The Building Culture Podcast

You’re not supposed to be good at everything. But somehow, Alli is.Architect, landscape architect, developer, GC, policy reformer, zoning translator, builder of teams, builder of trust, builder of actual buildings-it’s no wonder we spent the first five minutes of this episode just trying to list all the roles she plays.In this conversation, Alli joins me to talk about what it means to be a true generalist in an era obsessed with specialization. We cover her journey from flipping houses as a teenager to running a growing team at Flintlock Lab, directing the Incremental Development Alliance, and quietly (or not so quietly) reshaping how development works across the country-starting in her hometown of Fayetteville, Arkansas.We dig into building science, incremental housing, the limits of Revit, and why being a builder makes you a better architect (and vice versa). But we also get into the harder stuff-like learning to lead, facing city bureaucracy, and what to do when the guy reviewing your permit might genuinely want to run you over with his truck.This one’s as practical as it is philosophical, and it left me feeling more hopeful-and a little more fired up-about what’s still possible if we’re willing to roll up our sleeves and terraform our own backyards.CHAPTERS00:00 Community Engagement and Local Impact02:51 The Multifaceted Career of Ali05:51 Navigating Development and Housing Challenges09:09 The Unique Economy of Fayetteville11:56 Balancing Growth and Community Needs14:57 Career Trajectory and Intentionality18:06 Building Science and Sustainable Practices20:49 Design-Build Workflow and Efficiency24:07 Entrepreneurial Spirit in Development31:57 The Design-Build Approach: Learning Through Doing34:51 Scaling Up: The Challenges of Growth39:10 Understanding the Market: Design Meets Demand41:55 Terraforming Communities: The Role of Local Investment44:11 Building a Culture of Collaboration: The Fayetteville Experience49:50 Changing the Narrative: Zoning and Community Engagement57:04 Navigating Conflict: Building Relationships with City Staff01:08:20 Building Relationships in Local Governance01:15:06 Navigating Conflict with City Staff01:20:01 Growing a Business: Challenges and Changes01:26:09 Tools and Software for Efficiency01:34:00 Learning from Failures and GrowthCONNECT WITH AlliFlintlock Lab: flintlocklab.comIncremental Development Alliance: incrementaldevelopment.orgInstagram: @flintlocklabLinkedIn: Alli’s ProfileCONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELLNewsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnellCONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTUREhttps://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ SPONSORSThank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/ 

In this episode, I talk with Jeral Poskey, former project executive at Google, and current Founder and CEO of Swyft Cities, about a radically different approach to urban transportation that’s fast, flexible, and surprisingly affordable. Spoiler: it's not autonomous or flying cars.When I first heard about Swyft’s solution, I was skeptical.  But I’m increasingly excited about the possibilities, and how it could unlock walkable districts and neighborhoods within the suburban sprawl context (so basically everywhere).  We get into how Jeral’s experience inside Google’s real estate division led to the birth of Project Swyft, why traditional mass-transit infrastructure isn’t feasible (at least on its own), and how Swyft’s solution solves for the last few miles, weaves between buildings, and adapts to cities as they grow.If you're into urbanism, real estate, autonomous vehicles, or just want to understand what could actually make our cities function better (without waiting 20 years and wasting billions of dollars for a new train–looking at you, California), this one’s worth your time.  And excitingly, Swyft has numerous projects underway around the world beginning in 2026.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Project Switch and Urban Transportation01:48 The Origins of Swyft Cities05:08 Innovative Transportation Solutions10:31 Skepticism to Curiosity14:09 The Last Mile Connection and Urban Challenges17:34 Economic Models and Urban Growth19:23 Modularity and Network Effects in Urban Transit21:16 AI and Efficiency in Transportation Systems23:40 Cost Comparisons and Infrastructure Decisions24:15 Understanding the Station Design and Functionality26:22 Infrastructure Flexibility and Cost Efficiency29:09 The Competition: Self-Driving Cars and Urban Mobility32:52 Private vs. Public Sector Transportation Solutions35:16 Real-World Applications and Case Studies40:01 Overcoming Skepticism and Educating Stakeholders43:45 Induced Demand: A Positive Perspective on Urban Transportation48:13 Future Vision: Scaling and Real Estate IntegrationWebsite: https://swyftcities.com/Newsletter: https://swyftcities.us10.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=04dae35275c37b51b049b89c9&id=349fe9a899Twitter: https://x.com/jeralpo Twitter: https://x.com/swyftcitiesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jposkey/CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL:Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnellhttps://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ SPONSORS:Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/ 

