Tangents by Out of Architecture
Tangents by Out of Architecture is a podcast hosted by Silvia Lee that shares inspiring stories from individuals who have forged unique career paths using skills developed in and out of architecture. The show is produced by Out of Architecture, a career consulting firm founded by Harvard-educated professionals. It aims to help listeners maximize their design expertise to find fulfilling roles beyond traditional architecture.
Episodes
From Studio to Stand-Up: Built in Architecture, Now Comedy with Nick White
In this episode, Jake chats with Nick White, Melbourne-based comedian, content creator, and recovering architect who traded buildings for bits. Nick shares his journey from studying architecture and working in practice for five years to walking away at the end of 2022 to pursue stand-up comedy and character-driven content full time. The conversation explores how a design education shaped
The Shift in Architectural Roles in Tech with AEC+Tech's Niknaz Aftahi
In this episode, Silvia chats with Niknaz Aftahi, entrepreneur and founder of AEC+Tech, a platform connecting architecture professionals with cutting-edge technology. Niknaz shares her journey from studying architecture in Iran to launching a startup that bridges the gap between the AEC industry and emerging tech. The conversation touches on the integration of AI in architecture, the impo
Pursuing Growth Through One's Career with Meta's Libo Li
Join Libo Li, a data engineer at Meta, as he delves into his unconventional career journey from architecture to tech. Discover how his natural curiosity and drive for growth propelled him through various roles at companies like WeWork and AAC Resource. Libo shares insights on embracing fear as a signal for growth, the value of continuous learning, and thriving in chaotic environments. Whe
Creating Your Own Path with Atif Qadir
Atif Qadir joins Silvia on Tangents to explore his journey from architecture to real estate development and tech entrepreneurship. They discuss the evolving nature of careers in the AEC industry, the importance of adaptability, and the benefits of life coaching and mentorship. Atif shares insights on recognizing personal values and the significance of creating space for what truly matters
From Architecture to UX: The Mental Leap That Changed Everything with Redfin's Xinran Ma
In this engaging episode of "Tangents by Out of Architecture," our guest Xinran Ma shares his inspiring journey from a traditional architecture career to the innovative field of product design at Redfin. Our conversation delves deeply into the mindset shift required for career transition, and the strategies Xinran employed to gain experience and build credibility in a new industry. From s
From Aerospace to Climate Tech: Leveraging Architecture Skills to Build a Startup with Homeostasis’ Makoto Eyre
Our guest today is Makoto Eyre, cofounder and CEO of Homeostasis, a climate tech startup transforming CO2 into advanced carbon materials like graphite for lithium-ion batteries. Makoto’s story exemplifies the power of curiosity, resilience, and the ability to leverage architectural skills to navigate bold career transitions. This episode explores how interdisciplinary thinking, engineerin
Redefining Success: From Architecture to Web Development with CACI's Danny Rupp
Danny Rupp (he/him) is a web development team lead who has been lucky enough to work-from-home in Maryland since 2010. With a bachelor's degree in Architecture from the University of Maryland he started his career as an architectural designer, but slowly transitioned on the job into working as a full stack web developer on software for office space planning. In 2020 he made the jump out o
Architects' Unique Skills and Their Success in Tech with Ocado Group's Ramesh Pari
Our guest today is Ramesh Pari, Head of Design + BIM at Ocado Group. He highlights the importance of pragmatism, lifelong learning, and leveraging architectural skills in new ways. This episode explores the dynamics of tech culture, the benefits of cross-industry skills, and the courage needed to pursue fulfilling career changes. Tune in to gain insights on balancing professional aspirati
Designing a New Path: Transitioning from Architecture to UX with OOA's Adrian Maldonado
Adrian Maldonado, Career Advisor at Out of Architecture, is a seasoned professional with a background in architecture who made a successful transition into the field of UX design. With a passion for design and a knack for problem-solving, Adrian brings a unique perspective to his role as a lead UX designer. He is dedicated to helping individuals navigate career transitions, leveraging his
Navigating Career Transitions and Identity in Architecture with OOA's Jacki Schaefer
In this episode, Jacki Schaefer shares her journey in architecture, highlighting the challenges faced during her career, the importance of job security, and the impact of curiosity on personal and professional growth. She discusses the value of architecture education in developing critical thinking skills and self-awareness. Jacki emphasizes the need for individuals to align their career
Tangents Summer Update
