The Building Culture Podcast

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. TAKEAWAYS Great 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. CHAPTERS 00:00 Exploring Urban Beauty: A Vision for Cities 01:32 The Intersection of Urban Planning and Development 03:58 The Journey to Writing 'Building Optimism' 10:02 The Current State of Urbanism: A Turning Point 18:41 Traditional Urbanism vs. Architecture: Finding Balance 22:59 The Role of Preservation in Modern Urbanism 38:20 Creating a Living Tradition in Architecture 44:06 Exploring Kingston's Urban Fabric 51:04 Innovative Infill Housing Solutions 58:13 The Importance of Diverse Housing Options 01:06:56 Creating Integrated Communities 01:12:12 The Role of Capital in Urban Development CONNECT WITH COBY X: https://x.com/Cobylefko?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor  Website: ⁠https://cobylefkowitz.com Substack: https://ourbuiltenvironment.substack.com/p/a-call-to-build-a-better-world MENTIONED RESOURCES Coby’s  Book: https://www.amazon.com/Building-Optimism-World-Looks-Better/dp/B0DJV2WLXR/?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_w=Q3 Patrick 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 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/

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/

I invited Thomas Dougherty, or lead urban designer, back on the Podcast to discuss real life lessons behind several of our current projects at Building Culture.  We discuss Townsend, a 1+ acre infill site with 19 townhomes, a couple live/works and 10,000 SF of boutique commercial, that we are nearing approvals on.  We get into some really practical stuff we’ve learned, such as how we are parking it, dealing with trash, utilities, and balancing privacy with connection. We also discuss an 80-acre master plan we are working on and how we are taking a slightly different approach than many current TNDs. And of course, we bring it back to the human experience, and how we can serve people through building and architecture! If you are reading this, I'd greatly appreciate it if you took a moment to leave us a 5 star review! Enjoy. TAKEAWAYS Innerblock development creates human-scale spaces within blocks, allowing for the creation of vibrant and intimate urban environments. Centers and courtyards are essential elements of innerblock development, providing identifiable and delineated spaces for human interaction. Utilities and fire safety are important considerations in innerblock development, and creative solutions such as geothermal HVAC systems and land condos can address these challenges. Balancing public and private spaces is crucial in creating a cohesive and livable urban environment. Thoughtful design and attention to detail, such as trash management and parking solutions, can enhance the overall experience of innerblock development. Public spaces play a crucial role in fostering community and building relationships. Missing middle building types and diverse housing options are essential for creating inclusive and attainable communities. The design of a community should be responsive to the topography and natural surroundings. The layout of streets and the integration of nature can enhance the pedestrian experience and create a sense of place. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Overview 02:51 Creating Human-Scale Spaces: The Concept of Interblock Development 12:53 The Value of Centers and Courtyards in Urban Design 25:02 Addressing Utilities and Fire Safety in Innerblock Development 35:02 Innovative Solutions: Geothermal HVAC and Land Condos 38:45 Balancing Public and Private Spaces in Urban Environments 45:07 Enhancing the Urban Experience: Attention to Detail in Innerblock Development 52:46 The Importance of Missing Middle Building Types 58:06 Designing with Topography and Nature in Mind 01:05:16 Enhancing the Pedestrian Experience through Street Design CONNECT WITH TOM https://x.com/NestedUrbanism https://www.instagram.com/innerblock/ 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/

Inspiring and equipping architects, developers, and anyone working in the built environment to craft a more beautiful and resilient world for people.

