The Architecture Geeks Podcast: Recent Episodes
Larry & Matthew
The Architecture Geeks Podcast is the brainchild of Dallas architects Larry Paschall and Matthew Jacobson, who explore the ins and outs of life, work and architecture through a light-hearted lens, being as geeky as they want to be.
Once upon a time, architects began projects by sitting down with clients and talking about what they hoped to achieve, what their home required to function, and the feeling that finishes conveyed as the lived in the space. So what happens when clients tap into AI for inspiration, and the conversation is less on what's possible and more about what AI has told the client they could do? Matthew and Larry discuss some of Matt's recent experiences and the potential of going down AI rabbit holes instead of starting design with a simple conversation.
Every firm owner has seen their share of student portfolios as future architects begin vying for internships. Matthew and Larry talk about the work they've seen and share ideas on how to make your portfolio work for you.
Midnight email looking for work provides the latest for The Architecture Geeks! Matthew and Larry talk about getting ready for the job hunt, steps to take to prepare, and whether or not schools are doing enough to help future interns.
Preserving buildings isn't always a yes or no discussion. Now the architecture community in Dallas finds itself at a crossroads of what to do with Dallas City Hall. Matthew and Larry discuss what should go into the decisions about preserving the I.M. Pei structure, including if the building is worth saving or if it's time has come and gone.
Matthew and Larry take opposite sides on recent changes to Atlanta's building ordinances which require all roofs to be white. Plus there are dogs barking in the background.
Thanks to the One Big Beautiful Bill - which is turning out not so beautiful - communities across the country are losing funding for sometimes critical infrastructure projects. Matthew and Larry touch on a couple of changes impacting Texas.
Architects cannot only be the victims of a crime. They can also be the ones committing them. Join Matthew and Larry as the discuss the activities architects may conduct that could potentially land them in hot water, from misuse of their license to abusing their position within local government to line their pockets.
Ever get those calls where something just seems fishy? Matthew and Larry talk about some potential scams architects may encounter during their career, and one or two they've experienced personally.
Is a recession just around the corner? Matthew and Larry discuss what the tariff talk may already be doing, what preparations they are making, and what's come out of past recessions.
The Twins have turned 6! Yikes! Join Larry and Matthew (mostly Matthew) as they discuss what Matthew has learned in the latest year of parenting as an architect. What's noticed most this time around? You might be surprised.
Larry and Matthew kick off 2025 with a quick discussion around the plusses and minuses of AI, what's still missing, and how they are currently utilizing the various programs.
Need some ideas for last minute gifts? Larry and Matthew share some simple solutions for those moments when you panic and realize your holiday shopping isn't quite done.
Florida and other areas have taken quite the beating the last couple of months between Debby, Helene, and Milton. Matthew and Larry share what they've learned from an architect's perspective, from costs associated with damage to the potential to build more resilient structures as hurricanes grow more fierce.
What would you do if your child's school decided to close? Districts across Texas and the US are facing this challenge. Matthew and Larry discuss some of the reasons behind school closings and consolidations; the impact school can have on neighborhoods; and potential uses for once vital facilities.
Do you still use your dining room? Matthew and Larry discuss the disappearing dining room, what some people have theorized as to why, and whether that really contributes to loneliness. You'll also enjoy listening to Larry sound a bit like a foghorn as he gets over a recent head cold.
The 2024 Summer Olympics are over, and while Larry got to be a little sporty, there was plenty for he and Matthew to geek out about. To finish off the games, Matthew and Larry share info on slow pools, fast tracks, and architecture as an Olympic event. They had breakdancing this year, so why not?
Kind of. With the Olympics underway, Matthew and Larry discuss some of the architectural challenges cities face hosting the Olympics as well as the truly important question - What are the athletes sleeping on? Who knew they could be so sporty?
Larry and Matthew kick off the second half of the season with a conversation with Matthew's intern AJ. We find out what he did and didn't like doing and what his future plans are.
As Matthew faces the prospect of having a high school student shadow him this summer, he has a few questions for Larry to answer. Hopefully he got the answers right.
