Flying Solo with Katie Kangas

In this episode of the Flying Solo Podcast, host Katie Kangas speaks with Damaris Melo-Gyasi, founder of Design by Melo. Her small architecture designs inclusive projects focused on long-term community impact. Damaris did not originally plan to become an entrepreneur. After working within multiple firms and striving to reach her full potential, she realized she was seeking deeper alignment—more inclusion, stronger recognition, and a practice that reflected her values. Rather than waiting for that opportunity, she chose to build it herself.Damaris describes her firm in three words: “Curious. Inclusive. Fun.”Those values shape every one of Design by Melo’s collaborations. They operate at the intersection of affordable housing, urban redevelopment, and revitalizing neighborhoods. These are not small or simple projects. They often navigate the challenge of change in established communities. Yet Damaris approaches each engagement with clarity and care, navigating politically charged discussions while keeping the focus on shared community goals and thoughtful development.Damaris’ bird archetype is the Jabiru — one of the largest flying birds in the Americas. With its distinctive silhouette and commanding presence, the Jabiru represents visible leadership and adaptability. Like the Jabiru standing tall in the wetlands, Damaris does not shrink her vision to fit into a smaller role. As a small firm, she leads her team through large, complex, and long-term projects. She demonstrates that small does not mean little.Throughout the conversation, Damaris shares how entrepreneurship allowed her to fully live out her calling, how aligning with mission-driven clients strengthens both culture and impact, and why sustainability is not only environmental, but relational. Her story offers a reminder that architects can shape inclusive urban environments by standing tall, owning their voice, and adapting their practice to serve communities wherever the work is needed.Website: Design by MeloLinkedIn: Design by Melo LLCSeason 2 of the Flying Solo Podcast is sponsored by the Minnesota Architectural Foundation, whose mission is to invest in excellence, leadership, discovery, and equity within the profession of architecture.To join this flying solo movement, you can follow Flying Solo Arch on Instagram where Katie posts content to encourage your business life. Find out which bird defines your marketing strategy with the Bird Quiz on the Flying Solo Website. Listen to more encouraging content on the Gabl Media platform including podcasts with CEU and HSW credit towards your licensure renewal. Consider joining the EntreArchitect Network by becoming a member or joining the free EntreArchitect Community Facebook Group.

In this episode of the Flying Solo Podcast, host Katie Kangas speaks with Ashley Mitlyng, founder of Mitlyng Design + Architecture, a Twin Cities–based residential practice focused on renovations and additions.Ashley’s work aligns with the House Wren—a bird known for thriving in tight, overlooked spaces. House Wrens don’t seek wide-open fields or blank slates. They nest inside existing structures, choosing awkward corners that others pass by. Through thoughtful, efficient moves, they transform these overlooked spaces into highly functional havens. This instinct mirrors Ashley’s approach to residential design: working within constraints, offering thoughtful options, and shaping spaces that support real life and honor the surrounding neighborhood.Together, Katie and Ashley explore three lessons inspired by the House Wren. First, the importance of finding the right fit - particularly when homeowners interview contractors. Second, they reflect on the power of small, overlooked spaces. Just as Ashley designs details that improve daily life—like smoothing kitchen flow or resolving awkward door swings—listeners are invited to examine the friction points in their own businesses. Finally, they discuss how Ashley’s practice filled a niche. Her practice is intentionally positioned among complementary designers and suppliers. Making her business more visible to potential clients and industry partners.Throughout the conversation, Katie and Ashley explore the realities of running a small architectural practice, balancing work and family life, and navigating the blurred line between living and working as entrepreneurs. Ashley shares how she digs deeper into practical details that smooth the flow of everyday life for her business and her clients.Website: Mitlyng DesignHouzz: Ashley Mitlyng, AIAFacebook: Mitlyng Design, LLCInstagram: @mitlyngdesignSeason 2 of the Flying Solo Podcast is sponsored by the Minnesota Architectural Foundation, whose mission is to invest in excellence, leadership, discovery, and equity within the profession of architecture.To join this flying solo movement, you can follow Flying Solo Arch on Instagram where Katie posts content to encourage your business life. Find out which bird defines your marketing strategy with the Bird Quiz on the Flying Solo Website. Listen to more encouraging content on the Gabl Media platform including podcasts with CEU and HSW credit towards your licensure renewal. Consider joining the EntreArchitect Network by becoming a member or...

