AEC Tech Journeys with Mayur Mistry

In this conversation, Nate Robert-Eze, CEO and Co-founder of Path Intelligence, shares his journey from starting a fashion brand in college to leading a tech company focused on spatial intelligence. He discusses the importance of storytelling in business, the challenges of user experience, and the impact of AI on the real estate industry. Nate emphasizes the need for strong relationships in entrepreneurship and offers insights into effective go-to-market strategies. He envisions a future where immersive experiences redefine property exploration. Takeaways   Nate's early ventures included a fashion brand and architecture projects. Building relationships is crucial for entrepreneurial success. Storytelling can significantly enhance client engagement. The pivot to product was driven by advancements in AI. User experience is a key challenge in tech development. Engaging developers early can enhance project outcomes. The future of real estate involves immersive experiences. Technology will likely replace many traditional realtor roles. Networking and authority are vital for market strategies. Starting today is the best advice for aspiring entrepreneurs.   Chapters   00:00 Career Highlights and Early Ventures 02:27 Entrepreneurial Journey and Lessons Learned 04:45 The Power of Storytelling in Business 07:20 Pivoting to Product: Embracing AI and Spatial Intelligence 10:04 Challenges in User Experience and Engagement 12:20 Engagement Strategies for Developers and Realtors 14:42 Future Vision: The Evolution of Path Intelligence 17:15 Navigating Technology and Real Estate 19:53 Go-to-Market Strategies and Building Relationships 22:28 Rapid Fire Round and Closing Thoughts   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/

In this conversation, Anton Glance, CTO and Co-founder of Buildroid AI, shares his entrepreneurial journey, highlighting his experiences in various startups, particularly in the fields of smart home technology and construction. He discusses the importance of understanding customer needs, the challenges of scaling innovations in the construction industry, and the potential of robotics to transform the sector. Anton emphasizes the need for startups to be adaptable, open to feedback, and focused on delivering real value to their customers. Takeaways   Always dive deeper to understand how things are made. The importance of customer feedback in product development. Building a prototype quickly is crucial for validation. Don't rely on friends for honest feedback; seek strangers. The construction industry is conservative and resistant to change. Startups need to find a balance between innovation and existing processes. Revenue generation should be prioritized early in the startup journey. Building a network early can provide significant advantages. Iterate quickly and be open to changing your approach. Focus on solving real problems that exist in the market. Chapters   00:00 Journey of an Entrepreneur 09:26 Lessons from Startup Experiences 19:02 Navigating the Construction Industry 27:52 Innovating with Buildroid 37:07 Challenges and Triumphs in Robotics   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/

In this episode, Mayur Mistry interviews Marco Herbst, CEO and co-founder of Evercam, who shares the journey of building his company from its inception to its current status as a leader in construction technology. Marco recounts the early days of Evercam, starting with his fascination for capturing construction projects through time-lapse videos using IP cameras. He discusses the challenges faced in finding product-market fit, particularly in the competitive security industry, and how a pivotal shift towards construction technology allowed Evercam to thrive. Marco emphasizes the importance of visibility and collaboration on construction sites, highlighting how advancements in AI and camera technology have transformed project management and communication in the industry.   Takeaways "The principle is the same, visibility, collaboration on the construction site." "We realized that a lot of the challenge we were solving was the difficulty of connecting to the information." "If you can possibly get the money from your customers, it means so much more than getting it from an investor." "Construction is local; you have to make that choice of geography or vertical." "The joy of going home at the end of the day and being able to say, I built that, I was part of that." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Marco Herbst and Evercam 00:20 The Early Days of Evercam 02:23 Challenges in the Security Industry 04:46 Pivoting to Construction Technology 07:18 Proudest Moments in the Journey 10:56 Fundraising Insights and Strategies 16:01 Hiring in a Remote Environment 20:47 Go-to-Market Strategies and Regional Adaptation 23:45 Lessons Learned and Reflections   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/ 

