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PODCAST

Architect Exam Podcast

Michael Riscica

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.

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All Episodes

29:04

023 - Construction Change Orders: Your Project’s Plot...

Architect Exam Podcast ·

2025/06/16

Warning: Change Orders will appear on every project in your career - here's what they don't tell you. In this comprehensive guide, I walk you through everything you need to know about change orders for the ARE exam and your career. Understand the "Project Manager's Golden Rule" - why changes ALWAYS cost more Learn the complete 7-step change order process from start to finish Discover the critical differences between COs, CCDs, ASIs, and Addenda See real-world examples from millions of dollars in

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45:33

022 - Construction Administrative Procedures: CE...

Architect Exam Podcast ·

2025/06/10

Learn the essential administrative procedures and protocols that make up Section 3 of the Construction & Evaluation exam. Michael and Emily break down all four objectives including RFIs, submittals, payment applications, and handling non-conforming work. In this comprehensive episode, you'll master the documentation that supports construction administration - from determining when to use ASIs versus change orders to properly reviewing contractor payment applications. We cover the critical paperwork

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29:02

021 - Architect Insurance: The Designer’s Guide to...

Architect Exam Podcast ·

2025/06/01

Learn exactly what insurance architects need and how to pass those tricky ARE insurance questions! This comprehensive guide breaks down professional liability, general liability, and more essential concepts. Insurance might seem boring, but it's crucial knowledge for both the ARE exam and your professional practice. In this episode, you'll learn: The difference between Professional Liability/E&O and General Liability insurance What contractors need to carry (Builder's Risk, General Liability,

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29:33

020 - Means of Egress: Making “OMG RUN FOR YOUR LIFE”...

Architect Exam Podcast ·

2025/05/29

Is egress the most feared topic on the ARE exam? It shouldn't be! In this episode of the Architect Exam Podcast, building codes expert Layla shares her passion for egress design and breaks down why it matters for both the exam and real-world practice. We start with the big picture (the three components of egress that form a complete escape route) before diving into the calculations and dimensions you need to memorize. Layla explains how occupant load drives everything from door widths to travel

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14:17

019 - Visual Learner Myth: Why You Need Multiple...

Architect Exam Podcast ·

2025/05/27

Struggling with the ARE despite watching countless prep videos? In this episode, I break down why passive studying fails and introduce you to the Learning Pyramid - a powerful framework that shows exactly how to transform your studying from passive absorption to active learning that sticks when it matters most.

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38:16

018 - Construction Observation: Breaking Down CE...

Architect Exam Podcast ·

2025/05/22

STRUGGLING with Construction & Evaluation Section 2? Did NCARB tell you "Section 2 needs improvement" but didn't explain why? This episode reveals EXACTLY what you need to know about the largest and most challenging section of the CE exam (29-41% of all questions)! In this comprehensive breakdown, we explore what happens when construction actually begins and your role as an architect during site visits. Learn exactly what NCARB is testing in this crucial section that many candidates struggle with

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33:54

017 - Construction Submittals: No Exceptions Taken

Architect Exam Podcast ·

2025/05/18

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 pitfalls that trip up even experienced professionals. Essential

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21:18

ARE Summer School Promotion: May 15-29, 2025 – Let's...

Architect Exam Podcast ·

2025/05/14

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 content and features to help you pass your exams faster. 🔗 Links &

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23:58

016 - Fire Wall vs Fire Barrier vs Fire Partition:...

Architect Exam Podcast ·

2025/05/10

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: 📝 Download our FREE 2-page Fire Separations Study Guide: https://academy2.youngarchitect.com/fire-wall-fire-barrier-fire-partition/ 📚

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21:28

015 - Construction Bidding Process: Navigating Public...

Architect Exam Podcast ·

2025/05/05

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 through the entire 2-3 month process that happens between when drawings leave an architect's

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37:19

014 - Unlock the Power of ARE Bootcamp: How to...

Architect Exam Podcast ·

2025/05/03

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 the difference.

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34:08

013 - Quality Assurance vs Quality Control: The...

Architect Exam Podcast ·

2025/04/27

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 concentrates on detection and correction. We'll share practical examples, clear analogies, and

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20:23

012 - Construction Types Simplified: The 5 Essential...

Architect Exam Podcast ·

2025/04/20

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 the Construction & Evaluation, PPD, and PDD divisions. I'll explain when to use each

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12:21

011 - Who Creates the Construction Punch List? Not...

Architect Exam Podcast ·

2025/04/13

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: What substantial completion really means and why it matters The official AIA documentation confirming who creates punch lists The step-by-step

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37:36

010 - Understanding Preconstruction Activities For...

Architect Exam Podcast ·

2025/04/06

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: NCARB’s hierarchy of ARE exams, sections and objectives How delivery methods affect architect responsibilities Systematic contractor evaluation techniques Value engineering vs. simple cost-cutting Contract mechanisms for controlling costs Common pitfalls

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16:52

009 - Occupancy Classifications Explained: Building...

Architect Exam Podcast ·

2025/03/31

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.

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35:36

008 - Construction Specification Types Made Simple: A...

Architect Exam Podcast ·

2025/03/24

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 (Master Format, Uni Format, Omni Class) and explains the crucial differences between prescriptive vs. performance specifications, proprietary vs. reference specifications, open vs. closed specifications, and more. Why is this important? If you're studying for the ARE or pursuing

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09:32

007 - Drawings vs. Specifications: Why 'Specs Always...

Architect Exam Podcast ·

2025/03/18

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 AIA documents actually say about the relationship between drawings and specifications. Learn why these documents are complementary rather than competing,

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20:14

006 - Persistence, Practice, And Passing The ARE –...

Architect Exam Podcast ·

2025/03/17

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 insightful episode, Layla and Michael discuss her story, highlighting the importance of running your

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16:47

005 - Understanding Specifications: An Introduction...

Architect Exam Podcast ·

2025/03/16

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: The essential differences between drawings and specifications Why specifications serve as crucial legal documents How properly written

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