In this conversation, Kevin Kennon, reflects on his experiences surrounding the events of 9/11, particularly his involvement in the Ground Zero viewing platform and the subsequent World Trade Center competition. We discusses the emotional impact of architecture, the importance of community and collaboration in design, and the lessons learned from revitalizing Lower Manhattan. Kennon emphasizes the need for architects to articulate their vision and the role of travel in enhancing one's understanding of the built environment. He concludes with thoughts on the future of architecture and the importance of fostering a sense of hope and connection through design.
Links:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinkennonarchitect/
https://www.kdcaia.com/
Chapters
00:00 Ground Zero: A Catalyst for Change
07:47 The Power of Architecture in Crisis
15:05 Collaboration and Competition: Redesigning the World Trade Center
23:55 Revitalization: Lessons from Lower Manhattan
31:10 The Future of Architecture: Optimism and Collaboration
Why do some cities thrive while others slide into decline? Alex Yuen and Libo Li break down the Four Horsemen of Urban Decline - which include the Disease of Me, Construction Constipation, High Capital Contrast, and Identity Crisis. From San Francisco’s stalled growth to Tokyo’s adaptability and New York’s relentless appetite for change, this conversation reveals the hidden dynamics that decide whether a city stagnates or reinvents itself. Clear, provocative, and grounded in real-world examples, it’s a framework for seeing your city with new eyes.
Check out Alex's full article here:https://www.dusttodensity.com/p/the-four-horsemen-of-urban-decline
Subscribe to Most Podern on:
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3zYvX2lRZOpHcZW41WGVrpApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/most-podern-podcast/id1725756164Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@MostPodernInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/most.podernLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/most-podern
Chapters
00:00 Understanding the Four Horsemen of Urban Decline
04:10 San Francisco: A Case Study of Urban Decline
09:39 Mismanagement and Its Impact on Urban Environments
12:29 Cities That Are Thriving: Lessons from Asia
14:41 Empowering Citizens to Improve Their Cities
18:29 The Role of Leadership in Urban Identity
20:27 Applying the Framework Beyond Urban Areas
21:41 The Dangers of Overbuilding: Lessons from China
23:06 Recommendations for New Urban Leaders
25:54 Optimism for the Future of Cities
27:08 The Digital vs. Physical Urban Experience
29:10 The Future of Urban Decline: A Historical Perspective
Keywords
urban decline, Four Horsemen of Urban Decline, San Francisco urban crisis, why cities fail, construction delays, permitting reform, housing crisis, inequality in cities, capital contrast, city identity crisis, urban design podcast, built environment, urban development, architecture and cities, density and growth, future of cities, urban policy, city planning challenges, how to fix cities, urban renewal, Most Podern Podcast
Why do American neighborhoods so often look the same, filled with “five-over-one” apartments or endless rows of wood-framed houses? In Part II of our conversation, architect Jeana Ripple—author of The Type V City and Chair of Architecture at the University of Virginia—explains how Type V construction and building codes interact with zoning, finance, and policy to shape entire cities. From Chicago’s fire-driven codes to Seattle’s tolerance of replacement, Ripple shows how materials influence affordability, aesthetics, politics, and even community health. This conversation reveals how hidden regulations quietly dictate the look, feel, and risks of American urban life.Jeana Ripple is the Chair of the Department of Architecture and the Vincent and Eleanor Shea Professor at the University of Virginia. A registered architect, she is principal and co-founder of the collaborative architecture firm, Mir Collective.LinksJeana Ripple - https://www.arch.virginia.edu/people/jeana-rippleMir Collective - https://mircollective.com/Purchase the BookUT Press: The Type V City: Codifying Material Inequity in Urban America - https://utpress.utexas.edu/9781477331620/Amazon: The Type V City: Codifying Material Inequity in Urban America - https://a.co/d/cUzKkySSubscribe to Most Podern on:Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3zYvX2lRZOpHcZW41WGVrpApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/most-podern-podcast/id1725756164Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@MostPodernInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/most.podernLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/most-podernKeywordsType V construction, The Type V City, Jeana Ripple, American housing, Why U.S. cities look the same, Five over one buildings, Wood frame construction, U.S. building codes, Zoning vs building code, Architecture podcast, Housing affordability, Sustainable building materials, Urban design and policy, Multifamily housing design, Mid-rise apartment design, Housing crisis America, Cookie cutter housing, Mass timber construction, History of U.S. housing, Building codes explained, Real estate development podcast, Neighborhood design patterns, Wood vs concrete housing, Urban resilience, Affordable housing policy, City planning podcastChapters00:00 Introduction to Type 5 Construction00:37 Future Directions for Type 5 Construction06:32 Understanding Community Engagement and Zoning10:00 The Impact of Building Codes on Urban Development14:37 The Relationship Between Building Codes and Zoning17:20 Global Perspectives on Building Materials and Practices20:13 Sustainability and Materiality in Housing Policy25:07 Aesthetics and Cultural Preferences in Urban Design29:36 Challenges in Affordable Housing Development33:32 The Role of Community in Shaping Building Regulations38:10 Future Perspectives on Building Codes and Community Needs
Why are nearly all American homes built out of wood when most of the world uses brick, steel, or concrete? In Part I of our conversation Architect Jeana Ripple, author of The Type V City, explains how the U.S.’s reliance on light wood framing—known as Type V construction—became the national default. She breaks down the benefits (affordability, flexibility, sustainability) and the hidden risks (mold, storm damage, limited adaptability) that slowly shape the country’s homes, neighborhoods, cities, and built environment. This conversation reveals how building codes and materials influence urban life far more than most of us realize.