In this conversation, Alice Leung, Principal of Brick and Motor Ventures, shares insights on the evolving landscape of construction technology, particularly focusing on AI adoption, the rise of non-technical founders, and the challenges of software differentiation. She discusses the future of robotics in construction, the importance of pricing transparency, and the dynamics of venture capital and private equity in the industry. Alice also highlights the skills needed for success in construction tech and the common struggles founders face as they scale their businesses. Takeaways   AI adoption in construction is still evolving. Non-technical founders are increasingly entering the space. Software differentiation is becoming more challenging. Robotics in construction is gaining momentum. Pricing transparency is essential for industry efficiency. Navigating deal flow is a significant challenge for VCs. Pattern recognition is crucial for success in VC. AI-powered services could disrupt traditional construction methods. Hiring talent in construction tech is becoming competitive. Founders face unique challenges at different growth stages. Chapters   00:00 Introduction to Construction Tech and AI Predictions 05:08 The Evolution of AI in Construction 09:20 Challenges and Opportunities in Construction Robotics 13:35 Navigating Deal Flow in Construction Tech 18:09 Skills Development in the Construction Tech Landscape 22:43 Emerging Trends and Unique Business Models 26:45 The Future of AI-Powered Services in Construction 30:01 Common Struggles for Founders in Construction Tech 35:24 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/

In this conversation, Nikhil Nagaraj, co-founder of Struck, shares his journey from studying electronics engineering in India to building an AI-driven platform for construction compliance. He discusses the challenges of the construction industry, particularly the housing crisis, and how Struck aims to simplify compliance processes using AI. Nikhil elaborates on the product's features, including its ability to provide real-time compliance checks and generate reports, while also offering insights into navigating the AEC industry for those without a background in it.   Takeaways   Nikhil's journey into AI began during his undergraduate studies in electronics engineering. The launch of Struck was driven by a desire to address the housing crisis and improve construction compliance. Compliance in construction is often treated as an afterthought, leading to inefficiencies. Struck aims to simplify compliance processes using AI, making regulations more accessible. The product has evolved to include features like zoning laws and permit-free building checks. Prioritization in product development is crucial, focusing on compliance-related features. The AEC industry is fragmented, requiring tailored solutions for different regions. Collaboration with industry experts is essential for building effective solutions. Good software engineering practices are vital for successful AI implementation. Building in the AEC space can be challenging but rewarding, with many willing to help.    Chapters   00:00 Nikhil Nagaraj's Journey into AI and Construction 07:27 The Challenges of Prioritization in Tech Development 09:25 Overcoming Technical Challenges in AI 17:06 Exploring Struck's Product and Its Functionality 24:36 Navigating Building Regulations and Workflows 27:20 Creating a Frictionless User Experience 29:42 Leveraging AI and Data Sources 32:33 Bridging B2B and B2G in Construction Compliance 36:00 Advice for Non-AEC Professionals 39:45 Final Thoughts on Building in AEC   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/

In this conversation, Jefferson Schierbeek, a principal and co-founder of Addison Schierbeek Architects, shares his journey in architecture, discussing his transition from practicing architect to business owner, the importance of client relationships, and the evolving landscape of architectural services. He emphasizes the significance of understanding client needs, effective pricing strategies, and the rise of accessory dwelling units (ADUs) in response to housing policies. Jefferson also reflects on his teaching experience and the impact of technology and AI on the future of architecture. Takeaways   Architecture is a journey filled with adventures and highlights. Creating homes that feel uniquely theirs is essential for clients. Many architects back into business management rather than planning for it. Joining professional networks like Entree Architect can be beneficial. Building relationships is crucial for finding clients in architecture. Understanding client needs is key to successful projects. Pricing strategies should reflect both effort and market conditions. The rise of ADUs is a response to changing housing policies. Teaching architecture can provide valuable insights into design and methodology. AI is evolving but is not yet ready to replace human architects. Chapters   00:00 Journey Through Architecture: From Education to Practice 02:22 Navigating the Business of Architecture 04:53 Building Relationships: Finding Clients in Architecture 07:27 Understanding Client Needs and Expectations 09:51 Pricing Strategies in Architectural Projects 12:46 The Rise of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) 15:21 Teaching Architecture: Insights and Experiences 17:56 Reflections on Notable Projects 20:27 The Future of Architecture: Technology and AI   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/