In this episode, I talk with Ryan Johnson, co-founder and CEO of Culdesac, about building the United States’ first car-free neighborhood from scratch. We discuss everything from winning over the fire department with foldable ladders to building hundreds of units without building a single parking garage. Ryan also opens up about how designing for people—rather than cars—has paid off big time for both residents and local retailers, and why he believes autonomous vehicles, ride-sharing, and a passion for walkability will reshape cities nationwide.TAKEAWAYSWalkability Isn’t a Niche Luxury—It’s a Mass Market Demand. The majority of Americans would pay more to live in a walkable neighborhood, and 92% of Gen Z is on board. This isn’t just a trend—it’s a tidal wave.Car-Free Living Works—Even in Phoenix. If a walkable neighborhood can thrive in a sprawling, car-centric city like Phoenix, it can work anywhere. The key? Thoughtful design, mixed-use spaces, and actual community-building.Parking Garages Are the Next Real Estate Mistake. Developers still pouring millions into structured parking are setting themselves up for regret. AV ride-hailing, changing transportation habits, and shifting zoning laws are making them obsolete faster than people realize.Retail Thrives When It’s a Destination, Not an Afterthought. Culdesac started with six planned retail spaces—now they have 21, and local businesses are thriving. Why? Because people actually want to be there.Building for Humans, Not Traffic Engineers, Changes Everything. The way we build cities has quietly been making us more isolated, unhealthy, and unhappy. Culdesac’s design flips that script—prioritizing gathering spaces, green areas, and human-scale density.CHAPTERS00:00 The Need for Change in Urban Design02:57 Introducing Cul-de-Sac: A New Vision for Neighborhoods06:12 Designing Walkable Communities: The Cul-de-Sac Approach08:54 Innovative Infrastructure: Rethinking Parking and Access11:50 Financing the Future: Capital Strategies for New Developments15:04 Community and Belonging: The Heart of Urban Living18:07 Navigating Challenges: Working with City Regulations21:07 Phased Development: Learning and Adapting in Real Time24:00 The Impact of COVID-19 on Construction and Costs26:58 Market Dynamics: Setting Rents in a Changing Landscape29:43 The Evolution of Walkable Neighborhoods32:03 Creating Community Through Intentional Design34:48 Retail and Community Engagement37:59 The Role of Local Businesses in Urban Development40:50 Innovative Urban Design and Architecture43:54 Challenges and Surprises in Development45:41 The Future of Walkable Communities50:18 Leadership and Vision in Development55:41 Advice for Aspiring DevelopersCONNECT WITH RYANCuldesac: https://culdesac.comLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanjohnsonazInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/liveculdesac/Twitter: https://x.com/ryanmjohnson?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5EauthorCONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELLNewsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/https://twitter.com/AustinTunnellCONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTUREhttps://www.buildingculture.com/https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/https://twitter.com/build_culturehttps://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/SPONSORSThank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

In this episode, I sit down with Stephen Smith, founder of the Center for Building, to uncover the labyrinthine world of building codes—how they’re made, who really influences them, and why they end up stifling the very innovation and affordability we need. From the peculiarities of elevator requirements to the often overlooked role of local politics and special interests, we unpack how these complex rules shape our homes, buildings, and cities more than we might realize.TAKEAWAYSWhy Building Codes Matter: Even if you’re not a builder or developer, codes dictate your home’s layout, the price of housing, and whether your favorite small condo project can even get off the ground.The ICC (International Code Council) Isn’t Really “International”: You’ll learn how this non-governmental body, which writes most U.S. building codes, can be both extremely influential and surprisingly insular.Over-Regulation’s Real-World Costs: We break down how elevator mandates, fire codes, and accessibility requirements—though well-intended—sometimes create perverse incentives that drive up costs or discourage better solutions.Local Politics & Hidden Interests: Discover how “government members” and private manufacturers shape these codes, and why your mayor or city council may have little say in regulations that affect everyone.A Path Forward: Stephen shares practical ways policymakers and citizens can get involved in reforming the system, focusing on a more human-centered approach that balances safety, cost, and beautyCHAPTERS00:00 The Challenge of Building Codes in the U.S.03:06 The Role of Building Codes in Urban Development05:46 Understanding the American Way of Building09:09 The Impact of Building Codes on Housing Costs12:09 Elevator Regulations and Their Consequences14:52 Harmonization of Codes and Standards18:11 Over-Dimensioning in American Construction21:05 Labor Issues in the Construction Industry23:57 The Need for Code Review and Justification26:49 The Tyranny of Bureaucracy in Building Codes38:49 The Grenfell Fire and Its Aftermath45:05 Design Innovations in Building Codes48:25 Understanding the ICC and Code Writing58:09 The Revolving Door: Industry and Regulation01:07:26 The Role of Government in Building Codes01:15:20 Getting Involved: Supporting Change in Building CodesCONNECT WITH STEPHENCenter for Building https://www.centerforbuilding.org/BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/stephenjacobsmith.com Email: stephen@centerforbuilding.orgMENTIONED RESOURCESElevator research: https://admin.centerforbuilding.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Elevators.pdf CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELLNewsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/https://twitter.com/AustinTunnellCONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTUREhttps://www.buildingculture.com/https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/https://twitter.com/build_culturehttps://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/SPONSORSThank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