Jeana Ripple is the Chair of the Department of Architecture and the Vincent and Eleanor Shea Professor at the University of Virginia. A registered architect, she is principal and co-founder of the collaborative architecture firm, Mir Collective.
LinksJeana Ripple - https://www.arch.virginia.edu/people/jeana-ripple
Mir Collective - https://mircollective.com/
Purchase the BookUT Press: The Type V City: Codifying Material Inequity in Urban America - https://utpress.utexas.edu/9781477331620/
Amazon: The Type V City: Codifying Material Inequity in Urban America - https://a.co/d/cUzKkyS
Subscribe to Most Podern on:
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3zYvX2lRZOpHcZW41WGVrpApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/most-podern-podcast/id1725756164Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@MostPodernInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/most.podernLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/most-podern
Keywords
Type V construction, The Type V City, Jeana Ripple, American housing, Wood frame construction, U.S. building codes, Urban design, Architecture podcast, Why U.S. houses are wood, Building codes explained, Wood vs concrete housing, Mass timber, Multifamily housing design, Housing crisis America, Home maintenance mold, Sustainable building materials
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Type 5 Construction
01:32 Understanding Type 5 and Its Global Context
05:11 The Dominance of Type 5 in the U.S.
07:58 The Evolution of Wood Frame Construction
11:41 Maintenance and Vulnerabilities of Type 5 Buildings
15:44 Consumer Awareness and Decision-Making
19:10 The Role of Policy in Building Codes
22:43 The Impact of Interest Groups on Building Regulations
25:59 Future Directions for Type 5 Construction
In this conversation, Alex Yuen and Libo discuss the importance of architects learning to code, exploring how coding can enhance creativity, efficiency, and control in architectural design. They delve into Libo's personal journey into coding, the impact of technology on architectural practice, and the future implications for the built environment. The discussion emphasizes the need for architects to embrace technology to improve their work and the overall quality of architecture.
Takeaways
Chapters:
00:00 The Need for Architects to Learn Coding
09:45 Personal Journey into Coding
19:13 The Impact of Coding on Architectural Practice
24:09 Future of Architecture and Technology
What if a pool could clean a river—and a building could rewrite culture? Would you swim in the East River? What does “local” look like when it doesn’t mimic the block around it?
Architect Dong-Ping Wang (FOOD Architects)—who’s collaborated with Kanye West and Virgil Abloh—breaks down architecture as a cultural engine, from hyperlocal listening to rapid, messy sketching that invites feedback fast. He shares a Barbados culinary design studio with Pierre Seurat (Ghetto Gastro), why WhatsApp-level intimacy with clients beats sterile presentations, and how a tiny 6–8 person team caps projects to stay deeply hands-on.
We dive into PLUS POOL: the plus-shaped, river-filtering pool that turned a single rendering, a patent, and a site into a movement—and why the biggest risk isn’t tech, it’s convincing New Yorkers to jump in. DPW also opens up about shaping an Asian-American architectural language, rethinking practice as an “architectural production studio,” and the simplest way to read a space: look up at the ceiling.
https://www.instagram.com/dongpingwong/
https://www.instagram.com/foodmahjongclub/
00:00 The Importance of Local Culture in Architecture02:02 Navigating Client Relationships and Intimacy05:27 Architecture as a Cultural Vehicle06:49 Fluidity in Architectural Practice09:09 Working with Creative Clients10:21 Scaling Intimacy in Architecture12:28 The Architectural Production Studio Model16:04 The Plus Pool Project: Origins and Development24:25 The Power of Packaging in Architecture27:40 Local Context and Cultural Identity30:34 Post-Occupancy Analysis and Success Metrics32:58 Exploring Scales of Architectural Practice37:02 Cultural Identity and Architectural Expression39:43 Lessons from Other Creative Fields45:36 Cultural Shifts and Future Perspectives
What happens when cities expand into fire-prone landscapes—and what can we do about it? Jonah Susskind, Director of Climate Strategy at SWA, unpacks the overlooked realities of wildfire risk, why most modern cities are spreading in all the wrong directions, and how smart design can turn parks, neighborhoods, and planning policies into climate-resilient systems. From the “wildland-urban interface” to shelter-in-place strategies, this conversation blends environmental science, urban planning, and design thinking to illuminate the future of where and how we live.