In this conversation, Michael Loussinian, Founder of BlueBuild, discusses his journey from architecture to integrating AI into architectural workflows. He shares insights on the future of AI in architecture, the challenges of freelancing, and the importance of custom UI development for automation. Michael emphasizes best practices for AI workflows, explores the limitations of AI, and presents innovative use cases in design. He also highlights the role of AI in architecture firms and discusses the LA Mapscraper automation tool. The conversation concludes with rapid-fire questions and Michael's thoughts on the evolving landscape of architecture and AI.   Takeaways   Michael's journey from architecture to AI showcases the evolving landscape. AI is transforming the way architects work, focusing on automation. Freelancing in architecture presents unique challenges and learning opportunities. Custom UI development is essential for effective automation in architecture. Best practices in AI workflows lead to better outcomes and efficiency. AI can help eliminate repetitive tasks, allowing for more creative focus. Understanding AI's limitations is crucial for its effective application. Innovative use cases of AI can enhance design processes significantly. The memory of AI is important for maintaining project context over time. Anticipating changes in business models is necessary as AI becomes more integrated.  Chapters   00:00 Introduction to AI in Architecture 00:52 Career Highlights and Freelancing Journey 03:49 The Future of AI in Architecture Firms 06:08 Overview of Blue Bill Enterprises 09:05 Project Walkthrough: Automation in Action 14:50 Best Practices for AI Workflows 19:57 AI Limitations and Opportunities 24:10 LA Mapscraper: A Practical Example 28:17 Testing and Refining AI Workflows 33:14 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/

In this conversation, Dr. Yoav Vered, CTO of Zen Acoustics, shares his journey from mechanical engineering to the forefront of acoustic technology. He discusses his early career, innovations in active noise control, the role of digital twins in engineering, and the challenges of real-world testing. Dr. Vered emphasizes the future of acoustic technology in smart homes and the importance of adapting to environmental noise. The conversation concludes with rapid-fire insights and reflections on the potential of acoustic control in everyday life. Takeaways   Dr. Vered began his career at the Technion in Israel. His research focused on underwater acoustics and wave dynamics. Active noise control (ANC) technology has evolved significantly in recent years. Digital twins can enhance control systems in engineering. Real-world testing is crucial for developing acoustic technologies. The integration of ANC in buildings can mitigate environmental noise. Smart homes still have room for improvement in acoustic control. Dr. Vered emphasizes the importance of adaptability in technology. The future of acoustic technology aims to enhance living environments. Collaboration with construction companies is key for technology implementation.   Chapters   00:00 Journey into Acoustics: Early Career Highlights 05:38 Digital Twins and Active Noise Control Innovations 09:36 Building Technology: From Lab to Real-World Applications 14:04 Product Development: Integrating Technology into Construction 18:12 Advice for Founders: Navigating the Hardware Space 20:56 Future of Acoustic Control in Smart Homes   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/

In this conversation, Jay Shah, founder and principal of Kaizen AI, shares his journey from growing up in an architecture family to founding a tech-driven real estate optimization company. He discusses the challenges of integrating technology in architecture, the importance of mentorship, and a detailed case study showcasing the impact of their work on a major real estate project. Jay also elaborates on their innovative business model that aligns incentives with clients and the significant reduction in carbon footprint achieved through their projects. Takeaways   Jay Shah's journey began in a family architecture firm. Curiosity and mentorship played a crucial role in his career. Kaizen AI focuses on real estate optimization using technology. The company employs a unique human-AI model for project execution. Real estate projects can significantly reduce construction costs and time. Aligning incentives with clients is key to successful partnerships. Sustainability is a core focus, aiming to reduce carbon footprints. The impact of their work can be quantified in millions of dollars. Innovative business models can drive faster adoption of technology. The potential for scaling their impact on a global level is immense. Chapters   00:00 Introduction to Jay Shah and Kaizen AI 05:38 Career Journey and Early Influences 08:37 The Role of Mentorship in Success 28:42 Understanding Kaizen AI's Business Model and Impact   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/