Moses Kagan has a unique take on real estate development and investing – and he’s influenced my thinking substantially over the past couple of years.He is a highly successful syndicator, investor and developer with over $200 million in assets under management. He runs Adaptive Realty, having renovated over 100 multi-family buildings in Los Angeles, managing them in-house while specializing in the "indefinite hold” strategy for long-term wealth building.He is the Co-Founder of ReSeed, a platform offering long-term GP and LP capital, along with mentorship for emerging real estate operators nationwide.  He also hosts Reconvene, a highly regarded annual “unconference” for real estate operators and passive investors to connect and share knowledge. I attended last year, and it was awesome!And lastly, he is a Twitter personality and avid blogger, sharing valuable insights on real estate and business. I highly recommend you follow him.This is an excellent conversation about practical investment and real estate development philosophy, and I hope this conversation has as big of an impact on you as meeting Moses has on me!TAKEAWAYSHolding real estate indefinitely often leads to better investment outcomes than IRR-driven flipping.Traditional real estate models incentivize risky short-term decisions, while sustainable strategies benefit both investors and communities.Investors should focus on post-tax returns rather than pre-tax IRR, as tax considerations play a crucial role in long-term profitability.Wealthy families and patient capital partners are more aligned with indefinite hold strategies than institutional investors.Unlevered yield on cost and all-in price per square foot are key financial indicators for long-term real estate success.Building direct relationships and trust at scale is essential for securing capital, especially for indefinite hold investments.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction to Real Estate Development Philosophy06:06 Understanding IRR and Its Implications11:55 The Importance of Long-Term Thinking in Real Estate17:59 Finding the Right Investors for Long-Term Strategies25:50 Investing with Wealthy Families and Professional Money Managers40:20 Understanding Capitalization and Investor Liquidity46:11 Building Trust and Relationships in Real Estate Investment55:41 Building Trust at Scale in Real Estate58:01 The Democratization of Capital Raising01:04:29 New Urbanism and Walkable Neighborhoods01:06:00 Challenges of Ground-Up Development01:09:03 Zoning and Building Code Challenges01:11:57 The Impact of Bureaucracy on Development01:14:07 Introducing ReSeed: Supporting Emerging Operators01:17:08 The Importance of Community in Real EstateCONNECT WITH MOSESX:https://x.com/moseskagan?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5EauthorLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moses-kagan-2638ab2/Adaptive Realty: https://www.adaptiverealty.com/ ReSeed: https://reseedpartners.com/Moses Newsletter: https://kagansblog.com/blog/MENTIONED RESOURCESThe Fort Podcast Interview on ReSeed: https://www.thefortpod.com/videos/moses-kagan-rhett-bennett-co-founders-of-reseed-partners-the-y-combinator-for-re-operators/CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELLNewsletter:https://playbook.buildingculture.com/https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/https://twitter.com/AustinTunnellCONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTUREhttps://www.buildingculture.com/https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/https://twitter.com/build_culturehttps://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/SPONSORSThank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

What if our cities weren’t just places we lived, but places that made us feel alive? In this episode, we welcome back Coby, an urban planner, developer, and author of Building Optimism, to talk about how we can move beyond pessimism and reclaim the built environment. We dive into the philosophy of traditional urbanism versus traditional architecture, how to balance art and economics in development, and why optimism in city building isn’t just wishful thinking—it’s already happening.Coby shares how his latest project integrates affordability, beauty, and human-scale design, and why zoning reform is beginning to shift the landscape of American cities. We discuss why preservation alone isn't enough, how small developers can create lasting impact, and why the best cities aren’t built overnight—they evolve, adapt, and improve over time. If you’ve ever wondered why some places feel right and others don’t, or how we can design spaces that actually serve human beings, this episode is for you.TAKEAWAYSGreat places aren’t about height or style but about how spaces are formed. Streets, plazas, and courtyards dictate how we experience a city more than the aesthetics of individual buildings.Traditional architecture isn’t about copying the past; it’s about principles that create beauty, durability, and livability across cultures and time periods.Keeping historic buildings is important, but we should also be building new ones that are worthy of being preserved in the future. Fear of losing the past shouldn’t stop us from creating great new places.The best cities have a mix of housing that allows people of different income levels to live side by side. Segregating wealth or poverty harms economic mobility and community vitality.The hardest part of building great places isn’t the architecture—it’s getting the financing. Small-scale, human-centered development struggles to compete with big box projects, but that can change with the right approach.Building better cities isn’t a fantasy—it’s already happening in pockets across North America. The real challenge is scaling those successes and proving that beautiful, walkable, thriving communities can be the norm, not the exception.CHAPTERS00:00 Exploring Urban Beauty: A Vision for Cities01:32 The Intersection of Urban Planning and Development03:58 The Journey to Writing 'Building Optimism'10:02 The Current State of Urbanism: A Turning Point18:41 Traditional Urbanism vs. Architecture: Finding Balance22:59 The Role of Preservation in Modern Urbanism38:20 Creating a Living Tradition in Architecture44:06 Exploring Kingston's Urban Fabric51:04 Innovative Infill Housing Solutions58:13 The Importance of Diverse Housing Options01:06:56 Creating Integrated Communities01:12:12 The Role of Capital in Urban DevelopmentCONNECT WITH COBYX: https://x.com/Cobylefko?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor Website: ⁠https://cobylefkowitz.comSubstack: https://ourbuiltenvironment.substack.com/p/a-call-to-build-a-better-worldMENTIONED RESOURCESCoby’s  Book:https://www.amazon.com/Building-Optimism-World-Looks-Better/dp/B0DJV2WLXR/?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=Q3Patrick Sharkey’s Trapped in Place: https://www.amazon.com/Stuck-Place-Neighborhoods-Progress-Equality/dp/0226924254 Samuel Hughes’ Article: Making Architecture Easy: https://worksinprogress.co/issue/making-architecture-easy/CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELLNewsletter:https://playbook.buildingculture.com/https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/https://twitter.com/AustinTunnellCONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTUREhttps://www.buildingculture.com/https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/https://twitter.com/build_culturehttps://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/SPONSORSThank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