In this episode of the Flying Solo Podcast, host Katie Kangas speaks with Meghan Elliott, a structural engineer, historic preservation expert, and founder of New History. Meghan shares how her career was shaped by early experiences with earthquake engineering and how that foundation led her to build a consulting practice focused on the complex realities of historic building redevelopment.Meghan describes her firm in three words: “outcomes-based, mission-driven, and interdisciplinary.”That clarity defines how she works with clients. Rather than offering a narrow scope of services, Meghan positions herself as a trusted expert who helps clients navigate the full ecosystem of historic projects—structural challenges, funding strategies, tax credits, regulations, and long-term feasibility. Her work is rooted in understanding not just the building, but the pressures, risks, and ambitions surrounding it.Meghan’s bird archetype is the Oxpecker—a small but essential bird that lives among much larger animals, removing pests and irritations that threaten their health. Like an oxpecker, Meghan integrates herself into large, complex projects and long-term client relationships, solving problems as they arise—and often before they’re even noticed. Her value lies in deep client knowledge, proactive communication, and the ability to quietly remove obstacles that could derail a project.Throughout the conversation, Meghan discusses how building strong, lasting relationships allows her to expand scope with existing clients rather than constantly chasing new ones. She also shares insights from launching her second venture, Jill Pine, where she applies her preservation expertise directly to real estate development and hands-on revitalization work.This episode explores what it means to be a true consultant—selling solutions, not just services—and how listening closely, collaborating deeply, and earning trust over time can create a sustainable, mission-driven solo practice. Meghan’s story is a powerful reminder that sometimes the most impactful work happens not by flying ahead, but by staying close, paying attention, and solving the problems that matter most.Architecture Website: New HistoryDeveloper Website: JillpineArchitecture LinkedIn: New HistoryLinkedIn: Meghan ElliottInstagram: @newhistoryconsultantsSeason 2 of the Flying Solo Podcast is sponsored by the Minnesota Architectural Foundation, whose mission is to invest in excellence, leadership, discovery, and equity within the profession of architecture.To join this flying solo movement, you can follow Flying Solo Arch on Instagram where Katie posts content to encourage your business life. Find out which bird defines your marketing strategy with the Bird Quiz on the

In this episode of the Flying Solo Podcast, host Katie Kangas speaks with Molly Dalsin, founder of Mesh Architecture, about building a practice rooted in human-centered design, community connection, and long-term impact. As an architect, educator, and researcher, Molly weaves teaching, research, and practice together—using each to inform and strengthen the others.Molly describes her firm in three words: human, interconnected, impact. That philosophy shapes how Mesh Architecture approaches housing, social spaces, and community-focused work. Rather than treating architecture as a finished object, Molly views it as a cultural output—one shaped through collaboration, research, and open exchange of ideas. Her practice prioritizes doing more with less, responding thoughtfully to context, and designing spaces that serve people beyond a single project or moment.Molly’s bird archetype is the Weaverbird, a symbol of resourcefulness, interconnection, and legacy. Like a weaverbird crafting intricate nests from found materials, Molly builds her practice by gathering insights from teaching, research, and community engagement—creating work that is both resilient and meaningful. Throughout the conversation, she shares how networking, inviting dialogue, and rethinking traditional business models allow solo practitioners to expand their impact without building large teams.Her story offers a grounded reminder that solopreneur architects don’t have to work in isolation to make a difference. By weaving together relationships, ideas, and disciplines, even a small practice can create architecture that endures—strengthening communities and shaping the future one thoughtful strand at a time.Website: Mesh ArchitectureUniversity of Minnesota: Molly DalsinSeason 2 of the Flying Solo Podcast is sponsored by the Minnesota Architectural Foundation, whose mission is to invest in excellence, leadership, discovery, and equity within the profession of architecture.To join this flying solo movement, you can follow Flying Solo Arch on Instagram where Katie posts content to encourage your business life. Find out which bird defines your marketing strategy with the Bird Quiz on the Flying Solo Website. Listen to more encouraging content on the Gabl Media platform including podcasts with CEU and HSW credit towards your licensure renewal. Consider joining the EntreArchitect Network by becoming a member or joining the free EntreArchitect Community Facebook Group.

In this episode of the Flying Solo Podcast, host Katie Kangas speaks with Elizabeth Turner, founder of Precipitate, a specialty architecture and consulting firm focused on passive house design, energy modeling, and performance-driven research. Elizabeth’s practice operates at the intersection of academia, community engagement, and real-world building outcomes. She pairs research with practice to create lasting buildings and infrastructure in our communities.Elizabeth’s practice mirrors a Honeyguide, a small African bird known for its remarkable symbiotic relationship with humans. The honeyguide can locate wild beehives, but it cannot open them alone. Instead, it guides people to the hive, relying on collaboration to access the reward. In return, both benefit from the sweetness inside. This partnership, built on trust, signaling, and shared purpose, reflects Elizabeth’s approach to practice. She doesn’t work in isolation. She guides students, research teams, communities, and partner firms toward opportunities they could not reach alone.Throughout the conversation, Elizabeth shares her journey of stepping away from traditional firm structures to build a hybrid practice. Her balance of grant writing, mentorship, and community-centered design has advanced her specialty in sustainability. She talks about the fear and uncertainty that comes from forging a new paths—and the freedom that follows when architects follow their curiosities. Through collaboration, Elizabeth has expanded her impact. She works on meaningful, large-scale initiatives while remaining a small, specialized firm.Three takeaways resonate with Elizabeth’s Honeyguide practice: the power of collaboration as a professional strength rather than a compromise; the courage required to move forward despite uncertainty; and the role of generosity in building lasting community impact. Elizabeth’s story challenges the myth that solo practitioners must work small or alone. Instead, her work shows how guiding others, sharing knowledge, and connecting disciplines can create healthier buildings, stronger communities, and a more resilient future for the profession.Precipitate: Architecture Planning ResearchWebsite: PrecipitateInstagram: @precipitateFacebook: Precipitate PLLCLinkedIN: PrecipitateSeason 2 of the Flying Solo Podcast is sponsored by the Minnesota Architectural Foundation, whose mission is to invest in excellence, leadership, discovery, and equity within the profession of architecture.To join this flying solo movement, you can follow Flying Solo Arch on Instagram where Katie posts content to encourage your business life. Find out which bird defines your marketing strategy with the Bird Quiz on the Flying Solo Website. Listen to more encouraging...