In this conversation, Patrick Murphy, co-founder and CEO of Maket, discusses the journey of his architectural tech company, focusing on the challenges and innovations in generative AI, business models, go-to-market strategies, and the importance of product design. He shares insights on fundraising, the future of AI in architecture, and the exciting developments in their upcoming platform version.   Takeaways The goal is to democratize architectural design at scale. Understanding the market's needs is crucial for product development. Business models must adapt to different customer segments. Organic growth can be more effective than paid marketing. Product design plays a vital role in user experience and growth. Building a strong personal and company brand is essential for fundraising. Networking is key to opening doors in fundraising. The future of AI in architecture is promising but requires careful orchestration of technology. Customer feedback is invaluable for product improvement. Combining software and hardware could revolutionize the construction industry.   Chapters 00:00 The Genesis of Maket: A Vision for Accessible Architecture 01:51 Navigating Challenges: Overestimations and Underestimations 03:52 Business Models in Design: Understanding Market Dynamics 06:20 Go-To-Market Strategies: What Worked and What Didn't 09:25 The Importance of Product Design in Growth 11:50 Overcoming Tough Moments: Lessons from the Journey 13:11 Fundraising Tips for Design Tech Founders 17:16 The Future of AI in Architecture: What’s Next? 20:37 Navigating Innovation: Adapting to Rapid Changes 23:12 Proudest Moments and Future Aspirations 24:28 Reflections: What Would You Do Differently? 25:33 Rapid Fire Round: Quick Insights from Patrick Murphy   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/

In this conversation, Mayur Mistry interviews Natalia Bakaeva, CEO and co-founder of ARKI, discussing her journey in architecture, the challenges faced in architectural education, and the innovative solutions ARKI provides for architecture firms. Natalia shares insights on customer discovery, the importance of communication, and the future of architecture firms in the age of AI. The discussion highlights the need for architects to embrace technology and business practices to thrive in a competitive landscape.   Takeaways Natalia's early experiences shaped her passion for architecture. The gap in architectural education affects graduates' readiness. Communication skills are crucial for architects to convey ideas. Customer discovery is essential for understanding market needs. Innovation in architecture is driven by technology and AI. Architects must adopt a business mindset to succeed. Prototyping early can lead to better product development. Feedback from users is vital for product improvement. Understanding KPIs helps measure success in projects. The future of architecture involves integrating AI into workflows. Chapters 00:00 Journey to Architecture: Early Inspirations 02:22 The Reality of Running an Architecture Firm 04:56 Bridging the Gap: Education vs. Practice 07:28 The Future of Architecture: AI and Technology 09:51 Customer Discovery: Building ARKI 14:59 Navigating the B2B Landscape 18:37 Product Development: Learning from Feedback 20:50 How ARKI Works: A Deep Dive 23:31 Innovative Features: The Magic of AI 26:10 Proud Moments: Success Stories 28:45 Advice for Future Entrepreneurs 30:56 Rapid Fire Round: Quick Insights   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/

 In this conversation, Muhammad Saqlain Awan, founder of the Rhino.Inside.Revit community, shares his journey from civil engineering into computational design. He reflects on the challenges of automating design workflows, the importance of understanding data structures, and how programming skills can elevate efficiency in engineering practice. Saqlain highlights the role of community in knowledge sharing, providing structured lessons and open resources for Rhino.Inside.Revit users. He also outlines his vision for building tools and workflows that make automation more accessible for newcomers and advanced professionals alike.   Takeaways Saqlain transitioned from civil engineering into computational design through automation. He faced challenges with automating processes and discovered the importance of strong foundations in data structures. Community-building has been critical for sharing solutions and advancing knowledge in computational design. He created a personal library of solutions for common automation challenges. Programming skills are essential for modern engineers. His community provides structured lessons and resources tailored for Rhino.Inside.Revit users. Saqlain developed a reinforcement component to address specific needs in structural design. His problem-solving approach involves breaking down components and optimizing workflows. He is focused on making computational design accessible to beginners in AEC. Saqlain encourages professionals to embrace automation and continuous learning.   Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Rhino.Inside.Revit Community 00:05 – Saqlain’s Journey: From Civil Engineering to Computational Design 09:30 – Inside the Rhino.Inside.Revit Community Structure 16:28 – Why Automation Matters in the AEC Industry 26:00 – Advice for Future Generations & Closing Thoughts   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/ 

