Architecture Business Club with Jon Clayton

Host Jon Clayton interviews Annette Mashi on Architecture Business Club about repurposing existing website content—case studies, portfolios, photos, and blog posts—so more people see it across platforms and are driven back to the website. Annette explains a top-down process: start with a large piece (e.g., an energy-efficiency case study), turn it into a blog, then break it into topic-specific newsletters and short LinkedIn posts that link back to the blog. They discuss finding content ideas in everyday client conversations and frequently asked questions, using AI tools like ChatGPT as a starting point while editing for voice and avoiding generic language, and why LinkedIn builds awareness, email newsletters nurture leads over long sales cycles, and blogs provide depth and a content library. Annette emphasises client-focused benefits over “we” messaging and highlights the value of a supportive professional network.—Today’s GuestAnnette Mashi creates magic with words. She gives visibility to female architects, interior designers, and women in the construction industry. She positions them as experts, demonstrates the value they provide, and helps them stand out from their competition so they attract clients they love and win their dream projects.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction00:43 Introducing Annette Mashi01:13 Why Repurpose Content02:05 Multi Platform Sharing02:30 Driving Website Traffic03:14 Channels To Use03:31 Top Down Process03:57 Case Study Example04:22 Turning A Case Study Into A Blog04:45 Turning A Blog Into A Newsletter05:02 LinkedIn Snippets05:27 Main Course Analogy05:56 No Reinventing Wheel06:14 Repurpose Podcasts Too06:52 Guest Appearance Content07:09 Ask For Transcripts07:49 Finding Content Ideas08:27 Marketing Team Analogy10:48 Client Questions Content12:30 Social Proof Framing13:05 AI Repurposing Pitfalls14:21 Use AI As Tool17:19 ChatGPT Tells18:18 Content Ecosystem Package19:49 Awareness Building Content20:11 Nurturing Content20:44 Why You Need To Nurture Leads21:44 Email Newsletter Opportunity22:15 How Often To Send Your Email Newsletter24:13 Flow Analogy25:12 Results From Just Eight Blogs Per Year25:39 Building A Content Library26:42 Long Term Benefits From Content28:09 Linking Content Together29:46 Putting It Into Practice30:55 Getting Started With Content Repurposing32:11 Sharing Your Process32:31 Content Marketing Book Recommendations33:28 Benefits Vs Features34:29 A Simple Exercise: We Vs You35:26 The Resource Annette Mashi Can't Live Without37:15 Closing And Connect—Key TakeawaysYou already have more content than you thinkYou don't need to start from scratch. Look at what you've already got — a case study, a project photo, a blog post. You can take one big piece of content and break it into smaller pieces for LinkedIn, your newsletter, and your website. It's like getting more meals from one big cook-up. Stop letting good work sit there unseen.You need to share your content in more than one placePutting something on your website and hoping people will find it doesn't work. You need to share it across different places — social media, email, your blog. Each place does a different job. LinkedIn helps new people find you. Your email list keeps people warm over time. Your blog shows them how you think and what you can do. Together, they bring people closer to hiring you.You should email your list at least once a monthMost designers — around 85% — don't send regular emails. That means if you do, you're already ahead of the crowd. People often take a year or more before they're ready to hire an architect. Sending a monthly email keeps you in their minds. Even if they don't read every word, they see your name and remember you're there. That matters a lot when they're finally ready to get started.—Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢Connect with Annette Mashi on LinkedIn 🤝Visit Annette Mashi’s Website 🖥️Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

Jon Clayton hosts Architecture Business Club with guest Kevin Crawford, an architecture practice leader with 20+ years’ experience who implemented a succession plan at Crawford Architecture via a transition to employee ownership. They define succession planning as future-proofing the business, protecting legacy, and ensuring continuity if the owner retires, can’t work, or dies, noting many practices delay it until it becomes urgent. Kevin shares how waiting until his father was around 70 created pressure and highlights why planning matters for owners, families, staff career paths, valuation, and avoiding rushed sales to the wrong buyer. They discuss that succession planning applies to all firms, including sole practitioners, and stress the need to take time away from day-to-day work, use structured planning (including ideas from the book “Traction”), clarify roles, communicate a shared vision, and maintain discipline.Today’s GuestKevin Crawford is an architecture practice leader with over 20 years of experience running and growing a practice, before putting a succession plan in place through a transition to employee ownership. Today, he’s the founder of Designing Success and co-founder of ASC and Pilotis, where he helps architecture practice leaders design better businesses — gaining more clarity, time and freedom, while strengthening the person behind the practice.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction00:46 Meet Kevin Crawford01:20 Why This Topic Now01:40 Defining Succession Planning02:15 Planning For Inevitability02:49 Family Firm Backstory03:58 New Ventures Plan From Day One04:33 Ostrich To Eagle Mindset05:18 Forced Change And Complexity05:39 Most Firms Delay This06:23 Reactive Industry Trap06:52 Hamster Wheel Workaholism07:27 Two Year Transition Journey08:03 Balancing Three Stakeholders08:29 Protecting The Legacy08:48 Choosing Employee Ownership09:36 Others Still Ignore It10:18 Why Succession Matters10:42 Time With Family Motivation12:34 Shared Vision And Culture Shift13:53 Risks Of Leaving It Late15:28 Is Succession Planning Relevant To Small Firms16:33 Buying Time To Plan20:25 Consequences Of Ignoring It22:36 Collaboration Over Competition24:24 Where To Start Today24:49 Frameworks And Reflection26:21 Discipline And Weekly Structure27:41 Key Takeaways29:26 Employee Ownership Realities30:31 Must Have Business Resource30:51 Project Management Game Changer32:02 Connect With Kevin—Key TakeawaysDon't put it off — start thinking about succession planning now.It's easy to say "I'll deal with it later," but Kevin learned the hard way that waiting too long makes everything harder. His dad was 70 before they started planning, and by then it was stressful for the whole family. Even if you're not ready to act right now, you should at least start thinking about what happens to your business when you're no longer running it.You need to make time to work on your business, not just in it.Kevin used to think working longer hours was the answer. He'd start at 4am and work until midnight. But that didn't help him plan for the future — it just kept him stuck on the hamster wheel. The real change came when he stepped away from the day-to-day and gave himself proper time to think. You need to block out time in your week to focus on the bigger picture, even if it's just a couple of hours on a Friday.Succession planning matters no matter how big or small your practice is.You might think this only applies to large firms, but Kevin says it's just as important for sole practitioners. If your business depends entirely on you, what happens if you can't work? Who looks after your projects and your clients? Having a plan in place protects you, your team, and the legacy you've built — whether you're a one-person studio or a team of twenty.—Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢Connect with Kevin Crawford on LinkedIn 🤝Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