Las Catalinas might be the most beautiful town built in the 21st century.  And my guest today, Sara Bega, has stewarded its evolution as Town Architect for a decade.  Las Catalinas is a car-free, kid-friendly, multi-generational community in Costa Rica. Their goal is to create a pedestrian-first environment that maximizes kid freedom and allows for independent exploration and discovery. The town is built on 20% of the 1200-acre site, with a mix of houses, flats, hotels, and shops.  We discuss Sara’s professional journey, and the principles and practices behind developing such a stunningly beautiful and human neighborhood that serves as an inspiration and example for what is possible today.   If you do anything today, just click on this link so you can see the town.  It stands as a testament to the beauty humans can cultivate when they set their mind to it: Beach Town in Guanacaste, Costa Rica | Las Catalinas (lascatalinascr.com) TAKEAWAYS Creating a car-free, kid-friendly community allows for independent exploration and fosters curiosity and connection with nature. A pedestrian-first environment benefits not only children but also adults and families, creating a sense of community and connection. Las Catalinas is a successful example of a car-free community, with a mix of houses, flats, hotels, and shops built on a 1200-acre site. The community achieves car-free living through walkability, valet services, and emergency vehicle access. The town architect's role is to oversee the design and planning of the community, ensuring a balance between privacy, walkability, and optimized views. Creating a sustainable and adaptable community requires prioritizing human experience and connection. Designing a walkable town with a mix of residential and commercial spaces fosters a sense of community. The legal structure of a town should allow for flexibility and adaptability over time. Trust in human intelligence and the ability to solve problems is crucial for the success of a community. Creating a sense of place involves considering the local climate, using natural materials, and designing for the long term. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Las Catalinas 09:46 Creating a Kid-Friendly Community 27:56 Shifting Conversations and Culture 39:48 Solving for Walkability, Privacy, and Optimized Views 42:16 Reversing and Backing into Codes and Legal Structure 45:17 Creating a Clear Legal Structure for Ownership and Responsibility 50:10 Treating a Town as a Town 55:38 Balancing Prevention and Allowing the Best to Happen 01:00:37 Guiding a Town's Growth and Adaptation 01:06:21 Allowing a Town to Grow and Change 01:10:56 Creating Timeless and Sustainable Architecture 01:19:19 Approaching Life with Courage CONNECT WITH SARA & SHOW RESOURCES Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/begadesignstudio/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarabega/ Las Catalinas: https://www.lascatalinascr.com/ Notre Dame School of Architecture: https://architecture.nd.edu/ 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/

Today I get to speak with Alan Pullman, founder of Studio One Eleven, an architecture, urban design and landscape architecture practice focused on human scaled, mixed-use infill projects.  They have a truly impressive portfolio of work.  I love their “practice themes” which I think will resonate with many of you: housing for all, building community + place, renewing the public realm, 21st century mobility, and equitable practice. I was truly inspired by this conversation with Alan, particularly around the community integration and engagement they cultivate in their office.  He intentionally moved the practice out of their “ivory tower” and down into the heart of the community, sharing their office space with artists and facilitating all kinds of community-wide events and workshops.  It’s given me vision for how I want Building Culture to evolve. Alan and his team work closely with developers around the country looking to do difficult and messy – but meaningful – infill projects.  They relish the mess.  And, between running a sizeable practice and doing some of their own development projects, I was extremely impressed with Alan’s practical approach (you know, understanding that the economics have to work to do the project!).  They strike the right balance between idealism + pragmatism to actually pull off incredible projects, and keep people at the center of what they do and why they do it. I hope you find this episode as inspiring as I did!   TAKEAWAYS Reinvesting in cities and putting people at the center of architecture and urban design is crucial for creating meaningful and impactful spaces. Studio One Eleven specializes in infill development, mixed-use projects, and adaptive reuse, focusing on creating places for people and collaborating with developers and public-private partnerships. Affordable housing development is complex and requires specialized knowledge and collaboration with various funding sources, such as state, city, and federal programs. Collaboration and agility are essential in the design process, allowing for co-creation with clients and the ability to adapt to changing needs and circumstances. Studio One Eleven focuses on incremental development and creating human-scale cities. The firm has transformed their own office into a community space, hosting events, workshops, and an artist-in-residence program. They are passionate about creating places for people and breaking away from the traditional, car-centric approach to city planning CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 00:57 Studio One Eleven: Focusing on Infill Development and Community Impact 06:04 The Evolution of Studio Eleven: From Large Retail Projects to Community Impact 19:14 Challenges and Opportunities in Affordable Housing Development 32:41 Collaboration and Agility: Keys to Successful Design and Development 37:29 Incremental Development and Human-Scale Cities 38:56 The Financialization of Architecture and Cities 39:23 Curating the Right Mix of Tenants 43:10 Transforming Their Office into a Community Space 48:36 Building Connections and Social Capital 53:28 Creating Places for People 01:05:33 Optimism for the Future and Opportunities for Progress CONTACT ALAN & STUDIO ONE ELEVEN Website: https://studio-111.com/ https://www.instagram.com/studiooneeleven/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-pullman-06197159 https://www.linkedin.com/company/studio-one-eleven https://www.facebook.com/studioneleven/ 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 PODCAST SPONSORS Sierra Pacific Windows: https://www.sierrapacificwindows.com/ One Source Windows: https://onesourcewindows.com/

