In the last guest episode of the year, Katerina sits down with landscape architect and founder of Milliman Design Studio, Emily Milliman, for an inspiring conversation about creativity, entrepreneurship, and community. Emily shares how her journey into landscape architecture began with a deep love of art and design, and how she continues to weave those passions into her work today. Emily opens up about the importance of having a supportive community of solopreneurs and how networking through boards and local events has been key to building lasting client relationships. She discusses how balancing art and landscape architecture is an organic process and how the material she works with — nature itself — is living and ever-changing. The conversation also explores the realities of entrepreneurship: from diversifying income streams and maintaining transparency with clients to staying flexible and adaptable through change. Emily encourages aspiring designers to start building their personal brand early and to approach design with both short and long-term goals in mind. This episode is a thoughtful look at how creativity, connection, and adaptability shape not only our work but also the communities we grow within.

In this final episode of the Women in Architecture series, Katerina sits down with architect and Mentor Dino founder, Katelyn Rossier, about her journey over the past two years—both as a new mother and as an entrepreneur reshaping how mentorship and education show up in the architecture profession.  Katelyn shares her experiences launching Mentor Dino Academy in 2023, her vision for bridging knowledge gaps in the industry, and how podcasting has allowed her to connect with others and share career stories. Their conversation touches on the challenges of balancing family and work, the shift toward work-life integration, and the evolving landscape of architecture and changing workplace dynamics. She also reflects on the importance of investing time and resources wisely, cultivating strong support systems, and recognizing that interpersonal skills are just as essential as technical knowledge. This episode highlights how mentorship, community, and intentional career choices can create a more sustainable future in architecture.

In the third episode of the Women in Architecture series, Katerina sits down with multidisciplinary designer Faye Quadri about her journey over the past year and the lessons she’s learned about rest, self-care, and avoiding burnout in the demanding field of architecture.  Feyi reflects on past goals, the challenges she faced, and her decision to take a sabbatical to prioritize her well-being. Their conversation explores how stress can manifest physically and the strategies they both use to cope with professional pressures, including regular movement, time outdoors, and mindful breaks.  They also discuss the importance of self-compassion, listening to your body, and embracing the pace that supports personal and professional growth. This episode offers insight into how women in architecture can navigate the profession while honoring their health, setting boundaries, and making intentional choices to slow down and recharge.

In the second episode of the Women in Architecture series, Katerina sits down with architect and business owner Liz Sydnor about her journey navigating the second year of running her own business. Liz reflects on the growth and lessons she’s experienced, including the importance of letting go of certain roles to protect her well-being and the ongoing challenge of finding balance between work and personal life.  Their conversation highlights the power of networking as more than professional connections—it’s about building genuine community and support. Liz also shares insights from her upcoming book, which is designed to empower women in architecture by opening conversations around vulnerability, authenticity, and mental health in the profession.  Together, they discuss how authenticity creates stronger relationships, why consistency matters in networking, and how embracing the realities of the profession—from showing emotion in the workplace to architecture’s influence on all aspects of design—helps foster resilience and growth.

In the first episode of the Women in Architecture series, Katerina is joined by Shadia Jaramillo, a project architect and co-founder of AIA Florida Northwest Women in Architecture. Their conversation explores how architects can create balance between professional responsibilities and personal well-being.  Shadia shares her journey of career growth, the joy she finds in her work, and why gratitude is such an important daily practice. She opens up about the challenges of setting boundaries, the power of saying no, and how choosing quality over quantity—both in work and volunteering—leads to more meaningful outcomes.  Together, they reflect on the idea that architecture is a profession, not a hobby, and discuss how authenticity and connection shape stronger relationships in the field. This episode is a reminder that self-care and grace are essential for avoiding burnout, and that asking for help is not a weakness but a step toward collective success.