Jon Clayton marks Architecture Business Club’s 100+ episodes (nearing 120) and explains how new listeners can quickly find relevant content using newly added episode categories on architecturebusinessclub.com. He lists key themes including business strategy and growth, marketing and lead generation, personal brand, sales and pricing, systems and automations, mindset and wellbeing, career journeys, content/PR/podcasting, industry events, community, and team collaboration. Spotlighting the Business Strategy and Growth category, he highlights the most downloaded episode. He also recommends a lesser-known “hidden gem”, and shares his personal favourite.—Episode Highlights00:00 Why This Episode Exists00:50 The Back Catalogue Problem01:41 New Website Categories02:03 All Episode Themes Overview02:58 Why Categorising Matters04:00 Business Strategy & Growth Episodes04:16 Most Popular Business Strategy & Growth Episode06:28 Hidden Gem in Business Strategy & Growth08:50 Personal Favourite Of Mine11:59 Wrap Up—Key TakeawaysYou can break big goals into smaller partsInstead of planning your whole year at once, divide it into 90-day chunks. This makes it easier to see where you're going and change direction if you need to. It's like planning a road trip in stages rather than trying to map out everything at once.You will make mistakes, and that's okayWhen you run a business, you'll mess things up sometimes. You might waste money or make poor choices. The important thing is to learn from what went wrong and move forward. Don't be too hard on yourself about it.You need to create urgency to get people to buyIf your service is available all the time, people will think they can buy it later and they'll forget about it. You should use special launches or limited-time offers to give people a reason to act now instead of putting it off.—Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

Architecture Business Club host Jon Clayton interviews structural engineer Sam Dean of Porthouse Dean about common structural design pitfalls in home extensions and how to avoid spiraling costs. They discuss ground conditions as a major uncertainty (especially clay), the influence of nearby large trees and desiccation, and the use of low-cost desktop geological reports based on British Geological Survey borehole data to flag risk. They cover ceiling downstands and why beam position is often a cost-and-aesthetics decision between homeowner, architect, and builder, with installation complexity increasing when first-floor joists run into the beam. Sam explains cantilever “rules of thumb” and how corner bifold-door cantilevers can drive up steel and foundation demands, sometimes requiring columns and large foundations due to uplift forces. They address adding an extra storey and the case for trial holes. They also highlight risks of building onto existing, undocumented steelwork from previous extensions, which can force intrusive investigation or replacement when later loft conversions are planned. Sam explains how the architectural design can affect structural costs and outlines what to expect from a good structural engineering service. They touch on AI-generated architectural information, Sam’s launch of an AI review service, and he shares the software tool his business can’t work without.Today’s GuestSam Dean. He started out as a materials scientist and structural engineer, spent a year in the nuclear industry, then teamed up with his friend Chris Porthouse to start PorthouseDean structural engineering. Sam then got hooked on building business systems and automations - to cut out the boring stuff and let his team do better work. When he’s not solving process problems – he’s cycling to work, playing and watching football, or baking crusty bread and homemade pizzas.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction00:39 Introducing Sam Dean01:38 Managing Risk with Groundworks03:08 The Clay Problem04:08 Trees Near Extensions: The Hidden Foundation Cost Driver04:30 When Is a Site Investigation Worth It? Practical Triggers05:10 Low-Cost Desktop Geology Reports: A Smart Early Warning05:49 Designers Missing Key Site Info (Like Trees)06:59 Case Study: The 20m Oak That Shows Up Too Late07:55 Using Maps + Clay Likelihood to Spot Risk Early08:48 Removed Trees Still Matter: Clay Desiccation Explained10:32 Ceiling Downstands vs Flush Beams: Set Expectations Early11:33 “Where Do I Put the Beam?” Why Engineers Don’t Always Decide12:13 Joist Direction Changes Everything (and Can Add Thousands)13:01 Goalpost Frames & Rear Wall Openings: What’s Cost-Neutral?14:00 Builder vs Client vs Architect: Who’s Steering the Decision?14:37 Protecting the Homeowner: Budget Trade-Offs in Plain English15:36 When Architects Aren’t On Site: How Design Intent Gets Lost18:06 Roles, Responsibility & the Principal Designer Confusion19:38 Why Small Projects Are So Cost-Driven (and Getting Worse)21:07 Cantilevers 101: The Rule of Thumb That Saves Your Budget23:12 Corner Bifolds + Floating Roofs: The Cantilever Trap25:23 Engineering Workarounds: Columns, Anchors & Uplift Forces27:34 Adding a Storey: Foundation Reality Checks29:32 Building on Existing Steelwork: The Missing Calculations Problem33:37 Prevention Playbook: Trial Holes, Checks, and Lightweight Options36:46 Quick Wins to Avoid Spiraling Costs (Wind Posts, Pillars, Layout)41:45 What Great Structural Engineering Service Looks Like46:49 The Rise of AI48:55 The One Piece of Software Sam Can't Live Without50:18 Final Thoughts—Key TakeawaysCheck the Ground Early to Avoid Big SurprisesLearn what's under the ground before you start building. Clay soil can be a big problem. If there are large trees near your building site (especially within 20 metres), they can make the situation worse. The tree roots dry out the clay, which means you might need to dig much deeper foundations. This can cost thousands extra. Even if you remove a tree, the clay takes about three years to go back to normal. You can get a cheap report to check if clay is likely on your site or dig trial holes, which can help you plan ahead.Think About Where Beams Go Before You BuildHelp your client decide if they want the steel beam to show below the ceiling or to hide it inside the ceiling. If you hide it and the floor joists run into the beam, the builder may need to cut the joists and fix them to the side of the beam. This may cost more money. You should talk about this early with your client and builder. It's a trade-off between how it looks and how much it’ll cost.Plan Cantilevers Carefully to Keep Costs DownA cantilever is when part of your building sticks out without support underneath. There's a simple rule of thumb: if you want one metre sticking out, you need two metres anchored back inside the building. If you don't follow this rule, you might need heavier, more expensive beams. Corner bifold doors with cantilevers look grea

