Episodes

Archispeak is one of architecture's longest-running podcasts — 380+ episodes of honest, unfiltered conversation about what it's actually like to work in the profession. Since 2012, architects Evan Troxel and Cormac Phalen have been exploring design, career, firm culture, tools, work/life balance, mentoring, generational differences, and job hunting — everything that comes with building a life in architecture.

This isn't a highlight reel. It's the conversation architects actually have — about the hard parts of practice, the moments that define a career, and the things no one tells you in architecture school.

Built for architecture students, emerging architects, and seasoned professionals who want honest perspective on the profession.

Topics include architecture career and job searching, design process and critique, firm culture, work/life balance in architecture, architecture tools and software, mentoring and professional development, generational differences in architecture firms, and candid interviews with architects and industry leaders.

380+ episodes. Since 2012.

#362 - A Brutal(ist) Review

Architects Evan Troxel and Cormac Phalen examine "The Brutalist" film, highlighting how clarity, editing, and concept development apply to both architecture and filmmaking, while warning against creative excess.

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Comment Rules: Be cool like the Fonz. Critical is fine, but if you’re rude, we’ll delete your stuff. Please do not put your URL in the comment text and please use your PERSONAL name or initials and not your business name, as the latter comes off like spam. Have fun and thanks for adding to the conversation!
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#361 - ‘Does the Profession Value Specifiers?’, with Jeff Potter

Join us with architectural spec writer Jeff Potter as we explore the often-overlooked role of specifiers in architecture. From unconventional career paths to industry perceptions, we discuss the challenges, value, and importance of specifications in architectural practice, addressing compensation and career progression in this specialized field.

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Comment Rules: Be cool like the Fonz. Critical is fine, but if you’re rude, we’ll delete your stuff. Please do not put your URL in the comment text and please use your PERSONAL name or initials and not your business name, as the latter comes off like spam. Have fun and thanks for adding to the conversation!
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#360 - Guiding Without Influencing

More about Corbu’s legacy and complicated history, and a discussion of the ACE Mentorship Program and its impact on introducing high school students to architecture, construction, and engineering careers.

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Comment Rules: Be cool like the Fonz. Critical is fine, but if you’re rude, we’ll delete your stuff. Please do not put your URL in the comment text and please use your PERSONAL name or initials and not your business name, as the latter comes off like spam. Have fun and thanks for adding to the conversation!
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#359 - Cormac’s Problem with Corbusier

We explore Le Corbusier's architectural legacy, his cousin Pierre Jeanneret's crucial technical contributions, and Detroit's urban renaissance. Plus, we introduce askarchispeak.com for listener questions.

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Comment Rules: Be cool like the Fonz. Critical is fine, but if you’re rude, we’ll delete your stuff. Please do not put your URL in the comment text and please use your PERSONAL name or initials and not your business name, as the latter comes off like spam. Have fun and thanks for adding to the conversation!
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#358 - AU - ‘Mastering Outdoor Space Design’, with Frank Cavanaugh

Join us as Frank Cavanaugh from Aria Group shares expert insights on outdoor space design. From local ordinances to material selection, climate control to ambiance creation, this episode offers essential guidance for architects designing functional and beautiful outdoor hospitality environments.

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Comment Rules: Be cool like the Fonz. Critical is fine, but if you’re rude, we’ll delete your stuff. Please do not put your URL in the comment text and please use your PERSONAL name or initials and not your business name, as the latter comes off like spam. Have fun and thanks for adding to the conversation!
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#357 - ‘The Value of Lifelong Learning in Architecture’, with Kevin Jones

Join us as we talk with architect and Virginia Tech professor Kevin Jones about transforming continuing education from a checkbox requirement into a powerful career asset. We explore effective learning strategies, delivery methods, and how strategic education choices can reshape architectural careers.

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Comment Rules: Be cool like the Fonz. Critical is fine, but if you’re rude, we’ll delete your stuff. Please do not put your URL in the comment text and please use your PERSONAL name or initials and not your business name, as the latter comes off like spam. Have fun and thanks for adding to the conversation!
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#356 - That ‘New Me’ Glow

Join us for a discussion about Evan's studio makeover (with YouTube reveal), water fasting, holiday light displays, and our main topic: group projects and team collaboration in architecture. We explore performance reviews, expectations, and teaching experiences.

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Comment Rules: Be cool like the Fonz. Critical is fine, but if you’re rude, we’ll delete your stuff. Please do not put your URL in the comment text and please use your PERSONAL name or initials and not your business name, as the latter comes off like spam. Have fun and thanks for adding to the conversation!
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