Subscribe to Most Podern on:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3zYvX2lRZOpHcZW41WGVrpApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/most-podern-podcast/id1725756164YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MostPodernInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/most.podernLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/most-podern
Links & References
Jonah Susskind - https://www.swagroup.com/principals/jonah-susskind/SWA Group - https://www.swagroup.com/Playbook for the Pyroscene (Free PDF) - https://www.swagroup.com/ideas/playbook-for-the-pyroscene
Chapters
0:00 – Intro: Urban Futures in a Burning World
2:11 – What Is a Landscape Urbanist?
5:24 – Why “Natural Disasters” Aren’t Natural Anymore
8:16 – What Is Wildfire, Really?13:20 – Smoke, Soil, and the Carbon Cost
13:44 – Designing for Fire: Myths and Realities
16:10 – Lessons from Australia and the U.S.18:26 – Who’s Responsible at the Edge?
19:30 – What Homeowners Need to Know
21:54 – Policy, Enforcement, and the Zone Zero Debate
25:36 – Why We Need Local, Nuanced Research30:56 – Rethinking the Wildland-Urban Interface
33:10 – The WUI: Conflict, Desire, and Inequality
37:12 – Building Pragmatic, Resilient Communities
39:07 – Why East Coast Listeners Should Care Too
42:35 – This Moment: On the Precipice
44:12 – Where to Learn More
Keywords
wildfire resilience, built environment, suburbanization, urbanism, architecture, landscape architecture, design, urban planning, climate adaptation, landscape urbanism, wildland-urban interface, Jonah Susskind, SWA Group, climate strategy, suburban development, wildfire design, zone California, fireproof cities, smoke exposure effects, urban development
What if the secret to a better life wasn’t a bigger house or higher salary, but simply living closer to your friends? Phil Levin, co-founder of Live Near Friends, reveals how proximity can drastically increase happiness, cut housing costs, and reshape how we think about community. From building a 10-home campus in Oakland to redefining what “neighbor” really means, we explore how small shifts in where—and who—you live near can change everything.
Subscribe to Most Podern on:
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3zYvX2lRZOpHcZW41WGVrpApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/most-podern-podcast/id1725756164Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@MostPodernInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/most.podernLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/most-podern
Keywords
community, co-living, housing, quality of life, social connections, urban living, real estate, friendship, shared spaces, neighborhood design, built environment
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Crocs Distance and Its Importance00:40 Building a Community: Life at Radish01:56 The Cadence of Living Near Friends04:03 The Science of Happiness and Friendship06:33 The Pandemic's Impact on Co-Living Trends08:58 Barriers to Living Near Friends11:07 Live Near Friends: The Enterprise13:29 Target Demographics for Co-Living15:48 The Difference Between Co-Living and Living Near Friends18:19 Cultural Context of Living Near Friends20:32 Sharing Spaces: What Works and What Doesn't22:14 The Joy of Shared Living24:28 Navigating the Home Search Process27:26 Flexibility in Living Arrangements28:18 Rethinking Urban Design for Community39:32 The Dizziness of Freedom and Community Anchors
Links
Phil Levin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/phillevin/
Live Near Friends – https://www.livenearfriends.com
Radish – https://radishoakland.com/
Supernuclear (Blog + Substack) – https://supernuclear.substack.com
Framingham Heart Study – https://www.framinghamheartstudy.org
Culdesac (Car-Free Community) – https://culdesac.com
What if plumbers and HVAC techs are America’s newest millionaires—and the secret heroes of our economy? Why is fixing your sink so expensive, and how is the skilled trades shortage reshaping everything from infrastructure to green energy? Could these hands-on careers actually be more future-proof—and profitable—than a traditional college degree?
Dive into a revealing conversation with Ruchir Shah, CEO of SkillCat, who’s dismantling myths about trades work and spotlighting why these jobs are booming—some even building $100 million businesses. From the surprising political and environmental impact of the skilled trades shortage to how online training is making this career path accessible to thousands, this video uncovers the untold story behind America’s evolving workforce.
Discover why tradespeople enjoy higher job satisfaction, why these careers are almost AI-proof, and how a resurgence in skilled trades could fix not just pipes but the very fabric of our society. If you think the trades are just “blue collar” dead ends, think again. Ready to challenge what you thought you knew and explore an overlooked path to wealth and fulfillment? Watch now and get inspired by America’s new millionaire class.
