The Zweig Letter

I love watching award shows, especially the Oscars – Will Smith’s antics aside. There is something about witnessing a group of peer individuals celebrating the past year’s achievements.  I remember hearing Mark Zweig tell design firm leaders back in the day that they don’t celebrate their wins enough nor create ample opportunity for most of the people within those successful organizations to take a victory lap. It is good to acknowledge success and hard work – even if it is just once a year.We are in the eighth month of a challenging year that has presented both highs and lows to so many. This is one reason to celebrate.  Especially since so many design firms found success and achievement despite our current circumstances. I think firms that have weathered the storms of the pandemic are the better for it. Everyone has figured out ways to innovate, work differently, and still deliver high-quality projects.  The list goes on and on, but one thing is for sure. The design industry has not missed a beat.  That’s why we need to be willing to take a victory lap, rub shoulders with our peers and colleagues, and celebrate the success of the past 12 months. In this episode of the podcast, Chad Clinehens – president and CEO of Zweig Group – discusses the Zweig Group’s ElevateAEC Conference & Awards gala at the Green Vally Ranch Resort in Las Vegas from September 14-16. Zweig Group has assembled three days of celebration, information, and networking that will allow design professionals a chance to let their hair down and exhale while simultaneously being inspired by all the possibilities that 2023 will offer. You don’t want to miss this event.  Zweig Group’s ElevateHER Symposium will be on September 14, and several keynote speakers sprinkled throughout the event on the 15th and 16th, including Kit Miyamoto, a Black Tie Award dinner on Thursday the 9/15, and a finale celebration with Blue Man Group on Friday, 9/16.Space is still available for the Elevate Conference and the Green Valley Ranch Resort rooms.  Reserve your spot today and come celebrate with us!Get your FREE subscription to The Zweig Letter.Mentioned in this episode:ATCOATCO StructuresATCO Trailers

In this episode, Burke Pemberton, CFO, and Principal with Stok in Denver, CO, sits down with us to discuss how he and his colleagues at Stok focus on the built environment and serving the needs of their client partners. With offices in San Francisco, Denver, and San Diego, Stok offers Sustainability Consulting, Energy and Performance Engineering, and Real Estate and Workplace Solutions. We discussed “Quiet Fridays - a uniquely Stok practice, Equitable Governance, and why Stok Invests so much into the company's culture.  According to Burke, Capital Markets are waking up to the fact that sustainability is a good business practice.  This revelation provides many new opportunities for Stok to showcase its diverse team and dynamic skill sets. Listen to the full episode on this edition of The Zweig Letter Podcast.Email Burke PembertonBurke Pemberton on LinkedInStok WebsiteGet your FREE subscription to The Zweig Letter.Mentioned in this episode:ATCOATCO StructuresATCO Trailers

We recently did a refresh of the TZL Podcast Brand. To learn more about this and our new look, check out the article we wrote about the genesis of the Zweig Letter podcast. The Zweig Letter Podcast Origin StoryGet your FREE subscription to The Zweig Letter.Mentioned in this episode:ATCOATCO StructuresATCO Trailers

In this episode, David Shove-Brown, with Design Firm //3877 in Washington, DC sits down with us to discuss how he and his partner, David Tracz built //3877 from the ground up.  David shares his Super Hero Origin story from growing up all over the world to going to school at Catholic University to starting //3877 and serving the needs of clients in multiple verticals including, residential, retail, and healthcare.David was recently featured in a Zweig Letter article by Liisa Andreassen. Email David Shove-Brown3877.DesignGet your FREE subscription to The Zweig Letter.Mentioned in this episode:ATCOATCO StructuresATCO Trailers

In this episode, Jamie Claire Kiser – Managing Principal and Director of Advisory Services for Zweig Group – discusses the current state of M&A affairs in the AEC industry.  Jamie Claire originally joined Zweig Group to manage and run the mergers and acquisitions team, and she has a background in business and law. In just the past seven years, Jamie Claire and her team have witnessed and been a part of a flurry of M&A activity, helping firm leaders decide to sell or buy in what many are describing as one of the hottest mergers and acquisitions markets we have seen.Like many industries, there has been a move to consolidation in the AEC space, and there is a right way to do things and a wrong way.  In this episode, Jamie Claire walks us through some things you should consider before even thinking about a merger or acquisition.    In addition, Jamie Claire highlights some of the primary reasons why M&A activity has been on the rise for design firms, including but not limited to:Record backlog.Little to no significant debt.A desire for significant growth.The infusion of PPP funds and their impact on balance sheets.These factors play a role in the challenge to merge with or acquire another firm.  If you have been thinking about M&A for your company, this is the podcast episode to listen to. You may end up rewinding it and playing it twice. Get your FREE subscription to The Zweig Letter.Mentioned in this episode:ATCOATCO StructuresATCO Trailers

