Design Create Inspire
Studying for the Architect Registration Exam (ARE 5.0) and working toward licensure? This podcast is for you. Hosted by Bryn Young, licensed architect, author, and founder of ABC Club and Mind Over ARE, each episode brings you exam prep strategies, study tips, and mindset tools to help you pass the ARE. You’ll also hear real insights from coaching calls on overcoming procrastination, staying motivated, and balancing architecture exams with life and work. Plus, episodes on the architecture profession itself, from contracts to practice management, so you’re prepared not just for the tests, but for your career as an architect.
How to Calculate Labor Budget (Step by Step) | ARE 5.0 PcM
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In this episode, we dive into a classic ARE 5.0 Practice Management (PcM) practice question on top-down budgeting. Using a real-world style scenario, we break down step by step how to calculate a project’s labor budget from construction costs, gross fee, consultant fees, and contingency.
You’ll learn:
How to calculate gross fee as a percentage of construction costWhy consultant fees are taken from the gross fee (not the construction cost)How contingency and direct expenses factor into the calculationHow to a...Understanding Floor Area Ratio (FAR) | PA
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In this special episode, we go into the complexities of Floor Area Ratio (FAR). Derived from a live Mind Over ARE coaching call, this recap offers crucial insights for navigating the ARE 5.0 exam and understanding key architectural concepts. The episode explores the significance of FAR in architectural practice, provides practical examples, and discusses how FAR impacts design feasibility, zoning regulations, and city planning. This session aims to transform a potential stumbling block into a definitive strength, equipping listeners with the knowledge to confidently tackle FAR-related questions in their exams and professional practice.
<...Architect Fee Methods: Top-Down, Bottom-Up, Fixed, and Not-to-Exceed for ARE 5 | PcM
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In this Coaching Highlight from our Mind Over ARE sessions (inside ABC Club Premium), we tackle a classic ARE 5.0 Practice Management (PcM) question:
👉 How do architects calculate fees — and what’s the difference between top-down budgeting, bottom-up budgeting, not-to-exceed hourly, and fixed fee?
These terms show up all the time in both the exam and real practice. In this episode, we break down:
Top-Down Budgeting – starting with a gross fee and distributing it across phasesBottom-Up Budgeting – calculating actual staffing hours × hou...Mastering Structural Systems for Dense Urban Environments | PPD & PDD ARE 5.0
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In this episode, Bryn shares a coaching highlight from the ABC Club Premium coaching calls. Head coach Shikha dives into a crucial topic: selecting the optimal structural system for fast construction in dense urban settings. She breaks down common missteps with common materials and why one is more ideal than the others. Materials discussed: precast concrete, cast-in-place concrete, heavy timber framing, and steel framing with metal decking. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding the specific context and constraints of exam questions, offering insights into efficient problem-solving for the ARE 5.0 and real-world architectural...
ARE 5.0 Scoring Guide 2025 | Pass with BYoung Design
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Let's uncover the nuances of ARE 5.0 scoring. Discover how to decode your NCARB score report and optimize your preparation by understanding the scoring criteria, and leverage free tools like the ARE 5.0 Score Calculator.
Bryn also discusses the importance of the cut score, the significance of section percentages, and how NCARB ensures the fairness of exams. Get practical tips and strategies to boost your study efficiency and ensure you’re well-prepared for success.
Stay tuned for exclusive resources and insights from the ABC Club community. Don’t forget to subscribe for mo...
Utilization Ratio: Your Key to Firm Finances and the ARE 5 | PcM
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In this Coaching Highlight from our Mind Over ARE sessions (inside ABC Club Premium), we unpack a core financial concept that shows up on the ARE 5.0 Practice Management (PcM) exam and in everyday firm life: the utilization ratio.
So what is it really measuring? Why does NCARB care about it? And how does it shape the way firms allocate time, staff, and resources?
In this episode, we’ll cover:
What utilization ratio actually means in an architecture firmCommon misconceptions about what “billable time...Setback Calculations for ARE 5.0: How to Confidently Select the Right Answer | PA
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Join us for an essential audio recap from a mind over ARE coaching call designed to provide aspiring architects with bite-sized takeaways and motivation for the ARE 5.0 exam. This episode offers a deep dive into a fundamental ARE practice question on setback calculations, breaking down core concepts step-by-step. Beyond the technical details, discover the crucial psychological strategies for trusting your knowledge and managing exam pressure. Tune in to learn how to blend solid preparation with confidence, and understand the powerful insights offered by the Mind Over ARE coaching community.