Subscribe to Most Podern on:
Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/3zYvX2lRZOpHcZW41WGVrp
Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/most-podern-podcast/id1725756164
YouTube – https://www.youtube.com/@MostPodern
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/most.podern
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/most-podern
Links:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruchirshah2/
Chapters:
00:00 The Importance of Skilled Trades
01:08 The Shift in Perception of Trades
03:26 The Impact of Aging Workforce
05:53 SkillCat's Role in Training08:05 The Evolution of Training Methods
10:47 Measuring Success in Skilled Trades
13:29 The Ideal Profile for Tradespeople
16:42 Exploring the Trades: A Hidden Opportunity
18:43 Breaking Barriers: Awareness and Access in Trades
21:06 The Dignity of Work: Fulfillment in the Trades
25:14 AI and the Future of Trades: Job Security
26:52 The Role of Trades in Green Energy and Infrastructure
28:56 Debunking Myths: The Financial Reality of Trades
30:44 Education and the Future of Trade Skills
Why does every conversation about climate change feel like we're being asked to sacrifice something? Josh Dorfman, host of the popular Supercool podcast, reveals how this narrative is completely backwards. From Formula-E racing that attracts 500 million viewers without mentioning climate to pneumatic trash systems that make cities cleaner while cutting carbon by 90%, Josh shares how the most effective climate solutions are actually upgrading modern life rather than restricting it. Discover why we're not in an age of climate awareness anymore but rather an "age of adoption," where $2 trillion in annual clean energy investment is quietly revolutionizing everything from home electrification to urban design. Learn about innovative financing approaches that put your money to work for climate solutions while you sleep, and why the future of sustainability isn't about guilt—it's about better living.
Subscribe to Most Podern on:
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3zYvX2lRZOpHcZW41WGVrpApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/most-podern-podcast/id1725756164Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@MostPodernInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/most.podernLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/most-podern
Links
Supercool Podcast and Newsletter: https://getsuper.cool/Supercool on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLTcMrkjAmgqzv6Jhg6-V52gShRWKdc3t4&si=LXeo-aUlGkoiQbjiSupercool on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/supercool/id1758404839Supercool on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4IUql4twk6OLOl8FTIwN5ZJosh Dorfman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dorfmanjosh/
Keywords
climate solutions, sustainability, clean energy investment, electrification, climate tech, renewable energy, Formula E racing, sustainable cities, climate finance, carbon reduction, solar energy, battery storage, climate innovation, green technology, urban planning, sustainable transportation, climate action, environmental technology, clean energy transition, climate entrepreneurship, urban design, architecture, builodings
Chapters
00:00:00 - Introduction00:01:24 - Challenges in Climate Change00:01:37 - The Slow Progress of Sustainability00:03:35 - The Rise of Sustainability00:04:23 - Personal Journey into Sustainability00:04:37 - The Emergence of Sustainable Design00:07:44 - The Growth of the Sustainability Movement00:10:22 - Sustainability Becomes Cool00:12:10 - The Profitability of Sustainability00:12:56 - The Future of Sustainability00:15:09 - Ingenious Energy Efficiency00:16:09 - The Clean Energy Revolution00:20:03 - The Cost and Adoption of Solar Energy00:20:52 - The Transition to Cleaner Energy Sources00:24:36 - The Role of Policy in Energy Transition00:27:53 - Global Sustainability Efforts00:30:15 - The Cultural Shift Towards Sustainability00:30:47 - Sustainable Urban Planning: The NVAC System00:34:34 - The Role of Leadership in Sustainable Urban Planning00:35:20 - The Success of Sustainable Housing Renovations in Lincoln, Nebraska00:37:13 - The Challenge of Thinking Outside the Box00:42:27 - The Role of Self-Interest in Sustainability00:42:57 - The Success of Formula E and Sustainability in Entertainment00:46:11 - Sustainable Changes in Cities: Examples from Around the World00:49:28 - Individuals Making a Difference in Climate Change00:49:53 - Innovative Financial Tools for Climate Change00:52:27 - The Current Moment in Sustainability: The Age of Adoption
Architect Ruben Segovia joins Alex Yuen and Minkoo Kang to reveal how Mexico is transforming its urban development . From Monterrey to Tulum, young developers are creating walkable, mixed-use communities that prioritize public space and human-scale design. Segovia explains why the "developers are evil" narrative is wrong, how policy changes are enabling innovative real estate projects, and what American cities can learn from Mexico's bold urban experiments. Discover the ground-floor activation strategies, transit-oriented developments, and collaborative design processes transforming Mexican cities into 15-minute neighborhoods that actually work.
