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Level Design Podcast

A podcast for Architects and Engineers who want to thrive in this industry by creating more freedom, fulfillment and financial security. Join Scott Zurn, P.E. and guests in uncovering how to restore value and honor to the unique people who choose to be designers and caretakers of our built world and why it’s essential to the future of our society, our industry, and our planet.

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Hidden Profits in Your Backyard: The Real ADU Playbook for Homeowners

This conversation delves into the complexities of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), exploring the process, regulations, and the importance of design teams. We breakdown the various stakeholders involved, the significance of feasibility studies, and the financial implications of building an ADU. We emphasize the importance of expert guidance to navigate local regulations and ensure that projects are…

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Navigating the Complexities of Wastewater Management & Environmental Protection with Katrina Kessler (P.E.) – Minnesota Pollution Control Agency Commissioner

Today, we delve into the complexities of wastewater management, the role of Pollution Control Agency, and the challenges faced in maintaining water quality standards. It highlights the importance of community engagement, the impact of agricultural runoff, and the intersection of AI with environmental stewardship. The discussion emphasizes the need for individual responsibility in addressing…

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A Day in 2040: What a Construction Project Looks Like in 15 years (Engineering, Architecture, Construction, Management)

What does the year 2040 look like? Flying cars, robots, an AI doing most of our thinking? What types of jobs will exist and which will go extinct? What will we have to watch out for and how can we thrive through change? No one really knows, but in this episode, Scott paints a picture of what it could look like for the built environment. Chapters 00:08 The 15-year horizon: climate, insurance, and…

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What Germany Can Teach the U.S. About Water and Wastewater Management

In this conversation, Scott Zurn shares insights from his recent trip to Germany, where he was part of a delegation focused on water and wastewater management. The discussion covers the differences in environmental engineering practices between Germany and the United States, highlighting innovative solutions, the role of nonprofit organizations, and the importance of knowledge sharing in…

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What We’re Doing to the Planet and Why

Join host us for a candid conversation about our everyday impact on the planet—how infrastructure, convenience, and culture shape the environment—and what architects and engineers can practically do to help. From wildlife crossings to rail vs. trucking, from lighting up our cities to rethinking packaging and food systems, this episode explores simple behavior shifts and bigger systemic choices…

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Connecting People through Engineering with Murray McBride

We discuss the importance of connecting people through engineering, the role of education in bridging gaps within the industry, and the need for mentorship to retain talent. We explore the challenges posed by a capitalistic society on the engineering profession and emphasize the necessity of creating a supportive environment for engineers. The discussion culminates in a reflection on the…

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The Most Overlooked Skills Engineers Need for a Thriving Career with Kevin Q. Walsh, PhD, PE, SE (Associate Teaching Professor at Notre Dame)

In this episode, Kevin Walsh, PhD, PE, SE, shares his journey through academia and the structural engineering industry, offering insights into the challenges and opportunities within the profession. We explore the evolving role of technology, including AI, the importance of community impact, and the need to inspire the next generation. We discuss retention issues, the complexities of historic…

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Bridging the Gap: A Bridge Engineer's Journey to Empowering Future Engineers with Luis Duque, PE, M. ASCE, Bridge Engineer @ Jacobs

In this episode, we speak with Luis Duque, P.E., M. ASCE, an award-winning bridge engineer with a passion for innovation and empowering future generations. With over six years of professional experience, he has tackled complex projects involving bridge removal, erection, jacking, as well as complex modeling for full bridge analysis. Beyond technical expertise, Luis is a leader. He founded the…

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Building Careers, Not Just Resumes: A Recruiter’s Perspective with Brandon McGill

Today, we’re excited to welcome Brandon McGill, an executive recruiter specializing in civil and geotechnical engineering. Brandon is the founder of Charter Executive Search and is widely known as "The Civil Recruiter." With a passion for building meaningful relationships, Brandon goes beyond qualifications to truly understand the needs of both his candidates and clients, ensuring long-term…

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Job vs. Career, Loyalty & Pride in Our Work, The Problem with Billable Hours & the Choice You Need to Make as a Civil Engineer with former ASCE President Dennis D. Truax, Ph.D., P.E.

Today, we’re thrilled to welcome Dennis Truax, a true leader and innovator in the field of civil engineering. With a career spanning over four decades, Dennis has made remarkable contributions as an educator, researcher, consulting engineer and mentor. He’s the 2022 President of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) and professor emeritus of the Richard A. Rula School of Civil and…

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