In this conversation, David Grijalva from CIV Robotics shares his journey in the robotics industry, discussing the rapid evolution of robotics in construction, the importance of mentorship, and effective sales strategies. He emphasizes the need for flexibility in sales, the significance of building relationships, and the challenges of hiring talent in the robotics space. David also provides insights into compensation structures for sales teams and the importance of understanding the multi-faceted decision-making process in construction projects.   Takeaways   David has over 10 years of experience in robotics. The construction industry is adopting robotics faster than expected. Mentorship played a crucial role in David's career. Sales in robotics requires a deep understanding of the construction process. Building relationships is key in the construction industry. Effective communication is essential for sales success. Sales goals should be aligned with the company's yearly objectives. Hiring talent in robotics is challenging but crucial for success. Compensation structures should incentivize performance and strategic thinking. Understanding the decision-making process in construction is vital for closing deals. Chapters   00:00 David Grijalva's Journey in Robotics 01:19 The Rapid Adoption of Robotics in Construction 03:02 Mentorship and Influences in Robotics 05:50 A Day in the Life at CIV Robotics 07:57 Understanding CIV Robotics' Projects 10:36 Building a Sales Organization in Robotics 15:04 Effective Sales Strategies in Construction Robotics 20:21 Strategic Follow-Ups and Personal Touches 21:26 Quarterly Goals and Sales Metrics 25:21 Hiring Challenges in Construction Sales 29:11 Compensation Structures for Sales Teams 33:44 Sales Ramp-Up Periods and Expectations 40:35 Understanding Influencers in Construction Sales   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/ 

In this conversation, Paarija Saxena shares her journey as a design technologist in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry. She talks about her educational background, the role of mentorship, and how design technology is rapidly reshaping architecture. Paarija stresses the importance of curiosity, problem-solving, and embracing experimentation. She emphasizes that architecture is not just about aesthetics it’s about execution, adaptability, and continuous learning. She also highlights how innovation in generative and parametric design, as well as new approaches in education, can empower the next generation of architects and designers to navigate their careers with confidence.   Key Takeaways Architecture is not just about beauty, it’s about execution. Be curious, and take it seriously. Tech in AEC is evolving fast; keep learning and adapting. Don’t get stuck chasing perfection progress matters more. Being a generalist can be a strength. Learning is problem-solving, not memorization. Mentorship is crucial to growth in this field. Experimentation drives innovation in design. Chapters 00:00 – Journey from Jaipur to Design Technology 02:24 – The Role of Technology in Architecture 05:05 – Generative Design and Its Impact 07:36 – Navigating Challenges in the AEC Industry 10:08 – The Importance of Mentorship and Continuous Learning 12:56 – Transitioning to Government Projects 15:25 – Interoperability in Large-Scale Projects 18:11 – Advice for Aspiring Architects 20:12 – The Role of Curiosity in Design 22:56 – Exploring 4D Printing and Material Behavior 25:35 – Courses and Learning at Novator 29:35 – Rapid Fire Round and Closing Thoughts   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/ 

In this conversation, Mayur Mistry hosts Nuno Mourão and Mohamed Khan, discussing their backgrounds in property development and software architecture. They explore the challenges and innovations in the construction industry, particularly focusing on the evolution of their product, Podium, which aims to streamline project management and enhance collaboration among stakeholders. The discussion also delves into technical challenges, lessons learned from their startup journey, and valuable advice for aspiring founders and CTOs. Takeaways   Mohamed has a deep-rooted passion for property development. Nuno transitioned from healthcare to construction, focusing on innovation. Podium aims to digitize the property development process. The importance of collaboration among stakeholders is emphasized. Data management is crucial for effective project execution. Learning from failures is a key part of the startup journey. Early involvement of all stakeholders can reduce project risks. Automation can significantly speed up the design process. Understanding industry complexities is vital for newcomers. Taking chances can lead to significant personal and professional growth. Chapters   00:00 Introduction and Backgrounds 04:58 Mentorship and Influences 10:11 Product Development Journey 15:48 Technical Challenges and Solutions 20:58 Advice for Founders and CTOs 25:51 Rapid Fire Round and Closing Thoughts   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/