Ruben Segovia is the co-founder of LS-LAB, an urban, architectural, and landscape design office, and the director of the Master’s in Architecture and Urban Design at the School of Architecture, Art, and Design at Tecnológico de Monterrey. He holds a degree in Architecture from Tec de Monterrey, Monterrey Campus, and a Master in Architecture II from the Harvard Graduate School of Design.
Subscribe to Most Podern on:
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3zYvX2lRZOpHcZW41WGVrpApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/most-podern-podcast/id1725756164Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@MostPodernInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/most.podernLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/most-podern
Links
Ruben Segovia: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruben-segovia-6a464a67/?originalSubdomain=mxLS-LAB: https://ls-lab.com/LS-LAB on IG: https://www.instagram.com/l_s_lab/
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ruben Segovia and LS Lab01:28 Returning to Mexico: Urban Opportunities03:07 Current Urban Development in Mexico04:29 Housing Market Challenges06:28 Historical Context of Housing Scarcity08:15 Urban Growth Models and Political Influence10:02 Mobility and Urban Sprawl12:29 Community Awareness and Urban Advocacy14:06 Characteristics of Mexican Cities15:43 Role of Developers vs. Government16:50 LS Lab's Design Philosophy20:02 Collaboration in Urban Projects22:11 Developers and Urban Safety23:34 Policy Influence on Development25:33 Young Developers and New Standards26:10 Architects and Developers: A Changing Relationship28:33 Shifting Perspectives on Design Value29:17 New Generations in Policy Making32:00 The Future of Urban Development in Mexico34:17 The Importance of Good Developers36:30 Visible Changes in New Developments38:44 Creating Community Through Architecture41:01 The Tulum Case Study: Balancing Tourism and Environment46:31 Sustainable Building Practices in Mexico52:11 Adapting to Climatic Contexts in Design57:26 The Future of Mexican Cities: Optimism and Challenges01:02:22 Lessons from Mexico: Design and Public Space01:04:22 Influential Architects and Designers in Mexico01:08:59 Awareness and Purpose in Contemporary Development
Keywords
Mexican urban development, real estate development Mexico, walkable cities Mexico, mixed-use development, urban planning Mexico, Mexican architecture, Monterrey development, Tulum real estate, transit-oriented development, ground floor activation, 15-minute city, public space design, young developers Mexico, urban design innovation, Mexican cities vs American cities, sustainable urban development, how Mexico builds better cities than America, Mexican real estate development trends 2025, walkable neighborhood development Mexico, urban planning lessons from Mexico, mixed-use real estate projects Mexico, Mexican architect urban development, public space activation strategies, Mexico City urban planning, Yucatan Peninsula real estate, Quintana Roo
What happens when an architect develops their own projects, stops chasing profit, and starts designing for people, planet, and purpose? Jeremy McLeod, founder of Breathe and Nightingale Housing, shares how a single prototype sparked a housing movement in Australia. From ditching car parks and private laundries to designing rooftop commons and slow elevators, Nightingale flips the development playbook — proving that sustainability, affordability, and community aren't just compatible, but catalytic. With a waitlist over 21,000 strong, this conversation reveals how one radical idea changed the market and inspired a new model of ethical housing.
Subscribe to Most Podern on:
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3zYvX2lRZOpHcZW41WGVrpApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/most-podern-podcast/id1725756164Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@MostPodernInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/most.podernLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/most-podern
Keywords
Jeremy McLeod, Nightingale Housing, affordable housing, nonprofit developer, ethical development, triple bottom line, sustainable housing, Melbourne architecture, car-free housing, shared laundries, rooftop commons, housing affordability crisis, build-to-sell, housing without profit, real estate innovation, alternative housing models, climate-resilient design, housing as a human right, community-focused development
Chapters
0:00 — Why Profit Gets in the Way
2:00 — Building the Prototype Without a Developer
5:00 — When 1,000 People Lined Up
8:00 — Launching Nightingale from a Manifesto
10:00 — Triple Bottom Line: Sustainability, Community, Affordability
14:00 — Nonprofit Development in a For-Profit World
17:30 — Why Australia's Housing Market Is Broken
21:00 — The Rising Cost of Homeownership
24:00 — Designing for Community, Not Just Residents
28:00 — Rooftop Laundry, Not Penthouses
31:00 — Slow Elevators and Street-Level Encounters
34:00 — System Redesign: Finance, Rules, and Ballots
36:00 — Powering Every Building with Renewables
38:00 — The Market Starts Paying Attention
41:00 — Ditching Car Parks for Shared Cars
44:00 — Lessons in Scaling: Trade-offs and Adaptations
51:00 — Designing Meaningful Imperfection
54:00 — What It Takes to Start Something Bold
56:00 — The Future Will Ask: Why Didn’t We Fight Harder?