Most Americans think painting brick is as simple as grabbing a bucket of latex or oil-based paint, but this common approach can wreak havoc on your home–and is uglier to boot. In this episode, I sit down with Matt Plechan, the founder of Mineral Stains.  We dive deep into the art and science of finishing brick with mineral stains like limewash, potassium silicate and sol silicate.  These centuries-old techniques are not only more durable and beautiful but also allow your brick to breathe, preventing costly damage.  I talk to many people who go to Europe, see a beautiful color, and try to color match it at home on stucco or masonry. It doesn’t turn out the same.  Why? It’s not the same paint! But it can be.  If you are thinking about painting masonry, listen to this episode! And while there are other US based suppliers, Matt at Mineral Stains is an excellent source who manufactures in the US and will help you find the right product for your project! TAKEAWAYS Latex acrylic paints are unsuitable for masonry, while mineral stains bond with masonry for enhanced durability and a natural aesthetic. Potassium silicate offers better longevity than lime wash, while sole silicate works effectively on previously painted or coated surfaces. Mineral stains are eco-friendly, made from natural pigments, and provide vibrant, non-toxic finishes with a timeless, breathable quality. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Masonry Painting Challenges 02:49 Understanding Mineral Stains vs. Traditional Paints 06:30 Exploring Types of Mineral Stains 10:56 Comparing Lime Wash and Potassium Silicate 18:30 Application Techniques for Mineral Stains 32:28 Best Practices for Exterior Application 35:37 The Importance of Primer in Painting 40:49 Cleaning and Preparing Surfaces for Painting 45:33 Best Practices for New Construction Painting 52:35 Application Techniques: Spraying vs. Rolling 57:49 Interior Painting: Natural Finishes and Techniques CONTACT MATTHEW PLECHAN AND MINERAL STAINS Website: https://mineralstains.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mattplechan/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mineralstains1  Matt’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-plechan-94a18172  MENTIONED RESOURCES https://masonrymagazine.com/Default?pageID=2362 https://voyagejacksonville.com/?post_type=interview&p=91151 https://www.fosterandpartners.com/projects/global-home-of-the-pga-tour https://youtu.be/OIWKKjPj5PI https://youtu.be/cojGgH-79u4 CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ SPONSORS Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast! Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