00:00 Introduction to...
Cardi B's Dream Home: Choosing the Best Fee Method | ARE 5.0 CE Practice Question
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In this episode, we tackle a famous ARE 5.0 Construction & Evaluation (CE) practice question that also connects to PjM and PDD. The scenario? A high-profile client (yes, Cardi B!) who cares most about schedule and design quality — with no concern about cost. Which fee structure is the right fit: GMP, stipulated sum, cost-plus-fixed-fee, or negotiated sum?
Head Coach Shikha breaks down the nuances of:
Guaranteed Maximum Price (GMP) – when cost certainty drives the contractStipulated Sum – fixed fee ba...Calculating Building Efficiency & Decoding ARE 5.0 Questions | PA & PPD
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Explore insights from live coaching calls and learn how to navigate and solve complex, multi-layered exam questions. This episode focuses on crucial skills like calculating building efficiency and understanding the importance of all constraints. Perfect for aspiring architects aiming to PASS the Architecture Registration Examination (ARE 5.0) PA or PPD divisions.
00:00 Introduction to the Deep Dive
00:26 Decoding Tricky Exam Questions
00:58 Understanding the ARE 5.0 Exam
01:40 Library Design Scenario Breakdown
04:07 Calculating Building Efficiency
06:48 Applying Constraints and Maximizing Efficiency
08:16 Key Takeaways and Real-World...
Firm Finances: Net Operating Revenue & Net Multiplier Explained | ARE 5.0 PcM
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Struggling with all the financial jargon in ARE 5.0 Practice Management (PcM)? You’re not alone. In this episode, we break down two must-know concepts that show up on the exam and in real practice: Net Operating Revenue (NOR) and the Net Multiplier.
👉 What you’ll learn:
The real definition of Net Operating Revenue (and what costs are subtracted)Reimbursable vs. non-reimbursable project expenses (with clear examples)How the Net Multiplier works and why it’s basically your firm’s financial “report card”The link between brea...3 Electrical Mistakes ARE 5.0 Candidates Make (and How to Fix Them)
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In this episode, we tackle the complexities of electrical systems that often intimidate ARE 5.0 candidates. Learn why memorizing formulas isn't enough, the key differences between single-phase and three-phase power, and the critical role of efficiency and demand in real-world projects. By connecting these concepts to practical scenarios, you'll gain a deeper understanding that can help you succeed in your exams. Join us for insights that will make electrical systems less abstract and more manageable.
00:00 Introduction to Electrical for A.R.E. Candidates
00:46 Common Mistake #1: Memorizing Without Understanding
01:52...
Stop Waiting: How to Finally Schedule (and Pass) Your ARE
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Struggling to find the right time to take your ARE? In this Coaching Insights Overview, we pull highlights from a live Mind Over ARE call — from breaking past exam hesitation with a clear 3-week plan, to smarter study strategies, to contract lessons every architect needs. Quick, practical takeaways to keep you moving toward licensure.
The ABC Club: Join our top ARE resource that's helping thousands of people pass their exams
Our free ARE Community is NOW LIVE! Join us today. Sign up HERE.
...
Resonance Explained: Physics and Architecture | Viral Stadium Video
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Watch the episode here.
This viral video of a stadium swaying under the feet of the crowd leaves people to wonder what is going on! I responded with a comment describing resonance and why this could lead to a catastrophic event. This comment has thousands of likes, so here's a video explaining it further.
0:00 - Is this stadium going to FAIL in this viral video?!
3:26 - Resonance: Defining resonance and its significance
4:51 - Is This Stadium Safe?: Analyzing the footage and raising concerns
7:38 - Millennium Bridge: S...
Architecture 101: Learn the Basics & Design Principles in 10 Minutes
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Dive into the world of architecture with this concise, 10-minute overview! Learn what architecture really is, explore key design principles (form, function, sustainability), and discover how iconic styles—from ancient wonders to cutting-edge green buildings—shaped our built environment. We’ll also break down the architectural process step by step, from initial concept sketches to final construction. Whether you’re a curious beginner, a student of design, or just love beautiful buildings, this video will give you a solid foundation in the art and science of creating great sp...