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A Passion for Listening, Learning & Helping with OOA's Nate Steinrueck
Our guest today, Nate Steinrueck, Product Strategist at Outer Labs, shares his journey from studying anthropology to working in architecture and eventually transitioning into the tech industry. He emphasizes the importance of being a good listener, learner, and helper in his work, and how these qualities have shaped his career. Nate also discusses the similarities between architecture and
Making Your Own Path In Architecture with Matter's Erin Pellegrino
On this episode of Tangents, Erin Pellegrino, Principal at Matter, and Co-Founder of Out of Architecture, shares her journey of balancing making and thinking in architecture, leading to a fulfilling and impactful career. From rebellious tomboy to successful architect, she discusses her approach to challenging the status quo and overcoming roadblocks by adopting a mindset of perseverance a
Having Confidence in Your Skills and Experiences with Adidas's Jake Rudin
Our guest today is Jake Rudin, Senior Manager Digital Technologies at Adidas, and Co-Founder of Out of Architecture. In this episode, Jake Rudin discusses his journey from architecture to leading digital innovation at Adidas, emphasizing the importance of confidence in showcasing one's skills in job interviews. He shares insights on translating architectural skills into various industries
Embracing Passion and Flexibility in Career Choices with your Tangents Host Silvia Lee
This week, we switch things up a little bit where where our host Silvia Lee is interviewed by Out of Architecture's very own Jake Rudin!Silvia Lee is the Director of Customer Success at Layer, an adjunct instructor at the New Jersey Institute of Technology, and the host of this Tangents podcast by Out of Architecture. With a background in architecture and a passion for enabling others to
The Power of Architects as Change Makers with SOM’s Ellen Abraham
In this Tangents episode, we speak with ELLEN ABRAHAM, Chief Pin Officer at Architect Pins, one of our amazing OOA Advisors and Senior Project Manager and Co-Founder of Equity Design Lab @ SOM.In this episode, Ellen Abraham discusses the power of architects as change makers and the importance of thinking beyond traditional roles in the industry. She shares her background in architecture,
Transforming Passion Into Career Growth with OnePlan's Chi Bhatia
Our guest today is Chi Bhatia, VP of Strategy & Growth at One Plan, a SaaS start-up that builds 2D & 3D technology for events & venues. Chi is also part of the amazing career consultant team at Out of Architecture.Hear Chi share his journey from international student to completing LA’s first NFL stadium to now working at a tech startup providing support to the 2024 Paris Olymp
Building a Career on Kindness and Positive Connections with Studio Ladder's Sam Anderson
Sam Anderson is an architectural visualization specialist who has carved out a unique career path beyond traditional practice. Sam shares her journey from pursuing architecture at the University of Texas to realizing her true passion lies in visualization. She discusses her experiences working in various roles, including at architecture firms, Epic Games, and ultimately starting her own v
Reconstructing Histories through Craft and Community with Jeffrey Yoo Warren
Jeffrey Yoo Warren, is a multidisciplinary artist, educator, and crafter whose work explores themes of cultural heritage, identity, and community. Jeffrey shares his unique journey from studying architecture to finding his calling in artistic practices deeply rooted in historical research and traditional craftsmanship.Through his residency at the Library of Congress, Jeffrey talks about t
Transitioning from Architecture to Experience Design in Advertising with Edelman's Lauren Kimball
Our guest today, Lauren Kimball, Experience Design Director @ Edelman, shares her journey from architecture to advertising. She emphasizes the importance of being honest and open in client meetings and offers advice for architecture students looking to explore alternative career paths. Lauren also discusses her platform, Find by Design, which showcases black designers across various disci
What It Means When Everybody Wins with William Dodge of p-u-b-l-i-c & A Gang of Three
William Dodge shares his unique career journey, from applying to architecture school multiple times, working as a janitor, and eventually becoming a managing principal at a major architecture firm.He discusses his approach to architecture - creating community-focused spaces rather than just facilitating buildings. William talks about starting his own practice, Public, to do great work wit
The Journey from Architecture to Experiential Design with Future Colossal's Jill Shah
Our guest today, Jill Shah, Production Designer at Future Colossal, shares how she capitalizes on her abilities as a generalist, asserts herself to create opportunities, and harnesses the power of storytelling in design.Highlights:Leverage spatial design skills from architecture in experience design by focusing on technology integration and storytelling instead of just function.As a gener
Crafting a Career of Impact with P3 Consulting’s Ozzie Gonzalez