In this episode of the Flying Solo Podcast, host Katie Kangas speaks with Cheryl Fosdick, founder of CF Design. Cheryl brings a deep passion for storytelling to her work, designing spaces shaped by Great Lakes landscapes and the nuanced use of light that transforms how people experience their homes.Cheryl practices in Duluth, MN. A city that invites people to enjoy the outdoors, even through the long freezing winters. She describes the unique connection between water and light, weather, and seasonality that shape the way people live and dwell. Her approach to architecture is thoughtful and unhurried. Each project begins with listening—to the land, to the client, and to the quiet cues that define a specific place. Cheryl describes herself as an “architect of a specific place,” designing homes that feel adventurous, enduring, and yet, invite the homeowner to be at ease.Cheryl’s practice can be seen in the common loon—an iconic bird in Minnesota. The lon has an unmistakable silhouette and haunting call that echoes across open water. Its essence represents calm confidence, deep awareness, and lasting memory. Like the loon, Cheryl’s work doesn’t demand attention. It draws people in. It creates presence. It invites them to stay.Throughout the conversation, Cheryl shares her journey of establishing a practice, navigating the architecture profession as a serial entrepreneur, and remaining deeply engaged in her community. She reflects on patience as a professional strength, adaptability as a creative tool, and the importance of understanding both site and story. The episode concludes with thoughtful advice for architects and designers seeking to build meaningful, place-based practices of their own.Website: CF DesignInstagram: @cfdesignltdFacebook: CF Design LTDLighting Studio: LUMstudioSeason 2 of the Flying Solo Podcast is sponsored by the Minnesota Architectural Foundation, whose mission is to invest in excellence, leadership, discovery, and equity within the profession of architecture.To join this flying solo movement, you can follow Flying Solo Arch on Instagram where Katie posts content to encourage your business life. Find out which bird defines your marketing strategy with the Bird Quiz on the Flying Solo Website. Listen to more encouraging content on the Gabl Media platform including podcasts with CEU and HSW credit towards your licensure renewal. Consider joining the EntreArchitect Network by becoming a member or joining the free EntreArchitect Community Facebook Group.

In this episode of the Flying Solo Podcast, host Katie Kangas speaks with Sara Imhoff, founder of Imprint Architecture, who designed her firm around personal connections and thoughtful design. After founding Imprint Architecture with her husband in 2008, they have experienced steady, intentional growth. Across residential and commercial work, Sara leads with relationships first, allowing design to grow from trust and understanding.Sara’s business is like a Bowerbird. Rather than hunting for connections, the bowerbird carefully curates its environment, shaping a setting that attracts the right partner. That same philosophy defines Sara’s work. She doesn’t chase clients through loud marketing or rapid expansion. Instead, she attracts them by being clear about who she is, how she works, and what she values. Every project is carefully composed through light, geometry, and detail, leaving a lasting imprint on the lives of the people who inhabit those spaces. And each project earns a name that expresses its unique story.Throughout the conversation, Sara reflects on her personal journey as a firm owner, sharing how her desire to “do her own design work” evolved into a practice built on trust, empathy, and long-term relationships. She describes growth not as a sudden leap, but as a series of thoughtful baby steps. She creates chemistry in professional relationships by taking the time to truly understand people’s stories. Sara transforms stories into projects and projects into partnerships and partnerships into enduring connections.Sara’s bowerbird leaves listeners with three key aspects of a relationship centric practice: the importance of imagining what’s possible before taking action; the value of investing in authentic client relationships; and the power of implementing change through deliberate, incremental steps. Together, these ideas form the rhythm of Imprint Architecture’s guiding words: imagine, implement, imprint. Sara’s story offers a quiet but powerful reminder that architecture isn’t just about what we build, but about the environments, relationships, and identities we shape along the way.Website: Imprint Architecture + Design LLCInstagram: @imprint.architectureFacebook: Imprint Architecture + Design, LLCPinterest: imprintarchitectureSeason 2 of the Flying Solo Podcast is sponsored by the Minnesota Architectural Foundation, whose mission is to invest in excellence, leadership, discovery, and equity within the profession of architecture.To join this flying solo movement, you can follow Flying Solo Arch on Instagram where Katie posts content to encourage your business life. Find out which bird defines your marketing strategy with the Bird Quiz on the Flying Solo Website. Listen to more encouraging content on the Gabl Media platform...

In this episode of the Flying Solo Podcast, host Katie Kangas speaks with Andrea Hammel-Wollak, co-founder of HW² Design, about building a highly strategic, efficient architecture practice rooted in adaptability, collaboration, and good design for everyone. Andrea runs a two-person firm with her husband, John, and together they have spent over twelve years refining a way of working that pairs thoughtful design with practical execution.Andrea describes her firm in three words: “Good design for everyone, adaptable, flexible.”That philosophy shapes every project they take on. HW² Design focuses on creating spaces that are buildable, functional, and carefully considered—often working with small business owners, restaurants, and clients who need smart solutions rather than flashy excess. Their work blends aesthetics with logistics, ensuring each project functions as a true workhorse for the people who use it.Andrea’s bird archetype is the Raven, a symbol of intelligence, strategy, and collaboration. Ravens are known for using tools and working alongside wolves to achieve shared goals. In Andrea’s practice, that collaboration shows up through strong contractor relationships, quick communication, and a deep respect for the expertise of others. Rather than working in isolation, Andrea stays fully engaged with builders and consultants, keeping projects moving forward through clarity, trust, and responsiveness.Throughout the conversation, Andrea shares how her entrepreneurial upbringing shaped her comfort with uncertainty, how she leverages technology and systems to run an efficient firm, and how she built her business around her family so she can stay present both at work and engaged in her kid’s activities.. Her story offers a grounded reminder that success as a solopreneur doesn’t require being louder or bigger—just smarter, more intentional, and quick to communicate.HW² DesignWebsite: HW² DesignInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/hw2designFacebook: HW2 Design + Architecture, llcSeason 2 of the Flying Solo Podcast is sponsored by the Minnesota Architectural Foundation, whose mission is to invest in excellence, leadership, discovery, and equity within the profession of architecture.To join this flying solo movement, you can follow Flying Solo Arch on Instagram where Katie posts content to encourage your business life. Find out which bird defines your marketing strategy with the Bird Quiz on the Flying Solo Website.

