Architecture is not only shaped by buildings. It is shaped by memory, mentorship, authorship, and the voices that help define who belongs in the profession. In this episode of Architecture Beyond, Brandon Gibbs sits down with architect, academic, and writer Christian Joosse for Part I of a two-part conversation centered on her path into architecture and the deeper foundations behind Letters to Ms. 1000. Christian is the editor, co-author, and curator behind Letters to Ms. 1000: Words of Wisdo...

Welcome to Saturday Studio, a series from Architecture Beyond where we study architectural pioneers and connect their thinking to how we design today. In this episode, we explore the life and impact of Zaha Hadid — an architect known for redefining form through fluid geometry, advancing computational design, and building a global practice rooted in research and experimentation. 🎙 What This Episode Covers Zaha Hadid’s early life, education, and career trajectory Her role in ad...

One of the most common questions in the building industry is simple but incredibly important: When should you bring an architect into a project? Many people assume the architect is needed once the vision is clear and it’s time to produce drawings. But in reality, some of the most important decisions in a building project happen long before design documents are created. In this episode of Architecture Beyond, host Brandon Gibbs explores how the timing of architectural involvement can influence...

Architecture Beyond | Saturday Studio Welcome to the first installment of Saturday Studio, a new Architecture Beyond series where we study architectural legends and translate their thinking into principles you can apply today. This episode features Paul R. Williams — often called “Hollywood’s Architect.” Over a five-decade career, Williams designed more than 2,000 projects, shaped the visual identity of Los Angeles, contributed to civic institutions including St. Jude Children's Research Hosp...

What does it really mean to design with dignity—and how can architects play a meaningful role in affordable housing and community development? Watch this episode recorded here: In this kickoff episode of Season 4 of Architecture Beyond, host Brandon Gibbs sits down with Kelsey Oesmann Wilson, AIA, Principal at Nelson Community Partners, for an honest and practical conversation about affordable housing, advocacy, and the evolving role of architects beyond traditional practice. Kelsey sha...

In this episode of Architecture Beyond, host Brandon Gibbs sits down with Dillon Dunn, President of NOMA Nashville, for a timely and thoughtful conversation on leadership, representation, and the future of the architecture profession. Dillon shares his personal journey into architecture, how his involvement with NOMA shaped his leadership path, and the work currently happening in Nashville to support emerging professionals and strengthen community impact. From national events like NOMA KC to ...

Episode Overview In this inspiring episode of Architecture Beyond, host Brandon Aaron Gibbs, AIA, NOMA sits down with entrepreneur, community builder, and wellness advocate Chris Goode—whose mission-driven work is reshaping how cities think about health, design, and equitable public spaces. Chris recently shared his story for Paseo Stairs Project at the 2025 NOMA KC Convention, joining Populous leaders Al Harris and Ashley Renfro on a powerful panel exploring design, community heritage, and p...

Ever wondered what architects really do all day, why projects take so long, or where design ideas actually come from? In this Architecture Beyond special, host Brandon Gibbs, AIA, NOMA opens up about the creative process, the challenges behind the drawings, and how technology is reshaping the profession. This 20-minute episode dives into the top five questions people always ask architects — from the truth about budgets and creativity, to career advice for the next generation of designe...

What does it mean to lead with design, serve the community, and build a practice with lasting impact? In this episode of Architecture Beyond, we sit down with Chad Polk, President of CDP Architecture, to explore his remarkable journey from early mentorship under AIA Fellows to founding one of Nashville’s most respected client-centered design firms. With over 25 years of experience, Chad reflects on the value of mentorship, the evolving role of architects in a growing city, and how purpose, le...

“Healthcare design isn’t just about meeting codes — it’s about restoring dignity, supporting care, and shaping outcomes.” — Giselle Newman, Award-Winning Healthcare Interior Designer In this inspiring episode of Architecture Beyond, we sit down with nationally recognized healthcare interior designer Giselle Newman, AAIA, RID whose award-winning work spans hospitals, clinics, and environments that put human well-being at the core of design. Giselle shares her journey from early de...