In this episode, I spoke with Ozzie Gonzalez, Principal and Owner of P3 Consulting, (people, planet, profit) about his fascinating journey from architecture into environmental consulting. Ozzie has applied his architecture skills to help companies develop sustainability policies and embed social responsibility into their work. We discuss how Ozzie got started in green building, and expan
Exploring Design and Storytelling in Animation with Freelance Designer Ben Llewellyn
Our guest today, Benjamin Llewellyn joins me to share his winding journey from graduating with an architecture degree to becoming a freelance illustrator and background artist for animated television shows. Though architecture and illustration seem different, Benjamin finds his architectural background gives him an edge in creating realistic environments and backgrounds. He enjoys the con
The Future of Architecture: Shifting Towards Social and Ecological Justice with FAF’s Charlie Edmonds
Our guest, Charlie Edmonds, Co-Founder of Future Architects Front, calls for collective action to address exploitative practices and envisions a world where architecture prioritizes social needs over capital interests.Charlie is the co-founder of Future Architects Front (FAF), a grassroots organization working to address issues like unpaid overtime, low fees, and poor construction quality
From Redlines – Overworked and Undervalued: A Series of Traumatic Experiences In Architecture
We're taking a break from Tangents this week for the holidays so we wanted to share with you the latest episode from Redlines, Out of Architecture's podcast where we dive deeper into the core issues that plague the design profession, and evaluate how they result in everyday conflict, discomfort, and workplace turmoil.You'll hear from Chris (not his real name) and how he faced a series of
Challenging Traditional Architecture with Intelligent City’s Kristin Slavin
Ever feel traditional architecture moves too slowly to tackle crises like housing shortages?Our latest guest Kristin set out to transform delivery for faster, quality sustainable housing. Her winding path from design into development, prefab and product led her to a mass timber housing startup reimagining solutions.We cover:Kristin's career from architecture to a hands-on developer role e
What If We Were The Decision Makers? Creating Impact with Multi-Contextual Design with Duo Development’s Rafael Robles
Our guest today, Rafael Robles, Founder at Duo Development, shares his experiences answering the question for himself of who gets to make the decisions? His journey from real estate, to development, to business strategy consulting led Rafael to found his own innovation studio, Duo, where he practices multi-contextual design, amplifying the impact a built project can have. Thank you for li
Leveraging Design Thinking Beyond Architecture with Brightspot Strategy’s Elliot Felix
What can you do with an architecture degree besides traditional practice? Is it possible to blend your design skills with other passions? Elliot Felix, Founder and CEO of brightspot Strategy, is an architect turned higher education strategist, shares his journey from architecture school to running his own consulting firm. Elliot talks about how an influential middle school teacher inspire
The Power of Designing Experiences with Odyssey Works’ Abraham Burickson
In this engrossing discussion, Abraham Burickson elaborates on how his journey in the world of architecture led him to develop the concept of experience design. Having worked in various architecture firms and conducted research, Abraham discovered a gap between the promise of architecture and its practice. From tangible architectural projects to uniquely curated experiences called Odyssey
Bonus: Redlines - Exploitative Visa Practices and Effects on Immigrant Architects
Bonus Episode! Tangents, meet Redlines - our new podcast by Out of Architecture. This episode shines a light on the withholding of critical information by architecture firms to create an uneven power dynamic as firms hold visa sponsorship over young, foreign workers.Our storyteller this week is Cat - a pseudonym - who shares their personal experience with the H1B visa process in the Unite
A Passion for Listening, Learning & Helping with Outer Labs' Nate Steinrueck
Our guest today, Nate Steinrueck, Product Strategist at Outer Labs, shares his journey from studying anthropology to working in architecture and eventually transitioning into the tech industry. He emphasizes the importance of being a good listener, learner, and helper in his work, and how these qualities have shaped his career. Nate also discusses the similarities between architecture and
Choosing To Follow Happiness with Joyful's Eric Riggsbee
In this Tangents episode, Eric Riggsbee, a project manager at Joyful, shares his unique career path from architecture to the tech industry and back again. He discusses the transferable skills he gained from architecture, such as problem-solving and attention to detail, and how they have helped him succeed in his current role. Eric emphasizes the importance of following happiness rather th
Connecting the Dots Through Your Career with Adidas' Jody Broccoli-Hickey
