Architecture Business Club with Jon Clayton

Jon Clayton delivers a brief special episode to thank listeners for their support. He shares notable statistics from 2025, including the release of 52 episodes, the 100th episode celebration in September, and record downloads in October. He also recounts the top three episodes of the year based on download numbers, highlighting listener favourites. Jon encourages you to take a break from the podcast to enjoy the festive season.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction and Holiday Greetings00:35 Podcast Achievements and Milestones01:29 Top Episodes of 202502:57 Future Plans and Guest Invitations03:54 Holiday Sign-Off and Advice—Key TakeawaysKeep Going, Even When It’s HardIf you keep working on something, like making a podcast every week, you can reach big goals. You might even do better than most people if you don’t give up.People Like to Hear Real StoriesWhen you share true stories about your life or work, others want to listen. You can help people by telling them what you have learned and what you have gone through.Take Time for Family and FriendsIt’s good to stop working sometimes and spend time with people you care about. You should enjoy special days, like Christmas, with your family and friends.—Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.—Next EpisodeTune in next week for a New Year's episode previewing 2026.

Want to streamline your least favourite tasks? In this episode of Architecture Business Club, host Jon Clayton explores innovative ways to leverage AI for automating routine and time-consuming tasks in architecture. Joined by Bryon McCartney, CEO of Archmark, the discussion covers identifying tasks AI can optimise, the Teach framework for deciding what to automate, and practical tips for training AI to match your unique tone. Bryon shares insights on creating efficient workflows using AI, recounts his experiences enhancing his agency's profitability through AI integration, and underscores the importance of starting small for those new to AI. Additionally, the episode details Bryon's approach to building an AI-powered advisory board and a successful workshop using AI tools, emphasising the role of AI in freeing up time for creative and strategic work.Today’s GuestToday's guest is Bryon McCartney, CEO of Archmark, a leading business coaching, branding, and marketing firm working exclusively with architecture firms. Bryon has more than 35 years of experience and has led digital marketing initiatives for Calvin Klein, General Motors Europe, Lipton Foods, and many others. He has founded and led six successful creative service firms since 2002 and has helped more than 5,000 architects transform their practices. He's the only Business Made Simple, Small Business Flight School, and StoryBrand certified coach serving the architecture industry, and he's on a mission to help 10,000 firm leaders by 2030.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction: Tackling Your To-Do List with AI00:47 Welcome to Architecture Business Club01:06 Meet Bryon McCartney: Transforming Architecture Firms01:51 The Power of AI in Architecture05:42 Identifying Tasks for AI Automation06:04 Streamlining Meeting Notes and Emails with AI11:20 The TEACH Framework for AI Automation14:37 Treating AI Like a Summer Intern20:17 Balancing Instructions for AI21:14 Five-Step Formula for Writing AI Prompts22:59 Creating a Blog Post with AI24:39 Structuring Your AI Prompts25:15 Avoiding Common AI Pitfalls26:11 AI's Impact on Agency Profitability26:32 Early Experiences with AI27:13 Adopting AI Tools in Business28:07 Streamlining Client Onboarding with AI29:54 AI-Powered Workshops and Presentations31:29 Efficiency Gains and Profitability Boost31:49 Using AI in Podcast Production32:40 Building an AI Advisory Board35:38 Getting Started with AI39:10 Choosing the Right AI Tools41:00 Creating AI-Powered Workshops46:05 Final Thoughts on AI Integration50:15 Connecting with Bryon McCartney—Key TakeawaysView AI as a powerful tool to free up your time by automating repetitive and routine tasks. By letting AI handle admin, meeting notes, and standard email responses, you can focus more on creative and strategic work that you truly enjoy.You need to approach AI like you would a summer intern: provide clear instructions, context, and feedback. AI is not a magic solution; it requires you to define what a good result looks like and to iterate, refining your prompts and expectations as you go.You will benefit most from AI if you start small, choosing tasks you know well and can clearly explain. As you build confidence, you can gradually integrate AI into more areas of your work and life, ultimately gaining a competitive edge and improving your efficiency.—Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢Connect with Bryon McCartney on LinkedIn 🤝Learn more about our guest’s services 🖥️Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.—Next EpisodeNext time Jon chats with Louise Miller about productivity.