No potties this time. But don't let the title fool you. This isn't about outdoor activities either. Matthew and Larry talk about some of the factors driving the increase in homeowners insurance rates, including cost of goods and climate change.
Politicians and the public have spent far too much time over the last decade discussing who can use which restroom. So Larry and Matthew decided to talk about that some more. Join them as they discuss the practical challenges of converting to all-gender or gender-neutral restrooms.
An estimated 30% of water usage comes from flushing toilets. Not showering. Not laundry. Just flushing. Matthew and Larry kick off the first of several podcasts on water usage and footprint and new tech being researched to make toilets even more efficient.
Another year and time to check in and see how Matthew's twins are doing. Are they architects yet? Matthew and Larry talk about the changes over the last year in how the twins are seeing the world and if that comes from being the children of an architect.
What if the roads you drive on every day could charge your car? Matthew and Larry speak with Michelle Mueller at the Michigan Department of Transportation and Dr. Stefan Tongur at Electreon about Detroit's pilot program to electrify roadways that can extend the charge on electric vehicles and help ease the worry of charging anxiety.
Are you dating? Or just working with an architect? Matthew and Larry spend the day after Valentine's looking at the similarities between personal relationships and your relationship with your architect. Are they really that alike?
A month late, but Larry and Matthew sit down to share their New Year's resolutions as business owners. Better communication. Updated whiteboards. We'll see how 2024 rolls out.
It's the most wonderful time of the year! Matthew and Larry close out 2023 chatting about Christmas decorations, the odd inflatable beaver, and what might or might not be coming in 2024.
This ain't your grandma's astroturf! But is it worth installing anyway? Matthew and Larry talk about the downside of using astroturf versus grass, from maintenance to off-gassing.
What is it about empty spaces that lets our imaginations run wild? Matthew and Larry talk this Halloween season about the creepiness of being alone in an empty place, and the need to turn on every light imaginable.
Part of the fun about being an architect and being a geek is the articles that pop into your emails showcasing new and funky technology. Matthew and Larry spend the podcast sharing some of that new tech that the average homeowner may never know about.
Matthew has just passed his one year mark as a business owner. He and Larry chat a little about what happens in that first year and the milestones reached.
Architects are often asked which building is their favorite. But what are the buildings architects think of as least favored? Matthew and Larry talk about some of their not-so-favorites and the love-hate relationship architects have with some buildings.
Architects are notorious for lapsing into technical talk when meeting with clients. But how do clients communicate their wants and needs when talking with their architect? Matthew and Larry explore some of the unique ways past clients have shared their ideas for their projects. Also, try not to giggle too much when you realize Larry got the date wrong.
What makes college football such a different experience from a professional event? Matthew and Larry discuss the differences between attending games at different venues and the benefits of having a walkable environment.
Zoning can be a fine needle to thread when getting ready to start a project. Matthew and Larry talk about how zoning can impact not just what and where you build but also how communities interact with one another.
Larry shares with Matthew a quick recap of his visit to San Francisco for the AIA's national conference. And his desire to have his favorite presenter teach every class.
Any idea what your architect is saying? Matthew and Larry aren't sure either. Listen in to some of their favorite architect quotes and see if you can figure out what's really being said.
Who are Matthew and Larry? Find out as they both answer not-quite-twenty questions, sharing information about their favorite architects, architect, and what they really do for fun.
We've all seen the cool and sometimes not so cool images being created by artificial intelligence. So what are the implications for architecture? Matthew and Larry talk through some of the potential issues with integrating AI and architecture, including potential built-in biases, accountability, and privacy.
What does architecture sound like? Depends on the architect! Matthew and Larry discuss the different soundtracks of architecture within their own careers, and how that varies depending on the work being done.
Matt and Larry try to get a jump on their continuing education before December rolls around and share some coping strategies as well as playing a game of "Where's the poop?"
OMG!!! Matthew's twins are now four! How did that happen? Join Matthew and Larry as they talk about utilizing playgrounds to burn off 4-year-old energy and how playgrounds have evolved from when Matthew and Larry were that age.
