-enscape.com and use code RES24 at checkout to supercharge your design workflow.Episode Links:Ben on LinkedInBen on TwitterEvolveLab websiteEvolveLab forumsEvolveLab on LinkedInEvolveLab on TwitterEvolveLab on InstagramConfluence NYC event detailsBrooks’ LawBen on TRXL&nbsp;131: ‘It’s Prompting Us’, with Benjamin GulerWatch this episode on YouTube or Spotify.-----The Confluence podcast is a collaboration between TRXL and AVAIL, and is produced by TRXL Media.Learn more about them at https://trxl.co/media and https://getavail.comLearn more about the Confluence podcast at https://confluence.getavail.com/podcastLearn about the Confluence events at https://confluence.getavail.com

Corey Rubadue of ArchVision joins the show to talk about Fovea, a tool that simplifies the process of translating and sharing 3d content across different 3d platforms and 3d file formats. In other words, it allows users to import data from various sources, process it, and then export it in a format that can be easily used in other applications. This eliminates the need for manual file conversions and reduces the risk of data loss. Fovea also supports a wide range of file formats, making it a versatile tool for 3d content creation and sharing with a user-friendly, simple drag-and-drop interface for people working on a deadline... that’s you.EPISODE LINKSCorey on LinkedInArchVision websiteArchVision on LinkedInArchVision on TwitterArchVision on InstagramEPISODE SPONSORChaosFor a limited time, get a 20% discount on Fixed and Floating Annual License of Enscape. Head to https://chaos-enscape.com and use code RES24 at checkout to supercharge your design workflow.Watch this episode on YouTube or Spotify.-----The Confluence podcast is a collaboration between TRXL and AVAIL, and is produced by TRXL Media.Learn more about them at https://trxl.co/media and https://getavail.comLearn more about the Confluence podcast at https://confluence.getavail.com/podcastLearn about the Confluence events at https://confluence.getavail.com

Steve Germano of IMEG joins the show to talk about developing an in-house AI assistant named Meg, which functions as a conversational chatbot and search engine for company data running within Microsoft Teams. We talk about the goals and capabilities of the first release and how the dev team is considering adding workflows to Meg's capabilities. We also discuss the platform they have chosen to build on, what the biggest challenges have been getting to this point, early feedback from staff and leadership, what the potential ROI on a project like this is, and more.Episode Sponsor:ChaosEnscape is soon launching something special that will make your 3D workflow the best 3D workflow for a special price. In the meantime, you can experience it for yourself for free at https://chaos-enscape.com/trial-14 or simply by Googling “try Enscape”.Episode Links:Steve on LinkedInSteve on TwitterIMEG websiteIMEG on LinkedInIMEG on TwitterWatch this episode on YouTube or Spotify.-----The Confluence podcast is a collaboration between TRXL and AVAIL, and is produced by TRXL Media.Learn more about them at https://trxl.co/media and https://getavail.comLearn more about the Confluence podcast at https://confluence.getavail.com/podcastLearn about the Confluence events at https://confluence.getavail.com

Christopher Parsons of Knowledge Architecture joins the show to talk about the major overhaul of their Synthesis intranet platform that’s been recently released for AEC firms. Chris talks us through the transition from building previous versions on top of Microsoft SharePoint to building their own platform, and emphasizes the importance of tackling big projects with ease and joy while maintaining a focus on quality of life.Episode Links:KA Connect Talk ArchiveKnowledge Architecture websiteKnowledge Architecture on LinkedInKA’s Synthesis&nbsp;intranet platformChristopher Parsons on LinkedInKnowledge Architecture on TwitterCommon knowledge management program elements in AEC firms-----Watch this episode on YouTube or Spotify.-----The Confluence podcast is a collaboration between TRXL and AVAIL, and is produced by TRXL Media.Learn more about them at https://trxl.co/media and https://getavail.comLearn more about the Confluence podcast at https://confluence.getavail.com/podcastLearn about the Confluence events at https://confluence.getavail.com

