48 - AML Podcast Series Episode 04 | AIA WLS '23 Interview feat. Saakshi Terway

Happy International Women’s Month!

As we kick off this new month, I want to share some bittersweet news — today marks the final episode of Architect My Life (AML) – a women in architecture podcast.

During the pandemic, I launched this podcast to support women balancing work, family, and business from home. Over time, it grew into a platform highlighting incredible women who inspire us all to be our best.

Recording this last episode stirred up a mix of emotions for me. AML started as a passion project but grew into something far more impactful and opened doors to unexpected opportunities.

The past three years with AML have also been a journey of growth and development for me. I've grown alongside the community that has supported me from the beginning. This led me to understand that now is the right time to transition — and I’m so excited to tell you what's coming next!

So, the end of this podcast simply means that I'll be coming back with even better ideas and tools to "step up." Because like you, I'm always seeking growth and learning, and there's no better way to do that than together. We'll keep you posted on this transition, so be sure to follow our socials to stay updated.

Thank you to everyone who has been part of this journey. Here's to the next chapter of growth and stay tuned for my big announcement on March 8th, International Women’s Day!

Your host, Aya Shlachter, talks with the hosts of She Builds Podcast — Norgerie Rivas, Jessica Rogers, and Lizi Raar. 

In this episode, the She Builds trio take us behind the scenes of their podcasting journey, sharing both the triumphs and challenges of showcasing stories of remarkable women in the industry. You'll discover how their podcast has positively influenced their lives and career paths, making them valuable contributors to the AEC industry.

The conversation also highlights the importance of inclusivity in the industry and the inspiration derived from stories of pioneering women. This was their motivation for launching the She Builds Podcast, and 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.

Make sure to tune in as Lizi, Jessica, and Norgerie discuss podcasting, the role of women throughout the history of architecture, and share interesting tidbits about themselves that will make you love the She Builds hosts even more!

EXCITING NEWS!

She Builds Podcast is hitting its 100th episode milestone, and everyone's invited to join the celebration! Hang out with Jessica, Lizi, and Norgerie during their live episode recording on March 2nd at 2 PM EST. 

Click here to join the fun: https://riverside.fm/studio/she-builds-podcast. See you there! 

ABOUT THE GUESTS:

Elizabeth Raar, or Lizi, is a licensed Project Architect from West Michigan, now working in California. She loves making projects both functional and beautiful for her clients. 

Jessica Rogers is a content creator and Marketing Coordinator who's passionate about architecture. Jessica has spent over four years working at the National Headquarters of the American Institute of Architects, where she managed programs for emerging professionals and women in the profession. 

Norgerie Rivas is an Architect from Puerto Rico working as a project manager in Houston, Texas. She's designed projects for various sectors and is all about celebrating and elevating women in her field. 

She Builds Podcast is all about telling the untold stories of women who've made a big impact in architecture, construction, and development.  They highlight stories of women who've played a key role in shaping the built environment, hoping to make women a more equal part of future architectural history.

Find out more about these ladies at shebuildspodcast.com/about.

ABOUT THE PODCAST:

Architect My Life is a podcast for empowering women creative entrepreneurs. Our show is dedicated to supporting architects and designers to achieve business growth, financial freedom, and health and wellness. We share inspiring success stories and valuable lessons from others' experiences.

This podcast is hosted by Aya Shlachter, CEO and Founder of MGS Global Group - a company that provides on-demand drafting services for architecture and design firms.

Listen to the Podcast:

Spotify

Apple Podcasts 

Libsyn Website

Connect with Us!

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Get in Touch

Ask Aya anything 

Be a Guest

Your host, Aya Shlachter, talks with Suzanne Hunt — Principal Architect and Founder of Suzanne Hunt Architect (SHA).

In this episode, Aya and Suzie discuss Suzie's architectural philosophy and its strong connection to people. Suzie shares how this philosophy has influenced her journey, from starting SHA in her bedroom to becoming an award-winning firm in Perth.

Suzie gives practical advice to emerging architects, emphasizing the importance of networking outside the industry. She highlights that "architecture is a business" and encourages active community engagement for growth. She also shares strategies for managing firm operations and navigating the unique challenges of running a creative business as an architect.

They also talk about Suzie’s impactful advocacy for equity, diversity, and inclusion, particularly through "Work Women Wisdom". Suzie addresses age invisibility among professional women and her commitment to inclusivity in the architectural profession.

Tune in to gain insights into Suzie's architectural philosophy, journey, and impactful advocacy!

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Suzanne (Suzie) Hunt LFRAIA RIBA is a registered Architect and Principal of Suzanne Hunt Architect, an award-winning architectural and interior design practice. She graduated with Honours from Curtin University in 1986 and gained valuable experience in boutique and large-scale practices in London.

In 2004, she founded Suzanne Hunt Architect (SHA) due to limited part-time opportunities in larger firms, starting from her bedroom and growing into a fully-fledged office in 2016. SHA is recognized for residential, hospitality, and local government projects, including award-winning refurbishments like Leeuwin Estate Winery. 