Wonder what happens when you call an architect? Matthew and Larry walk through what to expect if you are a client and sometimes when you're the architect. Just how many questions should you expect?
Matthew and Larry sit down for a chat with Jeremiah Russell of Rogue Architecture in Little Rock, Arkansas and discuss life running two businesses, how Rogue became Rogue, and even a quick speed round that ended up being not so quick.
Matthew and Larry kick off 2023 with a holiday recap and a small preview of what's in store for the year. Join them throughout the year as they explore architecture unions, how the five sense relate to architecture, and other topics.
What else can you use a roof for beside Santa's landing pad? Matthew and Larry share some projects that did more with their roofs than provide a way to keep the water out. Enjoy the last podcast of 2022!
Determining your worth when it comes to being paid can be a challenge. Matthew and Larry discuss the differences between hourly pay as a salaried employee and being paid as contract labor; what factors go into determining billable rates; and why that's important in the current work environment.
Happy Halloween! Time for lots of candy and haunted houses. Join Matthew and Larry as they talk with a paranormal investigator about what goes into making a truly haunted house.
Larry's husband James joins the podcast to discuss the ins and outs of working with recruiters when it comes to finding a new job and what makes a good and not-so-good recruiter. Plus Matthew shares some of his own experiences when looking for help in finding something new.
In celebration of International Podcast Day, Matthew and Larry podcast about podcasting. They share some of the ins and outs of hosting their own show, where ideas come from, and what at least Matthew likes to listen to.
Every architect has been an intern, but we sometimes forget what that was like. Matthew and Larry share some advice for firm owners and for interns to consider as they begin working together as well as some thoughts on interning in a hybrid work environment.
A lot can happen in a year. Or two. And Matthew shares his latest news. New kiddo? Another job? He found Bigfoot? Tune in as he discusses with Larry not only what's been happening but how he got there.
How do you use a toilet without any water? Matthew and Larry share the wonder of incinerator toilets, including Matthew's recent visit to a local manufacturer, as well as other alternatives and what's driving the need for this technology.
Matthew and Larry discuss the recent announcement of Bjarke Ingels Group as the architect for the National Juneteenth Museum in Ft. Worth and whether a white-led architecture firm is the best fit for the community.
Most architects worry about water and never think of fire. For architect Mark Schatz of m+a architecture studio, that changed about three years ago. Join Matthew and Larry as Mark shares the story of the fire that destroyed one of his favorite projects, and the various factors that contributed to the fire.
In March 2021, The Architecture Geeks sat down with brand new firm owner Michael Fittz to talk about his journey to launching his own practice. Join Matthew and Larry as they catch up with Michael about his first year as a solo architect and what the future holds.
What if HOAs weren't evil? Larry and Matthew discuss some options that might make homeowners dread the thought of an HOA in their latest "What If?" podcast.
Matthew and Larry have a little fun letting Google finish the question "Why Are Architects..." You'd be surprised - or maybe not - at what pops up.
Matthew and Larry kick off their What If... series discussing what architecture would look like if future architects only required a four year degree? Would schooling change? Would the profession? Would there be a larger and possibly better labor pool? Anything is possible.
Is that real? Matthew and Larry dive into some latest uses for virtual reality software, including Matthew's recent experience as a juror. Would a VR crime scene recreation help?
Feeling empowered? Ready to think outside the box? Matthew and Larry share some of their favorite business catchphrases heard over their careers. Say what?
People will wander, and sometimes into the places we don't want them to go, no matter the warning signs. On the latest podcast, Matthew and Larry share some more subtle ways to let others know a space is off limits.
More Coffey anyone? A year later, Matthew and Larry sit down and get caught up with Phil Coffey of Coffey Architects in London. So how was his 2021 and what's in store for 2022? Listen in and find out!
What's the one thing you would change about the design of your house as your children have gotten older? Matthew and Larry discuss unexpected aspects of Matthew parenting 3-year-old twins and what's more fun for them - overfilling the bathroom sink with water? Or randomly turning on the microwave?