Becoming an Architect: ADHD Edition
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Watch the episode here.
How to Become a Licensed Architect Even if You’re Neurodivergent (ADHD Edition)
Architecture school is one of the hardest majors, and becoming a licensed architect? It’s a marathon. If I had overthought it before starting, I might have said, “No way, not for me.” But I didn’t. I kept going, learned to work with my ADHD, and figured it out as I went.
If you’ve ever struggled with focus, motivation, or feeling “inconsistent,” you’re not alone. In this video, I share my...
Ready to PASS the ARE 5.0? Q&A
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Enrollment to MOA opens only a few times a year, and spots are limited! Enroll today if you're ready to PASS the ARE and become a Licensed Architect.
CLICK HERE to secure your spot now! (Enrollment Deadline: midnight Friday 1/24)
1:57 – Kicking Off: ARE Exams & Mind Over ARE Enrollment
3:09 – Q&A Session Overview
3:17 – Is Mind Over ARE a PDF or Video Course?
4:21 – Strategy vs. Content: How MOA Helps
4:40 – Memorizing Answers vs. Understanding Concepts
5:24 – Reading Comprehension & Case Study Time Management
6:32 – Overcoming Fails & Invisi...
The #1 Mistake Aspiring Architects Make with The Healthy Architect
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*Are you burning out on the path to becoming an architect? You're not alone. In this episode, I sit down with Morgan Chawaga, AKA The Healthy Architect, to uncover the biggest mistakes aspiring architects make when it comes to their health, happiness, and career success.
Morgan shares her personal journey from burnout to balance and offers actionable strategies to help you:
Break free from the grind culture of architectureBalance work, life, and the licensure processEmbrace failure as a tool for growthWe’ll also explore how the architecture industry is...
The Secret to Memorizing Everything for the ARE
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The ABC Club: Join our top ARE resource that's helping thousands of people pass their exams
Our free ARE Community is NOW LIVE! Join us today. Sign up HERE.
Mind Over ARE is now part of ABC Club Premium! That means you can join us inside our signature program today! Click here to get started.
Starting the ARE®? START HERE
+ ARE Resource Guide FREE download
Bring back the FUN in studying architecture
+ ARE Activity Book
Why Haven’t You Passed Yet?' Handling Holiday Questions
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An inside look into a recent Mind Over ARE coaching call. Want to be part of these calls? Get on the priority list here: https://dci.byoungdesign.com/moa-waitlist
The ABC Club: Join our top ARE resource that's helping thousands of people pass their exams
Our free ARE Community is NOW LIVE! Join us today. Sign up HERE.
Mind Over ARE is now part of ABC Club Premium! That means you can join us inside our signature program today...
Use These 3 Study Techniques to PASS your Next Exam
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The ABC Club: Join our top ARE resource that's helping thousands of people pass their exams
Our free ARE Community is NOW LIVE! Join us today. Sign up HERE.
Mind Over ARE is now part of ABC Club Premium! That means you can join us inside our signature program today! Click here to get started.
Starting the ARE®? START HERE
+ ARE Resource Guide FREE download
Bring back the FUN in studying architecture
+ ARE Activity Book
Do You Really Need the Latest Textbooks to Pass the ARE?
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Watch this episode here
Watch the ARE Books you Need episode next
The ABC Club: Join our top ARE resource that's helping thousands of people pass their exams
Our free ARE Community is NOW LIVE! Join us today. Sign up HERE.
Mind Over ARE is now part of ABC Club Premium! That means you can join us inside our signature program today! Click here to get started.
Starting the ARE®? START HERE
+ ARE Resource Guide F...
How long does it take to study for the ARE 5.0?
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Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/EGaCjOuf2fY
We’ve created a focused study system that gets you to your license faster and with less stress. And now, our AI-powered study bot is arriving inside ABC Club...custom-built for every section of the ARE. Join today to lock in your rate and bonuses before offer is gone.
Offer ends Friday, Sept 12 at 11:59 pm PT → Go here to lock it in now
The ABC Club: Join...
