What the RFI?

• The Power of Networking: Building Your Support System

  After an unexpected career shake-up, Matt Brennan opens up about the true power of your network, the people who rally behind you when life changes overnight. In this episode of What the RFI?, Matt shares how a single LinkedIn post reached over 10,000 people and became a lesson in community, mentorship, and resilience. Through stories from architecture conferences, friendships built on job sites, and the meaning of professional integrity, he reminds us that your network isn’t about numbers, it’s about people.Learn how to build genuine connections, lead with integrity, and leave a legacy that others want to follow.Takeaways:Networking is more than collecting contacts; it’s about building trust.Integrity and kindness define your professional legacy.Attend events, connect online, and follow up with purpose.Genuine relationships open doors when you least expect it.Your network is your community and your greatest career asset.Soundbites:“This isn’t about me, it’s about you.”“Your network is your army.”“Integrity is the foundation of your network.”Chapters00:00 - Navigating Change: A Personal Journey03:10 - The Power of Networking06:05 - Building Connections: The Importance of Engagement12:10 - Creating Lasting Memories Through Networking16:05 - Integrity and Legacy: The Foundation of Your Network🎙️Website - WhattheRFI.com🍏Apple Podcast - What the RFI? 🎧Spotify - What the RFI? 🎥YouTube - @WhatTheRFI

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• InktoberArchitecture: Why Architects Still Need to Sketch in a Digital World

  It’s time to dust off the desk, grab your favourite pen, and roll out the trace because InktoberArchitecture is here!In this episode of What the RFI?, host Matt Brennan welcomes back Nathan Taylor, Building Envelope Consultant, artist, and creator of the global sketching movement InktoberArchitecture. Together, they dive deep into how hand sketching connects creativity, communication, and construction in an increasingly digital and AI-driven profession.This episode explores why architects, designers, and students are rediscovering sketching as a tool for problem-solving, storytelling, and learning. Nathan shares the origins of the challenge, his favourite prompts from this year, and why drawing, even on a napkin, can change how we design and think.In this episode, you’ll learn:The story behind InktoberArchitecture and how to participateWhy hand sketching still matters in the era of BIM, Revit, and AIHow a quick field sketch can solve problems faster than an RFIThe power of community and visual storytelling in architecturePractical tips for getting started: tools, pens, prompts, and mindsetWhether you’re an architect, student, or creative professional, this episode will inspire you to slow down, draw more, and reconnect with the craft that started it all.Learn more and join the challenge:👉 BuildingScape Blog👉 Follow the hashtag #InktoberArchitecture on LinkedIn and Instagram⏱️ Chapters00:00 – Introduction: Dust off the desk and grab your pen02:00 – Catching up with Nathan Taylor: CSI, AIA East Bay, and new projects03:15 – What is InktoberArchitecture? Origins and inspiration06:40 – Why architects should still draw in a digital world09:30 – This year’s prompts and creative interpretations13:20 – The role of hand sketching in Construction Administration17:00 – Field sketches, RFIs, and real-world problem solving20:30 – The muscle memory of drawing vs. digital design26:00 – The community behind InktoberArchitecture31:30 – Favourite sketches, firms, and global participation33:45 – Overcoming the “I can’t draw” myth39:50 – Favourite tools: pens, paper, and the art of imperfection42:30 – Digital sketching and apps like Morpholio Trace45:00 – Architecture culture, creativity, and balance48:00 – Sketching as stress relief and collaboration tool50:00 – How to join the challenge and where to find Nathan52:00 – Final thoughts: pick up a pen and start sketching🎙️Website - WhattheRFI.com🍏Apple Podcast - What the RFI? 🎧Spotify - What the RFI? 🎥YouTube - @WhatTheRFI

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• From Vision to Detail: Toby Witte on Modern Architecture