In this episode of Architecture Business Club, Jon Clayton introduces Joshua Ayettey, a chartered architect and founder of JADC Studio and Scattered Hub, a mentorship community for aspiring architects. Joshua discusses his personal struggles through architectural training, leading to his passion for mentoring and creating Scattered Hub. The group focuses on providing support, confidence boosts, and guidance to new graduates navigating the architectural field. The conversation covers the group's organic growth, its impact on members, and Joshua's inspiration and future aspirations for Scattered Hub. This episode also highlights practical advice for building community groups and the importance of tackling failures positively.Today’s GuestJoshua Ayettey is a chartered architect and creative problem solver who is passionate about improving the way people live through good design and mentoring the next generation of problem solving designers. He’s also the founder of JADC Studio and Scattered Hub.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction00:31 Our Guest: Joshua Ayettey01:07 Joshua's Background and Scattered Hub01:45 Organic Growth of Scattered Hub02:02 Mentoring Journey and Early Struggles03:09 Helping Others and Building Confidence04:54 Founding JADC Studio05:45 Formalising Scattered Hub06:08 Personal Struggles and Mental Health07:37 Failures as Catalysts for Growth08:27 Jon's Struggles That Led To This Show09:20 Setting Up the Group and Formal Arrangements10:13 Creating a Peer-to-Peer Platform11:38 Expanding Beyond Architecture13:01 Community and Collaboration14:12 Wins and Success Stories14:22 Building Confidence and Self-Esteem17:16 Personal Motivation and Influences20:09 Future Vision for Scattered Hub20:49 Collaborative Projects and Ecosystem24:17 Encouragement to Test Ideas26:14 Final Thoughts and Takeaways27:25 Encouraging Young People in Architecture28:56 Resource Recommendations and Learning29:40 AI and Future of Architecture31:39 Connecting with Joshua Online—Key TakeawaysDon't Be Afraid to FailYou can learn a lot from your failures, even if you can't see it at the time. Joshua failed his final year and had to repeat it. He also failed his part three exam the first time. But these failures taught him important lessons that helped him later. When you fail, it doesn't mean you should give up. It means you're learning something that will help you in the future.Help Others Along Your JourneyWhen you're struggling with something, you can still help other people who are facing similar problems. Joshua struggled during his training, but he still helped other students with their work. By helping others, you build confidence in yourself and create a positive effect that spreads to more people. You don't need to wait until you're perfect to start helping others.Surround Yourself with the Right PeopleWhen you're going through tough times, you need people around you who can support you and remind you of your strengths. Joshua almost quit everything, but people around him helped him see that he was being too hard on himself. Find people who reflect where you want to be and who can help you see things clearly when you're struggling.—Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢Connect with Joshua Ayettey on LinkedIn 🤝Learn more about Joshua Ayettey’s practice 🖥️Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