Jon discusses the importance of personal branding with expert Christine Gritmon. Christine breaks down what personal branding is, why it matters, especially for solopreneurs and small business owners, and shares her five-part Inside Out personal branding methodology: Purpose, Passion, Person, Personality, and Personal Brand. The conversation delves into the significance of authenticity, how to make a memorable impression, and offers practical exercises for identifying and leveraging your unique gifts. The episode concludes with actionable tips for starting to develop an authentic personal brand today.Today’s GuestWe’re joined by Christine Gritmon - Christine reconnects solopreneurs, freelancers, and small business owners with their purpose and passions for a more aligned personal brand that’s joyful, authentic, and impossible to ignore! She’s spoken on stages worldwide and is a frequent expert guest on podcasts, live streams, chats, and blog posts, as well as hosting her own podcast, Let’s Talk About Brand.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction00:42 Meet Christine Gritmon01:15 What really is Personal Branding?02:03 Personal Branding Misconceptions04:11 Why Personal Branding Matters So Much05:40 Building Trust Through Branding06:13 The Power of Authenticity11:44 The Inside Out Branding Framework12:05 Purpose and Passion15:25 Identifying Your Gifts20:42 How You Show Up In The World21:57 The Role of Personality23:50 Expanding Your Personal Brand24:38 Jon's Gift28:24 Leading with Your Gifts29:35 Christine's Personal Branding Evolution30:30 The Flexibility of Personal Branding31:15 Embracing Your Unique Gifts32:22 Final Takeaways on Personal Branding32:52 Connecting with Christine Gritmon—Key TakeawaysBe authentic and true to yourselfYour personal brand should come from who you really are, not from trying to fit into someone else’s idea of success. When you show your true self, people are more likely to trust you and remember you.Lead with your unique giftsEveryone has something special to offer. Focus on the skills and qualities that make you different, and use them in your work. This not only helps you stand out, but also makes your brand flexible if you change direction in the future.Your personal brand goes further than you doA strong personal brand can open doors and create opportunities, even when you are not in the room. The impression you leave with others can travel far, helping your reputation and bringing new connections your way.—Subscribe on YouTube (for upcoming video episodes!) 📺Send a Voicemail to the show (we listen to every message!) 📢Click here to connect with Christine on LinkedIn 🤝Click here to learn more about Christine Gritmon 🖥️Ready to start podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.—Next EpisodeNext time Jon chats with Louise Brogan about getting more from your LinkedIn company page.

Jon is joined by Natalie Doremieux, a membership and tech strategist with over 10 years of experience. They delve into the numerous benefits of podcast guesting for business growth. Natalie shares her expertise on why podcast guest appearances are valuable, the importance of having a podcast guesting strategy, and how to find the right podcasts to guest on. Listeners will also learn effective strategies to repurpose guest appearances for maximum value. Additionally, they discuss building trust, connecting with the audience, and crafting a compelling narrative to achieve business objectives. Tune in to discover how you can leverage podcast guesting to enhance visibility, build trust, and align with your business goals.Today’s GuestNathalie Dorémieux is a membership and tech strategist with over 10 years experience helping coaches and course creators design high-retention programs that drive real results. In 2025, she co-created Podcast LeadFlow, a tool that turns podcast episodes into high-quality lead magnets using smart automations and AI. Nathalie’s work blends strategy, tech, and a human-first approach - with a dash of French flair.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction to Podcast Guesting00:30 Welcome to Architecture Business Club00:49 Meet Natalie Doremieux01:40 Why Be a Podcast Guest?03:02 Building Trust Through Podcasting04:05 The Importance of a Podcast Guesting Strategy07:15 Defining Your Podcast Guest Strategy08:30 Connecting with Your Audience10:32 Finding the Right Podcasts To Guest On15:29 The Power of Networking16:03 Researching Podcast Guest Opportunities16:35 Making a Good Impression as a Podcast Guest19:56 Crafting Your Message as a Podcast Guest23:31 Sharing Your Unique Approach as a Podcast Guest28:40 Leveraging Podcast Appearances31:38 Repurposing Podcast Content35:13 The Value of Podcasting36:59 Getting Started with Podcasting38:49 Commitment and Podcast Seasons40:28 Final Thoughts and Connection—Key TakeawaysHaving a clear podcast guesting strategy is essential for aligning your appearances with your business goals and reaching your ideal audience.Building trust and authentic connections through podcast guesting is far more effective than simply promoting your expertise; sharing your story and values helps you stand out.The value of podcast guesting extends beyond the interview itself—repurposing your appearances and treating them as lead-generating assets can significantly boost your business growth.—Click here to take your next step after listening 🖥️Click here to connect with Nathalie 🤝Ready to start podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

