Episode 13: Work-Life Harmony in Lighting Design

How does the lighting industry foster a unique sense of community, and what lessons can we learn from its collaborative environment despite competition? 
 
In this episode, Avi Mor and Lisa Reed welcome lighting designer and podcast host Rachel Fitzgerald CLD, LC, IALD, IES, LEED AP BD+C. Rachel shares her 21-year journey through the lighting design world - from childhood curiosity about architecture to a degree in architectural engineering, Rachel’s path is driven by both passion and expertise. Avi, Lisa and Rachel delve into the rapid evolution of the industry, where technology and diverse projects continually reshape the landscape. Rachel emphasizes the importance of budget transparency and open communication for project success. There is also a delicate balance between creativity and technical expertise, often at the heart of the designer’s role. Lastly, Rachel offers valuable insights on maintaining work-life balance, particularly through her “Whelmed” podcast, advocating for self-care in an increasingly competitive and demanding field. 

In This Episode:  

• (00:00) Rachel Fitzgerald shares her journey into lighting design, reflecting on the evolving industry and the importance of embracing change and learning from each project 

• (09:58) Budget transparency, detailed pricing, and open communication 

• (14:23) The challenges lighting designers face in a growing industry, maintaining camaraderie and advocating for value 

• (21:20) Fostering community in the lighting industry, work-life balance through the Whelmed podcast 

• (27:42) Being overwhelmed, balancing life and stress  

• (32:29) The “art and science” of lighting, living in the middle of the two, balancing creative and technical in construction 

• (42:55) Closing thoughts, dynamic evolution and growth in our industry, the promise of 2025, and the importance of adaptability and engagement 
• Like and subscribe to hear all of our informative upcoming episodes!
   

About the show:  

Lighting Matters is hosted by Lisa Reed and Avi Mor. In each episode, we’ll dig deep into the meticulous process of creating lighting design for architecture, showcasing industry leaders who balance artistic creativity with technical precision, and listen as they share their successes and challenges in architectural lighting design.  
 

Resources: 

Rachel Fitzgerald LinkedIn  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-fitzgerald-44901839/ 

Stantec https://www.stantec.com/en/services/lighting-design 

Whelmed Podcast https://www.whelmedpodcast.com/ 

Lighting Matters Podcast Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/company/lighting-matters-podcast/ 

Lighting Matters Podcast YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbLkEKnB8XgSXoeDY0T8t3w 

Lisa Reed  https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-j-reed-b198154/  

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