Suzie served on the Rottnest Island Authority Board, Legal Practice Board of WA, and chairs the Curtin Architecture Advisory Board. Elected President of the Australian Institute of Architects WA Chapter in 2017, Suzie advocates for gender equity and mentors through initiatives like #WorkWomenWisdom. 

Since 2017, she has been a TV presenter for MWC Australia By Design on Channel 10, receiving accolades such as the 2021 Paula Whitman Prize for Gender Equity and the 2022 WA Architects Board Award. In 2023, she was honored with Life Fellowship of the Australian Institute of Architects.

Find out more about Suzie at suzannehuntarchitect.com.au/our-story/.

ABOUT THE PODCAST:

Architect My Life is a podcast for empowering women creative entrepreneurs. Our show is dedicated to supporting architects and designers to achieve business growth, financial freedom, and health and wellness. We share inspiring success stories and valuable lessons from others' experiences.

This podcast is hosted by Aya Shlachter, CEO and Founder of MGS Global Group - a company that provides on-demand drafting services for architecture and design firms.

Listen to the Podcast:

Spotify

Apple Podcasts 

Libsyn Website

Connect with Us!

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Get in Touch

Ask Aya anything 

Be a Guest

Your host, Aya Shlachter, talks with Sarah Ramos — Founder and Managing Director of Eldane Pty Ltd.

In this episode, Aya talks with Sarah, a Filipina architect and firm owner in Canberra, Australia. They discuss Sarah's involvement in establishing the United Architects of the Philippines in Australia and New Zealand, her migration story, how she adjusted culturally and professionally, and her enjoyment of architecture in the laid-back Australian setting.

Additionally, Sarah shares the challenges she faced as a business owner, including networking and language barriers. She talks about founding her firm, Eldane, and the important contribution of client relationships to its growth. She also mentions how she met her first client on Instagram!

Sarah also shares her project management approach and the importance of client involvement for project success. Inspired by Australian culture, she discusses maintaining work-life balance and efficient processes to meet deadlines and project standards.

Make sure to listen all the way through to learn more about the life of being a firm owner in Australia!

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Sarah Ramos is the founder and managing director of Eldane Pty Ltd, a leading design firm in Canberra known for its focus on purposefully designed spaces and innovative approaches to the design process.

As a seasoned Filipina architect with qualifications in both Architecture and Interior Design from the Philippines and Australia, Sarah has dedicated her practice to helping clients achieve spaces that not only reflect their lifestyles or businesses but also contribute to creating a safe and healthy built environment for years to come.

Sarah's unique perspective as a designer is shaped by a fusion of Philippine and Australian influences, resulting in designs that transcend conventional boundaries. Her work seamlessly integrates cultural richness with contemporary functionality, telling compelling stories through the spaces she creates.

Find out more about Sarah at https://eldane.com.au/about-us.

ABOUT THE PODCAST:

Architect My Life is a podcast for empowering women creative entrepreneurs. Our show is dedicated to supporting architects and designers to achieve business growth, financial freedom, and health and wellness. We share inspiring success stories and valuable lessons from others' experiences.

This podcast is hosted by Aya Shlachter, CEO and Founder of MGS Global Group - a company that provides on-demand drafting services for architecture and design firms.

Listen to the Podcast:

Spotify

Apple Podcasts 

Libsyn Website

Connect with Us!

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Get in Touch

Ask Aya anything 

Be a Guest

Your host, Aya Shlachter, talks with Caitlin Brady — a licensed architect and Host of the Architectette Podcast. 

In this episode, Aya and Caitlin dive into the essence of groups and organizations in the AEC community for collective growth and support. Caitlin shares her journey from architecture school to active participation in various organizations, highlighting the value of mentorship in her professional development. 

She also discusses her approach to continuous learning, even without a mentor, and emphasizes her dedication to helping and mentoring emerging architects, which has earned her multiple awards for her efforts.

As an architect-podcaster, Caitlin shares both the enjoyable and challenging aspects of podcasting. Despite the ups and downs, she expresses how podcasting has deepened her love for her work and advocates for professionals to stay engaged in the AEC industry.

Tune in to discover more about Caitlin's life beyond architecture and Architectette!

ABOUT THE PODCAST:

Architect My Life is a podcast for empowering women creative entrepreneurs. Our show is dedicated to supporting architects and designers to achieve business growth, financial freedom, and health and wellness. We share inspiring success stories and valuable lessons from others' experiences.

This podcast is hosted by Aya Shlachter, CEO and Founder of MGS Global Group - a company that provides on-demand drafting services for architecture and design firms.

Listen to the Podcast:

Spotify

Apple Podcasts 

Libsyn Website

Connect with Us!

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Get in Touch

Ask Aya anything 

Be a Guest

In this year's pilot episode, Aya talks about her New Year tradition— picking a special word for the year. Instead of the same old resolutions, she shares how one word played a pivotal role in making her goals happen! 