Reduce Stress Fast: 5 Tips for Students & Professionals
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Watch episode here: https://youtu.be/Zir9n9YhhhU
Download our free ARE 5.0 Wellness Planner here: https://dci.byoungdesign.com/wellness
We’ve created a focused study system that gets you to your license faster and with less stress. And now, our AI-powered study bot is arriving inside ABC Club...custom-built for every section of the ARE. Join today to lock in your rate and bonuses before offer is gone.
Offer ends Friday, Sept 12 at 11:59 pm PT → Go here to lock...
Top tricks to help you STOP Procrastinating
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Watch the episode HERE
The ABC Club: Join our top ARE resource that's helping thousands of people pass their exams
Our free ARE Community is NOW LIVE! Join us today. Sign up HERE.
Mind Over ARE is now part of ABC Club Premium! That means you can join us inside our signature program today! Click here to get started.
Starting the ARE®? START HERE
+ ARE Resource Guide FREE download
Bring back the FUN in s...
All Your Questions Answered! | Mind Over ARE
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Enrollment is NOW OPEN! Only until midnight Friday 10/18 or until spots are filled. The group is currently half full. GET YOUR SPOT HERE!
We’ve created a focused study system that gets you to your license faster and with less stress. And now, our AI-powered study bot is arriving inside ABC Club...custom-built for every section of the ARE. Join today to lock in your rate and bonuses before offer is gone.
Offer ends Friday, Sept 12 at 11:59 pm PT → Go here to lock...
Why You’re Failing the ARE – And How to Fix It in 3 Steps
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Watch the episode HERE
Sign up for the workshop HERE
We’ve created a focused study system that gets you to your license faster and with less stress. And now, our AI-powered study bot is arriving inside ABC Club...custom-built for every section of the ARE. Join today to lock in your rate and bonuses before offer is gone.
Offer ends Friday, Sept 12 at 11:59 pm PT → Go here to lock it in now
The ABC Club:<...
ARE Practice Management & Firm Strategy: Pass the Exam, Build Your Business
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This special episode is brought to you directly from our exclusive ABC Club membership, where we host the ARE podcast for aspiring architects looking to bring back the joy in their licensing journey. Let's dive into critical Practice Management topics like business structures, partnerships, and firm strategy. Whether you're preparing for the ARE or looking to grow your architecture firm, this episode delivers clear, actionable advice to help you succeed. Pass your exams. Build your business. Listen now!
We’ve created a focused study system that gets you to your license fa...
4 Steps to Pass the ARE 5.0: What I'd Do If I Were Starting Over
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In this episode of Design Create Inspire, Bryn Young shares the four essential steps she would take if she were starting the ARE 5.0 exam journey from scratch. Whether you’re just beginning, stuck in the middle, or close to the end of your exams, these actionable tips will help you stay focused and motivated. Learn how to commit to a test date, create a realistic study plan, take practice tests early, and engage with a supportive community. Bryn also gives an inside look at the ABC Club, her membership for aspiring architects, where me...
3 Actionable Steps if You've Delayed Your ARE Exam for 60+ Days
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In this episode, we dive deep into a common dilemma among emerging professionals: being stuck in a delay of 60 days or more while preparing for the Architect Registration Examination (ARE 5.0). We understand the frustration, whether it's due to procrastination or unforeseen circumstances! So, here are three practical solutions you can start implementing today. Break free from the delay, regain momentum, and get back on track toward getting that PASS. Don't let the setback define your journey – you got this!
We’ve created a focused study system that gets you to y...
ARE 5.0 Q&A: PLUS all your MOA questions answered!
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✅When to start my architecture exams?
✅What exam should I start with?
✅How to handle nerves for my upcoming exam?
✅Should I take PA & PPD back to back?
✅Should I join MOA?
Reminder enrollment to MOA is open for a limited time! Can’t wait to meet you inside the program!
We’ve created a focused study system that gets you to your license faster and with less stress. And now, our AI-powered study bot is arriving inside ABC Club...custom-built for every section of the...
The Biggest Mistake People Make After a Failed Exam
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The ABC Club: Join our top ARE resource that's helping thousands of people pass their exams
Our free ARE Community is NOW LIVE! Join us today. Sign up HERE.
Mind Over ARE is now part of ABC Club Premium! That means you can join us inside our signature program today! Click here to get started.