Jon welcomes Daniel Patterson, an experienced business growth strategist, to discuss smart strategies for doubling profit without hiring more staff or increasing marketing expenses. They explore the pitfalls of trying to please everyone, the importance of discussing money early on, and effective pricing strategies. Daniel shares his insights on reducing overhead by optimising team roles and asks the critical question of knowing who your dream client is. Tune in to uncover practical tips and transformative strategies to enhance profitability in your architecture practice.Today’s GuestDaniel Patterson is a former RIBA Part 1 with nearly two decades of experience helping businesses grow and scale. He is the founder of Masterplan.pro and branding agency Highly, and has worked with the RIBA and RSAW to deliver CPD training on business and marketing strategy. Daniel is also the creator of The Architect’s Masterplan™, a 12-month growth system for architects who want to escape the tender trap and run highly profitable, sought-after practices.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction00:37 Meet Daniel Patterson01:57 Daniel's Personal Interests03:20 The Profitability Challenge in Architecture09:20 Understanding the Value of Money in Architecture23:33 Strategies to Double Your Profit32:10 Maximising Profit Through Fractional Support34:33 The Power of Asking for Referrals37:13 Effective Pricing Strategies for Architects43:10 Identifying and Fixing Profit Leaks44:42 Real-Life Success Stories48:04 Practical Tips for Immediate Profit Improvement51:40 Overcoming the Fear of Failure57:16 Exploring the World: Travel Stories59:08 Final Thoughts and How to Connect—Key TakeawaysKnow Your Best Clients and Say No SometimesYou do not have to please everyone. When you try to make everyone happy, your best clients may not feel special. It is better to know who you really want to work with and focus on them. If someone is not a good fit, it is okay to say no.Talk About Money EarlyDo not be afraid to talk about money with your clients. If you talk about price at the start, you save time for both you and your client. This helps you find out quickly if you are a good match. It also stops you from working for less than you should.Ask for Referrals and Show Your ValueIf you do a good job, ask your clients if they know anyone else who might need your help. This is a simple way to find new work. Also, show your clients the value you bring, not just your price. When people see your value, they are happy to pay more.—Click here to connect with Daniel Patterson 🤝Click here to learn how much profit you are missing out on each year 🖥️Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.—Next EpisodeNext time, Jon is joined by Nicla Diceglie, who shares her career journey to Bold Biophilic Design.

Jon welcomes David Drazil, an architect, author, and creator of 'Sketch like an Architect.' They discuss how technology has overshadowed and nearly replaced the craft of architectural sketching in schools, leading to a decline in this essential skill among young professionals. David shares insights from his journey and mission to revive this art form, drawing on his experiences in Denmark and his global platform, which has helped thousands master architectural sketching. He highlights the cognitive benefits of sketching, from aiding in problem-solving and brainstorming to enhancing client interactions. They also discuss the advantages of using both traditional and digital sketching methods, and share success stories from students and professionals who have benefited from David's teachings. The episode underscores sketching as a universal, learnable language that enriches both the creative process and business communication in architecture.—Today’s GuestDavid Drazil is an architect, author, and creator of Sketch Like An Architect, a global platform helping architects and designers build confident drawing skills through a clear step-by-step method. Originally from the Czech Republic, David studied architecture in Denmark, where he noticed a big gap: sketching was expected, but rarely taught. That insight sparked a mission that’s grown into a worldwide movement — with over 300,000 followers, 15,000 students in his online courses, and three popular books. Today, David empowers creatives to communicate their ideas visually with clarity and confidence.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction00:45 Meet David Drazil: Architect and Sketching Advocate01:45 David's Personal Interests and Background03:56 The Importance of Sketching in Modern Architecture06:59 Personal Benefits and Practical Applications of Sketching13:26 Sketching as a Differentiator in Client Interactions23:11 Success Stories and Testimonials27:37 Final Thoughts on Sketching and Technology30:54 David's Favourite Places and Conclusion—Key TakeawaysSketching is a Timeless Skill That Sets You ApartYou learn that, even in an age dominated by digital tools and AI, the ability to sketch by hand remains a powerful differentiator. Sketching helps you communicate ideas quickly, build trust with clients, and stand out in interviews or meetings. It’s not about being perfect—it’s about being able to think and express visually in the moment.Anyone Can Learn to Sketch - It’s Not About TalentYou discover that sketching isn’t a gift reserved for the naturally talented. It’s a learnable skill that you can develop with practice. By embracing sketching, you open up new ways to brainstorm, solve problems, and engage with others, regardless of your starting point.Sketching Fosters Human Connection and CollaborationYou realise that sketching is more than just a technical skill; it’s a tool for collaboration and dialogue. When you sketch in front of others, you invite them into the creative process, encourage feedback, and create a shared understanding. This approach not only speeds up decision-making but also makes your work more engaging and client-focused.—Click here to connect with David Drazil 🤝Click here to learn more about Sketch Like An Architect 🖥️Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.

