Season 1
Inside the Spec - Episode 1: Breaking the Spec Cycle
In this debut episode, hosts Megan Kacvinsky and Vardhan Mehta explore what really drives architects to switch specifications, featuring guest Andre Baros, Senior Director of Materials and Research at AceLab. The discussion dives deep into the psychology of specification inertia, examining how manu…
Inside the Spec - Episode 2: The Early Bird Advantage
Featuring Tyler Michieli, Associate Principal at Ford Architects and education studio leader, this episode explores why the schematic design phase presents a crucial opportunity for manufacturer engagement. The discussion reveals how early collaboration can transform a product from just another opt…
Inside the Spec - Episode 3: Digital Bridges
With her unique background in both computer science and architecture, Alex Nelson, R&D Lead of Design Technology at DLR Group, provides invaluable insights into how technology is transforming architectural practice and product specification. The discussion explores which digital tools are actually …
Inside the Spec - Episode 4: Vision Meets Reality
In this episode, hosts Megan Kacvinsky and Vardhan Mehta explore how successful architects navigate the gap between design vision and market reality with guest Adam Gayle, Principal at Superlative. With extensive experience across multiple project types and roles, Adam shares invaluable insights in…
Inside the Spec - Episode 5: Design IRL
In this episode, hosts Megan Kacvinsky and Vardhan Mehta talk with Steven Johns, Technical Director at Kieran Timberlake, about bridging the gap between architectural vision and practical reality. With 28 years at the firm, Steven shares invaluable insights into product evaluation, innovation partn…
Inside the Spec - Episode 6: Performance Matters
Christine Williamson, Professor of Architecture at Virginia Tech and building failure expert, offers invaluable insights into how architects evaluate product performance and what really matters in building product validation. The discussion explores the gap between marketing claims and practical ne…
Inside the Spec - Episode 7: The Future of Specification
Lena Reiff, a designer at Ross Barney Architects, provides fresh insights into how younger architects approach specification and what manufacturers need to do to better serve the next generation. The discussion explores the disconnect between architectural education and practice, evolving sustainab…
Inside the Spec - Episode 8: Breaking Through the Noise
David Lee, founding partner of Fame Architecture and Design and host of Second Studio podcast, shares candid insights into how manufacturers can meaningfully connect with architects. The discussion explores effective communication strategies across channels, the importance of authenticity in relati…