Jon Clayton discusses the issue of burnout with career and wellbeing coach Anna Wolas. The conversation digs into what burnout is, how to recognise its signs, and how it differs from stress. Anna explains the reoccurring nature of burnout and its connection to a misalignment between personal values and external expectations. She also outlines common causes of burnout, such as organisational changes, unrealistic workloads, and lack of recognition. Anna shares her DCP framework (Discover, Create, Perform) that helps professionals recover from burnout, prevent it in the future, and activate their full potential. Through practical strategies and real-life success stories, this episode aims to equip architects and business leaders with the tools they need to thrive in their careers without succumbing to burnout.Today’s GuestAnna Wolas is a Career & Wellbeing Coach who helps architects and leaders achieve (& earn) more. Anna's approach helps reduce stress, prevent burnout, and create a sustainable, values-driven definition of success.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction01:22 Understanding Burnout02:02 The Burnout Cycle05:30 Burnout vs. Stress06:27 Healthy Stress Management09:27 Signs of Burnout09:45 Physical Symptoms of Burnout10:04 Psychological Symptoms of Burnout10:32 Behavioural Symptoms of Burnout11:00 Occupational Symptoms of Burnout11:25 Personal Symptoms of Burnout11:51 Common Causes of Burnout11:56 Organisational Factors12:42 Personal Factors13:07 Lack of Recognition13:47 Fear-Based Performance14:15 Conflict in Relationships14:34 Overcoming Burnout14:55 Ineffective Solutions To Burnout18:45 Effective Strategies For Burnout18:55 The DCP Framework19:34 Step 1: Discover22:32 Step 2: Create25:00 Step 3: Perform28:03 Success Stories Of The DCP Framework28:11 Case Study: High-Level Professional29:15 Achieving Clarity30:55 Promotion and Beyond31:55 Main Takeaways32:21 Act Now33:32 Final Thoughts—Key TakeawaysBurnout is a cycle, not just tirednessYou need to understand that burnout isn't the same as feeling stressed. Stress can actually help you get things done if you have time to rest afterwards. But burnout happens when stress goes on for too long without recovery. It keeps coming back again and again if you don't fix the real problem. Burnout means you're living by other people's rules and goals instead of your own. When this happens over and over, your body and mind get worn out.Spot the warning signs earlyYou can notice burnout in five main areas of your life. Physical signs include feeling tired all the time, headaches, and sleep problems. Mental signs include brain fog, forgetting things, and feeling hopeless. You might also get more emotional, angry, or eat differently. At work, you lose your passion and make more mistakes. In your personal life, your relationships suffer and you feel like you're not doing well anywhere. The sooner you spot these signs, the easier it is to fix the problem.Quick fixes don't work - you need a proper planTaking holidays, doing more exercise, or waiting for a project to finish won't solve burnout on their own. Even changing jobs won't help if you don't fix the real causes. You need a proper strategy that helps you understand yourself, create healthy boundaries, and use your real skills and strengths. Don't wait to deal with burnout - the longer you leave it, the harder it becomes to fix.—Connect with Anna Wolas on LinkedIn 🤝Learn more about Anna Wolas’s work 🖥️Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 If you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

Jon Clayton welcomes Tim Lewis, a seasoned podcaster and content creator who's been exploring AI and automation. Together, they discuss the distinctions between AI and automation, practical applications in day-to-day business, and the benefits of locally hosted AI over cloud-based tools. They also address common fears about AI replacing jobs. Gain valuable insights on leveraging AI for tasks like image and video generation, project management, and client presentations. Tim shares various tools and strategies to enhance productivity and maintain privacy when using AI. Learn how AI can help you build a better, more efficient business.Today’s GuestTim Lewis is a long term podcaster and content creator. Tim’s background is in books and publishing, but he’s recently deep dived into AI Automation and AI Image and Video Generation, and how it can be used to help small business owners in their day to day work.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction00:54 Meet Tim Lewis: AI and Automation Expert01:40 What's The Difference Between AI and Automation Tools?03:10 Practical Examples of AI in Automation04:19 AI's Role in Simplifying Tasks06:37 There's More To AI Than ChatGPT07:35 Use Cases for AI Tools for Architects10:23 Advanced AI Tools for Visualisation12:18 Organizing Information with AI14:22 Locally Hosted AI vs. Cloud-Based AI16:51 Privacy and Security in AI22:59 Using AI for Client Presentations24:26 Should We Be Worried About AI Replacing Us28:55 Embracing AI and Automation29:43 Additional AI Tools and Resources30:38 Connecting with Tim Lewis31:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts—Key TakeawaysAI and automation are different tools that work togetherAI is like a computer programme that thinks a bit like a human. It can look at a picture and tell you what's in it, or help you create images and videos. Automation is different - it's about setting up steps that happen automatically, like "when I get an email, add it to a spreadsheet." The exciting part is when you put them together. AI can now do the thinking parts that used to need a person, which makes automation much more powerful.You can use AI for more than just writingMost people think AI is only good for writing text, but that's just the start. You can use AI to create pictures and videos from your sketches, organise your notes and research, and even make presentations faster. For example, if you draw a simple building sketch, AI can turn it into a realistic image showing what it would look like in real life. This is really helpful if you work with designs or need to show ideas to clients.AI won't replace you, but someone using AI mightYou don't need to worry about robots taking your job. But you should pay attention to other business owners who are learning to use AI tools. They can work faster, finish projects quicker, and offer better prices because AI helps them save time. The key is to start learning about these tools now, so you can use them to do the boring tasks faster and spend more time on the important work you enjoy.—Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢Connect with Tim Lewis on LinkedIn 🤝Visit Tim Lewis's Website 🖥️Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.—Next EpisodeNext time Jon is joined by Anna Wolas to learn how you can thrive in your career without burnout.

Jon Clayton reflects on the challenges and achievements of 2025, highlighting milestones in his podcasting journey and personal life. Jon shares his Christmas break activities, introduces a new service aimed at enhancing your online presence, and outlines exciting updates for the Architecture Business Club in 2026, including fortnightly episodes, YouTube content, and potential sponsorships. He invites listeners to contribute their thoughts and challenges to shape future content, all while offering a special gift to kick-start the New Year.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction02:05 Personal Highlights of 202502:48 Christmas Break Activities03:34 Exciting New Service Announcement03:50 What's New for Architecture Business Club in 202605:41 Special Gift for the New Year07:42 Engage with Us and Share Your Challenges08:21 Wrapping Up and What's Next—Key TakeawaysIt is good to look back and learn from the past year. Jon shares both the hard times and the happy moments from 2025 - it’s normal to have ups and downs.Trying new things and making changes can help you grow. This show is adding video episodes, changing how often episodes come out, and offering new services - being open to change can bring new opportunities.Staying connected with your audience is important. Jon invites you to share your challenges and ideas, and encourages you to subscribe and join in, so you can be part of this community.—Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.—Next EpisodeJon is joined by Tim Lewis to explore the difference between AI and Automation.