I’m excited to share this conversation with Will McCollum and Matthew Marshall, the passionate minds behind Citymakers Collective. This summer, they’re hosting a transformative two-week program in Charleston, featuring some of the top practitioners in the New Urbanism and human-centered design movements.  Their approach is holistic, hands-on, and experiential, with a mission to equip the next generation of city makers to design and build places that are resilient, beautiful, and centered on people. In this episode, we delve into the challenges of traditional education, what’s missing, and why they felt compelled to create this innovative summer program. If you’re a young professional or student working in the built environment—whether you’re an architect, planner, builder, developer, engineer or something else—I highly encourage you to check it out and consider applying. Learn more at: citymakerscollective.org TAKEAWAYS The City Makers Collective program teaches principles that make cities more livable, sustainable, and people-focused. Participants engage with Charleston’s urban fabric through walking tours, real-world case studies, and collaborative studio projects. The program blends timeless design principles with modern needs to create places that work for today’s challenges. Architects, planners, developers, and more come together to foster holistic learning and solutions. Students learn how to navigate market realities, collaborate effectively, and implement sustainable practices in urban design. Instructors include top practitioners like Lou Oliver and Maria Sanchez (Estudio Urbano), offering a wealth of knowledge and diverse perspectives. The program addresses the lack of foundational training in urbanism and traditional design in most architecture schools. Participants gain access to a powerful network of professionals, creating lasting connections for their careers. The program offers scholarships and affordable housing options to ensure a wide range of students can participate. The City Makers Collective aims to grow beyond this summer, offering ongoing programs to shape the future of urbanism and architecture. CHAPTERS: 00:00 Designing Cities for People 08:10 Bridging the Education Gap in Urbanism 14:00 The Importance of Tradition in Architecture 20:42 Integrating Disciplines for Holistic City Building 27:59 Understanding Market Realities in Education 29:50 Creating a Shared Vision for Communities 30:47 Building the Human Habitat 32:11 The Dual Nature of Humanity: Creation and Destruction 33:38 The Responsibility of Architects 34:41 Learning from Past Mistakes in Architecture 36:35 Integrating Tradition with Modernity 37:34 Hands-On Learning in Architecture Education 40:26 The Importance of Networking in Architecture 41:5 Introducing the Fellowship Program 43:24 Funding and Support for Citymakers Collective 45:06 Future Programs and Workshops 46:30 Cognitive Architecture and Human Experience 49:22 Backgrounds and Inspirations of the Founders 52:20 The Journey of Citymakers Collective 53:16 Application Process and Accessibility CONTACT MATT, WILL & CITYMAKERS COLLECTIVE Summer Studio Website: https://citymakerscollective.org/summer-2025 Will's email: will@citymakerscollective.org Matthew's email: matthew@citymakerscollective.org Citymakers Collective Website: https://citymakerscollective.org/  Newstory Website: https://www.newstoryhomes.org/  Matthew’s Twitter: https://twitter.com/Matth3wMarshall/  Matthew’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesmatthewmarshall/  Will’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-mccollum-6965a066  CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ SPONSORS Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast! Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

Hi everyone! I’m excited to share our final episode of the year, marking one full year of the Building Culture Podcast! This episode is a solo reflection—something new for me—where I dive into the evolution of our brand, key business learnings, our tech stack, updated thinking, and personal growth. I explore how Building Culture has grown from focusing on structural masonry to a broader mission of creating durable, human-centered architecture and thriving communities. Adapting to challenges like rising costs and supply chain disruptions, I reflect on how staying versatile has helped us remain true to our mission of fostering human flourishing through the built environment. This episode also includes lessons learned from raising capital, building a team, and refining processes with tools like Superhuman and AppFolio. I share how inspiring books, podcasts, and thinkers—like Make Something Wonderful and Andrew Huberman’s work—have shaped my perspective. On a personal note, I open up about recovering from a life-changing injury, the importance of pursuing meaningful goals, and how embracing life’s challenges has brought deeper fulfillment. I’ve found that happiness is fleeting, but meaning endures. I hope this episode inspires you to reflect on your own journey and take away something valuable for your life or business. Thank you for an incredible year, and here’s to building a thriving future together! CHAPTERS  00:00 Navigating Real Estate Syndication and Fundraising 33:41 Indefinite Hold Strategy in Real Estate Investment 39:45 Understanding Dopamine and Motivation 45:35 The Importance of Free Speech in Society 54:00 The Importance of Free Speech 01:00:05 The Case for Masonry in Modern Construction 01:07:01 Personal Development and New Ventures 01:14:28 Creating Your Own Heaven or Hell TAKEAWAYS Building Culture has shifted from a focus on structural masonry to creating human-centered architecture and thriving communities. Regular feedback, delegation, and alignment have strengthened team culture and efficiency. Viewing architecture as a human habitat highlights its role in fostering well-being and community. Adapting to rising costs and personal setbacks underscores the value of flexibility in pursuing long-term goals. Pursuing meaningful, challenging goals leads to deeper fulfillment and personal growth. Austin shares aspirations for Building Culture’s role in creating resilient, human-centered communities.   CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ SPONSORS Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast! Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

In this episode, I chat with Sarah Campbell, an architectural consultant at Sierra Pacific, to explore the key details that matter when selecting one of the most significant investments in any building: windows. Whether you're an architect, developer, builder, or planning a home renovation or new construction, this episode is packed with valuable insights just for you. CHAPTERS 00:00The Importance of Quality Windows 02:14Introduction to Window Technology 07:43The Evolution of Windows Through History 11:53Understanding Glass Technology 18:04Modern Window Design and Energy Efficiency 24:06The Longevity and Maintenance of Windows 31:37The Importance of Educated Consumers 38:34Craftsmanship and Quality in Window Manufacturing 45:29The Future of Window Manufacturing: Technology and Innovation 50:08Exploring Advanced Glass Technologies 54:23Understanding the Cost of Specialty Windows 56:36Custom Solutions and the Role of Contractors CONTACT SARAH & SIERRA PACIFIC WINDOWS Website: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/  Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/sierrapacificwindows/?hl=en  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SierraPacificWindows/  Sarah’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/campbell-sarah/ Sierra Pacific Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sierra-pacific-windows/ CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ SPONSORS Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast! Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