Sam Zolfagharian of YegaTech joins the show to talk about In this episode, hosts Randall Stevens and Evan Troxel are joined by special guest Sam Zolfagharian in a comprehensive overview of AI (Artificial Intelligence) governance and ethics in the AEC (Architecture, Engineering, and Construction) industry.Sam is the CTO at YegaTech and is an AEC Data &amp; AI Strategy Consultant.Today we explore various aspects of AI governance and ethics in the AEC industry. The episode begins by discussing the definition and importance of AI governance, address the ethical principles that should be considered in AI governance, emphasizing the significance of fairness, transparency, and accountability. Additionally, we explore the role of AI governance in the AEC industry, and we talk about the importance of implementing measures to minimize the risks associated with AI in AEC. Finally, we touch upon the best approach for establishing AI governance.Watch this episode on YouTube or Spotify.-----The Confluence podcast is a collaboration between TRXL and AVAIL, and is produced by TRXL Media.Learn more about them at https://trxl.co/media and https://getavail.comLearn more about the Confluence podcast at https://confluence.getavail.com/podcastLearn about the Confluence events at https://confluence.getavail.com

Adam Chernick of Amazon Web Services (AWS) joins the show to talk about the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in AEC. Exciting developments include Luma Labs' scanning application for 3D Gaussian Splatting (G-splats), XR headsets including the Apple Vision Pro, and the use of LLMs (large language models) to connect and streamline architectural processes with spatial computing. We also talk about the opportunities for the AEC industry to leverage spatial computing and create immersive experiences and improve productivity in our daily workflows with AI.Episode Links:Adam on LinkedInAmazon Web Services (AWS)&nbsp;websiteAWS on LinkedInLuma AIWhat is Gaussian Splatting?Watch this episode on YouTube or Spotify.-----The Confluence podcast is a collaboration between TRXL and AVAIL, and is produced by TRXL Media.Learn more about them at https://trxl.co/media and https://getavail.comLearn more about the Confluence podcast at https://confluence.getavail.com/podcastLearn about the Confluence events at https://confluence.getavail.com

Joel Pennington of VIM joins the show to talk about the use of PowerBI as the front end for VIM to enable real-time, interactive analytics of BIM data.Watch this episode on YouTube or Spotify.-----The Confluence podcast is a collaboration between TRXL and AVAIL, and is produced by TRXL Media.Learn more about them at https://trxl.co/media and https://getavail.comLearn more about the Confluence podcast at https://confluence.getavail.com/podcastLearn about the Confluence events at https://confluence.getavail.com

Paul Aubin and Harlan Brumm join hosts Randall Stevens and Evan Troxel to share their experiences and insights into the creation of a new, long awaited sample project for Revit 2024. The conversation revolves around the backstory and development process of the project, as well as the goals and challenges they encountered along the way.Episode Links:Twinmotion for Revit&nbsp;(the video with the Revit sample project is on this page)Snowdon Tower Sample Project for TwinmotionRevit 2024: The making of Snowdon Towers&nbsp;(YouTube)Paul Aubin’s websitePaul Aubin’s LinkedIn Learning PageHarlan Brumm on LinkedInPaul Aubin on LinkedInWatch this episode on YouTube or Spotify.-----The Confluence podcast is a collaboration between TRXL and AVAIL, and is produced by TRXL Media.Learn more about them at https://trxl.co/media and https://getavail.comLearn more about the Confluence podcast at https://confluence.getavail.com/podcastLearn about the Confluence events at https://confluence.getavail.com

Randall Stevens of AVAIL joins Evan Troxel in this episode to discuss the development process behind AVAIL’s new channel groups feature, including its evolution and the tools used behind the scenes for team communication and project management.Watch this episode on YouTube or Spotify.-----The Confluence podcast is a collaboration between TRXL and AVAIL, and is produced by TRXL Media.Learn more about them at https://trxl.co/media and https://getavail.comLearn more about the Confluence podcast at https://confluence.getavail.com/podcastLearn about the Confluence events at https://confluence.getavail.com

What is the Confluence podcast all about? Why does it exist? In this episode we’ll answer that question.Watch this episode on YouTube or Spotify.-----The Confluence podcast is a collaboration between TRXL and AVAIL, and is produced by TRXL Media.Learn more about them at https://trxl.co/media and https://getavail.comLearn more about the Confluence podcast at https://confluence.getavail.com/podcastLearn about the Confluence events at https://confluence.getavail.com