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Trends + Tensions in Architecture and Design explores emerging design trends and the competing tensions that arise from integrating new ideas into existing organizations, enterprises, and institutions. Rooted in BHDP’s promise to design for people, host and strategist Brian Trainer leads insightful discussions with industry experts and thought leaders. From Workplace to Higher Education, Industrial, Discovery & Science, Healthcare, and Government, each episode uncovers what’s working, what’s not, and what lies ahead—offering fresh perspectives on the impact of architecture and design.

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Browse Our Latest Podcasts

Bridging the Gap: Authentic Marketing & Enrollment in Higher Education
Podcast 06.11.2025
Bridging the Gap: Authentic Marketing and Enrollment in Higher Education This podcast episode delves into the critical role marketing and enrollment play in shaping the overall campus experience. From first impressions to long-term engagement, the conversation highlights how authentic messaging and strategic outreach can attract and retain the right students.
Game Plan: Athletics & Growth in Higher Education
Podcast 05.23.2025
Game Plan: Athletics and Growth in Higher Education This episode explores how independent colleges leverage athletics to enhance admissions, balance budgets, and optimize campus spaces. Our expert guests share strategies and insights on program growth, space repurposing, and the evolving role of athletics in higher education.
CFOs and Campus Futures: Innovating Financial Strategy in Higher Education
Podcast 04.25.2025
CFOs and Campus Futures: Innovating Financial Strategy in Higher Education In this episode, we explore how CFOs are redefining financial strategy to drive innovation, resilience, and long-term success across higher education campuses. Featuring insights from industry leaders, the conversation highlights emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of campus planning and investment.
Shaping the Future: Designing Campus Spaces for a Changing Student Population
Podcast 02.20.2025
Shaping the Future: Designing Campus Spaces for a Changing Student Population As the student population continues to evolve, traditional residential campuses must adapt to meet the needs of a broader range of learners. In this episode, we explore the challenges and opportunities facing higher education, from shifting enrollment trends to the reimagining of campus spaces and funding strategies, all with the goal of creating vibrant, inclusive learning environments for the future.
Manufacturing the Future: Innovation and Talent at VEGA
Podcast 02.10.2025
Manufacturing the Future: Innovation and Talent at VEGA In today’s competitive manufacturing landscape, retaining top talent goes beyond wages—it’s about creating worker-friendly environments that enhance productivity, well-being, and job satisfaction. This episode explores how thoughtful design can give manufacturers a strategic advantage in attracting and retaining skilled employees.
The Future of Learning: Designing Classrooms for Engagement and Innovation
Podcast 01.29.2025
The Future of Learning: Designing Classrooms for Engagement and Innovation In this episode, we explore how integrating pedagogy, space, and technology can transform classroom design in higher education. Our experts discuss the critical role of flexible environments, active learning strategies, and cutting-edge technology in enhancing student engagement and academic success. Learn how thoughtful design can create more effective and dynamic learning experiences.
Next-Gen Students, Next-Gen Campuses: Generation Alpha’s Influence on Design
Podcast 12.23.2024
Next-Gen Students, Next-Gen Campuses: Generation Alpha’s Influence on Design In this episode, we explore the growing influence of Generation Alpha—the digitally native and socially conscious cohort poised to reshape higher education. Join us as we discuss their unique needs and preferences and how thoughtful design can create spaces that empower their learning experiences and future success.
Podcast graphic featuring Tom Sens and Marlo Cookston
Podcast 11.22.2024
Campus Checkup: Assessing Higher Education Facilities In this episode, we explore the critical role of facility condition assessments in shaping the future of higher education campuses. Learn how these evaluations provide insights into maintenance priorities, budget planning, and long-term campus sustainability. Discover why addressing facility needs is key to creating environments that support student success and institutional growth.
Beyond the Classroom: How AI is Transforming Higher Education
Podcast 10.21.2024
Beyond the Classroom: How AI is Transforming Higher Education In this episode, we explore how AI is transforming higher education. BHDP’s Mike Garvey, Client Leader, and Blaze Bowers, UT Knoxville Lecturer, discuss the opportunities and challenges AI presents for students, educators, and institutions and what the future holds for technology in academia.
Revisiting Campus Master Plans: A Deeper Dive into Rethinking Strategies
Podcast 12.19.2023
Revisiting Campus Master Plans: A Deeper Dive into Rethinking Strategies In this episode, we are bringing back Ron Schumacher and Jennifer Fehnrich of Terra State Community College, Todd Hernandez of Northwest State Community College, and Tom Sens of BHDP to discuss the outcomes of their campus master plans created last year.
Where Science, Happiness, and Design Intersect
Podcast 11.03.2023
Where Science, Happiness, and Design Intersect Have you ever wondered how design can promote employee well-being? BHDP’s Andrew McQuilkin, Design Leader, and Brittany Clark, Interior Designer, join Trends + Tensions to take "designing for people" to the next level. In this episode, they discuss how the science behind happiness can influence design and architecture.
Into the Metaverse: Building Meaningful Connections Among a Growing Global Workforce
Podcast 08.11.2023
Into the Metaverse: Building Meaningful Connections Among A Growing Global Workforce Nishar Fatema, Global Workplace Strategy Manager for ServiceNow, joins Trends + Tensions to discuss her work within the metaverse to bridge the gap between remote workers and their physical workplace. Remote work is the new norm, but interpersonal connections have weakened. Nishar's team is exploring extended reality to restore these connections.
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Podcast Host Brian Trainer talks into a microphone

Our Host

The Trends + Tensions in Architecture and Design podcast isn’t Brian Trainer’s first time behind the mic. When most teenagers only wanted their driver’s licenses, Brian had an FCC operator’s license and was a DJ for his high school radio station WLMH 89.1FM. Senior Strategist by day, his natural curiosity and desire to learn through conversation make for great interviews with leaders in architecture, and design. For Brian, his favorite moments happen when he least suspects it. “Sometimes I think I know an answer when I ask a question, and I’m always delighted when I’m wrong.”

Three people on a video call

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