Architect My Life

12/08/2025

“The best way to know what you’re capable of is to throw yourself in the deep end and make all the key decisions.”

In this episode, Richard Naish shares how he built , scaled it sustainably, and kept creativity at the core of every project.

From mass timber buildings to the carbon-positive Living House, he dives into what future-ready architecture really looks like — and how strong relationships, culture, and reputation can grow a firm without traditional marketing.

If you’re an architect, designer, or studio owner, this conversation will shift the way you think about scaling your practice and designing for the future.

🎧 Tune in the full episode. Episode link in the bio!

12/08/2025

“The best way to know what you’re capable of is to throw yourself in the deep end and make all the key decisions.”

In this episode, Richard Naish talk with Aya about how he built , scaled it sustainably, and kept creativity at the core of every project.

From mass timber buildings to the carbon-positive Living House, he dives into what future-ready architecture really looks like — and how strong relationships, culture, and reputation can grow a firm without traditional marketing.

If you’re an architect, designer, or studio owner, this conversation will shift the way you think about scaling your practice and designing for the future.

🎧 Tune in the full episode. Episode link in the bio!

10/08/2025

Building a business that lasts isn’t just about great design—it’s about vision, trust, and the people who bring it all together.

In this episode of Architect My Business, we feature Lindsey and Jessica Nelson, co-founders of , who turned shared values and complementary strengths into a thriving enterprise.

From launching Etch Design Group, LLC to expanding into Etch Property Management, Postscript Styling, and AI for Interiors, their story is one of humility, intention, and a partnership rooted in trust.

🎧 Tune in to hear how they built multiple companies, empowered their team, and created a business—and a life—they truly love. Link in my bio.

07/16/2024

Today's question is: “Do you work when you go on vacation? Or do you unplug completely?”

In this episode, I share how I transitioned from constantly inserting work during vacations to truly enjoying my time off. It’s not easy to completely unplug, but here’s what I did to be more present and enjoy rest without guilt:

🏖️ I became more proactive than reactive, planning ahead to ensure smooth operations.

✈️ I inform my team well in advance about my vacation, setting clear expectations.

📧 I set up an automated email response to manage client and team communications.

👥 I delegate responsibilities to my core management team, trusting them to handle things.

💻 When I can't resist checking into some urgent work, I limit myself to an hour to align with my team. It's okay to give in occasionally; a few minutes for peace of mind won't hurt!

Make sure to listen to this episode for more insights!

If you have questions you'd like me to answer in my next episode, please leave a comment below, send me a voice message via SpeakPipe, or DM me!

04/10/2024

𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗶-𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘄 𝗲𝗽𝗶𝘀𝗼𝗱𝗲!🎙

Today's episode of Her Space features Katerina Burianova, founder of Katerina Burianova Architecture Inc. and host of the 'From the Honeycomb' () podcast.

In the episode, she discusses her career journey, offers insights into the AREs, shares principles of Vastu Shastra, and talks about challenges she has faced as a woman in architecture.

Also, explore her new e-book 👉🏻 'The Mindful Blueprint for Launching your Architecture Firm.' Use the code architect10 to get a 10% discount!

Tune into this episode on your favorite podcast platform!

02/26/2024

𝗡𝗘𝗪 𝗣𝗢𝗗𝗖𝗔𝗦𝗧 𝗘𝗣𝗜𝗦𝗢𝗗𝗘 🎙️

Join Aya and the hosts of She Builds Podcast - Norgerie, Lizi, and Jessica as they take us behind the scenes of their podcasting journey, sharing both the triumphs and challenges of showcasing stories of remarkable women in the industry.

In this episode, they talk about:

🎙️ How podcasting has improved their career paths, making them valuable contributors to the AEC.
🎙️ The importance of inclusivity in the industry.
🎙️ The resources they use to find stories of women in architecture, engineering, and design.
🎙️ Why they continue to create a platform that amplifies the voices of women who have left a significant mark in the AEC industry over the years.

Click the 🔗 link in our bio to listen to this episode!

02/01/2024

𝗡𝗘𝗪 𝗣𝗢𝗗𝗖𝗔𝗦𝗧 𝗘𝗣𝗜𝗦𝗢𝗗𝗘 🎙️

Join Aya and Suzie Hunt () as they discuss Suzie's architectural philosophy and its strong connection to people.