Links
Jeremy McLeod (LinkedIn) - https://au.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-mcleod-architectNightingale Housing - https://www.nightingalehousing.org/Breathe Architecture - https://www.breathe.com.au/Let My People Go Surfing - https://www.patagonia.com/product/let-my-people-go-surfing-revised-paperback-book/BK067.html
Why do we need to keep building skyscrapers and what separates them marvels or monstrosities?
Dr. Antony Wood, one of the world’s foremost experts on tall buildings, reveals why cities go vertical, what drives the global icon race, and how most towers fall short. From skybridges and carbon-sequestering timber to the 5% of skyscrapers that actually work, this conversation reimagines the high-rise as more than a symbol, but rather as a system for living, density, and urban ambition.
Subscribe to Most Podern on:
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3zYvX2lRZOpHcZW41WGVrpApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/most-podern-podcast/id1725756164Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@MostPodernInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/most.podernLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/most-podern
Keywords
skyscrapers, tall buildings, vertical urbanism, sustainable architecture, high-rise design, mass timber construction, urban density, carbon emissions, skybridges, public space in cities, Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat, Antony Wood, CTBUH, skyline architecture, mixed-use towers, high-rise housing, vertical infrastructure, future of cities, architectural sustainability, iconic skyscrapers
Chapters
00:00 – Welcome + Guest Intro
01:00 – Why Do We Build Tall?
04:50 – Does Density Mean Height?
07:20 – 94% of Skyscrapers Built After 2000
08:20 – Why Asia Builds Higher
11:20 – The Global Icon Race
13:40 – Vertical Access & Skybridges
16:30 – How We First Built Tall
18:00 – The Skyscraper Problem: 95% Are Bad
21:20 – What the Best 5% Get Right
24:30 – Defining 'Tall' (And 'Supertall')
27:30 – Why the U.S. Isn’t Building the Tallest Anymore
29:40 – The Shift from Office to Mixed-Use
31:45 – What Singapore Got Right
34:30 – Mass Timber: A Building Revolution
38:10 – The Roadblocks to Mass Timber
41:00 – Rethinking Land, Forests, and Verticality
42:15 – Antony’s Top 5 Tall Buildings
46:20 – How Height Changes Human Experience
51:00 – Fighting NIMBYism with Better Towers
53:40 – The Future of Tall Buildings
56:00 – Where to Follow Dr. Antony Wood
56:56 – What Moment Are We In?
Links
Dr. Antony Wood: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antony-wood/
Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CUTBUH): https://www.ctbuh.org/
What’s driving architects to rethink their role in a tech-driven world?
Evelyn Lee, FAIA, NOMA, shares her journey from traditional architecture to tech leadership, offering insights on how architects can adapt and thrive. Discover how she blends design thinking with business strategy to redefine the profession’s future.
Subscribe to Most Podern on:
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3zYvX2lRZOpHcZW41WGVrpApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/most-podern-podcast/id1725756164Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@MostPodernInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/most.podernLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/most-podern
Keywords
architecture innovation, Evelyn Lee, tech in architecture, design thinking, architectural practice, business strategy, Practice of Architecture, diversity in design, future of architecture
Chapters
00:00 Defining the Role of the Architect Today
04:46 Expanding Traditional Practices in Architecture
07:38 Challenges Facing New Architects
10:42 Transitioning from Architecture School to Practice
13:46 The Value of Studio Experience
16:41 Innovation and Risk in Architectural Practice
19:32 The Shift Towards Product-Based Architecture
22:56 Emerging Trends in Modular and 3D Printed Architecture
25:41Consulting and Advising in Architecture
31:00 The Future of Architecture and Its Boundaries
32:44 The Architect's Identity Crisis
40:00 Navigating the Changing Landscape of Architecture
48:33 Understanding Value in Architecture
55:07 The Future of Architecture and Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Links
Evelyn Lee: evelynlee.com
Practice of Architecture: practiceofarchitecture.com
Evelyn Lee on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/evelynlee
Mighty Buildings: https://www.mightybuildings.com/
Intelligent City: https://intelligent-city.com/
What if the bricks and mortar of tomorrow existed first as pixels? Discover how Manwen Li turned physical fabrics, tiles, and surfaces into ultra‑realistic digital twins—fueling faster iterations, richer creativity, and sampling. From pioneering Under Armour’s first virtual material library, she reveals the tech, the standards, and the surprising human challenges behind making “the physical digital.”
