Architect Exam Podcast
Free, high-value ARE prep broken into digestible episodes that make studying accessible and actually enjoyable. We translate complex exam content into clear, actionable strategies based directly on NCARB's objectives—not complicated study approaches that miss the mark. Young Architect has guided thousands to licensure since 2013 by simplifying ARE prep to what truly matters and keeping it fresh. Subscribe for practical ARE insights delivered in a format that fits your busy life.
Episodes
Avoid costly construction mistakes with submittals! This episode reveals how submittals serve as your project's quality control system, preventing expensive errors and delays.
Discover the critical differences between shop drawings, product data, samples, and mock-ups, plus learn the exact submittal workflow from preparation to approval. You'll get insider tips on what "No Exceptions Taken" really means and how to avoid the common ...
Get exclusive ARE exam prep discounts during our 14-day Summer School promotion! From May 15-29, 2025, save big on ARE Boot Camp, 101 Courses, and more.
In this episode, Mike and Emily break down all the limited-time offers to help accelerate your journey to architectural licensure. Just Visit - https://youngarchitect.com/summerschool
We've also completely rebuilt the Young Architect Academy from the ground up, adding tons of new...
Struggling to understand the differences between fire walls, fire barriers, and fire partitions? In this episode, we break down all five fire and smoke separation types in buildings, with clear explanations of their ratings, continuity requirements, and real-world applications. Essential knowledge for the ARE exam and professional practice!
🔗 Links & Resources:
Learn the complete public construction bidding process from architectural drawings to breaking ground. This step-by-step guide reveals what happens during procurement on government projects and why it matters for architects.
In this episode of the Architect Exam Podcast, I share insights from my experience on both sides of public projects—as an architect and as a government project manager. I'll walk you t...
Learn how to get the most out of ARE Bootcamp with this insider's guide to the program. Michael Riscica and Emily Hobbs break down what makes the Bootcamp different from just studying alone and share key strategies for success.
Whether you're just starting your ARE journey or looking to finish what you've started, this conversation reveals why structure, mentorship, accountability, and community make all ...
Understanding QA vs QC is crucial for every architect and ARE candidate. In this episode, we break down Quality Assurance and Quality Control systems that appear across ALL ARE exams and the CDT®. Learn the fundamental differences, how they work throughout the project lifecycle, and practical applications.
Discover how quality assurance focuses on prevention through planned systems while quality control co...
Learn all about construction types and how they impact your building designs and ARE exam success! In this comprehensive guide, I break down the five types of building construction from Type I (fire-resistive) to Type V (wood-frame) that every architect needs to master.
Understanding the differences between Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, Type 4, and Type 5 construction is crucial for the ARE exam, especially in t...
The most heated debate in construction finally settled! Discover why contractors—not architects—are responsible for creating punch lists according to official AIA documents. Michael breaks down the connection between substantial completion and punch lists with practical examples that every architect needs to understand.
In this episode, you'll learn:
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Are you studying for NCARB’s Construction Evaluation exam? This comprehensive breakdown of Preconstruction Activities will help you understand exactly what NCARB is testing—and how to pass it on your next attempt.
🔍 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN:
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NCARB’s hierarchy of ARE exams, sections and objectives
Occupancy Classifications: The foundation of building code that determines safety requirements for every structure. In this comprehensive episode, we break down the 10 major occupancy groups from the International Building Code - from Assembly spaces like theaters to Utility structures like sheds. You'll learn how these classifications impact building size, exits, fire protection systems, and accessibility requirements...
Do you know the difference between all the different construction specification types? 🤔
In this podcast episode, Emily makes construction specification types easy to understand! She breaks down the classification systems (MasterFormat®, UniFormat®, OmniClass®) and explains the crucial differences between prescriptive vs. performance specifications, proprietary vs. reference specifications, open vs. close...
For years, ARE candidates have been told that specifications always take precedence over drawings if there is a conflict. But this widespread belief is completely wrong—and it could cost you on both the exam and in practice.
In this eye-opening episode, Michael Riscica debunks the dangerous misconception that "specs always win" and explains what A...
Layla Qarout had a unique journey to becoming a licensed architect, transitioning internationally from Palestine, adapting to ARE 5.0, and facing multiple exam setbacks along the way. Through persistence, structured practice, and the supportive community of Young Architect, Layla overcame these challenges, achieved licensing, and now helps others navigate their own architect exam journeys.
In this insightf...
Emily, a registered architect and specifications expert, breaks down the often-overlooked world of construction specifications in this approachable introduction. Discover why specifications are the unsung heroes of every successful building project and how mastering them can improve your exam success and professional practice.
In this episode, Emily shares:
Something will always go wrong on your architecture projects - it's not a matter of if, but when. In this episode, Michael Riscica shares crucial insights about contingencies, the powerful project management tool that keeps projects moving despite unexpected challenges.
Drawing from years of professional experience, Michael explains why every project needs financial and scheduling safety nets. Learn who sh...
Emily Hobbs faced hurricanes, repeated exam failures, and plenty of self-doubt on her journey to becoming a licensed architect. In this episode, Emily shares her inspiring story of resilience, revealing how discovering the Young Architect community transformed her setbacks into opportunities for growth.
Listen as Emily and Michael discuss:
Construction bonds can be confusing, but understanding them is crucial for both passing your ARE exams and protecting your projects. In this straightforward episode, Michael breaks down the fundamental differences between bonds and insurance, using easy-to-understand analogies that make this complex topic accessible.
In this episode, you'll learn:
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In this episode, we dive into one of the most fundamental distinctions in architecture: public versus private clients. Understanding this difference is crucial not only for passing the ARE but for successfully navigating real-world projects.
Michael shares insights from his experience working with both government entities and private clients, breaking down how this single factor affects everything from con...
Welcome to the first episode of The Architect Exam Podcast with Michael Riscica! In this episode, Michael introduces this new ARE-focused podcast.
Perfect for listening during your commute or study breaks. Find us everywhere you listen to podcasts and at The Young Architect Academy.
Ready to make studying for the ARE less of a chore? Subscribe now and start your journey to becoming a licensed...
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