Jon welcomes William Ringsdorf, founder of William Ringsdorf Consulting, who shares insights on how architecture firms can master profitability and process. William explains that most pricing issues stem from a failure to clearly communicate value and set proper boundaries. He discusses the systemic problem of undervaluing expertise in the field, highlights the importance of knowing one's numbers, and suggests implementing tiered service proposals to offer clear value to clients. William also offers practical steps for architects to increase their fees and improve profitability while reducing scope creep and burnout. He stresses the need for tracking data and continuous improvement in business practices.—Today’s GuestWilliam Ringsdorf is the founder of William Ringsdorf Consulting. He helps architecture firms master profitability, process, and purpose, turning chaos into clarity so you can design with freedom and confidence. Drawing on three decades of UK and German project experience, his coaching blends practical systems with architectural insight. This work is part of Into The Nest, an award-winning sustainable practice, giving his guidance credibility and a live design context.—Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction00:28 Meet William Ringsdorf03:08 The Issue of Undervaluing Expertise05:52 Understanding the Systemic Problem12:22 5 Steps to Fix Undervaluing Your Expertise19:59 Success Stories and Practical Examples23:33 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways27:35 Closing Remarks and Contact Information—Key TakeawaysDo a Value Audit and Communicate Your Worth ClearlyStart by taking a close look at all the ways you help your clients. This means thinking about how you reduce risks, save time and money, and create certainty for them. Once you understand your value, make sure you talk about it openly with your clients. Don’t just focus on the hours you work or the tasks you do - explain the real benefits and outcomes you deliver. When clients see the value you bring, they are less likely to argue about price.Know Your Numbers and Set BoundariesIt’s important to know exactly what you need to charge to cover your costs, pay yourself fairly, and make a profit. Work out your effective hourly rate based on real projects, including all your overheads. Then, set clear boundaries in your proposals. Offer different service tiers (like basic, standard, and premium) so clients can choose what suits them, but always be clear about what is included in each option. This helps avoid “scope creep” where you end up doing extra work for free.Be Confident - Raise Your Fees and Practise Sales ConversationsDon’t be afraid to increase your fees. Try adding 10–15% (or even 20%) to your next proposal. Most clients will accept this if you have explained your value well. Practise having fee conversations and handling objections, even if it feels uncomfortable at first. The more you practise, the more confident you will become. Remember, you are worth it, and charging what you deserve helps you run a better, more sustainable business.—Liked our guest? Click here to learn more about them 🤝Click here to grab a free copy of William’s e-book 🖥️Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝Want more freedom? Grab the Architecture Business Blueprint 🎁Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝—👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.—Next EpisodeNext time, Jon chats with Kevin Kennon about the concept of Distributive Practice.

Jon shares practical advice on how to manage when life throws unexpected challenges your way. He discusses the importance of prioritising essential tasks, surrounding yourself with positive people, celebrating small wins, and the value of taking a break when needed. Throughout the episode, Jon draws on his recent personal experiences and offers tips on how to maintain balance and well-being during difficult times. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, these insights will help you navigate tough seasons and continue to find success and fulfilment in your architecture business.Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction00:43 Personal Challenges and Coping Strategies01:27 Pause Non-Essentials02:57 Low-Energy Tasks04:18 Spending Time with Lifter Uppers05:51 Finding the Good Stuff06:40 Celebrate Small Wins07:46 Taking Time Off08:33 Be Kind to Yourself09:29 Conclusion and Next Episode TeaserKey TakeawaysPrioritise Essentials and Allow Yourself to PauseWhen facing tough times, focus on what is truly essential in your business and life. It is perfectly acceptable to pause or drop non-essential tasks, lightening your load until you feel ready to pick them up again.Seek Support and Celebrate Small WinsSpend time with supportive people - your “lifter uppers” - who can help boost your spirits. Also, remember to celebrate your achievements, no matter how small, as these moments of progress are important for maintaining motivation.Be Kind to Yourself and Take Breaks When NeededPractise self-compassion and look after your own wellbeing. If you need to take time off, do so without guilt. Tough seasons don’t last forever, and it’s important to take care of yourself to get through them.Curious about podcasting? Click here to book a chat with Jon 🎧Want to meet people like you? Click here to join our community 🤝Follow or Connect with Jon on LinkedIn 🤝👇 And if you enjoyed this episode…Please leave a 5-star review or rating wherever you listen to podcasts, and don’t forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode.Next EpisodeNext time, it’s our 100th episode - so I’ve put together something special, with a little help from some friends of the show.