Jon Clayton delivers a brief special episode to thank listeners for their support. He shares notable statistics from 2025, including the release of 52 episodes, the 100th episode celebration in September, and record downloads in October. He also recounts the top three episodes of the year based on download numbers, highlighting listener favourites. Jon encourages you to take a break from the podcast to enjoy the festive season.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction and Holiday Greetings00:35 Podcast Achievements and Milestones01:29 Top Episodes of 202502:57 Future Plans and Guest Invitations03:54 Holiday Sign-Off and Advice—Key TakeawaysKeep Going, Even When It’s HardIf you keep working on something, like making a podcast every week, you can reach big goals. You might even do better than most people if you don’t give up.People Like to Hear Real StoriesWhen you share true stories about your life or work, others want to listen. You can help people by telling them what you have learned and what you have gone through.Take Time for Family and FriendsIt’s good to stop working sometimes and spend time with people you care about. You should enjoy special days, like Christmas, with your family and friends.—Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.—Next EpisodeTune in next week for a New Year's episode previewing 2026.

In this episode of Architecture Business Club, hosted by Jon Clayton, productivity mentor Louise Miller joins to discuss a new definition of productivity that focuses on doing what's important rather than doing more in less time. Key topics include the importance of creating space over relying on systems, how productivity begins before taking action, and why recognising capacity can prevent burnout. The episode also explores practical strategies like taking a pause to reassess goals and the benefits of changing environments. Louise's insights are aimed at helping business owners achieve more with a sense of fulfilment and well-being.Today’s GuestLouise Miller is a productivity mentor, the founder of Make It Happen Club and host of the Unfrazzle podcast. She’s on a mission to change the world by helping her clients change the world. She partners with coaches, consultants and community-builders who have a big, exciting vision, helping them land their ideas in reality, reach more people and make a bigger impact, whilst being kind to themselves along the way.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction to Productivity00:42 Meet Louise Miller01:30 Challenging Traditional Productivity02:26 The Importance of Doing What's Important03:21 The Busy Trap04:34 Productivity Before Action04:45 The Treehouse Analogy09:32 The Progress Cycle10:56 Space vs. Systems11:47 The Chaos of Systems14:23 The Emotional Weight of Productivity15:52 The Vicious Cycle of To-Do Lists17:04 Six Pillars of Productivity17:44 The Life-Friendly Approach19:01 The Rhythm of Productivity19:30 The Neuroscience of Productivity22:50 The Real Reasons for Not Getting Things Done25:23 The Power of the Treehouse29:49 Final Thoughts and Resources—Key TakeawaysPrioritise Space and Reflection Over Constant ActionTrue productivity is not about relentless activity or doing more in less time, but about creating space to pause, reflect, and make intentional choices. Taking time to step back. Louise’s “treehouse” analogy allows for clarity, better decision-making, and prevents the cycle of busywork and burnout.Focus on What’s Important, Not Just What’s UrgentProductivity isn’t simply ticking off tasks. Instead, it’s about identifying and working on what truly matters, rather than being caught up in the “busy trap”. This means aligning your actions with your values and long-term goals, and letting go of tasks that do not serve your bigger purpose.Systems Are Secondary to Self-Awareness and CapacityWhile productivity systems and tools can be helpful, they are not a cure-all. If you’re overwhelmed or unclear, new systems will only organise your chaos. The real key is self-awareness: understanding your own needs, capacity, and life context, and building a rhythm of regular reflection. Productivity is personal. Experiment to find what works for you, and don’t feel broken if someone else’s method doesn’t fit.—Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢Connect with Louise Miller on LinkedIn 🤝Take Louise’s Productivity Quiz 🖥️Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.—Next EpisodeNext time, Jon shares a short Christmas message.