In this episode of the Flying Solo Podcast, host Katie Kangas speaks with Heather Rose Dunning, founder of Yellow Dog Studio, about building a design practice rooted in excellence, trust, and precision. Heather is a serial entrepreneur who has launched and led multiple design firms by assembling highly specialized, high-performing teams that integrate seamlessly with their clients.Heather describes her firm in three words: “Just the A-Team.”That clarity shows up in every aspect of her work. Rather than spreading herself thin, Heather builds focused teams of designers, architects, engineers, and contractors who are selected specifically for each project. Every engagement stays in the hands of the people best equipped to deliver results.Heather’s bird archetype is the Falcon — a symbol of focus, speed, and purpose. Like a falcon trained by a falconer, Heather’s teams wait for the right target before taking flight. When they move, they do so with confidence and precision, becoming a trusted extension of their client’s organization.Throughout the conversation, Heather shares how her businesses are shaped by her personal values, how she embeds herself deeply within client teams, and why trust — not transaction — is the foundation of long-term success.Yellow Dog StudioWebsite: Yellow Dog StudioInstagram: @yellow_dog_studioFacebook: Yellow Dog StudioSeason 2 of the Flying Solo Podcast is sponsored by the Minnesota Architectural Foundation, whose mission is to invest in excellence, leadership, discovery, and equity within the profession of architecture.To join this flying solo movement, you can follow Flying Solo Arch on Instagram where Katie posts content to encourage your business life. Find out which bird defines your marketing strategy with the Bird Quiz on the Flying Solo Website. Listen to more encouraging content on the Gabl Media platform including podcasts with CEU and HSW credit towards your licensure renewal. Consider joining the EntreArchitect Network by becoming a member or joining the free EntreArchitect Community Facebook Group.

Joy Martin’s story and architecture firm show remarkable resilience. Like the European Starling thriving far from its origins, Joy has navigated moves across the country and built a small, multi-state practice through seasons of change and personal loss. The starling’s ability to adapt to new climates and contexts mirrors Joy’s journey, learning new rhythms, forming new roots, and thriving in unfamiliar places.Starlings are best known for their mesmerizing murmurations, thousands of birds moving together, responding to one another to form living shapes in the sky. That same spirit defines Joy’s approach to design. Her process is collaborative, fluid, and deeply attentive, allowing projects to evolve through shared momentum rather than top-down direction. By empowering her team and cultivating trust, Joy built a firm capable of continuing even when she needed to step away, proving that collaboration creates lift.Joy describes how her own experience in professional practice shaped the culture and structure of her firm. Her team fills in the gaps, responding to one another and to client needs with clarity and care. By being attentive, supportive, and intentional, Joy empowers team members to step into leadership roles when needed, taking ownership and rising to responsibilities they feel called to carry. For solopreneurs and small-firm leaders, this episode is a reminder that adaptability, collaboration, and trust can create practices that are not only resilient, but capable of moving together with grace.Joy Architecture + Interior DesignWebsite: Joy Architecture + Interior DesignInstagram: @joyarchitectureFacebook: Joy Martin ArchitecturePinterest: JoyArchitectureSeason 2 of the Flying Solo Podcast is sponsored by the Minnesota Architectural Foundation, whose mission is to invest in excellence, leadership, discovery, and equity within the profession of architecture.To join this flying solo movement, you can follow Flying Solo Arch on Instagram where Katie posts content to encourage your business life. Find out which bird defines your marketing strategy with the Bird Quiz on the Flying Solo Website. Listen to more encouraging content on the Gabl Media platform including podcasts with CEU and HSW credit towards your licensure renewal. Consider joining the EntreArchitect Network by becoming a member or joining the free EntreArchitect Community Facebook Group.