Jody Broccoli Hickey is a 3D computational designer at Adidas. Jody shares how he leveled up his skills and understanding when making a career switch, and the joy of the creative process strengthened from pursuing opportunities that aligned strongly with his interests. Highlights: The importance of spending time to level up your skillsLearning the tribal language needed to communicate in
From Architecture to Exhibit Design, Exploring New Career Paths with Upswell's Ben Feicht
Our guest today is Ben Feicht, Architect and Exhibit Designer at Upswell. Ben shares how and why he transitioned from architecture to exhibit design, the impact of journaling as a tool for exploration, and the exciting future of technology in design.How journaling can help explore ideas, identify interests and find the right career pathNetworking and using LinkedIn can lead to job opportu
The Value Architects Bring Beyond Design with Professor of Earth Sciences Akshay Mehra
In this Tangents episode we speak with AKSHAY MEHRA, Assistant Professor in the Department of Earth and Space Sciences at the University of Washington. Akshay's journey from architecture to geosciences highlights the value of curiosity, mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaboration. His experience demonstrates the potential for architects to contribute to scientific research and engage
Embracing Chaos and Authenticity with Architecture Social’s Stephen Drew
In this Tangents episode we speak with STEPHEN DREW, Founder of the Architecture Social. Through his candid and authentic perspective, we explore the importance of embracing change, selling oneself, and the untapped potential architects possess in various industries.Highlights: The importance of selling oneself and leveraging architectural expertise in different industriesAcknowledge the
The Power of Architects as Change Makers with SOM’s Ellen Abraham
In this Tangents episode, we speak with ELLEN ABRAHAM, Chief Pin Officer at Architect Pins, one of our amazing OOA Advisors and Senior Project Manger and Co-Founder of Equity Design Lab @ SOM.Highlights: SOM’s Equity Design Lab, which focuses on creating equitable and community-focused designsHow architects have the power to be change-makers and make a positive impact on communities“Alway
At The Intersection of Architecture and Food Systems with Stone Barns’ Caitlin Taylor
On this episode of Tangents, Caitlin Taylor, Architect, Farmer, Food Systems Designer and Managing Director at Stone Barns Center for Food & Agriculture, shares her experiences developing a passion and career exploring food systems through an architectural lens. Hear Caitlin’s insights into exploring her interests deeply, finding equally passionate and driven people to work with, and
Finding Happy & Healthy Career Paths in Architecture with Riley Projects’ Anamika Goyal
On this episode of Tangents, Anamika Goyal, Director of Operations for Architecture & Construction at Riley Projects and OOA advisor, shares her experiences from working in more traditional architecture firms to innovative startups in the AEC industry (WeWork, Cottage, Riley Projects). Hear Anamika’s insights into leadership, management, and finding a career that fulfills a passion fo
Building a Fulfilling Creative Career with BTTR Agency’s Ana Barros
On this episode of Tangents, Ana Barros, Creative Director @ BTTR Agency and Architectural Photographer, shares her experiences of building a fulfilling career from her passions and details the skills that enabled her to get there. She talks about the importance of being adaptable and curious and how she used tools to her advantage to further her creative process.Listen to the end to hear
Embracing Change and Creating Opportunity with SOM's Iben Falconer
On this episode of Tangents, Iben Falconer, Global Marketing & Business Development Leader and Senior Associate Principal @ SOM shares advice from her own experiences changing roles throughout her career and how not being afraid of change has opened up new opportunities for her.Listen to the end to hear from a part of the OOA team and community, Noura Alhariri! Highlights: Curious, Dr
Understanding What You’re All About with TestFit and Women Architects Collective's Joann Lui
On this episode of Tangents, Joann Lui, Content Marketing Manager at TestFit and the founder of Women Architects Collective shares her experiences transitioning her interests and passions into a unplanned career switch and how personal branding helped create opportunities and time for reflection. Listen to the end to hear from a part of the OOA team and community, Cristy Fedelai! Highligh
Disrupting the Building Industry with Layer's Zach Soflin
On this episode of Tangents, Zach Soflin, CEO at Layer shares his journey which began with creating a solution as an architect for one of his project’s to sharing that solution with the rest of the AEC industry as CEO of a tech startup. Highlights:Tinkerer, Designer, DivergentHow the solution to a project led to running a companyStepping away from a traditional path in architectureThe bra
Creating Space for Inclusion & Belonging with Anti-Racist Hot Dog's Wandile Mthiyane