In this episode, they talk about:

🎙️ How Suzie’s philosophy has influenced her journey, from starting SHA in her bedroom to becoming an award-winning firm in Perth.
🎙️ The importance of networking outside the industry and community engagement for firm growth.
🎙️ Strategies for managing firm operations and navigating the unique challenges of running a creative business as an architect.
🎙️ Suzie’s impactful advocacy for equity, diversity, and inclusion, particularly through "Work Women Wisdom".
🎙️ The concept of the invisibility of age among professional women and Suzie’s commitment to inclusivity in the architectural profession.

Click the 🔗 link in our bio to listen to this episode!

01/24/2024

On my way to Podfest Multimedia Expo in Orlando! Who's coming? I'd love to connect!

Sharing my 🎙Podcasting Journey that led me to where I am today!

2007 - I discovered podcasting through Ira Glass’s This American Life (TAL), introduced by my husband Larry. I instantly fell in love with the ability to listen to episodes on demand during long drives.

2018 - I had the opportunity to meet Jim Cirillo, host of the JimJim’s Reinvention Revolution podcast, in a co-working space. It was my first time meeting a podcaster, and I was super excited about it!

2019 - I collaborated with Mitchell Zlotnik, owner of Audimute, to design Todd Cochrane's podcast studio. Todd, the CEO of Blubbry Podcasting and a highly respected figure in the industry, was inducted into the Podcast Hall of Fame in 2015.

2020 - Jim introduced me to Josh Elledge who played a pivotal role in helping me launch the Architect My Life Podcast. Despite my hesitation because I was a bit shy, I did it anyway. My podcast aimed to amplify the voices of influential women in Architecture.

2022 - I had the honor of being a panelist on ‘How to Start your Podcast' moderated by David Allen Moss. Sharing the stage with amazing fellow podcasters Jing Lauengco of ‘The Next Thing with Jing’ podcast and Lisa- host of ‘CLE Foodcast’ Podcast.

2023 - I had the pleasure of meeting Chris Krimitsos during his Cleveland PodTour, celebrating the 10th-year anniversary of Podfest Multimedia Expo Expo. It was an incredible opportunity to connect with fellow podcast enthusiasts and creators. I also had the chance to meet David Jackson of School Of Podcasting.

And now…

2024, I’m heading to Podcast Expo in Orlando! I meet amazing people and learn A LOT about everything . I’m beyond thrilled to be part of this wonderful podcasting community. Looking forward to connecting with all of you in Florida!

12/22/2023

🎄December 22, 2023, Friday, 5:30 pm❄️

Today is my last official day of work for 2023. Many of us will be sharing and recapping our accomplishments for the year, which I am excited to read. I would like to share one of my favorite quotes that had a profound impact on me this year!

Viktor Frankl on success:
"Don't aim for success — the more you aim for it and make it a target, the more you're going to miss it. For success, like happiness, cannot be pursued; it must ensue, and it only does so as the unintended side effect of one's dedication to a cause greater than oneself or as the by-product of one's surrender to a person other than oneself."
-From Man’s Search For Meaning

May you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! Enjoy time with Family. Relax. Reflect. Re-energize.

See you in 2024 !

MGS Global LLC, Architect My Life

12/14/2023

𝗡𝗘𝗪 𝗣𝗢𝗗𝗖𝗔𝗦𝗧 𝗘𝗣𝗜𝗦𝗢𝗗𝗘 🎙️

Join Aya and Katelyn Rossier, founder of , as they explore the profound impact of mentorship and training in the AEC industry!

In this episode, they talk about:

🎙️ Katelyn's journey with mentoring and how it shaped her as an architect and mentor.
🎙️ The creation of MentorDINO and its focus on helping fresh graduates and new architects/designers through career transitions.
🎙️ Why establishing a strong foundation through mentorship is better than relying on trial and error.
🎙️ A closer look at the courses offered in MentorDINO and how they benefit the AEC industry.

Click the 🔗 link in our bio to listen to this episode!

10/20/2023

Stay tuned for an inspiring conversation with Krystl Fabella, the brilliant mind behind , as we celebrate Filipino-American History Month! 🇵🇭✨

This episode will be published on October 21st at 1 PM EST. Don't miss it! 🎙️

10/05/2023

Join us for the very first episode of our AML Podcast Series, recapping the AIA Women's Leadership Summit in Boston!

This special series was recorded during the WLS Happy Hour hosted by the Immigrant Architects Coalition and Women Architects Collective, proudly sponsored by MGS Global Group and Utile.

Listen to our chat with Graciela Carrillo and stay tuned for more inspiring conversations with incredible women from the summit!

Watch here 👇

Join us for the very first episode of our AML Podcast Series, recapping the AIA Women's Leadership Summit in Boston!This special series was recorded during t...