In this special anniversary episode of From the Honeycomb, join Katerina as she reflects on four years of podcasting—the whirlwind journey, lessons learned, and the creative outlet the podcast has become. She shares her gratitude for her business and listeners around the world, highlights the top five episodes, and looks back at the standout conversations that shaped this past year. Katerina also opens up about shifting from a strict schedule to focusing on quality over quantity, treating each episode more mindfully. With an eye on the future and excitement for what’s to come, she invites you to stay curious alongside her as the podcast continues to grow. Thank you for tuning in the last four years!

In this heartfelt and insightful episode, Katerina is joined by her husband Jesse for a behind-the-scenes look at life as an architect-contractor duo. Together, they reflect on recent growth in their businesses, express gratitude for personal and professional milestones, and answer listener questions. From discussing job stress and team expansion to sharing laughs during a light-hearted Q&A, Katerina and Jesse explore how their perspectives differ — and align — when it comes to the built environment. Whether you’re in the design field or simply curious about what it’s like to work (and live!) together in construction, this episode offers honest reflections, practical insights, and plenty of personality. Katerina shares her gratitude for the abundance of work and the ongoing growth of her business, while Jesse highlights his role as a general contractor and how he manages his projects. They discuss the varying stress levels of their jobs, the need for efficiency and delegation, and the importance of morale on construction sites. They also open up about the challenges and excitement of growing their teams and evolving as entrepreneurs. Tune in for laughs, lessons, and a unique dual-perspective on the construction industry.

In this heartwarming and insightful conversation, Katerina is joined by structural engineer Amy Maskal, known for her humorous perspective on the engineering profession. Together, they explore how humor can be a powerful connector in the workplace and on social media—especially in a field that often takes itself seriously. Amy shares her unique journey into engineering and how she carved a niche in bleacher and grandstand design. The conversation dives deep into the realities of balancing professional and personal life as Amy reflects on being engineer and mother. From the mental gymnastics of meal planning to how weather impacts what’s for dinner, they explore the small yet meaningful ways decision fatigue shows up in their daily routines. Faith, organization, and creativity emerge as central themes, especially when managing the mental load of work and family. Amy reflects on how real-world experience should play a more vital role in education, and how writing things down helps ease the mental burden. They also touch on the subtle art of collaboration between architects and engineers—and why understanding your worth matters when selecting clients. Whether you’re an engineer, architect, or creative juggling many hats, this episode is a reminder that humor, faith, and a little planning go a long way.

On this week’s episode, Katerina sits down with Diane Gatza, founder of California Maternity Leave Consulting, who shares her inspiring journey from civil engineer to passionate advocate for women navigating the complex world of maternity leave. Diane opens up about the health challenges that shaped her path, her transition into motherhood, and how those experiences ignited her mission to empower women with the knowledge they need to advocate for themselves. Their conversation explores the often confusing and inadequate maternity leave policies in the U.S. and discuss why planning ahead—particularly for business owners in California—is so crucial. Diane also breaks down common misconceptions, the onboarding process for maternity leave clients, and how different family planning paths, including surrogacy and same-sex couples, require individualized strategies. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone thinking about starting a family, already navigating maternity leave, or supporting someone who is. With over 3,000 women helped and a deep understanding of the evolving landscape of maternity benefits, Diane offers both practical guidance and a powerful reminder that knowledge is one of the most empowering tools we have.

In this inspiring conversation, architect and entrepreneur Phephe Rose shares her architectural journey and the bold moves that led her to launch her business, Brush Up Your Space. From a childhood love of drawing to navigating the challenges of architecture school, Phephe reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped her path.  She opens up about the realities of managing multiple ventures, the lessons she’s learned from property management to branding, and why trusting your instincts is a game-changer in business.  Phephe highlights the importance of mentorship, the power of building strong client relationships, and how to stay grounded through burnout and growth. Whether you’re just starting out or building your next big thing, this episode is a reminder to lead with passion, focus on what excites you, and embrace the journey.

In this episode, Katerina returns from a brief hiatus to share reflections on her evolving entrepreneurial journey. She opens up about recent shifts in the podcast, the current challenges within the architecture industry, and the personal growth that has come from stepping back. From navigating the economic slowdown in Q1 of 2025 to making difficult decisions in her business, Katerina shares a transparent look at what’s been happening behind the scenes. Taking a break from social media offered clarity and space to reevaluate her values, ultimately reaffirming her dedication to quality over quantity—both in her business and on the podcast. With fresh perspective and renewed energy, Katerina is excited to dive into the next chapter of From the Honeycomb, bringing you thoughtful conversations and inspiring guests along the way.