I had the opportunity to speak with Bobby Fijan today, who sometimes refers to himself as the Bill James of floorplans.  His focus?  Building apartments for families – and helping others do it too.  He’s a developer, entrepreneur and consultant.   We discuss the lack of family-friendly apartment buildings and the impact on loneliness and community, and how we need to make cities and apartment buildings more family friendly.  We touch on the importance of amenities and spaces that are suitable for children, how floorplans make having even one young child very uncomfortable (thereby incentivizing people to move out), and how to make your next apartment or multi-family project more suitable for families and dynamic living conditions.  Check it out! TAKEAWAYS The current design of apartment buildings caters to a narrow demographic of high-income singles and couples, neglecting the needs of families. The lack of family-friendly apartment buildings contributes to feelings of loneliness and disconnection in urban areas. Apartment buildings should prioritize amenities and spaces that are suitable for children and families, such as toddler rooms and playgrounds. Floor plans should be designed with families in mind, with more bedrooms and more spaces to accommodate children. There is a need for more apartment buildings that are specifically designed to meet the needs of families. To make apartments more family-friendly, consider allocating more space to living areas and smaller bedrooms and closets. Adding an extra room, such as a nursery or a home office, can provide privacy and a dedicated workspace for parents. Differentiating between spaces and creating additional rooms can enhance the functionality and appeal of apartment designs. Design choices, such as the ratio of living room width to bedroom width and the presence of walk-in closets, can impact rent prices. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Narrow Demographic of Apartment Buildings 05:19 Connecting Loneliness to Moving and Multifamily Buildings 13:18 Challenges in Apartment Design for Families 16:38 Importance of Amenities and Spaces for Families 24:45 Designing Floor Plans for Families 25:56 Designing Family-Friendly Apartments 29:17 The Importance of Additional Rooms 43:35 Optimizing Design Choices for Higher Rent Prices CONNECT WITH BOBBY https://x.com/bobbyfijan https://www.tailorbird.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/fijan/ 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 https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