We sit down with Architect and Digital Strategist Sara Kolata on this episode of The Zweig Letter podcast. Sara is a part of the new breed of architects that has decided that the old way of being a practicing architect is ripe for change. She has worked in Third World countries and helped solve First World design problems.  Sara has big goals, and she has indeed broken the mold on how she practices architecture. She has also developed courses and events to help practicing architects improve their business model and much more. Her website offers a glimpse into all that she does. According to Sara, she works with “practitioners, scholars, trainers, consultants, and leaders in architecture helping them online info products: Online courses, webinars, masterminds, and membership sites.”Sara Kolata EmailSara Kolata on LinkedInSara Kolata Podcast - Arch TalkSara Kolata WebsiteSara Kolata Facebook GroupGet your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.Mentioned in this episode:ATCOATCO StructuresATCO Trailers

 We recently sat down with Raouf S. Ghali, CEO of Hill International.  Raouf oversees one of the largest “pure-play” Construction and Project Management firms with a global reach. Hill provides program, project, and construction management services in a wide variety of sectors. Their services include cost engineering and estimating, quality assurance, inspection, scheduling, risk management, and claims avoidance.    According to Hill International’s website: “We are the 5th largest project and construction management firm in the U.S., as featured in Building Design + Construction magazine. Engineering News-Record magazine ranked Hill the 10th largest overall U.S. construction management firm (for fee-only). Hill International has participated in over 10,000 project assignments with a total construction value of over $600 billion.”Hill International has been in business for 45 years. They have over 3,000 people in more than 100 offices across 39 countries. According to Raouf, the one key ingredient that sets Hill apart from its competitors is its people.  Hill is a publicly-traded company headquartered in Philadelphia, PA. Listen to the whole episode to learn more about Raouf and Hill International. All of this and more on this episode of The Zweig Letter podcast. Hill International WebsiteHill International on LinkedInHill International on TwitterHill International on FacebookHill International on YouTubeHill International on InstagramClick HERE for the full transcriptGet your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.Mentioned in this episode:ATCOATCO StructuresATCO Trailers

We recently sat down with Michael Riscica, RA, Founder of the Young Architect brand, including the Young Architect Academy, ARE Bootcamp, and Young Architect Conference.  Michael is a licensed Architect who took his lumps while getting his design career off the ground. He has experienced many key events in his career that have ultimately led him to a place where he spends a lot of time helping young design professionals be the best version of themselves on both a professional and personal level.   Michael shared his journey of becoming an architect and the challenges he faced in pursuing his license. He shared his thoughts on several topics that all young design professionals deal with, including preparing for and taking ARE tests, mentoring, professional development, the challenges of Remote Work, and so much more.   Michael is certainly a breath of fresh air in our industry, representing the best his generation has to offer.  And, he is playing a significant role in helping a new generation of design professionals find their footing and establish themselves in an ever-changing industry and profession.   Listen to the whole episode to learn more.  All of this and more on this episode of The Zweig Letter podcast.  Michael Riscica on LinkedIn The Young Architect Website The Young Architect Podcast The Young Architect on Instagram The Young Architect on Twitter The Young Architect on YouTube Get your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.Mentioned in this episode:ATCOATCO StructuresATCO Trailers

We recently sat down with Brian T. King, CEO, and Founder of A M King, an integrated Design-Build firm in Charlotte, NC.  Brian talked about how he started the business in 2004 and found a niche offering property consulting, design, construction, and facility services in the sectors of food processing, food distribution (including cold storage), industrial manufacturing, and corporate properties.  Brian shared his journey of creating an ESOP with his company and why he feels that mentoring and mentorship are vital to future generations of design and construction professionals.   All of this and more on this episode of The Zweig Letter podcast.  Brian T. King Bio Brian T. King on LinkedIn A M King on LinkedIn A M King Website A M King on Instagram A M King on Facebook A M King on Twitter Email Brian at A M King  Get your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.Mentioned in this episode:ATCOATCO StructuresATCO Trailers

We talk with Mark Zweig about what it takes to become a better Seller in the Design Industry. There is a lot of hard work involved, you have to believe in yourself, be consistent, and build relationships even when there isn't a sale on the line.(Originally Released September 14, 2018)Here is a link to the original podcast.Here is a link to the original show notes and everything referenced in this episode. All of this and more on this episode of The Zweig Letter podcast.  Get your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.Mentioned in this episode:ATCOATCO StructuresATCO Trailers