She also recaps the ups, downs, and ‘unconventional’ moments of her 2023, and shares what she learned that's coming along with her into this new year. Plus, she reveals her word for 2024 and shares what she's planning for the year.

If you're still figuring out your game plan for 2024, make sure to tune into this episode to learn an exercise that might just be what you need to ace your goals! Here's a little hint: think of it as finding your very own North Star. 🌟

ABOUT THE HOST:

Aya Shlachter is the founder and CEO of MGS Global Group, offering architecture staffing and drafting support to the AEC, hospitality, and retail sectors. She earned a Master's in Architecture and Urban Design from Columbia University and a Bachelor's in Architecture from the New Jersey Institute of Technology. She furthered her education through Harvard University's Hospitality Design program.

Aya is a wife and mother of two. She enjoys traveling, golf, and recreational triathlons. Cooking and spending time outdoors also make her happy. Recently, she started joining (and enjoying!) weekly group cold plunges in Cleveland.

ABOUT THE PODCAST:

Architect My Life is a podcast for empowering women creative entrepreneurs. Our show is dedicated to supporting architects and designers to achieve business growth, financial freedom, and health and wellness. We share inspiring success stories and valuable lessons from others' experiences.

This podcast is hosted by Aya Shlachter, CEO and Founder of MGS Global Group - a company that provides on-demand drafting services for architecture and design firms.

Listen to the Podcast:

Spotify

Apple Podcasts 

Libsyn Website

Connect with Us!

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Get in Touch:

Ask Aya anything 

Be a Guest

Your host, Aya Shlachter, talks with Katelyn Rossier — a licensed architect and founder of MentorDINO LLC.

In this episode, Aya and Katelyn explore the profound impact of mentorship and training in the architecture business. Katelyn shares her personal journey with mentoring, emphasizing how it transformed her as an architect and inspired her to become a mentor herself.

They also delve into the creation of MentorDINO and its focus on guiding designers through career transitions and the human side of architecture. Katelyn highlights the importance of moving away from trial and error, advocating for a focus on building a strong foundation through mentorship.

Katelyn’s resources at MentorDINO are geared towards assisting both fresh grads and firm owners. They also discussed these courses in the pod, and talked about how each course is designed to benefit the AEC industry and prevent common problems. 

Tune in to discover the transformative power of mentorship in architecture and the innovative solutions offered by MentorDINO!

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Katelyn Rossier is a licensed Architect at Smithgroup and the brain behind MentorDINO. With degrees from Kent State University, she has tackled complex projects in healthcare, higher education, workplace, and science and technology. 

Katelyn, inspired by her own experiences, highlights the transformative impact of mentorship in our industry. Fueled by the mentors who kept her in the profession, Katelyn is now dedicated to helping professionals of all generations through MentorDINO.

Find out more about Katelyn at www.mentordino.com/about/.

ABOUT THE PODCAST:

Architect My Life is a podcast for empowering women creative entrepreneurs. Our show is dedicated to supporting architects and designers to achieve business growth, financial freedom, and health and wellness. We share inspiring success stories and valuable lessons from others' experiences.

This podcast is hosted by Aya Shlachter, CEO and Founder of MGS Global Group - a company that provides on-demand drafting services for architecture and design firms.

Listen to the Podcast:

• Spotify

• Apple Podcasts 

• Libsyn Website

Connect with Us!

• Instagram

• Facebook

• LinkedIn

Get in Touch

• Ask Aya anything 

• Be a Guest

Your host, Aya Shlachter, talks with Joann Lui — a licensed architect, brand designer, personal brand strategist for architects, and founder of Women Architects Collective.

In this episode, Aya and Joann address questions about digital marketing and branding specifically for architects, designers, and firm owners. Joann shares valuable insights on how to establish a strong online presence and navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape as a professional in the AEC industry.

They cover various topics including becoming comfortable with online presence, choosing relevant content to share online, embracing self-promotion, professional and personal branding, and more. They also emphasize the significance of authenticity in marketing activities.

Don't miss out on this episode for strategies on how to elevate your marketing game!

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Find out more about Joann at www.joannlui.com.

BE PART OF THE PODCAST:

Do you have a question in mind? Send me your questions and I’ll answer them on a podcast episode!

If you'd like to be a guest on Architect My Life, click HERE.

Finally, Episode 7 of our AML Podcast Series is here! Wrapping up this series, we sat with architecture ally, Jing Lauengco.

Join us as she offers her unique perspective on the AIA Women's Leadership Summit as a creative entrepreneur outside the field.

You can also check out the video interview on our YouTube Channel (@architectmylife) or simply click on this link to watch it.

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.

Episode 6 of our AML Podcast Series features Vivian Lee, as she shares her powerful insights on how challenges can pave the way for positive change, particularly for women in architecture.

You can also check out the video interview on our YouTube Channel (@architectmylife) or simply click on this link to watch it. 

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.