Welcome back! Larry and Matthew get caught up on the holidays and share a bit of what to expect in the coming year.
Worried what to get your architect for Christmas? Larry and Matthew share some ideas a little off the beaten path when it comes to buying a present for your favorite architect.
Matthew and Larry talk about what many architects consider the dream project - no client and no budget - and present listeners an opportunity to sketch out a design where there is no client, or budget, or limit to what an architect can do with an existing house.
Larry says goodbye to his home office. Matthew and Larry talk about the changes from working at home to working in an office space as Larry gets ready to return to a shared workspace.
It has an award. But is it good design? Matthew and Larry discuss what constitutes good design in the built environment. Is it glitz and glamor? Is it socially-conscious buildings? Taste is subjective, and good design is too.
Are we coming full circle? Matthew and Larry discuss urban and suburban density and public transportation, and in the process circle around to other podcasts from this season.
Paying more but getting less? Larry and Matthew discuss the concept of shrinkflation as the economy moves out of the pandemic and how that affects home buyers and builders.
We know we said the last jobs podcast was the last one. But we promise this one is. At least for now. Join Larry and Matthew as they talk about the pros and cons of switching architecture firms on a regular basis. Are you losing out on opportunities? Or gaining valuable experience.
Job searching is never easy, and when you're an architect, you never know what job posting will come your way. Matt and Larry spend this episode talking with two very different individuals about two different topics that arose as Matt began looking for work.
Is a subway just a means to get from A to B? Or is there more there? Join Matthew and Larry as they talk about international transit, how transit is perceived, and how subways act as social safety nets. And they throw in a little bit of architecture as well.
Having trouble finding a job? Ever think about creating your own? Matthew and Larry interview very recent firm owner Michael Fittz, AIA about launching a new architecture practice during the pandemic. Is there ever a good time to start something new?
Looking for work? Matthew and Larry go through job postings and share the good, bad, and ugly about each one and offer insight into what firms mean when listing responsibilities and requirements.
You've landed your first job. Now what? Matt and Larry share some advice about the first few years working for an architecture firm. Will the honeymoon last?
Ever wonder what's behind your favorite saying? Matt and Larry share how the built environment has helped influence every day expressions, whether in London, Brazil, or just the architecture office.
Looking for a job? In the first episode of the Job series, Matthew and Larry share some of their own work history, strategies for finding a job in architecture, and some of the unusual places for job listings. Be sure to stay tuned for future episodes around internships, job postings, and interviewing.
Ready to get out of town? Matthew and Larry share some unique international hotels you might want to experience as travel gears up post-pandemic.
What will the streets look like post-pandemic? Matt and Larry discuss some possibilities for the urban landscape, what some cities have already done, and how streets evolved from the last pandemic.
What a week! Matthew and Larry share their thoughts about last week's frigid temps and loss of power. The also discuss some ideas on preparing for future events as well as how to protect yourself from unscrupulous contractors as you make repairs.
In the third podcast of the International Series, Matt and Larry talk with Phil Coffey of Coffey Architects about housing in London and the future of architecture practice post-pandemic.
Is software becoming more important than design? Matt and Larry talk about the impact of software on architecture from what students are learning to how architects approach the design process. Are we letting software dictate?
In the second episode of their international series, Matt and Larry start off in Brazil and do a little globe trotting as they talk about exterior color at home and abroad.
What do door stops, baby-proofing, and Christmas trees have in common? Matt and Larry discuss how life as kid-parents and pet-parents has affected how they look at architecture.
Welcome to the first episode of the International Series! Matthew and Larry discuss the use of windows in Japanese architecture, particularly in the denser urban environments.
Continuing Education Credits. Bleah! Matt and Larry kick off 2021 talking about an architect's least favorite year-end activity, something new for Matt this year who has his own take on this first-time experience.
In a quick bonus episode, Matthew and Larry talk about their favorite episodes from Season 2 of the podcast. What were yours?
As the year comes to a close, Matthew and Larry share how the pandemic has affected architecture in 2020; some events from the architecture world that didn't involve Covid-19; and a preview of podcasts for 2021.