Starting the ARE®? START HERE
+ ARE Resource Guide FREE download
Bring back the FUN in studying architecture
Atomic Habits: Boost Your Happiness with These Proven Strategies
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Watch here: https://youtu.be/POv9JUbhq6I
Ready here: https://www.byoungdesign.com/post/atomichabits
Join the book club here: instagram.com/byoungdesign (make sure to subscribe!)
The ABC Club: Join our top ARE resource that's helping thousands of people pass their exams
Our free ARE Community is NOW LIVE! Join us today. Sign up HERE.
Mind Over ARE is now part of ABC Club Premium! That means you can join us inside our signature program...
Passion vs. Practicality: Should you Choose a Career in Architecture?
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What if people are telling you NOT to become an Architect? Discover whether architecture is the RIGHT Career Choice for YOU.
Read here: https://www.byoungdesign.com/post/career-arch
Watch + subscribe here: https://youtu.be/evGJyMhDesQ
The ABC Club: Join our top ARE resource that's helping thousands of people pass their exams
Our free ARE Community is NOW LIVE! Join us today. Sign up HERE.
Mind Over ARE is now part of...
Future Architects: Innovating Education in Architecture with Gokce Saygin
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Watch the episode here.
Read here.
Connect with Gokce below to see the amazing work she's doing.
The ABC Club: Join our top ARE resource that's helping thousands of people pass their exams
Our free ARE Community is NOW LIVE! Join us today. Sign up HERE.
Mind Over ARE is...
From Burnout to Breakthrough | The Most Vulnerable Video I've Posted
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Watch here
Read HERE
We’ve created a focused study system that gets you to your license faster and with less stress. And now, our AI-powered study bot is arriving inside ABC Club...custom-built for every section of the ARE. Join today to lock in your rate and bonuses before offer is gone.
Offer ends Friday, Sept 12 at 11:59 pm PT → Go here to lock it in now
The ABC Club: Join our top ARE reso...
Starting Your Architecture Firm: Katerina's Tips for Aspiring Architects
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Taking the Leap: Starting Your Own Architectural Firm
The architecture field can be highly competitive, and the journey to becoming a licensed architect is fraught with challenges. Many young professionals dream of owning their own firms, but the path to get there is often unclear. In this episode, we chat with Katerina, a young architect, about her journey and the lessons she learned along the way.
Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/QJaZTG3M_hI
Check out Katerina below:
Instagram @fromthehoneycombpodcast
https://www.kbarchitectinc.com/
BONUS: ARE Workshop Sneak Peek PART 2
An inside look at the ARE Workshop, where I break down the four secrets to optimize your exams. Want to watch the video? Check it out here.
Enroll in Mind Over ARE HERE before 7/31/23 11:59 pm (PDT) or until spots are filled!
Support the showOur free ARE Community is NOW LIVE! Join us today. Sign up HERE.
Access all our various resources below designed to help you PASS your exams and START your business! Including FREE downloads, courses, and group programs.
Join the Mind Over ARE waitlist now to...
"I Don't Have Enough Time" - Lunch + Learn
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The ABC Club: Join our top ARE resource that's helping thousands of people pass their exams
Our free ARE Community is NOW LIVE! Join us today. Sign up HERE.
Mind Over ARE is now part of ABC Club Premium! That means you can join us inside our signature program today! Click here to get started.
Starting the ARE®? START HERE
+ ARE Resource Guide FREE download
Bring back the FUN in studying architecture
+ ARE Activity Book
BONUS: ARE Workshop Sneak Peek
Did you miss the ARE Workshop I had this week? If so, no worries! I'm sharing part of the incredible workshop as a special bonus for my podcast listeners.
Want to check out the workshop video? Here's a link to the private unlisted version. Enjoy!
Enroll in Mind Over ARE HERE before 7/31/23 11:59 pm (PDT) or until spots are filled!
Support the showOur free ARE Community is NOW LIVE! Join us today. Sign up HERE.
Access all our various resources below designed to help you PASS your exams and...
ARE 5.0 Live Q&A
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Join us in our next workshop! Register here.
The ABC Club: Join our top ARE resource that's helping thousands of people pass their exams
Our free ARE Community is NOW LIVE! Join us today. Sign up HERE.
Mind Over ARE is now part of ABC Club Premium! That means you can join us inside our signature program today! Click here to get started.
Starting the ARE®? START HERE
+ ARE Resource Guide FREE download
Bring ba...