Trilith is a newly built (and growing) walkable community located next to Trilith Studios in Atlanta, Georgia.  It is one of the most successful TNDs and New Urbanists communities in the country.   Rob Parker, as President, leads a team of designers, architects, planners and builders in creating the 235 acre master-planned residential and mixed use development.  Rob is a transformational leader with a focus on people, and has extensive experience in town building, commercial and retail development, music entertainment, non-profit leadership, marketing, branding and capital development. This episode is a must for developers, investors, planners, architects, engineers or city officials interested in creating more walkable, mixed-use, people-first places.  Hear directly from someone who has actually done it successfully, and learn about the keys to success, as well as some of the pitfalls.  Trilith is built on the principles of new urbanism, with a focus on walkability, sustainability, and a deep sense of community. The vision of Trilith is to create a town for creatives, artists, storytellers, and makers, where everyone feels loved, served, inspired, and connected. The community is designed to promote longer, better, and happier lives for its residents. Trilith is a successful example of a people-centered, walkable community that prioritizes sustainability and quality of life.  TAKEAWAYS Trilith is a walkable community in Atlanta, Georgia, built on the principles of new urbanism. The community is designed to promote longer, better, and happier lives for its residents. Trillith is focused on creating a sense of community and connection among its residents. The community is committed to sustainability and has implemented practices such as geothermal heating and cooling and the preservation of green spaces. Trilith is a people-centered, walkable community that prioritizes sustainability and quality of life. The development focuses on creating smaller footprint, energy-efficient homes and incorporates sustainable technologies like geothermal energy and solar power. Trilith emphasizes the importance of community and mental health, offering enrichment activities and a progressive school. The financing of the project involved patient capital and partnerships with builders and investors. The success of Trilith has led to increased property values and a positive impact on the surrounding area. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Trilith and Rob Parker 03:01 Creating a Walkable Community for Creatives 07:47 Promoting Longer, Better, and Happier Lives 14:42 Fostering a Sense of Community and Connection 18:08 The Freedom of Living in a Walkable Environment 20:29 The Impact of COVID-19 on Trilith 29:05 The Importance of Sharing the Vision 37:48 Commitment to Sustainability and Green Practices 40:02 Creating a Sustainable and Walkable Community 41:30 Incorporating Sustainable Technologies in Home Design 44:20 Prioritizing Community and Mental Health 49:48 The Financing and Partnerships Behind Trillith's Success 55:23 The Positive Impact of Trilith on Property Values and the Surrounding Area CONNECT WITH ROB & TRILITH Rob's Linked In Trilith's Real Estate Instagram Trilith's Foundation Instagram Trilith's Facebook Home Website: Trilith Town Website: Town at Trilith Variety Article on Trilith 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 https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

In part 2 Justin Mares and I discuss the broken food and health systems in the US and the need to prioritize human flourishing. We get into the weaponization of our instincts by companies that produce addictive food, the importance of fixing our environment and food system, and the role of human health in the built environment. Justin shares his experience in the health industry and highlights the misalignment of incentives in the food and healthcare industries.  We touch on the lack of trust in traditional institutions and the challenges of following dietary guidelines. Justin talks about nutrient density in crops, the depletion of nutrients in soil, the impact of food processing on nutrient density, and the potential consequences for human health. We also delve into the challenges of scaling sustainable farming practices and the role of government and corporations in addressing health and environmental issues. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the need for individual and community action to create positive change. Takeaways The food and health systems in the US are profoundly broken and need to be fixed to promote human flourishing. Companies are weaponizing our instincts to create addictive and profitable food products. Fixing the environment, food system, and built environment is crucial for improving human health. There is a lack of trust in traditional institutions and their ability to provide accurate health advice. The misalignment of incentives in the food and healthcare industries hinders progress in promoting human health. Nutrient density in crops is influenced by the nutrients in the soil, and over time, the depletion of nutrients in the soil has led to less nutrient-dense crops. Food processing can further reduce nutrient density, and the consumption of processed foods may lead to nutrient deficiencies and cravings for specific nutrients. Scaling sustainable farming practices, such as regenerative agriculture, can help improve soil health and nutrient density in crops. Government regulations and policies play a role in shaping the food system, but individual and community action is also necessary to create positive change. Addressing health and environmental issues requires a holistic approach that considers the interconnectedness of various factors, including food production, human health, and environmental sustainability. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgment 00:57 Weaponizing Instincts: The Addictive Food Industry 06:22 Misaligned Incentives in the Food and Healthcare Industries 08:16 The Broken Healthcare Industry 19:19 The Debate on Veganism and Vegetarianism 25:12 Sponsor Acknowledgment and Nutrient Deficiencies in Food 26:41 The Impact of Soil Depletion on Nutrient Density in Crops 29:07 The Nutrient Decay Curve and the Role of Food Processing 34:29 Challenges and Potential of Scaling Sustainable Farming Practices 36:25 Government and Corporate Responsibility in Addressing Health and Environmental Issues 43:00 The Need for Individual and Community Action CONNECT WITH JUSTIN Justin’s Substack: ⁠The Next | Justin Mares | Substack⁠ Twitter: ⁠Justin Mares (@jwmares) / X⁠ Kettle and Fire: ⁠https://www.kettleandfire.com/⁠ Surely Non-Alcoholic Wines: ⁠https://www.drinksurely.com/⁠ Perfect Keto: ⁠https://perfectketo.com/⁠ Truemed: https://www.truemed.com/ RECS Book Rec: ⁠Formerly Known as Food⁠ Book Rec: ⁠The End of Craving⁠ Book Rec: ⁠Gangs of America⁠ 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 ⁠https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/⁠ ⁠https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell⁠ ⁠https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