Links:
Manwen Li: https://www.manwenli.com
Under Amrour: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Under_Armour
Material Bank: https://www.materialbank.com/
Swatchbook: https://www.swatchbook.us/
Chapters
00:00 Welcome & Digital Material Mission
00:25 Why Pixel‑Perfect Materials Matter
01:38 Beyond Renderings: Fashion & Footwear
02:43 Material Bank’s Sampling Revolution
05:27 Anatomy of a PBR Data Package
08:04 Chasing Realism: Fidelity vs. Cost
10:11 Photogrammetry vs. Procedural Workflows
14:10 Everyday Digital Twins: Cars to Homes
17:24 Economics of Digital vs. Physical
19:04 Capturing Imperfection & Beating the Uncanny
25:30 Speed vs. Depth in Creative Feedback
28:22 Industry Fragmentation & the Library Gap
33:16 Fashion Lessons for AEC Professionals
39:41 Birth of the Digital‑Physical Co‑Twin
47:33 Characterizing Today’s Information Era
Why is zoning so opaque, and what if making it more accessible could unlock the future of our cities?
Quang Truong, architect and founder of UrbanForm, joins Most Podern to unpack how zoning works, why it became so complex, and what it will take to make it transparent, legible, and collaborative. From trophy architecture in New York to building tools in Portland, Quang shares his journey from chasing prestige to reshaping the systems that shape our neighborhoods. He explains why zoning isn't neutral, how bad actors weaponize complexity, and why he believes the built environment needs a new alliance between architects, planners, and developers.
Subscribe to Most Podern on:
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3zYvX2lRZOpHcZW41WGVrpApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/most-podern-podcast/id1725756164Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@MostPodernInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/most.podernLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/most-podern
Keywords
zoning, urban development, architecture, community, Urban Form, zoning codes, housing, city planning, collaboration, urban planning,
Chapters
00:00 The Journey from New York to Portland
09:24 Understanding Zoning and Its Impact on Architecture
12:25 The Evolution of Client Relationships in Architecture
15:26 Navigating the Challenges of Urban Development
18:34 The Role of Technology in Modern Architecture
24:30 The Shift in Development Dynamics
27:33 Zoning as a Common Language
30:41 Understanding the Complexity of Zoning
35:05 The Power Dynamics in Zoning
37:36 Urban Form: Decoding Zoning
42:21 Who Benefits from Zoning?
45:36 Opening Zoning to the Public
49:41 The Ideal Zoning System
55:41 Navigating Zoning Challenges
57:56 The Role of Zoning in Community Development
01:01:30 Architects and the Design Conversation
01:06:55 The Complexity of Zoning Regulations
01:10:55 The Future of Urban Development
01:25:00 A Post-Rational Era in Urban Planning
Links
Diller Scofidio + Renfro (DSR)
Why is it taking so long for robots to build our buildings—and what happens when they finally do? Brian Ringley, Distinguished Product Manager at Boston Dynamics, takes us behind the curtain of construction robotics, from his time at WeWork experimenting with site automation to shaping Spot's evolution into a mobile sensor platform. We unpack why the construction industry resists innovation, how real-time data and feedback loops can transform project delivery, and what it takes to align business models with breakthrough tech. From layout bots to prefab ecosystems, this is a deep dive into the future of building.
Subscribe to Most Podern on:
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3zYvX2lRZOpHcZW41WGVrpApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/most-podern-podcast/id1725756164Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@MostPodernInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/most.podernLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/most-podern
Keywords
construction robotics, Boston Dynamics, Spot robot, Brian Ringley, mobile robots, digital twins, architecture and automation, construction technology, reality capture, prefab construction, WeWork innovation, laser scanning, field robotics, jobsite automation, building information modeling, modular building, Dusty Robotics, Trimble X7, construction industry disruption, industrial automation, robotic layout, design technology, human-robot collaboration, BIM to manufacturing, intelligent construction systems, Figma for product design, architecture careers in tech, robot dog construction, automation in AEC, construction tech startups, future of building
Chapters
Links
Guest: Brian Ringley
Referenced Tools & Technologies
Trimble X7 Laser Scanner
Fieldlens (by RedTeam)
Grasshopper (for Rhino)
Human UI Plugin
Wombat Plugin for Grasshopper
Mentioned Companies & Teams
Zahner (Architectural Metal Fabrication)
Books & Ideas
Crossing the Chasm by Geoffrey Moore – Amazon
What’s holding architecture back—and who’s actually fixing it?
Mercedes Carriquiry, IA., AIA, co-founder of Slantis, joins Most Podern to unpack why architecture firms can no longer afford to go it alone. From early disillusionment with traditional practice to building a 100-person company that’s redefining tech adoption in AEC, Mercedes shares hard-won insights on incentives, process design, and the real reasons most firms struggle with innovation. We explore the messy middle between design and production, why persuasion is an underrated skill in this industry, and how Slantis is helping teams—from boutique studios to global firms—build smarter, not just faster. This is entrepreneurship as it is rarely discussed in architecture: fast moving, systems driven, and relentlessly focused on impact.