Leanne Baribeau is a talented Architect with Modus Studio in Fayetteville, AR. We got a chance to spend some time with Leanne discussing her career, love of Architecture, and why diversity is essential for the design industry. Don’t miss the virtual conference, and ElevateHer Symposium, held September 13th to October 7th, is comparable to last year’s event. There will be many FREE sessions and more than 30 Professional Development Hours (PDH) available to you. We hope to see you online or in-person this Fall at the ElevateAEC 2021 virtual and live event.   All of this and more on this episode of The Zweig Letter podcast. Get your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.Mentioned in this episode:ATCOATCO StructuresATCO Trailers

We recently sat down with Lucas Hayden, Product Marketing Director with Unanet.  Unanet is a leading provider of ERP and CRM solutions purpose-built for Government Contractors, AEC, and Professional Services and a presenter at Zweig Group’s ElevateAEC 2021 virtual event.  The virtual conference and ElevateHer Symposium, held September 13th to October 7th, is comparable to last year’s event. There will be many FREE sessions and more than 30 Professional Development Hours (PDH) available to you. In their virtual session, Lucas discusses how Design Firms can grow revenue without adding headcount. We hope to see you online or in-person this Fall at the ElevateAEC 2021 virtual and live event.   All of this and more on this episode of The Zweig Letter podcast.  Get your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.Mentioned in this episode:ATCOATCO StructuresATCO Trailers

We sat down with Chad Clinehens, President and CEO of Zweig Group, to discuss the upcoming ElevateAEC 2021 virtual and live event.  The virtual conference and ElevateHer Symposium, held September 13th to October 7th,  is comparable to last year’s event. There will be many FREE sessions and more than 30 Professional Development Hours (PDH) available to you.  The ElevateAEC live event will be held November 3rd thru 5th in Denver, CO.   Plans are underway to put on a safe and impactful event that everyone can participate in.  Chad discusses some of the lessons learned from last year’s event, why Zweig Group will continue to grow its online education offerings, and how impactful the ElevateHER program has become for the Design Industry.  Finally, Chad is back on the road and safely meeting with clients.  He shares a number of the issues that AEC Design firms are currently facing, like workplace flexibility, employee experience, and mental health.  There is so much to consider. We hope to see you online or in-person this Fall at the ElevateAEC 2021 virtual and live event.    All of this and more on this episode of The Zweig Letter podcast.  Get your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.Mentioned in this episode:ATCOATCO StructuresATCO Trailers

We talk with the newest Managing Director of Zweig Group, Dathan Gaskill. Dathan shared his Super Hero Origin Story and how his career has been a series of challenges and upgrades that find him running a brand new business unit for Zweig Group. This new entity, Zweig Group Risk Solutions,  is dedicated to providing innovative risk management and financial strategies for Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) firms.In the same way that the Design Industry got excited about Research Development Tax Credits, Dathan believes that growing Design firms will recognize the available opportunities to manage risk. This podcast is one episode that you may want to listen to twice.    You can read more about Dathan from this recent Zweig Group Presse Release:All of this and more on this episode of The Zweig Letter podcast.  Get your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.Mentioned in this episode:ATCOATCO StructuresATCO Trailers

We sat down with Kyle Ahern, Awards Manager, with Zweig Group.  Kyle shared some great information on the Awards process and why Zweig Group created specific awards. He also discussed why Design Firms should consider participating in the awards process and some important data shared with all of those firms. Whether you are or want to be a Hot Firm, think you should be a Best Firm To Work For, or if your Marketing Team Deserves recognition, the Zweig Group Awards program is for you!All of this and more on this episode of The Zweig Letter podcast. Check out 2021 Virtual Elevate AEC ConferenceAttend the 2021 Live Event in Denver, CO.  Get your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.Mentioned in this episode:ATCOATCO StructuresATCO Trailers

We sat down with Matthew Van Gilst, Principal with Callidus Engineering in London, Ontario, Canada, for a conversation to discuss the growth of his firm, how the pandemic has affected them, and how bullish he is about the future. You just need to listen for yourself. All of this and more on this episode of The Zweig Letter podcast.  Get your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.Mentioned in this episode:ATCOATCO StructuresATCO Trailers