Justin Mares is the founder of Kettle and Fire, Perfect Keto, and Surely Non-Alcoholic Wines, and is working on his fourth company: Truemed.  I am super impressed with what Justin has accomplished, and am a big fan of Kettle and Fire.  My wife and I drink their bone broth regularly.  What I am most inspired by is that Justin isn’t in business just to be in business.  He is in business to solve problems that make peoples’ lives better, specifically around their physical and mental health and wellbeing.  As the sickest generation of Americans in history–and it’s not even close–he is on a mission to rescue the food system and transform the industry into something that serves people first, not profits.  Health is foundational to human flourishing – even before shelter.   We discuss how Justin started Kettle and Fire by testing the idea with a landing page and no actual product to gauge demand.  We discuss the importance of a healthy food system, and the failures of regulatory bodies like the FDA. Justin emphasizes the need for companies to prioritize consumer health and wellness. Our conversation explores the impact of food regulations and the state of health in the US.  Justin highlights the differences between the US and the EU in terms of food regulations, with the US allowing thousands of chemicals in food that are banned in Europe. We also discuss the high rates of chronic diseases and obesity in the US, and the connection between physical and mental health.  TAKEAWAYS The most profitable food products are often the worst for people, highlighting the brokenness of the food system. Starting a company that prioritizes consumer health and wellness is important but challenging. Bone broth is a nutrient-dense food that can improve gut, skin, and joint health. The FDA and other regulatory bodies have failed to protect consumers, leading to high rates of chronic disease. The food system needs to be reformed to prioritize healthier and more sustainable options. The US allows thousands of chemicals in food that are banned in Europe, leading to worse health outcomes for Americans. The US has high rates of chronic diseases and obesity, with 60% of Americans living with at least one chronic disease and 80% being overweight. There is a strong connection between physical and mental health, and addressing physical health through food interventions can improve mental health. Food regulations and the food system play a significant role in the overall health of the population. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Acknowledgment 01:09 Guest Introduction: Justin Mares 03:25 Starting Kettle and Fire: Testing the Idea 08:16 The Benefits of Bone Broth 11:35 Creating Healthier Food Products 19:11 The Failures of Regulatory Bodies 23:33 Differences in Food Regulations: US vs. EU 30:42 High Rates of Chronic Diseases and Obesity in the US 41:42 The Connection Between Physical and Mental Health 46:24 The Impact of Food Regulations on Health CONNECT WITH JUSTIN Justin’s Substack: The Next | Justin Mares | Substack Twitter: Justin Mares (@jwmares) / X Kettle and Fire: https://www.kettleandfire.com/ Surely Non-Alcoholic Wines: https://www.drinksurely.com/ Perfect Keto: https://perfectketo.com/ Truemed: https://www.truemed.com/ RECS Book Rec: Formerly Known as Food Book Rec: The End of Craving Book Rec: Gangs of America 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 https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