In this episode, Katerina sits down with Erin Fantozz, a designer whose expertise is shaped by her dual degrees in interior design and architecture. Erin shares the story of her journey in the design industry, from an early passion for creating spaces to the pivotal moments that led her to establish her own business. She reflects on the challenges she faced balancing the demands of a growing career with motherhood, shedding light on the pressures many women in architecture experience when striving for both professional and personal success.  Erin and Katerina discuss the evolution of the design profession and the shifts occurring in the industry today. Erin shares her experience transitioning from the corporate world to entrepreneurship, detailing the fears, risks, and rewards that came with the decision. They explore the importance of building a strong support network, the role of mentorship in guiding career growth, and why community and flexibility are becoming increasingly vital—particularly for women in architecture and design. Erin also offers valuable insights into the business side of architecture, from defining a niche to the importance of delegation in managing workload effectively.  The transition from corporate work to entrepreneurship is filled with uncertainty, but Erin’s journey demonstrates that with the right mindset, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace change, the challenges can lead to immense personal and professional growth. The conversation underscores the growing need for flexible work arrangements in the design industry, allowing professionals to shape careers that align with their lifestyle while continuing to make a meaningful impact.

On this week’s episode, Katerina welcomes Jodie Snyder, a registered Ayurvedic lifestyle and wellness coach, to share her inspiring journey into Ayurveda and the creation of Hina Hale, a tranquil sanctuary on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. Jodie reveals her path to self-healing, the value of structured routines, and the powerful role nature plays in the healing process. The conversation explores the deep connection between personal wellness and the natural world, the unique programs offered at Hina Hale, and the grounding energies of physical spaces. Jodie also opens up about the realities of entrepreneurship, from balancing passion with business demands to cultivating a healthy relationship with money. Together, Katerina and Jodie reflect on the power of gratitude in challenging times, the transformative impact of routine, and the ways sacred spaces in nature can elevate the healing journey. Tune in to uncover how sacred environments and community support can foster growth and how gratitude can bring peace even in the midst of life’s difficulties.

In this week’s episode, Katerina sits down with Amy Edwards, founder of Markedly, to explore the art of marketing for architects and designers. Amy offers advice on marketing effectively on a budget, building trust through valuable content, and setting clear business goals to guide your strategy. She highlights the importance of focusing on strategy over tactics, committing to long-term success, and creating meaningful content to engage clients. Amy also emphasizes the value of consistency in building trust and tailoring your efforts by understanding your target audience. She shares insights on measuring success through quality leads rather than follower counts, adapting to the ever-changing marketing landscape, and balancing online efforts with in-person networking. Together, they discuss how platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn can be leveraged for personal branding and the role of in-person events in creating a well-rounded marketing approach. Whether you’re looking to refine your strategy or take your marketing to the next level, this episode is packed with advice you won’t want to miss!

In this reflective episode, host Katerina opens up about the challenges she faced in 2024 and her journey toward slowing down in 2025. After experiencing burnout, Katerina shares her decision to take a hiatus from the podcast, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing mental health and self-care. With her word for the year, slow down, she explores how setting boundaries and focusing on personal growth have shaped her goals for the year ahead. Throughout the episode, she shares the empowering nature of saying no, the value of gratitude, and the importance of focusing on what truly fulfills and excites her. Tune in as Katerina expresses gratitude for her experiences, discusses lessons learned, and offers a glimpse into her plans for the future.