About Slantis”We seek the finest solutions for all your architectural challenges. By developing a highly complex BIM model, we deliver outstanding Design, Construction Documents, assets for Fabrication and 3D printing systems, so you build the extraordinary!”
Subscribe to Most Podern on:
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3zYvX2lRZOpHcZW41WGVrpApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/most-podern-podcast/id1725756164Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@MostPodernInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/most.podernLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/most-podern
Keywords
Mercedes Carriquiry, Slantis, AEC technology, BIM consulting, architecture innovation, design technology, architectural workflows, digital fabrication, architecture entrepreneurship, external partners in architecture, production support for architecture firms, tech adoption in AEC, knowledge management in architecture, architecture process improvement, building information modeling, architecture firm collaboration, startup culture in AEC, remote architecture teams, architectural design systems, tech-forward architecture firms
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Slantis and Mercedes Karakiri01:54 Founding Slantis: A Journey of Innovation05:55 Understanding Slantis: More Than Just a Firm10:03 The Dual Approach: Production and Consulting13:44 The Importance of Collaboration in Architecture18:15 Technology as a Mindset: Slantis' Perspective25:01 Building Ideal Client Relationships29:16 Persuasion and Internal Resistance in Firms34:07 Navigating Innovation and Value Proposition34:56 The Importance of Unique Identity in Business37:37 Success in Remote and Hybrid Work Environments41:56 Culture-Driven Technology Adoption45:26 The Future of Collaboration in Architecture49:29 Managing Knowledge and Adaptability in Architecture55:16 Rethinking Teamwork and Incentives in AEC58:21 Critical Thinking in the Modern Era
Links
Mercedes Carriquiry on LinkedIn
Tiago Forte – Building a Second Brain
SummaryScott Key, CEO of Every Shelter, joins Most Podern to unpack how a simple design—a clean, insulated floor—sparked a global movement to improve life in refugee camps. From launching refugee-run hardware stores to embedding architecture studios inside settlements, Scott shares how design, policy, and persistence collide in one of the world’s most urgent humanitarian crises.
LinksDonate to Support Every Shelter’s WorkEvery ShelterAn Endless War
Keywords
Every Shelter, Scott Key, humanitarian design, insulated flooring, refugee support, architecture, disaster relief, innovation, safety, dignity, housing, construction, modular,
Chapters
00:00 The Birth of Every Shelter
03:41 Understanding the Need for Insulated Flooring
08:53 The Journey from Concept to Implementation
14:22 Navigating the Humanitarian Landscape
19:38 The Role of Organizations in Refugee Relief
21:37 Transitioning to a Whole Systems Approach
24:24 Understanding Shelter Needs and Solutions
28:50 Community Engagement in Refugee Architecture
30:34 Scaling Solutions Across Different Contexts
34:32 The Role of Community in Design
37:43 Challenges of Running a Nonprofit Organization
41:37 Perseverance in the Face of Adversity
46:48 Reimagining Refugee Support Systems
49:21 The Impact of Policy Changes on Refugee Aid
51:58 Future Aspirations for Every Shelter
53:26 Getting Involved and Supporting Refugee Initiatives
54:55 Defining the Current Era of Complexity
For more on the future of the Built Environment, subscribe to Most Podern on:
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3zYvX2lRZOpHcZW41WGVrpApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/most-podern-podcast/id1725756164Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@MostPodernInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/most.podernLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/most-podern
Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3zYvX2lRZOpHcZW41WGVrpApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/most-podern-podcast/id1725756164Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/@MostPodernInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/most.podernLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/most-podern
Summary
Urban scientist and Aretian co-founder Ramon Gras joins Most Podern to unpack the design principles and data insights behind high-performing cities. Drawing from global research and on-the-ground practice, Gras reveals how fractal urban form, network connectivity, and balanced density lead to healthier, more dynamic urban environments. He explains why some neighborhoods foster social interaction and economic opportunity, while others fall flat—and how cities can use tools like digital twins to guide smarter, more human-centered development. From Cold War planning to innovation districts, this conversation offers a compelling framework for shaping the future of cities.
Keywords
urban design, city planning, smart cities, digital twins, urban analytics, network science, innovation districts, fractal urbanism, sustainable cities, walkable cities, data-driven planning, future of cities, mixed-use development, urban form, knowledge economy
Chapters
00:00 Understanding Cities and Urban Performance
05:41 The Role of Data in Urban Planning
19:23 Ramon's Journey to City Science
30:07 The Importance of Network Science
49:15 Economic vs. Social Aspects of Cities
01:03:32 Identifying Successful Cities
01:12:45 Engaging Stakeholders for City Improvement
01:22:42 Current Projects and Future Outlook
Links
Aretian Urban Analytics and DesignRamon Gras