On this episode of Tangents, Wandile Mthiyane, Founder & CEO of Anti-Racist Hot Dog & CEO of Ubuntu Design Group shares his experiences using architecture as a way to build spaces and places of belonging for folks within the workplace and the community.Highlights:Resilient, Faith, OptimisticArchitecture as a Vehicle for Dignified HousingHome as an Economic SpaceGoing Back To Your
Creating Authenticity and Happiness in Your Career with Disrupt Symposium's Sara Kolata
On this episode of Tangents, Sara Kolata, Founder of Disrupt Symposium, shares her experiences on how she took the challenges she experienced as a business owner to create a life that truly aligns with her strengths and passions.Highlights:Adventurous, Curious, DaringNot fitting in as expectedTurning failures into opportunities for growthThe point at which you decide to do somethingGettin
Bringing Studio Pedagogy into K-12 Education with NuVu's Saba Ghole
On this episode of Tangents, Saba Ghole, Co-Founder & Chief Creative Director at NuVu shares her experiences on how she brings the studio model of learning that we are familiar from our architectural studies and applies it to k-12 learning.Highlights:Creative, Optimist, ListenerThe architecture studio as a model for education and learningCreating a space for critique, feedback and a p
Connecting A Community Of Creatives with If Not Now, Then When's Rachael Hymas
On this episode of Tangents, Rachael Hymas, Founder of If Not Now, Then When (INNTW) shares her experiences stemming from her background in architecture that led her to meet so many amazing people along the way. Hear Rachael speak honestly about finding your path, even as it’s evolving as you grow. Highlights:The journey of a multi-disciplinary creative that gets bored easilyHelping indiv
Having Confidence in Your Skills and Experiences with Adidas's Jake Rudin
On this episode of Tangents, Jake Rudin, Senior Manager Digital Technologies at Adidas shares his experiences and advice on how to translate your architectural experience to your future career path. Highlights:Designer, Educator, MakerFollowing A Passion for ArchitectureNot Being Limited by Job DescriptionsCommunicating Your Abilities in Resumes and InterviewsConfidence is KeyTreat Your C
Exploring the Intersection Between Architecture, Technology & Strategy with Google's Chrisoula Kapelonis
On this episode of Tangents, Chrisoula Kapelonis, Design Strategist at Google shares her experiences asking questions about what the intersection between architecture and technology is and can be. Highlights:Architect, Technologist, StrategistThe Intersection of Architecture & TechnologyDeciding to Pursue Architecture or NotHow Explorations Can Guide Your Path and Moving Beyond Academ
Making Your Own Path In Architecture with Matter's Erin Pellegrino
On this episode of Tangents, Erin Pellegrino, Principal at Matter, and Co-Founder of Out of Architecture, shares her experiences creating her own path for herself in Architecture. Hear how never taking no for an answer helped shape her career as an educator, a business owner, and creating Out of Architecture where she helps guide others on their career journeys. Highlights:Ambitious, Curi
Transforming Passion Into Career Growth with OnePlan's Chi Bhatia
On this episode of Tangents, Chi Bhatia of OnePlan, and Out of Architecture Career Consultant, shares his experiences transitioning from an Senior Designer to VP Strategy and Growth. Hear how being in Los Angeles, California impacted the trajectory of Chi’s career, and how he systematically approached each step of his journey, using his passion of sports as a driver for his success. Highl
The Journey from Architectural Design to Product Design with Airtable's Adrianne Ngam
On this episode of Tangents, Adrianne Ngam of Airtable shares her experiences transitioning from an architectural designer to a product designer. Hear the similarities and differences between the two industries and how Adrianne’s background in architecture led her to designing low code tools today. Adrianne shares why she doesn’t believe in imposter syndrome and how to find work where you
Design a Life You Love with Monograph's Helen Lummis
On this episode of Tangents, Helen Lummis of Monograph shares her experiences transitioning from architecture to tech. Learn from her lessons and discover all the communication and people skills you already have as an architect. Hear Helen share how important it is to have an outside perspective on your career journey, people rooting for you in your corner, and how to create a balanced li
Understanding the Value of An Architect with Cottage's Manon Paquet
On this episode of Tangents, architect Manon Paquet shares her experiences transitioning from a traditional architecture office to a tech startup. Discover what can and cannot be challenged and changed when architecture meets tech, and how technology can be part of the answer to the housing crisis. If you ever felt like you wanted to improve parts of the profession but hit a wall, this ep
TANGENTS: Beyond the Bounds of Traditional Practice
Hear unique stories from those that created a unique career path for themselves from the variety of skills and talents they developed in and out of architecture.
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