In the final episode of 2024, Jesse and Katerina look back on their entrepreneurial journeys over the past year. With Jesse’s word of the year, “build,” and Katerina’s, “create,” as guiding themes, they share how these intentions shaped their professional growth. Together they dive into why they both feel rooted in residential construction, highlighting the unique challenges and rewards of the field. Jesse opens up about the demanding administrative side of running a construction company, the realities of insurance needs, and how growing up in a construction family didn’t make success any easier. Katerina reflects on the financial and time-management shifts she’s navigated as a business owner and the dedication it takes to thrive. Together, they explore the hard truths of entrepreneurship: success doesn’t happen overnight, and building something meaningful requires consistent effort and resilience. This candid discussion is a reminder of the dedication behind the scenes of every thriving business.

In this candid solo episode, Katerina takes you behind the scenes to reflect on the final stretch of the year and share her journey through Q4. With no script and plenty to vent about, she opens up about unexpected twists in her business and personal life, offering an honest look at the lessons learned going into her second year as a business owner—lessons that have been even more eye-opening than the first. Katerina revisits her word of the year, create, and explores how its meaning has evolved. From crafting tangible products to building a community and embracing abundance, she reflects on the impact of her creative endeavors. She also celebrates the flexibility her business has afforded her to prioritize family and cherish life’s meaningful moments. Tune in for a heartfelt discussion on navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, projecting workload with experience, and finding gratitude amidst it all.

In this entrepreneurial episode, Katerina is joined by architect and firm owner Kelsey, founder of Portica Architecture, as she takes us through her inspiring path from aspiring architect to successful business owner. Kelsey shares how her love for both sketching and technical details led her to architecture and how she was fortunate to gain invaluable early experience in a supportive firm that encouraged her to get licensed. Despite the challenging ARE journey, with its share of setbacks, Kelsey’s determination never wavered. Kelsey shares how she made the transition to firm ownership, including the moment when she knew it was time to start her own practice. With her husband’s expertise as a CPA, Kelsey navigated the financial side of business, laying a strong foundation by collaborating with her lawyer and accountant. She also reveals the story behind her firm’s name, Portico, and the intentionality behind her brand identity. Together, Kelsey and Katerina discuss the ins and outs of those early months of firm ownership, from securing the first client and building a portfolio to the strategies for competing with larger firms. They also explore the challenges and rewards of putting together proposals, negotiating with clients, and finding confidence as we advocate for ourselves and our businesses. Perfect for aspiring firm owners, this episode is packed with lessons and insights on what it takes to launch and grow a successful architecture firm.

In this week’s episode Katerina is joined by I’m joined by Lizi Raar, Jessica Rogers, and Norgerie Rivas, the hosts of the She Builds Podcast. Together, they dive into the stories and inspiration behind their podcast, where they highlight the legacy and contributions of women in architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC). The trio shares the joy and impact of creating content that motivates and connects with listeners while empowering women in the industry. They reveal how they choose which female architects and pioneers to spotlight, their unique approach to researching and structuring each season, and the collaborative way they divide roles and responsibilities to bring every episode to life. Listen in as Lizi, Jessica, and Norgerie open up about what it’s like to be women in AEC, often the only women in the room, and the inspiration they’ve gained from uncovering these stories. And get an inside look at what goes into producing each episode and hear heartwarming moments of meeting listeners who’ve been touched by their work. This episode celebrates the power of sharing women’s stories and building a stronger, more connected community in AEC.

In this week’s episode, licensed therapist and coach Katy Bandy returns as a guest to share reflections from her first year as an entrepreneur. She discusses her journey from a 9-to-5 role to building a business where she empowers high-achieving women through her coaching programs. Katy opens up about the risks she took, health challenges she faced, and a shift in her approach to social media, all within her first year of entrepreneurship. Initially, she expected social platforms to be her main income source but discovered a better way to use it that aligns with her values. Katerina and Katy explore the impact of social media on their businesses, weighing time investment and effective strategies they’ve both adopted as entrepreneurs. Katy also shares how stepping back from social media gave her room to expand in other areas and the flexibility to balance work with self-care and her personal life. She highlights the highs of entrepreneurship, staying motivated, and the different approaches she’s found for marketing her therapy practice and coaching programs.  Tune in to hear about the financial realities of running a business and the importance of building client trust—and the triumphs and challenges of life as a business owner.