  In this episode of What the RFI?, host Matt Brennan sits down live at AIA Aspire 2025 in Asheville, NC, with architect Toby Witte of Wittehaus. Known for designing modern, energy-efficient homes across the Carolinas, Toby brings a deep passion for detail, sustainability, and storytelling in architecture.The conversation traces Toby’s journey from Germany to the U.S., his design philosophy, and how details, from light and shadow to millwork and railings, shape not only buildings but also people’s lives. Together, Matt and Toby explore how trust, collaboration, and client engagement are essential to creating homes that are both deeply personal and environmentally responsible.They explore topics ranging from the importance of craftsmanship on the job site to healthy home design and air quality to the growing potential of solar energy to make homes self-sufficient. Along the way, Toby shares stories of unique client-driven projects, including designing a home around a baby grand piano, a perfect example of how architecture can tell stories and reflect passions.Whether you’re an architect, contractor, or homeowner dreaming of your next space, this episode highlights the power of details to transform the way we live.Key TakeawaysGood design improves lives — bringing joy, comfort, and beauty into daily living.Every project is a prototype tailored to a client’s needs, lifestyle, and site.Details matter — from material choices to light and shadow, they define the experience.Trust and collaboration between client, architect, and contractor are essential.Healthy homes improve air quality and long-term well-being.Sustainability is simple — design with the sun, insulate continuously, and choose materials wisely.Solar energy is no longer optional; it’s a profitable, self-sustaining investment.Memorable Quotes“Good design improves our lives and brings joy.”“Attention to detail is crucial in architecture.”“Trust between architect and client is essential.”“You cannot price shop this — you have to find somebody you can trust.”At the end of the process, they bring their families over because they’re proud of their work.”Chapters00:00 – Introduction and Background04:06 – Journey into Architecture09:45 – Design Philosophy and Attention to Detail15:53 – Client Engagement and Trust21:58 – Unique Design Experiences and Personal Touches29:00 – Art and Memory: Storytelling in Design31:13 – Building Trust: Selecting the Right Contractor33:48 – Balancing Specs and Flexibility in Design35:35 – Hands-On Collaboration During Construction38:03 – Consultants and Specialists in Custom Homes39:01 – Craftsmanship and Detail: Working with Passionate Builders42:22 – Creating Healthy Homes and Better Air Quality45:23 – Sustainability: Simple Steps for Energy Efficiency48:41 – The Future of Solar Energy51:16 – Health and Safety in Home Design55:10 – Conclusion and Continuing the Conversation🎙️Website - WhattheRFI.com🍏Apple Podcast - What the RFI? 🎧Spotify - What the RFI? 🎥YouTube - @WhatTheRFI

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• Live from AIA Aspire 2025: Resilience, Technology, and the Future of Practice

  Recorded live at the Diana Wortham Theatre in Asheville, NC, this special episode of What the RFI?  takes the stage at AIA Aspire 2025. Host Matt Brennan is joined by an incredible panel of industry leaders:Mark Levine, FAIA — Principal at LS3P and founding Aspire volunteerMorgan Chawaga, AIA — Career Coach and Founder of The Healthy ArchitectAkhil Hemanth — AI Technology Architect at Newcomb & BoydTogether, they unpack some of the most urgent and exciting topics shaping today’s practice:How Construction Administration is being impacted by climate change and project timelinesThe rebuilding of Asheville after Hurricane Helene and the role of CA in resilienceHow emerging technology, from AI to AR, is reshaping design and project deliveryCareer coaching insights: building healthier, more sustainable careers in architectureWhether you’re an architect, project coordinator, or contractor, this conversation highlights the intersections of resilience, technology, and the future of CA — all from the live energy of AIA Aspire.🎙️Website - WhattheRFI.com🍏Apple Podcast - What the RFI? 🎧Spotify - What the RFI? 🎥YouTube - @WhatTheRFI

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• Building the Future: Concrete and Sustainability

  In this episode, Matt Brennan hosts Chris and Ryan to discuss the complexities of concrete construction, focusing on RFIs, specifications, and sustainability. They share insights from their experiences, emphasizing the importance of clear communication, innovative mix designs, and the need for training in the industry. The conversation also touches on the challenges of concrete production and the future of sustainable practices in construction.TakeawaysClarity in specifications can reduce RFIs significantly.Concrete's carbon footprint is a major concern for the industry.Innovative mix designs can lead to better sustainability outcomes.Training workers on new materials is crucial for project success.Communication between architects and engineers is essential.Sustainability in concrete doesn't have to increase costs.Quantifiable benchmarks can improve project outcomes.Concrete is a versatile material that requires careful planning.The industry is evolving with new technologies and methods.Collaboration among all stakeholders leads to better results.Sound bites"Clarity is the new foundation.""Concrete doesn't have to crack.""Concrete is in every job."Chapters00:00 – Intro: From Rebar to Redlines02:40 – Meet the Guests: Chris & Ryan’s Concrete Origins08:15 – What’s Changed in Concrete?13:45 – The Kendrick Elementary Experiment19:20 – Training & The Human Factor24:30 – “It’s Not Your Grandpa’s Concrete”29:10 – From Polished to Refined: Defining the Finish35:40 – Field Testing & Numerical Specs41:00 – Sustainability That Works (and Saves Money)47:10 – RFI Horror Stories: Concrete Gone Wrong53:30 – What Needs to Change in the Industry?59:00 – Closing Thoughts & Where to Find the Guests🎙️Website - WhattheRFI.com🍏Apple Podcast - What the RFI? 🎧Spotify - What the RFI? 🎥YouTube - @WhatTheRFI

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