In this conversation, Jeff Echols, Chief Innovation Officer in the AEC industry, shares insights on his diverse career journey, the importance of innovation, and the challenges faced by architecture and construction firms in adopting new technologies. He emphasizes the need for a culture of growth and community building, while also discussing the competitive advantages that can be gained through understanding client needs and leveraging technology effectively. Jeff reflects on the human aspect of professional services and the importance of making life better for clients.   Takeaways Jeff Echols emphasizes the importance of a growth mindset in the AEC industry. Building community is crucial for personal and professional growth. Innovation in AEC requires understanding client needs and providing value. Technology adoption must be phased and project-based in the AEC industry. Cultural shifts are necessary for successful technology integration in firms. The hardest part of community work is often walking away from it. Competitive advantage comes from leveraging technology to improve client experiences. Startups in AEC must focus on emotional connections in their sales strategies. Understanding the economics of clients is vital for architects and engineers. The intersection of human and technology is where true innovation happens.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jeff Echols 01:35 Career Highlights and Evolution 06:56 Navigating Difficult Career Choices 13:46 Building Competitive Advantage in AEC 16:56 Common Mistakes of Startups in AEC 20:32 Identifying Problems to Tackle in AEC 24:24 Technology Adoption Across Firm Sizes 29:37 Cultural Shifts for Technology Adoption 32:33 Final Thoughts and Reflections   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/

In this conversation, Mayur Mistry hosts Joshua Schultz and Christian Stutzki, discussing their experiences and insights in lightweight architecture and structural design. They explore their career highlights, the influences of the Bauhaus movement, the collaborative nature of their work, and the challenges faced in the industry. The discussion also delves into the writing process of their upcoming book, which aims to share knowledge and experiences in a fun and engaging way. Key themes include the importance of integrated design, the need for historical documentation in engineering, and the value of collaboration in achieving innovative solutions.   Takeaways   The book is not a textbook but a fun exploration of lightweight structures. Integrated design involves collaboration among all stakeholders. Constraints in design can drive innovative solutions. Historical context is crucial for understanding structural innovations. Practical experience is essential for navigating the industry. Collaboration is key to successful lightweight architecture. Recording engineering history helps future generations. Understanding the design process is vital for problem-solving. Long-term thinking is necessary during project execution. Personal experiences shape professional development.    Chapters   00:00 Introduction to Lightweight Architecture 01:46 Career Journeys and Influences 04:26 The Essence of the Book 06:43 Challenges in Writing and Key Learnings 09:01 Interdisciplinary Approach to Design 11:37 Lessons from Practical Projects 13:53 Navigating Unknowns in Structural Design 16:16 The Importance of Collaboration 18:33 Rapid Fire Round and Personal Insights 26:06 Closing Thoughts and Takeaways   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/

In this engaging conversation, Gwyllim Jahn, co-founder of Fologram and developer of RunChat, shares insights on balancing multiple ventures, leveraging generative AI for architecture, and building innovative tools for creative professionals. He discusses the importance of individualized software for competitive advantage, explores the challenges of fine-tuning AI models, and highlights how RunChat’s node-based automation editor is reshaping architectural workflows. Gwyllim also stresses the role of community building in scaling products and touches on pricing strategies to make AI tools accessible while sustaining growth.   Takeaways Gwyllim Jahn balances multiple ventures through effective time management. Generative AI is transforming architectural design processes. Building a second company involves leveraging past experiences from Fologram. AI design agents can automate repetitive tasks but not replace creative thinking. Fine-tuning AI models involves trade-offs between creativity and specificity. Developing individualized software can create a competitive edge for firms. RunChat offers a node-based editor for automating creative workflows. Integrating APIs significantly enhances tool functionality and interoperability. Community engagement drives adoption and accelerates product growth. Pricing AI services requires balancing accessibility, performance, and margins.   Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Gwyllim Jahn and His Ventures 01:05 – Balancing Multiple Roles and Time Management 02:21 – Innovations in Architectural Education 04:45 – Transitioning from Architecture to Entrepreneurship 08:43 – Exploring RunChat and Its Unique Approach 11:08 – The Role of AI in Design and Creativity 14:36 – Developing Competitive Edge with AI Tools 17:27 – Demonstration of RunChat's Functionality 22:23 – Exploring Generative Models in RunChat 24:20 – Comparing RunChat with Other Automation Tools 26:04 – Integrating API Requests and Automation 27:39 – Creating and Managing Workflows 29:00 – Building Custom User Interfaces 31:05 – Future Aspirations for RunChat 36:21 – Lessons Learned in Product Development 38:57 – Balancing Cost and Performance in Generative AI 39:27 – Rapid Fire Round: Personal Insights   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/