In this episode, I sit down with Chuck Marohn from Strong Towns and Nolan Gray from California YIMBY to tackle one of the most pressing issues of our time: the housing crisis in America.  It started with an exchange on X (Twitter) where I saw Nolan and Chuck disagreeing. Surprised, I asked them on the podcast to discuss areas of overlap and disagreement between the YIMBY movement and Strong Towns. They were kind enough to agree. In this episode we discuss the complex web of factors driving housing unaffordability, from financialization and zoning laws to the ripple effects of inflation and outdated building codes. We dive into the historical context of these challenges and debate the influence of investors, policymakers, and local governments in shaping the future of housing. Along the way, we uncover where the Strong Towns and YIMBY movements align—and where they diverge—especially on the role of financialization in housing supply. TAKEAWAYS Financialization of housing has created a feedback loop driving up prices, turning homes into investment assets rather than places to live. Zoning and building codes play a critical role in either enabling or hindering the ability to increase housing supply. There is significant overlap between Strong Towns and YIMBY movements, particularly in their shared focus on practical, community-oriented solutions to housing challenges. Local governments can play a crucial role in financing housing development and supporting small builders to create a more diverse housing market. Accessory dwelling units (ADUs) offer quick, scalable housing solutions that align with incremental development strategies. Policy changes are essential to create a more flexible and affordable housing market that meets the needs of diverse communities. CHAPTERS 00:00 Understanding Housing Affordability and Supply Chain Dynamics 02:46 Introduction to the Debate: Strong Towns vs. YIMBY 06:29 Exploring the Financialization of Housing 12:32 The Role of Financialization in Housing Crisis 19:11 Historical Context: Financialization and Housing Policy 24:07 The Impact of Institutional Investors on Housing 29:15 Navigating the Future of Housing Affordability 31:03 The Impact of Financialization on Housing Supply 34:46 Addressing the Affordability Crisis 39:57 The Role of Local Governments in Housing Development 43:42 Zoning, Financing, and the Housing Market 50:56 Inflation and Its Effects on Construction Costs 57:51 Balancing Incremental Development with Market Needs 01:02:36 Addressing the Affordable Housing Crisis 01:11:01 The Role of Incremental Change in Housing 01:19:19 Financing Solutions for Accessory Dwelling Units 01:27:40 Debating Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Strategies 01:30:17 The Future of Housing Movements CONTACT NOLAN & MENTIONED RESOURCES: X: https://x.com/mnolangray?lang=en  Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/mnolangray/?hl=en  Website YIMBY:https://cayimby.org/author/nolangray/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mnolangray  Book:https://islandpress.org/books/arbitrary-lines#desc  CONTACT CHUCK & MENTIONED RESOURCES: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlesmarohn/?hl=en  Strong Towns Website:https://www.strongtowns.org/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlesmarohn  Books:https://www.strongtowns.org/book  Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/marohn/  Strong Towns Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/strong_towns/?hl=en CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ SPONSORS Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast! Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

In this episode, I sat down with architect and advocate Jennifer Griffin to delve into real-life examples of missing-middle, pre-approved plan programs and their potential to transform local development. While fixing zoning laws is essential, it’s not enough to significantly increase missing middle and infill housing—a reality I understand firsthand as a small developer and builder. Pre-approved plan programs aim to fast-track infill projects by providing community-vetted, permit-ready plans with associated budget estimates, giving small developers a clearer idea of construction costs. While these estimates may vary over time and with specific project details, having a ballpark figure helps developers make informed decisions quickly. This approach is a significant win for communities struggling with housing shortages. We discussed case studies from South Bend and Kalamazoo, where these initiatives have been tested, and highlighted the real challenges and successes associated with implementing them. A key takeaway from our conversation was the importance of community involvement. Successful programs require more than just plan approval; cities must also invest in infrastructure to support these developments, making it easier for local developers to participate. Financing the first project is often the hardest step, but pre-approved plans can mitigate some of the risk for builders. We also explored how city collaboration with lending institutions can further enhance these programs' success. Combining pre-approved plans with incremental zoning changes can lead to long-term benefits for both the community and developers. For cities looking to adopt these programs and for architects, developers, and advocates seeking to get their local governments on board, Jennifer provided valuable resources and insights to help kickstart the process. TAKEAWAYS Pre-approved building programs speed up infill development, tackling housing challenges head-on. Local developers benefit by reducing risks and securing easier project financing. Community involvement and city investment in infrastructure are essential for success. Incremental zoning changes can make a big impact on housing diversity and neighborhood character. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Pre-Approved Plans 02:54 Understanding Pre-Approved Building Programs 05:58 Benefits of Pre-Approved Plans for Communities 08:49 Empowering Local Developers and Builders 11:58 Case Studies: South Bend and Kalamazoo 15:03 Challenges in Infill Development 18:04 Resources and Next Steps for Cities 20:55 Conclusion and Future Outlook CONTACT JENNIFER & MENTIONED RESOURCES: Jen’s Email:  jennifer@jgriffindesignllc.com Liberty House Plans: https://libertyhouseplans.com/ South Bend Pre Approved Plans: https://southbendin.gov/bsb/preapprovedplans/ Kalamazoo Pre Approved Plans: https://issuu.com/kalamazoocity/docs/preapproved_plans_comp CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ SPONSORS Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast! Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