Do you smell what I smell? Matt and Larry discuss how our sense of smell is intertwined with architecture and design.
Christmas time is here! Matthew and Larry offer their suggestions on what not to buy your architect this Christmas so you don't end up on their naught list.
How geeky can you get? Larry shares with Matt the moment he realized just how big a geek he could be.
It's time to tell you what we think! Matthew and Larry answer student questions from this year's Fall QUAD Conference hosted by the American Institute of Architecture Students and Oklahoma State University.
Last day at the beach! Matt and Larry talk about having fun with architecture outside of architecture. For Matt that means building sandcastles while on vacation.
Matthew is still in Florida, so maybe not cooler climes. However, he shares a little about the home he's staying in, and he and Larry discuss what it means to design for a given climate.
Waiting for permission to build? Matthew and Larry talk about the growing backlog in construction permits in Dallas and offer some options for working through the process.
Is it time to say goodbye to pencil and paper? Matt and Larry discuss the pros and cons of moving to a digital sketch environment.
Do architects ever stop drawing? Matthew and Larry share their thoughts on why architects have a hard time retiring, something their spouses are well aware of.
After seven years of knowing one another, Larry and Matthew finally share their perspectives on being a mentor and a mentee. And it only took seven years.
Owners have a lot to consider when starting a new project. Matt and Larry share some considerations that can help narrow down choices and how an architect can help.
Join Matthew and Larry as they talk with Dallas real estate broker Hunter Dehn about selling during Covid, working with investors, and some of the good and not so good home improvements Hunter has seen.
Ready to start building? Matt and Larry talk about a few project aspects homeowners should consider (and sometimes don't) when jumping off into a new project.
Unusual times can create new challenges. Matthew and Larry welcome attorney Mitch Milby, who shares his thoughts as architects and engineers navigate the new normal in the face of the pandemic.
The pandemic has altered architects' approach to meeting with clients. Matthew and Larry talk about the changing ways we're interacting with clients, from initial meetings to design review to contractor introductions, and what still requires in-person interaction.
It's summertime in Texas and that means a lot of sunshine. Matthew and Larry get their geek on discussing solar panels versus rain barrels and their impact on your carbon footprint. Plus they throw in a little math as well.
Ever wonder what it's like being married to an architect? Matthew and Larry finish their interview with James and Fe and welcome a special guest.
Ever wonder what it's like being married to an architect? Matthew and Larry hosts James and Fe for a two-part podcast on the ins and outs of being an architecture spouse.
Having a critical eye may not be an architect's best friend. Matthew and Larry share some dos and don'ts when it comes to an architect's manners.
What don't architects do? Matthew and Larry share some tasks sometimes attributed to architects that often fall to other professions.
Ready to go back to the office? Larry and Matt share some cons about open office space and how the office environment may change post-pandemic.
Matt and Larry share ten things they bet you didn't know architects do, from coordinating consultants to providing marriage counseling.
As the economy has slowed, will architecture see another lost generation of architects? Matt and Larry discuss what might be coming and what happened during previous downturns.
Why do people love to read about other people's homes? Matt and Larry discuss the popularity of residential spreads in architecture magazines and web sites.
Tiny houses and shelter-in-place? No thanks! Larry and Matthew discuss the challenges of living in limited space created by the tiny house trend.
From school shootings to the fire at Notre Dame, Matt and Larry discuss how architects respond in a crisis.
Wanna go for a walk? Matt and Larry talk about how being inside has made more people go outside and rediscover their neighborhoods.
Sometimes being an architect isn't cheap. Matt and Larry share what goes into becoming and being an architect.
Stuck inside like the rest of us? Matt and Larry discuss ways to fill some extra time with some things architectural, and some things not.
Preservation is more than just keeping old buildings intact. Sometimes preservation means realizing a building cannot be saved.
Matt and Larry discuss an architect's perceptions following the passing of family members. What does one see differently?
This isn't your mother's astroturf! Matt and Larry talk about the different types of artificial turf and possibly just painting the front yard instead.