In this episode of Flying Solo, Katie Kangas speaks with Minnesota architect Heather Whalen, founder of Reviver Architecture and Development. After nearly three decades in practice, Heather launched Reviver to refocus her energy on hospitality design and the renewal of existing and historic buildings. Like a Barred Owl (wise and aware) Heather provides thoughtful leadership in her work. She listens closely, studies the subtleties of a site or building, and guides clients through complex redevelopment decisions with calm, steady confidence.Heather and Katie discuss how beginning a firm later in her career created both clarity and strength in her practice. Years of working with aging buildings helped Heather recognize the hidden risks and quiet opportunities that others often overlook. Instead of rushing toward solutions, she enters every client conversation with intentional curiosity—listening for motivations, anxieties, and aspirations that shape the heart of a project. This practice of deep listening positions Heather not only as an architect, but as a trusted guide. Her ability to read a site, understand a client’s language, and foresee potential challenges supports clients through intricate adaptive-reuse decisions. Alongside this, Heather emphasizes the importance of community, collaboration, and learning from the broader ecosystem of solopreneurs. A reminder that even independent practitioners thrive when surrounded by a strong, supportive network.Katie highlights three key takeaways from Heather’s Barred Owl practice: the power of deliberate awareness developed through years of experience; the discipline of listening deeply before acting; and the quiet leadership that builds trust through steadiness rather than speed. These traits mirror the Level 5 leadership traits described Jim Collin’s book, Good to Great. Great leaders are humble, focused, and anchored by a clear professional will. Heather’s story shows how architects can guide clients through uncertainty, revive existing spaces with intention, and shape a practice rooted in wisdom.Reviver Architecture & DevelopmentWebsite: Reviver Architecture & DevelopmentInstagram: @reviver.design Season 2 of the Flying Solo Podcast is sponsored by the Minnesota Architectural Foundation, whose mission is to invest in excellence, leadership, discovery, and equity within the profession of architecture.To join this flying solo movement, you can follow Flying Solo Arch on Instagram, where Katie posts content to encourage your business life. Find out which bird defines your marketing strategy with the Bird Quiz on the Flying Solo Website. Listen to more encouraging content on the Gabl Media platform including podcasts with CEU and HSW credit towards your licensure renewal. Consider joining the EntreArchitect Network by becoming a member or joining the free EntreArchitect Community Facebook Group.

In this episode of Flying Solo, host Katie Kangas explores the many ways architects define their practice and how those paths shift when working independently. It starts by questioning the traditional roles in the profession—are architects problem-solvers, designers, preservationists, or business leaders? In truth, the answer is “all of the above.” Drawing from her own journey, Katie reflects on how the skills of an architect extend far beyond design to include marketing, client management, contracts, and the realities of running a business. This wide range of responsibilities becomes even more pronounced when you’re flying solo.Katie then introduces the triangle of traditional practice, a familiar model where principals lead, project managers coordinate, and emerging professionals execute the day-to-day work. Drawing on Rena Klein’s An Architect’s Guide to Small Firm Management, she outlines three staffing models: the obtuse triangle of efficiency, the balanced equilateral triangle, and the expertise-driven narrow triangle. While these structures provide stability, what might happen if instead of being grounded in tradition, an architect could adapt and fly. Solopreneurs aren’t confined by hierarchy—they shape their practices around their own strengths, visions, and goals.Through vivid bird metaphors, Katie illustrates how solo architects carve their niches. Some resemble songbirds, thriving on referrals and moving fluidly from project to project. Others adopt the flair of peacocks, cultivating a distinct style that attracts clients through visibility and recognition. Still others build expertise like toucans breaking through the tough shells of RFPs, or herons who know their geography and seize opportunities when they surface. Specialists might fly like hummingbirds, bringing a light but brilliant touch to many projects, or like falcons, honing in on a single project type with fierce focus. Each bird archetype reflects a different path for shaping a solo practice.Katie concludes by encouraging listeners to consider their own flight path. Flying solo means deciding what strengths to leverage, what clients to serve, and what projects to pursue. With that clarity comes faster decisions, clearer referrals, and a stronger direction for growth. As she reminds listeners, “form follows flight”—and there is no single way to practice architecture. The possibilities are as limitless as the sky, and this podcast offers stories and strategies to inspire architects to shape practices that are both sustainable and deeply personal.To join this flying solo movement, you can follow Flying Solo Arch on Instagram where Katie posts content to encourage your business life. Find out which bird defines your marketing strategy with the Bird Quiz on the Flying Solo Website. Listen to more encouraging content on the Gabl Media platform including podcasts with CEU and HSW credit towards your licensure renewal. Consider

In this episode of Flying Solo, host Katie Kangas sits down with New Jersey architect Vin Minkler, who has spent nearly a decade refining his solo practice. Vin has shaped his business around serving middle-class clients through smaller residential projects, managing dozens of remodels and additions at a time. Like a puffin—diving into the waves and catching multiple fish with its serrated beak—Vin keeps a tight hold on every project while balancing efficiency, quality, and client engagement.Throughout the conversation, Vin shares the systems that allow him to manage such a high volume of work without losing focus on what matters most: his clients. He emphasizes the power of keeping things simple, leaning on tools like a whiteboard to track projects at a glance, and maintaining a running record of past zoning and code research to build on prior work. His “KISS” approach—Keep it Simple, Silly—reminds solo practitioners that even with repetitive projects, it’s essential to find one anchor point that keeps the design process personal and connected. For Vin, redrawing the building section provides that meaningful touchpoint.Katie highlights three key takeaways from Vin’s practice: the importance of visible, low-tech systems like a whiteboard; the value of documenting past research to streamline future work; and the discipline of staying connected to the unique conditions of each project. Vin communicates promptly to clients because, “It’s better to say something than to say nothing.” While not every architect is built to manage dozens of projects simultaneously, Vin’s puffin-like persistence demonstrates how thoughtful systems and clear values can create a lean, client-focused practice. His insights offer inspiration for solopreneurs looking to balance structure, efficiency, and meaningful design in their own work.Minkler Architecture & DesignWebsite: www.minklerarchitecture.comInstagram: @minklerarchitecturewww.facebook.com/MinklerArchitectureandDesignTo join this flying solo movement, you can follow Flying Solo Arch on Instagram where Katie posts content to encourage your business life. Find out which bird defines your marketing strategy with the Bird Quiz on the Flying Solo Website. Listen to more encouraging content on the Gabl Media platform including podcasts with CEU and HSW credit towards your licensure renewal. Consider joining the EntreArchitect Network by becoming a member or joining the free EntreArchitect Community Facebook Group. Mark R. Page, founder of EntreArchitect and Gabl Media, has been building a community of small firm architects who are having tough conversations to improve their professional practice and live their best life every day.