In this episode, I sit down with OG Steve Mouzon, a well-known architect, designer and instigator of the New Urbanist movement, to explore the art of building places that truly matter. Steve shares compelling stories from his journey in urbanism, including projects like Mahogany Bay Village and Providence in Huntsville, Alabama, where he brought local materials and craftsmanship to life in unique, resilient ways. Steve makes a bold case for why "impossible" projects bring out the best in urban design, inspiring us to rethink what’s achievable. We discuss how generalist thinking, leadership, and a willingness to challenge outdated regulations are essential to creating sustainable, beautiful spaces. This conversation goes beyond theory, offering real insights on creativity, humility, and the power of community involvement in transforming our cities.TAKEAWAYS:Preserve Land Character Through Simplicity and Local Craftsmanship: Beautiful, sustainable spaces are achieved by honoring the land’s character and using regional materials and crafts.Embrace a Generalist Approach for Holistic Solutions: Urbanists should adopt a broad, adaptable mindset, enabling them to see connections and address complex urban challenges creatively.Challenge the Status Quo to Drive Innovation: Innovative urban solutions emerge when architects and planners push beyond conventional practices and embrace fresh perspectives.Community Involvement and Intergenerational Exchange Lead to Thriving Spaces: Engaging with the community and drawing on insights across generations helps foster urban environments that truly serve their residents.Simplicity Over Complexity in Sustainable Design: Simple, resilient designs often outperform complex systems, enhancing sustainability and adaptability in a way that prioritizes human flourishing.CHAPTERS:00:00 Preserving Land Character and Urbanism02:48 Steve's Journey in Architecture08:00 Innovative Projects and Community Building24:06 Barriers to Building Better Places41:15 Leadership and Overcoming Challenges45:12 Exploring Local Patterns and Historical Insights51:01 Building Codes and Egress Regulations57:31 The Complexity of Urban Planning and Building Standards01:03:27 The Importance of Generalist Thinking in Urbanism01:10:54 The Fragility of Modern Construction Methods01:19:21 Simplicity vs. Complexity in Sustainable Building Practices01:30:05 The Vision of Adaptability and Simplicity01:31:30 Competing Visions in Sustainability01:33:54 Foundations of Sustainable Places01:37:48 Intergenerational Exchange in Urbanism01:40:29 Innovative Developments in Urban Design01:47:31 Common Threads of Successful Projects01:52:11 The Importance of Generosity and Humility01:57:26 Lessons from Pain and InnovationSTEVE’S RECOMMENDED PLACES TO VISIT​Providence​Mahogany Bay​Carlon Landing​Wheeler​South Main, CO​Seaside, FL​Rosemary, FL​I'on​Habersham​NW ArkansasCONTACT STEVE:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevemouzon/X: https://x.com/stevemouzon?lang=enInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.originalgreen?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==Book: The Original GreenWebsites: newurbanguild.com (New Urban Guild)originalgreen.org (Original Green)katrinacottages.com (Katrina Cottages)CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELLNewsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/https://twitter.com/AustinTunnellCONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTUREhttps://www.buildingculture.com/https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/https://twitter.com/build_culturehttps://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/SPONSORSThank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast!Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