Want to streamline your least favourite tasks? In this episode of Architecture Business Club, host Jon Clayton explores innovative ways to leverage AI for automating routine and time-consuming tasks in architecture. Joined by Bryon McCartney, CEO of Archmark, the discussion covers identifying tasks AI can optimise, the Teach framework for deciding what to automate, and practical tips for training AI to match your unique tone. Bryon shares insights on creating efficient workflows using AI, recounts his experiences enhancing his agency's profitability through AI integration, and underscores the importance of starting small for those new to AI. Additionally, the episode details Bryon's approach to building an AI-powered advisory board and a successful workshop using AI tools, emphasising the role of AI in freeing up time for creative and strategic work.Today’s GuestToday's guest is Bryon McCartney, CEO of Archmark, a leading business coaching, branding, and marketing firm working exclusively with architecture firms. Bryon has more than 35 years of experience and has led digital marketing initiatives for Calvin Klein, General Motors Europe, Lipton Foods, and many others. He has founded and led six successful creative service firms since 2002 and has helped more than 5,000 architects transform their practices. He's the only Business Made Simple, Small Business Flight School, and StoryBrand certified coach serving the architecture industry, and he's on a mission to help 10,000 firm leaders by 2030.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction: Tackling Your To-Do List with AI00:47 Welcome to Architecture Business Club01:06 Meet Bryon McCartney: Transforming Architecture Firms01:51 The Power of AI in Architecture05:42 Identifying Tasks for AI Automation06:04 Streamlining Meeting Notes and Emails with AI11:20 The TEACH Framework for AI Automation14:37 Treating AI Like a Summer Intern20:17 Balancing Instructions for AI21:14 Five-Step Formula for Writing AI Prompts22:59 Creating a Blog Post with AI24:39 Structuring Your AI Prompts25:15 Avoiding Common AI Pitfalls26:11 AI's Impact on Agency Profitability26:32 Early Experiences with AI27:13 Adopting AI Tools in Business28:07 Streamlining Client Onboarding with AI29:54 AI-Powered Workshops and Presentations31:29 Efficiency Gains and Profitability Boost31:49 Using AI in Podcast Production32:40 Building an AI Advisory Board35:38 Getting Started with AI39:10 Choosing the Right AI Tools41:00 Creating AI-Powered Workshops46:05 Final Thoughts on AI Integration50:15 Connecting with Bryon McCartney—Key TakeawaysView AI as a powerful tool to free up your time by automating repetitive and routine tasks. By letting AI handle admin, meeting notes, and standard email responses, you can focus more on creative and strategic work that you truly enjoy.You need to approach AI like you would a summer intern: provide clear instructions, context, and feedback. AI is not a magic solution; it requires you to define what a good result looks like and to iterate, refining your prompts and expectations as you go.You will benefit most from AI if you start small, choosing tasks you know well and can clearly explain. As you build confidence, you can gradually integrate AI into more areas of your work and life, ultimately gaining a competitive edge and improving your efficiency.—Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢Connect with Bryon McCartney on LinkedIn 🤝Learn more about our guest’s services 🖥️Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.—Next EpisodeNext time Jon chats with Louise Miller about productivity.

Jon Clayton and guest Louise Brogan discuss the importance and strategic use of LinkedIn company pages. You’ll learn the distinct roles of LinkedIn profiles and company pages, how to properly set up and manage a company page, and the type of content to post. Louise shares valuable insights on leveraging a company's LinkedIn page to boost visibility, attract talent, and enhance credibility. The episode also covers how small business owners and larger teams can optimise their LinkedIn presence and the reasons behind these strategies.Today’s GuestLouise Brogan is a Consultant, YouTuber, Podcaster and International speaker. Louise works with small businesses and professionals who want to raise their visibility on LinkedIn and YouTube. She is also a Small Business Champion in the UK. Her proudest work moments are meeting the King at Buckingham Palace in recognition of her work and getting her coveted silver play button for YouTube.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction to LinkedIn Company Pages01:23 Understanding LinkedIn Profiles vs. LinkedIn Company Pages02:08 Creating a LinkedIn Company Page03:19 The Importance of Company Branding07:40 SEO Benefits of LinkedIn Company Pages08:03 Optimising Your LinkedIn Company Page08:50 LinkedIn's AI and Algorithm Updates10:04 Filling Out Your Company Page Details10:18 The Value of Company Values13:49 Posting on Your LinkedIn Company Page14:38 LinkedIn Company Page Content Strategy for Solopreneurs16:36 Balancing LinkedIn Personal Profiles and LinkedIn Company Pages17:38 Leveraging Your Team for LinkedIn Success18:25 Client Success Stories22:43 Project-Based Content Ideas for LinkedIn24:38 Employee Advocacy on LinkedIn25:25 LinkedIn Training and Workshops26:00 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways28:39 Free Resources and Conclusion—Key TakeawaysEstablish a LinkedIn Company Page for Professional CredibilityEven if you are a sole trader or a small business, having a LinkedIn company page is essential. It allows you to showcase your brand, display your logo, and provide a professional 'shop front' for potential clients and collaborators. This increases your chances of being discovered by your target audience and lends credibility to your business.Maintain Consistent and Strategic PostingRegularly update your company page, ideally once a week or at least fortnightly, to demonstrate that your business is active and engaged. Share project updates, company news, and team achievements. Remember to write posts from the company’s perspective, which differs from the more personal tone used on individual profiles.Empower and Involve Your Team in AdvocacyEncourage your team members to engage with and share company page content on their own LinkedIn networks. Explain the purpose and benefits of this advocacy, as it amplifies your reach and can generate more leads and business opportunities. Providing guidance and training ensures everyone understands how to contribute effectively.—Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢Connect with Louise Brogan on LinkedIn 🤝Get Louise’s Free LinkedIn Success Guide 🖥️Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.—Next EpisodeJon chats with Bryon McCartney to learn how to teach AI to do your least favourite tasks.