I got the chance to chat with Andy Boenau today, who sometimes refers to himself as a Plangineer, with a background in urban planning and engineering.  We chat about the flaws in traffic engineering and the need for a different approach to the built environment.  Andy is passionate about questioning established norms and finding shared interests to drive positive change. He advocates for the need for critical thinking and curiosity in industries that often prioritize conformity.  TAKEAWAYS Traffic engineering often prioritizes efficiency and speed over the needs and well-being of communities. Questioning established norms and finding shared interests can lead to positive change in the built environment. Critical thinking and curiosity are essential in industries that tend to prioritize conformity. Reforming parking and zoning regulations can lead to more vibrant and diverse communities. Unhealthy infrastructure has negative consequences on physical and mental health. Creating a connected network of bike lanes is crucial for promoting cycling as a mode of transportation. Public opinion plays a significant role in shaping infrastructure decisions. There is a need for a shift in urban planning and design to prioritize human well-being. Andy Boenau is working on a documentary on healthy infrastructure and a book on public opinion. CHAPTERS 00:00 Rethinking Traffic Engineering 09:26 The Power of Social Media 35:02 Driving Positive Change 39:30 Creating Vibrant and Diverse Communities 39:59 The Impact of Unhealthy Infrastructure 45:15 Physical Health Consequences of Car Crashes 49:19 Trauma of Walking on Certain Streets 54:54 Dancing as a Mental Health Solution 01:05:51 Creating a Connected Network of Bike Lanes 01:12:06 Upcoming Projects: Documentary and Book CONNECT WITH ANDY Website & Blog: https://www.urbanismspeakeasy.com/ https://x.com/Boenau https://www.linkedin.com/in/boenau/ Documentary: White Collar Epidemic: Infrastructure Is Crumbling Our Minds & Bodies - Film and Storytelling | Seed&Spark (seedandspark.com) 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 https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell https://playbook.buildingculture.com/

Micah is the founder of Monumental Labs, one of the most exciting companies in the architecture and construction industry right now.  It blends humanistic values with tech – much like Apple did to revolutionize the computer industry in the 80’s. His company is building robotic stone carving factories to unleash a renaissance in art and architecture, using robots to create sculptures, architectural pieces, and more. The goal is to bring costs down, unleash creativity, empower people, and to once again build great architecture that will be standing in 500 years. You can see why I’m so excited to talk to him!  We at Building Culture will absolutely be partnering with him on upcoming projects. The use of robots and AI in stone carving raises philosophical and ethical implications, which we discuss.  It’s worth noting the company is working with artists, architects, and stone masons to create these works of art, and is actually bringing people, that is, humans, INTO the trade of stone carving, and creating entirely new forms of artwork not possible before. Enjoy! Takeaways • Monumental Labs is using robots and AI to revolutionize the art and architecture industry by automating the stone carving process. • The use of robots allows for the creation of highly ornate buildings and sculptures that would be too labor-intensive to create by hand. • The company works with artists, architects, and stone carvers, offering new possibilities for creativity and innovation. • While the use of robots and AI raises philosophical and ethical questions, it also opens up new avenues for artistic expression and pushes the boundaries of what is possible. Technology can help preserve traditional craftsmanship and keep the knowledge and skills of handcrafting alive. • Stone carving can provide more job opportunities for artists and allow them to develop their own art while making a living. • There is a debate between copying great works of art and creating original pieces, but both have their place in the art world. • Architecture gains meaning and value when it is thoughtful about its viewers and users, and when it gives back to the community. • The future of architecture may involve a return to building with stone, using AI and robotics to manufacture custom details and reduce costs. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Monumental Labs and the Use of Robots in Stone Carving 03:48 Automating the Stone Carving Process for Highly Ornate Buildings 06:14 Scaling Up and Making Stone Carving More Efficient 11:28 The Role of Hand Carving in Art and Architecture 23:13 Balancing Craftsmanship and Automation in Stone Carving 29:03 The Role of Artists as Inventors and Innovators 33:23 The Future of AI in Art and Architecture 35:16 Preserving Traditional Craftsmanship 38:09 The Debate: Copying vs Creating 41:23 The Meaning and Value of Architecture 56:12 The Future of Architecture: Building with Stone and AI CONNECT WITH MICAH Twitter: https://x.com/mspringut Twitter: https://x.com/Monumental_Labs Website: https://www.monumentallabs.co/ 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 https://www.instagram.com/austintunnell/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-tunnell-2a41894a/ https://twitter.com/AustinTunnell https://playbook.buildingculture.com/