In this conversation, Josh Dorfman shares his journey from teaching in China to becoming a climate entrepreneur with his companies Plantd and Supercool. He discusses the lessons learned from his early career, the challenges faced in the construction industry, and the importance of media in promoting climate innovation. Josh also provides valuable advice for aspiring climate tech entrepreneurs, emphasizing the need for collaboration, understanding the market, and developing effective adoption strategies. Takeaways   Josh's career began in China, teaching English and working in a factory. He learned the importance of having a strong co-founding team. Books have played a significant role in shaping his worldview. Plantd was born out of a desire to find sustainable materials. The construction industry faces challenges in adopting new materials. Media plays a crucial role in promoting climate innovation. Building relationships with larger companies can ease market entry. Vertical integration is essential for scaling a climate tech business. Adoption strategies are as important as product development. Entrepreneurs should focus on their interests and market funding opportunities. Chapters   00:00 Journey to Entrepreneurship: From Teaching to Business 01:49 Lessons Learned: The Hard Way of Entrepreneurship 04:20 The Birth of Plantd: Innovating with Sustainable Materials 11:00 Overcoming Challenges: Adoption and Certification in Homebuilding 18:02 Building a Vertical Supply Chain: The Path to Scale 22:14 Leadership Transition: From Founder to Advisor 27:45 Supercool: Bridging Innovation and Climate Solutions 31:27 Advice for Aspiring Climate Entrepreneurs   📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: 👉 https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/

 In this conversation, Kevin Watters, Head of Growth at Koncurent, shares his journey from an architectural background to growth leadership. He dives into the challenges of shifting career paths, the influence of AI on design processes, and the need for innovative solutions within the AEC sector. Kevin also highlights why business acumen is critical for architects, contrasts construction firms' operational efficiency with architects’ approach, and breaks down effective growth strategies from maximizing ROI at conferences to leveraging cold calling for client engagement.   Key Takeaways Transitioned from architecture into a growth leadership role, navigating significant career challenges. Advocates for innovative solutions to retain architectural talent and modernize workflows. Believes AI can revolutionize architectural design and redefine project timelines. Pushes for a more efficient architecture licensure path to attract and retain top talent. Observes that construction firms often outperform architecture firms in business execution and decision-making. Highlights the importance of ROI-driven conference strategies instead of vanity branding. Endorses cold calling as a still-relevant and powerful tool in the construction industry. Stresses the role of business skills in growing successful AEC practices. Encourages architects to adapt, upskill, and embrace innovation to remain competitive.   Chapters 00:00 — Kevin’s Journey from Architecture to Growth 02:11 — Navigating Career Decisions and Challenges 04:30 — The Impact of AI on Architecture 07:14 — Innovative Ideas for Architectural Products 09:19 — Business Skills Beyond Architecture 11:47 — Growth Strategies in Architecture and Construction 14:07 — The Role of Conferences in Business Development 16:10 — Effective Marketing Strategies in AEC 18:46 — Cold Calling and Client Engagement 21:15 — Rapid Fire Insights with Kevin Watters 📩 Don’t miss future episodes. Subscribe to the AEC Tech + AI Newsletter: https://aiaecdigest.substack.com/