Jon discusses the importance of personal branding with expert Christine Gritmon. Christine breaks down what personal branding is, why it matters, especially for solopreneurs and small business owners, and shares her five-part Inside Out personal branding methodology: Purpose, Passion, Person, Personality, and Personal Brand. The conversation delves into the significance of authenticity, how to make a memorable impression, and offers practical exercises for identifying and leveraging your unique gifts. The episode concludes with actionable tips for starting to develop an authentic personal brand today.Today’s GuestWe’re joined by Christine Gritmon - Christine reconnects solopreneurs, freelancers, and small business owners with their purpose and passions for a more aligned personal brand that’s joyful, authentic, and impossible to ignore! She’s spoken on stages worldwide and is a frequent expert guest on podcasts, live streams, chats, and blog posts, as well as hosting her own podcast, Let’s Talk About Brand.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction00:42 Meet Christine Gritmon01:15 What really is Personal Branding?02:03 Personal Branding Misconceptions04:11 Why Personal Branding Matters So Much05:40 Building Trust Through Branding06:13 The Power of Authenticity11:44 The Inside Out Branding Framework12:05 Purpose and Passion15:25 Identifying Your Gifts20:42 How You Show Up In The World21:57 The Role of Personality23:50 Expanding Your Personal Brand24:38 Jon's Gift28:24 Leading with Your Gifts29:35 Christine's Personal Branding Evolution30:30 The Flexibility of Personal Branding31:15 Embracing Your Unique Gifts32:22 Final Takeaways on Personal Branding32:52 Connecting with Christine Gritmon—Key TakeawaysBe authentic and true to yourselfYour personal brand should come from who you really are, not from trying to fit into someone else’s idea of success. When you show your true self, people are more likely to trust you and remember you.Lead with your unique giftsEveryone has something special to offer. Focus on the skills and qualities that make you different, and use them in your work. This not only helps you stand out, but also makes your brand flexible if you change direction in the future.Your personal brand goes further than you doA strong personal brand can open doors and create opportunities, even when you are not in the room. The impression you leave with others can travel far, helping your reputation and bringing new connections your way.—Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢Click here to connect with Christine on LinkedIn 🤝Click here to learn more about Christine Gritmon 🖥️Ready to start podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.—Next EpisodeNext time Jon chats with Louise Brogan about getting more from your LinkedIn company page.

In this episode of the Architecture Business Club podcast, host Jon Clayton reflects on the podcast's impact and announces several upcoming changes aimed at broadening its audience and improving content delivery. Key changes include the transition to both audio and video formats, a shift to fortnightly episode releases, and a tighter editing process to focus on core topics. Jon also discusses the possibility of releasing video versions of past episodes and explores securing a long-term sponsor that aligns with the show's mission. Listeners are encouraged to provide feedback on these updates and suggest potential sponsorship partners.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction01:01 New Audio and Video Formats02:01 Content and Format Adjustments05:25 Editing and Production Process07:05 Release Schedule Update08:48 Focus on Interview-Based Episodes10:57 Exploring New Podcast Ideas11:27 Sponsorship and Ads15:22 Summary and Conclusion—Key TakeawaysThe importance of adaptability: The episode demonstrates how being flexible and open to change can help you overcome unexpected challenges and seize new opportunities.Effective communication is key: Clear, honest, and timely communication between all parties involved helps to prevent misunderstandings and ensures that everyone is aligned towards common goals.Continuous learning drives progress: Embracing a mindset of ongoing learning and self-improvement allows for personal and professional growth, keeping individuals and organisations competitive in a rapidly evolving environment.—Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community waitlist 🤝Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.—Next EpisodeNext time Jon chats with Christine Gritmon about personal branding.

Jon is joined by Natalie Doremieux, a membership and tech strategist with over 10 years of experience. They delve into the numerous benefits of podcast guesting for business growth. Natalie shares her expertise on why podcast guest appearances are valuable, the importance of having a podcast guesting strategy, and how to find the right podcasts to guest on. Listeners will also learn effective strategies to repurpose guest appearances for maximum value. Additionally, they discuss building trust, connecting with the audience, and crafting a compelling narrative to achieve business objectives. Tune in to discover how you can leverage podcast guesting to enhance visibility, build trust, and align with your business goals.Today’s GuestNathalie Dorémieux is a membership and tech strategist with over 10 years experience helping coaches and course creators design high-retention programs that drive real results. In 2025, she co-created Podcast LeadFlow, a tool that turns podcast episodes into high-quality lead magnets using smart automations and AI. Nathalie’s work blends strategy, tech, and a human-first approach - with a dash of French flair.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction to Podcast Guesting00:30 Welcome to Architecture Business Club00:49 Meet Natalie Doremieux01:40 Why Be a Podcast Guest?03:02 Building Trust Through Podcasting04:05 The Importance of a Podcast Guesting Strategy07:15 Defining Your Podcast Guest Strategy08:30 Connecting with Your Audience10:32 Finding the Right Podcasts To Guest On15:29 The Power of Networking16:03 Researching Podcast Guest Opportunities16:35 Making a Good Impression as a Podcast Guest19:56 Crafting Your Message as a Podcast Guest23:31 Sharing Your Unique Approach as a Podcast Guest28:40 Leveraging Podcast Appearances31:38 Repurposing Podcast Content35:13 The Value of Podcasting36:59 Getting Started with Podcasting38:49 Commitment and Podcast Seasons40:28 Final Thoughts and Connection—Key TakeawaysHaving a clear podcast guesting strategy is essential for aligning your appearances with your business goals and reaching your ideal audience.Building trust and authentic connections through podcast guesting is far more effective than simply promoting your expertise; sharing your story and values helps you stand out.The value of podcast guesting extends beyond the interview itself—repurposing your appearances and treating them as lead-generating assets can significantly boost your business growth.—Click here to take your next step after listening 🖥️Click here to connect with Nathalie 🤝Ready to start podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