In this episode of Flying Solo, host Katie Kangas speaks with Duluth-based architect and solopreneur Tiersa Wodash, founder of Brick and Mortar. Tiersa has built her practice around helping small business owners navigate the complexities of opening their own physical spaces. Like a heron standing still in the water, she has immersed herself in her community, observing the needs of entrepreneurs and waiting for just the right opportunities to step in and help. Her approach centers on sustainability, collaboration, and client education, with the goal of making architecture more approachable for those launching new ventures.Tiersa and Katie discuss how centering a practice around a specialty can create both clarity and opportunity. By following the entrepreneurial journey of her ideal clients, Tiersa discovered unmet needs and designed services that serve her ideal clients earlier in the process. One example is her Building Matchmaker Profile, a tool that helps entrepreneurs assess potential spaces before signing a lease—bridging the gap between real estate decisions and design. Alongside tools like this, Tiersa emphasizes the importance of building relationships through networking, pursuing grant opportunities, and refining client communication. These strategies position her not just as an architect, but as a trusted resource.Katie highlights three key takeaways from Tiersa’s practice: the power of specializing in a clearly defined client group, the impact of creating service packages that solve specific problems, and the value of moving upstream to connect with clients earlier in their journey. Read more about thinking ‘upstream’ in Dan Heath’s book Upstream. Whether through in-person networking, community presentations, or online resources, Tiersa demonstrates how architects can use education and visibility to become thought leaders in their niche. Tiersa’s story shows how aligning personal passions with community needs can create a deeply rewarding practice—one that helps clients feel empowered while strengthening the role of architects in everyday life. Read more about this marketing strategy in the Win Without Pitching Manifesto by Blair Enns.Brick and MortarWebsite: www.brickandmortar.designInstagram: @brick.and.mortar.designTo join this flying solo movement, you can follow Flying Solo Arch on Instagram where Katie posts content to encourage your business life. Find out which bird defines your marketing strategy with the Bird Quiz on the Flying Solo Website. Listen to more encouraging content on the

In this episode of Flying Solo, host Katie Kangas speaks with Angie Boersma, founder of ID8. Angie has shaped her practice to be unapologetically rural—rooted in the needs of small towns and built on the belief that architecture alone isn’t enough to create lasting change. As an intentional generalist, she draws on a wide range of skills, from interior design to civic leadership, local legislation, and financing. By stepping beyond the traditional architect’s role, she has been able to help rural communities bring ambitious projects to completion while also influencing the systems that govern them.Angie’s approach mirrors the American Dipper, a songbird that sings while diving into turbulent waters. In the same way, she has immersed herself in disciplines outside of design, whether by serving on planning boards, learning the nuances of financing, or stepping into construction management. These experiences gave her insight into the priorities of regulators, funders, and decision-makers—insight that now shapes her practice. Her story is a reminder that architects can broaden their impact by stepping into adjacent roles, even temporarily, to strengthen both their projects and their communities.Katie highlights three takeaways from Angie’s practice: first, the importance of diving in to roles beyond design, whether in regulation, financing, or construction, to bring projects forward with greater clarity and influence. Second, the value of embracing the seasons—taking on these roles for a period of time without letting them consume your practice. And finally, the resilience that comes from building a rounded practice—using a generalist approach to diversify services, adapt to economic cycles, and meet the unique needs of rural communities. Angie’s path shows how architects can let their voices be heard, carve new opportunities, and make an enduring impact by daring to dive outside their element.ID8Website: www.id8arc.com/Instagram/Facebook/LinkedIn: @id8architecturePinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/id8arc/To join this flying solo movement, you can follow Flying Solo Arch on Instagram where Katie posts content to encourage your business life. Find out which bird defines your marketing strategy with the Bird Quiz on the Flying Solo Website. Listen to more encouraging content on the Gabl Media platform including podcasts with CEU and HSW credit towards your licensure renewal. Consider joining the EntreArchitect Network by becoming a member or joining the free EntreArchitect Community Facebook Group. Mark R. Page, founder of EntreArchitect and Gabl Media, has been building a community of small firm architects who are having tough conversations to improve their professional practice and live their best life every day.