TZL Memorial: Ed Friedrichs Throwback Episode from 2016 We sat down with Ed Friedrichs on the podcast five years ago for a great conversation about the evolution of the design industry.  Ed shared some great stories from back in the day including with Art Gensler and the actor Mel Brooks.  We can’t do this episode justice in the show notes. You just need to listen for yourself.  Mark Zweig wrote a great article eulogizing Ed in a recent edition of The Zweig Letter  All of this and more on this episode of The Zweig Letter podcast.  Get your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.Mentioned in this episode:ATCOATCO StructuresATCO Trailers

Architect Julia Su Jack is Elevating HERself One Day At a Time  We recently sat down with Julia Su Jack, AIA, for a spirited conversation on being an architect, a woman of color, and making the transition from the private sector to the public sector.  Julia attended HBCU Howard University and studied Architecture there.  Julia took time to raise five children and, for a while, struggled with wondering what could have been in her career had she worked more early on. Still, a moment of clarity and her husband reminded her of the great legacy that her children represented.  From that point on, she found comfort in knowing that she made the right decision.  Julia has quickly ascended through several roles over the last decade that allowed her to utilize her skills as an architect, construction manager, and program coordinator, among other things.   Hear all about how she is not letting any grass grow under her feet and how she came to realize that she is the best version of herself at Fifty and the future looks exceptionally bright. Julia is a member of the 2nd Cohort of the ElevateHer program through Zweig Group and is excited about the discussion of diversity in the design industry.  With the projects, she is doing with the City of Hartford and her new Podcast, F50 Woman; the sky is indeed the limit for Julia.   All of this and more on this episode of The Zweig Letter podcast.   Get in Touch with Julia Su Jack and Mentions on the Show:  Julia Su Jack, AIA on LinkedIn Michael Riscicca - The Young Architect     Get your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.Mentioned in this episode:ATCOATCO StructuresATCO Trailers

Strategy and Ownership Transition a Conversation with Will Swearingen We recently sat down with Will Swearingen, Director of Ownership Transition at Zweig Group.Known as “the leading research, publishing, and advisory services resource for design firms in the AEC industry,” Zweig Group offers a comprehensive suite of products and services, from newsletters and market research reports to management consulting and events such as the Elevate AEC Conference.Listen in as Will discusses the latest things happening in the design industry as of March 2021, where lockdowns persist across the U.S., and remote work is part of the new normal.Will peels the curtain back on how leadership in firms big and small are planning out their next steps in the face of continued uncertainty. He also discusses how company owners can take these insights to prime their businesses for success, whether they are committed to their firm for the long run or intend to prepare for a graceful exit.All of this and more on this episode of The Zweig Letter podcast.In this Episode: [05:10] The talent retention problem: “How do we keep our people?” [08:17] Planning for an exit and communicating to the team to inspire them to take ownership [18:41] An example of a successful transition by one of Zweig Group’s clients [22:52] ESOPs as a vehicle for the evolution of ownership in the design industry [29:04] Why it’s never too early to seek counsel regarding ownership transition [33:15] Takeaways from Zweig’s Elevate AEC Conference [38:34] Why your replacement does not have to be a replica of yourselfGet in Touch with Will Swearingen: Will Swearingen on LinkedInEmail Will!Get your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter.Mentioned in this episode:ATCOATCO StructuresATCO Trailers

How Schillivia Baptiste Pivoted Her Construction Management Business During the Pandemic On this episode of The Zweig Letter podcast, we sit down with Schillivia Baptiste. She’s a professional engineer and the CEO of Laland Baptiste, and a Principal at Baptiste Engineering. Laland Baptiste is a construction management firm dedicated to providing leadership, organization, supervision, and direction to its clients.We had a far-ranging discussion about the holistic personal and professional development she experienced with the Zweig Groups Principals Academy program provided by the Port Authority of New York & New Jersey. She shares how they could pivot and move forward in both of her organizations during the pandemic.All of this and much more on this episode of The Zweig Letter Podcast.In this Episode: Schillivia shares her superhero origin story. The personal and professional impact that she experienced at the Principal’s Academy. She talks about her two organizations and how they handled the pandemic. How to stay prepared and flexible in your business structure. How she uses gender discrimination as a motivation to move forward. Tips for smaller firms to become successful working with larger firms. Schillivia’s transition from employee to entrepreneur. Thinking of the future and balancing work and life. Get in Touch with Schillivia Baptiste:  Schillivia Baptiste on LinkedIn Schillivia Baptiste Email Laland Baptiste Website      Laland Baptiste LinkedIn Books Mentioned:  The One Minute Manager by Ken Blanchard Rise and Grind by Daymond John Get your FREE Subscription to the Zweig Letter Newsletter. Mentioned in this episode:ATCOATCO StructuresATCO Trailers