Jon interviews Nicla Diceglie, founder of Nicla D Interiors. Nicla shares her transformative journey from a stressful career as a project manager in London to embracing bold biophilic design inspired by her own battle with depression. She discusses the importance of nature and colour in creating spaces that nurture and restore well-being. The conversation touches on the therapeutic benefits of nature, the challenges of starting a new business during COVID-19, and the unique aspects of bold biophilic design. Nicla also shares her love of travel, architecture, and some of her favourite places around the world. Tune in to learn how embracing biophilic design can enhance your health, happiness, and personal growth.Today’s GuestNicla Diceglie is the founder of Nicla D. Interiors. After experiencing the healing power of nature and colour in her own life, Nicla founded Nicla D. Interiors to help others create bold biophilic spaces that support happiness, health, and personal growth. Nicla helps people turn their homes into joyful, nature-inspired sanctuaries - spaces that heal, energise, and make them happier and healthier.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction00:56 Meet Nicla Diceglie: Founder of Nicla D Interiors03:34 Nicola's Journey: From Italy to London05:06 The Turning Point: Leaving the Job08:06 Embracing Nature: The Healing Power of the Outdoors09:37 Starting Fresh: A New Career in Interior Design14:49 Launching Nicla D Interiors19:34 Challenges of Starting a Business During COVID21:46 Finding Your Passion and Alignment22:49 Introduction to Biophilic Design27:03 The Journey to Biophilic Design31:43 Benefits of Biophilic Design37:09 A Day in the Life of a Biophilic Designer39:07 Final Thoughts and Takeaways40:23 Favourite Travel Destinations42:08 Connect with Nicla42:51 Closing Remarks—Key TakeawaysSpending time in nature can improve your mood and well-being. Even simple activities like walking in the park or adding plants to your home can make a positive difference.The spaces where you live and work should help you feel comfortable and happy. Bright colours, natural light, and personal touches can turn any space into a place that supports your health.It is possible to change your career or life direction if you are not satisfied. Following your interests and passions can lead to a more fulfilling and enjoyable life.—Click here to connect with Nicla on Instagram 🤝Click here to learn more about Nicla D Interiors 🖥️Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.—Next EpisodeNext time Jon is joined by Nathalie Doremieux to learn how to get the most value from your podcast guest appearances.

Jon welcomes Daniel Patterson, an experienced business growth strategist, to discuss smart strategies for doubling profit without hiring more staff or increasing marketing expenses. They explore the pitfalls of trying to please everyone, the importance of discussing money early on, and effective pricing strategies. Daniel shares his insights on reducing overhead by optimising team roles and asks the critical question of knowing who your dream client is. Tune in to uncover practical tips and transformative strategies to enhance profitability in your architecture practice.Today’s GuestDaniel Patterson is a former RIBA Part 1 with nearly two decades of experience helping businesses grow and scale. He is the founder of Masterplan.pro and branding agency Highly, and has worked with the RIBA and RSAW to deliver CPD training on business and marketing strategy. Daniel is also the creator of The Architect’s Masterplan™, a 12-month growth system for architects who want to escape the tender trap and run highly profitable, sought-after practices.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction00:37 Meet Daniel Patterson01:57 Daniel's Personal Interests03:20 The Profitability Challenge in Architecture09:20 Understanding the Value of Money in Architecture23:33 Strategies to Double Your Profit32:10 Maximising Profit Through Fractional Support34:33 The Power of Asking for Referrals37:13 Effective Pricing Strategies for Architects43:10 Identifying and Fixing Profit Leaks44:42 Real-Life Success Stories48:04 Practical Tips for Immediate Profit Improvement51:40 Overcoming the Fear of Failure57:16 Exploring the World: Travel Stories59:08 Final Thoughts and How to Connect—Key TakeawaysKnow Your Best Clients and Say No SometimesYou do not have to please everyone. When you try to make everyone happy, your best clients may not feel special. It is better to know who you really want to work with and focus on them. If someone is not a good fit, it is okay to say no.Talk About Money EarlyDo not be afraid to talk about money with your clients. If you talk about price at the start, you save time for both you and your client. This helps you find out quickly if you are a good match. It also stops you from working for less than you should.Ask for Referrals and Show Your ValueIf you do a good job, ask your clients if they know anyone else who might need your help. This is a simple way to find new work. Also, show your clients the value you bring, not just your price. When people see your value, they are happy to pay more.—Click here to connect with Daniel Patterson 🤝Click here to learn how much profit you are missing out on each year 🖥️Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.—Next EpisodeNext time, Jon is joined by Nicla Diceglie, who shares her career journey to Bold Biophilic Design.

Jon addresses what to do when facing a shortage of clients or work. He shares his personal story of recent hardships* and explains the common mistakes to avoid when trying to attract new clients. He provides practical advice for fast sales, focusing on hot leads, and high-touch outreach. Jon also emphasises the importance of asking for help and using available resources to manage cash flow issues. The episode concludes with recommendations for related podcast episodes that delve deeper into lead generation and sales strategies.* Trigger warning: between 01:43 to 02:22 Jon briefly mentions death and bereavement.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction01:28 Personal Struggles and Business Impact03:14 Common Mistakes When Seeking Clients05:04 Effective Strategies for Fast Sales05:38 Practical Tips for Faster Sales08:45 Recap and Additional Resources10:25 Closing Remarks and Call to Action—Key TakeawaysFocus on hot leads - When you need more clients, you should talk to people who already know you, like your past or current clients. They are more likely to work with you again.Try not to panic - If you feel worried because work is slow, try not to panic. Take a moment to calm down, then make a plan to help your business.Talk to someone - You do not have to do everything alone. If you need help, ask someone you trust or talk to a professional for advice.—Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.—Next EpisodeNext time Jon is joined by Daniel Patterson to explore how to double your profits (without hiring or spending more on marketing!).