In this episode of Flying Solo, host Katie Kangas talks with Sam Williams about his residential practice and the unique niche he has built. Sam works with families whose remodels and additions are not too big and not too small, thriving in the challenge of problem-solving within the constraints of existing homes. His practice is much like a nuthatch—a small tree-climbing songbird that descends headfirst to see the world from a different perspective. Just as the nuthatch finds what other birds overlook, Sam has found his place serving clients whose projects are often missed by larger firms. By approaching atypical renovations and additions with humility, empathy, and practicality, he is helping families thrive while also breathing new life into aging housing stock.Sam’s story highlights three essential lessons for building a “nuthatch” practice. First is the importance of defining an authentic niche. For Sam, authenticity comes from transparency—sharing his own story as a homeowner and parent. By including his family on his website, he connected immediately with clients facing the same struggles: raising young children in older homes not designed for today’s lifestyles. That connection builds trust and makes him uniquely qualified to design thoughtful retrofits for families in similar situations. Second is the value of a unique perspective. Like the nuthatch climbing headfirst, Sam approaches projects from angles others miss. He understands the realities of tight budgets, existing structures, and growing families, and he turns those constraints into opportunities for creative, grounded design solutions.Finally, Katie and Sam discuss the power of building a lean, practical practice. By keeping overhead low and focusing on what matters most—his clients—Sam has grown a firm that makes a tangible impact without relying on flashy marketing or unnecessary expenses. His transparency, problem-solving mindset, and practical approach allow client referrals to carry his work forward, just as neighbors share stories of a backyard bird. For architects flying solo, Sam’s path is a reminder that you don’t always need to scale big to make a meaningful difference. Sometimes, the strongest practice is one built on humility, simplicity, and a perspective that helps families feel at home again.Craft ArchitectureWebsite: https://www.craftarchitecturellc.com/ Instagram: @craftarchitecturellcFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/craftarchitecturellc/ To join this flying solo movement, you can follow Flying Solo Arch on Instagram where Katie posts content to encourage your business life. Find out which bird defines your marketing strategy with the Bird Quiz on the Flying Solo Website. Listen to more encouraging content on the Gabl Media platform including podcasts with CEU and HSW credit towards your licensure renewal. Consider joining the EntreArchitect Network by becoming a member or joining the free

In this episode of Flying Solo, host Katie Kangas talks with Darguin Fortuna, founder of Flow Design, about the journey from feeling like an ugly duckling in other firms to becoming a fully fledged swan leading his own practice. Early in his career, Darguin struggled to find a place where he belonged, migrating from one workplace to another in search of a supportive environment. When he finally launched Flow Design, he not only created a space where he could thrive, but also welcomed others who had felt out of place in traditional firms. Now, as a bevy of swans, his team members take turns leading projects, each empowered to spread their wings while supported by the strength of the flock.Katie and Darguin explore three core elements that define Flow Design. The first is empathy and empowerment. Darguin reflects on the lessons learned from his time in other firms, carrying forward the strengths while intentionally addressing what was missing. At Flow, every team member is given the chance to lead their own projects while still benefiting from the support of the group. Like swans flying in formation, they share the workload so that no one flies alone. The second is strong systems. Just as the lead swan in a wedge formation reduces the headwinds for those who follow, Darguin has developed systems that make project management smoother and more efficient. One example is Flow’s client onboarding system, which uses YouTube videos to guide clients step by step through the design process. These tools not only set clear expectations but also free the team to focus on creative, client-centered design.Finally, Darguin emphasizes the importance of allowing flow within the structure of practice. At Flow Design, checkpoints keep everyone aligned, but in between, each team member has the freedom to guide their clients and design in their own way. Much like swans pausing on lakes during migration, the team balances structure with flexibility, ensuring that every project reflects both consistency and individuality. For architects building their own practices, Darguin’s story is a reminder that if you don’t fit in with another flock, you can migrate—or even create your own. By combining strategic systems, humility, and empowerment, Flow Design shows how to build a culture where architects and clients alike can spread their wings and thrive.Flow Design ArchitectsWebsite: https://www.flow-design-studio.com/architecture Instagram: @mr.fortunaflow & @flowdesignarchitectsYouTube: https://youtube.com/@flowdesignarchitects?si=1yZCEeIYBNsn2Ly2 To join this flying solo movement, you can follow Flying Solo Arch on Instagram where Katie posts content to encourage your business life. Find out which bird defines your marketing strategy with the Bird Quiz on the Flying Solo Website. Listen to more encouraging content on the Gabl Media platform including podcasts with CEU and HSW credit towards your licensure renewal. Consider joining the EntreArchitect Network by a...

In this episode of Flying Solo, host Katie Kangas speaks with East Coast architect and solopreneur John Clark, founder of REDjay Architecture. John describes his practice as classic custom residential design with a modern twist, much like the bird behind his firm’s name—a cardinal reimagined as a REDjay. For John, architecture is about more than design; it’s about keeping it real. His firm reflects his own personality and interests, enabling him to connect authentically with clients and address the unique challenges they face in their homes.Much of John’s work grows out of the relationships he builds in everyday life. Whether through his kids’ activities, hobbies, or simply meeting new people, he listens closely to the stories and struggles people share about their living spaces. These casual conversations often lay the foundation for trust—trust strong enough to invite an architect into the personal process of reimagining their home. By living fully in his own “backyard,” John has created a practice rooted in community, connection, and authenticity.Katie draws out three important lessons from John’s approach. First, his ability to live life fully and show up for the people around him. This demonstrates how a firm can grow naturally out of genuine human connection. Like a cardinal returning to a reliable feeder, he shows up consistently and follows through—whether that means answering a potential client’s question or providing a referral. Just as importantly, John makes himself visible. His presence at school drop-offs, games, hikes, and professional gatherings serves as a reminder of who he is and what he does. His visibility never feels forced because it reflects who he is. Finally, John leads with curiosity. He doesn’t approach conversations as sales pitches but as opportunities to ask questions, listen, and understand what people truly need. As he puts it, it’s simply about “being a good human.”Together, these qualities illustrate how a solo architecture firm can be an authentic extension of the architect behind it. By living fully, being visible, and staying curious, John has built a practice that doesn’t rely on traditional marketing, but instead on trust, connection, and problem-solving. Just as the cardinal’s bright red presence spreads through the neighborhood, John’s REDjay practice reminds us that being yourself can be the most powerful strategy of all.REDjay ArchitectureWebsite: www.REDjayarchitecture.com Instagram: @redjay.architectureTo join this flying solo movement, you can follow Flying Solo Arch on Instagram where Katie posts content to encourage your business life. Find out which bird defines your marketing strategy with the Bird Quiz on the Flying Solo Website. Listen to more encouraging content on the Gabl Media platform including podcasts with CEU and HSW credit towards your licensure renewal. Consider joining the EntreArchitect Network by becoming a member or joining the free