In this episode I sit down with Daniel Herriges, the new Policy Director for Parking Reform, and co-author of The Housing Trap, a book he wrote alongside Strong Towns' Chuck Marohn. We delve into the complex issue of housing affordability, discussing how it goes far beyond the usual culprits of capitalism or zoning. Daniel provides great insights into the financial, legal, and cultural forces that have shaped our current housing crisis. We discuss how housing has become a financial product intertwined with national economic stability, and explore how the suburban experiment, government mortgage programs, and zoning laws have locked many communities into unsustainable patterns of development. Daniel also shared a compelling vision for moving forward, advocating for more incremental and local solutions that empower individuals to take small steps towards improving their communities. TAKEAWAYS 1. Housing Affordability is Complex: The housing crisis can't be blamed solely on capitalism or zoning—it's the result of a mix of financial, legal, and cultural factors that have developed over decades. 2. Housing as a Financial Product: Housing in the U.S. has evolved into a financial asset tied to the national economy, creating a system where prices must remain high to avoid financial collapse, even if that means homes are unaffordable. 3. The Suburban Experiment's Impact: Post-WWII suburban development, backed by government mortgage policies, has locked us into a system where housing is separated by strict zoning laws, limiting organic neighborhood growth and adaptability. 4. Zoning Laws as a Barrier: Outdated zoning regulations make it nearly impossible to build affordable housing in many desirable areas, restricting supply and pushing up prices. 5. The Need for Incremental Development: Instead of massive top-down solutions, Daniel advocates for smaller, local infill projects like backyard cottages or duplexes that can quickly and affordably add housing in existing neighborhoods. 6. Cultural Shift is Key: Beyond policy changes, there must be a cultural shift where communities accept neighborhood evolution and recognize the value in incremental, human-scale development over rigid, large-scale planning. CHAPTERS 00:00 Understanding the Housing Crisis 04:10 Historical Context of Housing Affordability 09:14 The Complexity of Housing Affordability 11:07 The Suburban Experiment and Its Impact 17:50 The Financialization of Housing 33:30 Legal and Regulatory Challenges in Housing 34:00 Cultural Shifts in Housing Perception 44:26 Planning for Permanence in Neighborhoods 45:55 The Impact of Zoning and Redlining 49:41 The Decline of Affordable Housing Strategies 51:34 Understanding the Role of Capitalism in Housing 52:53 The Future of Suburban Developments 56:05 The Importance of Incremental Development 01:00:20 Building Culture and Community Engagement 01:06:12 Escaping the Housing Trap: A Cultural Shift 01:17:03 The Future of Housing Policy and Community Development CONTACT DANIEL housingtrap.org Email: herrigas@gmail.com Book: Escaping the Housing Trap Parking Reform: https://parkingreform.org/2024/04/03/meet-our-new-policy-director/ https://x.com/dpherriges https://www.linkedin.com/in/dherriges/ CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ SPONSORS Thank you so much to the sponsors of The Building Culture Podcast! Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

I sit down with Jaime Izurieta, founder of Storefront Mastery, to explore the transformation of local businesses into powerful engines for community engagement and downtown revitalization. Drawing on his diverse background in architecture, urban planning, and retail design, Jaime shares how he helps small businesses reinvent themselves by focusing on experience and authenticity. We dive into the importance of local businesses as cultural stakeholders, how Main Streets can compete in today’s convenience-driven world, and the role of design in shaping customer experiences. Jaime also discusses the evolution of Main Streets into destinations, not just transactional spaces, while providing insights from his book Main Street Mavericks. TAKEAWAYS The Experience Economy Shift: Jaime highlights the importance of local businesses evolving from transactional models to creating rich, memorable experiences that attract foot traffic and build community loyalty.   Small Businesses as Cultural Anchors: Local businesses have a critical role in shaping the identity and resilience of a downtown area by contributing to economic, social, and civic value. Designing for Feelings: Successful design is not just about aesthetics, but about how it makes people feel. Jaime shares his approach to designing customer interactions and creating meaningful experiences within spaces. Unreasonable Hospitality: Inspired by Will Guidara’s concept of unreasonable hospitality, Jaime encourages businesses to go above and beyond to make customers feel valued and special, turning ordinary transactions into transformative moments. Downtowns as Destinations: Austin and Jaime discuss how downtowns should be reimagined as events—places people go to for an experience, rather than a collection of shops for convenience. Downtowns need to embrace walkability and human-scale design to thrive. Decentralization and Community Building: Jaime offers a hopeful vision for the future, where decentralized communities and individuals create localized impact, fostering stronger, more vibrant neighborhoods. CHAPTERS 00:00 The Essence of Hospitality in Business 02:20 Jamie Izurieta: A Journey Through Design and Community 08:04 The Experience Economy: Redefining Local Business Success 12:25 Local Businesses as Community Stakeholders 17:08 Transforming Downtowns: The Role of Local Businesses 21:56 Creating Memorable Experiences: The Power of Hospitality 28:14 Lessons from Bookstore Design: User Experience Matters 34:05 Redefining the Closing Process: A Journey of Experience 39:15 Unreasonable Hospitality: Going Above and Beyond 43:05 Building Community Through Local Businesses 49:14 The Importance of Place in Urban Design 55:16 Decentralization: A Hopeful Future for Communities CONNECT WITH JAIME Recommended Books: The Experience Economy Unreasonable Hospitality The Network State Contact www.storefrontmastery.com https://x.com/izurietavarea https://www.linkedin.com/in/izurietavarea/ https://www.instagram.com/storefrontmastery/ https://www.facebook.com/public/Jaime-Izurieta/ Book: Mainstreet Mavericks Storefront Renaissance League Great Urban Places to Visit Savannah, GA South Beach, Miami Laguna Beach, CA Seattle, WA NYC Istanbul CONNECT WITH BUILDING CULTURE https://www.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/buildingculture/ https://twitter.com/build_culture https://www.facebook.com/BuildCulture/ CONNECT WITH AUSTIN TUNNELL Newsletter: https://playbook.buildingculture.com/ https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell SPONSORS Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/