In this episode of Flying Solo, host Katie Kangas speaks with Hong Kong–based architect Vicky Chan, founder of AO Architects. Vicky’s practice pairs agriculture and urban design, weaving farming and food production into architectural projects. His work is fueled by listening deeply to the needs of communities and responding with designs that nourish both people and place. Beyond his practice, Vicky runs four nonprofits, extending his mission to feed people—literally through urban farms, and figuratively by providing education and resources that strengthen communities.Katie draws a vivid comparison between Vicky’s practice and the humble chicken. At first glance, chickens may seem ordinary, but they are resourceful and resilient, giving back far more than they take. In the same way, Vicky’s firm often begins with “small seeds” of projects that generate lasting value for clients and communities. Vicky nourishes his clients like a chicken providing eggs. Through thoughtful design, nonprofit leadership, and educational initiatives, Vicky has created ripple effects that extend far beyond individual buildings. His work embodies three defining principles: Community, Innovation, and Sustainability.The conversation highlights three lessons from Vicky’s approach. First, architects can “feed their clients” by going beyond design to educate, empower, and equip them with tools for success. Second, real innovation often comes from building hybrids—like Vicky’s blend of farming and architecture—that spark fresh, unexpected solutions. And third, a specialized mission can transcend geography. Just as chickens thrive worldwide, Vicky’s practice has expanded across international boundaries to serve communities wherever his expertise is needed. His story is a reminder that architecture is not only about shaping structures, but also about nurturing people, cultivating ideas, and sustaining communities near and far.AO ArchitectureWebsite: aoarchitect.us Instagram: @avoidobviousLinkedIn: Avoid Obvious Architects & Architecture for ChildrenTo join this flying solo movement, you can follow Flying Solo Arch on Instagram where Katie posts content to encourage your business life. Find out which bird defines your marketing strategy with the Bird Quiz on the Flying Solo Website. Listen to more encouraging content on the Gabl Media platform including podcasts with CEU and HSW credit towards your licensure renewal. Consider joining the EntreArchitect Network by becoming a member or joining the free EntreArchitect Community Facebook Group. Mark R. Page, founder of EntreArchitect and Gabl Media, has been building a community of small firm architects who are having tough conversations to improve their professional practice and live their best life...

In this episode of Flying Solo, host Katie Kangas speaks with Minnesota-based architect Marcy Conrad Nutt, whose work centers on bringing high-performance design to everyday projects through the principles of Passive House. Marcy’s mission is to make better buildings—homes and businesses that are energy-efficient, resilient, and supportive of the people who live and work in them. Like the chickadee, a bird that remains year-round in Minnesota, Marcy has rooted her practice in the region she calls home. Just as the chickadee withstands harsh winters while creating a steady, vibrant presence, Marcy is building architecture that endures the northern climate and enriches people's lives from the inside out.Katie and Marcy explore how her practice embodies three defining words: Responsive, Regenerative, and Transformative. Marcy shows up not only for large, complex projects but also for the smaller, everyday efforts - whether it’s answering a tricky design question, guiding a phased retrofit, or helping a contractor refine details for energy efficiency. Like a chickadee gathering seeds one by one, she sees value in every small step forward. Her work also focuses on well-being: improving indoor air quality, maximizing natural light, using non-toxic materials, and designing spaces that feel restorative rather than extractive. These choices may not be flashy, but they quietly transform the way people live.The conversation also extends into Marcy’s lifestyle platform, Yarrow Life, which invites people to think differently about how they inhabit their homes. From the products they use to the way they manage energy day to day, Marcy encourages small, consistent changes that add up to healthier lives and stronger communities. Like the steady chickadee, her approach is grounded, persistent, and deeply committed to long-term impact. Her story is a reminder that architecture is not only about designing buildings—it’s about shaping the rhythms of daily life, one intentional decision at a time.Yarrow ArchitectureWebsite: yarrowarchitecture.com Instagram: @yarrow.architecture LinkedIn: Yarrow ArchitectureTo join this flying solo movement, you can follow Flying Solo Arch on Instagram where Katie posts content to encourage your business life. Find out which bird defines your marketing strategy with the Bird Quiz on the Flying Solo Website. Listen to more encouraging content on the Gabl Media platform including podcasts with CEU and HSW credit towards your licensure renewal. Consider joining the EntreArchitect Network by becoming a member or joining the free EntreArchitect Community Facebook Group. Mark R. Page, founder of EntreArchitect and Gabl Media, has been building a community of small firm architects who are having tough conversations to improve their professional practice and live their best...