In my recent conversation with Jed Byrne on the EntreArchitect Podcast, we explored the transformative role of content marketing for architects and how it serves as a powerful strategy to build authority, attract ideal clients, and establish lasting relationships. Jed shared his personal journey, illustrating how his passion for community-building and knowledge-sharing has fueled his dedication to content creation. His approach highlights the importance of continuous learning, strategic engagement, and authentic connection—all of which align with the values we champion at EntreArchitect.
Jed Byrne is a dynamic and influential figure in the field of real estate development and community engagement, with expertise in content-driven authority building for professionals in the built environment. As a business development manager at a prominent design and planning firm based in Raleigh, NC, he plays a crucial role in connecting clients with the right experts to turn their visions into reality. With a career spanning real estate investment, development, and urban planning, Jed has developed a deep appreciation for the built environment and its impact on communities.
Beyond his professional work, Jed is a passionate content creator, producing a widely read weekly newsletter, hosting an insightful podcast, and managing a growing YouTube channel. Through these platforms, he explores the complexities of the built environment, the intricacies of real estate finance, and the business strategies that shape our cities. His commitment to education and knowledge-sharing sets him apart—he’s not just a thinker but an active contributor to the discourse on development and urban growth. In our conversation, he shared invaluable insights on why architects should embrace content creation and how they can seamlessly integrate it into their busy lives.
Here are the top takeaways from our discussion. If this resonates with you, I highly encourage you to listen to the full episode at entrearchitect.com/595.
1. Content Creation Builds Trust and Relationships
One of Jed’s most compelling arguments for content creation is its ability to foster trust and position architects as industry authorities. Whether you’re an architect, developer, or designer, your work requires clients to trust in your expertise and vision. But how do they build that trust before ever meeting you?
Content is the bridge.
Through his newsletter, podcast, and YouTube channel, Jed has positioned himself as a thought leader in Raleigh’s real estate development scene. He’s proven that consistent sharing of valuable insights makes people feel like they already know you, even if they’ve never met you in person. That familiarity lowers barriers when business opportunities arise. The same principle applies to architects—by sharing your knowledge, you become a trusted voice in your industry.
2. Constraints Should Guide Your Content Strategy
Many architects hesitate to create content because they feel overwhelmed by the time and effort required. Jed’s approach? Start with constraints.
Rather than aiming for perfection, he emphasizes working within your available resources—whether that’s time, budget, or technical skills. When he started his podcast, he had only one microphone and couldn’t record two people at once. Instead of waiting until he had the perfect setup, he recorded his guests’ responses and then later added his questions in post-production. It wasn’t ideal, but it worked.
The takeaway: Start small. If you only have time to write one short LinkedIn post a week, do that. If you prefer speaking over writing, start a simple podcast with your phone. The key is consistency, not perfection.
3. Content Helps You Scale Your Reach
As architects, we often rely on one-on-one conversations to educate clients and answer their questions. The problem? There are only so many hours in a day.
Jed found himself answering the same questions over and over about development, real estate, and finance. Rather than repeating himself endlessly, he started recording YouTube videos. Now, whenever someone asks him a common question, he simply sends them a link to a video that provides a clear, well-thought-out answer.
Imagine how this could work for you as an architect. Instead of answering “How much does it cost to build a custom home?” for the hundredth time, you could create a video or blog post addressing the question in detail. Not only does this save time, but it also positions you as an expert in the field.
4. Start with What Comes Naturally
Another key insight from Jed was the importance of aligning content with your natural strengths. He noted that some people love writing, while others prefer talking or creating visuals. The best content strategy is one that fits you.
If you’re an architect who enjoys sketching, why not share your design ideas and insights through Instagram or LinkedIn? If you’re comfortable speaking, a podcast or short-form YouTube videos might be a great fit. The goal isn’t to force yourself into a format that doesn’t feel right—it’s to find a medium that feels sustainable and enjoyable.
5. Make Time—Don’t Wait to Find It
Jed’s most practical advice was this: Stop waiting until you “find” time to create content. You won’t. You have to make the time.
In his case, that meant waking up early to write his newsletter every Tuesday morning. He’s missed only a handful of issues in eight years. That consistency has built an audience of loyal readers who respect his insights and look forward to his updates.
For architects, the challenge is the same. You’re busy running projects, meeting clients, and managing teams. But even setting aside 30 minutes a week to create and share content can make a massive difference over time.
6. Content Leads to Unexpected Opportunities
Jed’s commitment to content creation has directly led to job opportunities, business relationships, and speaking engagements. He shared that his last two job offers came, in part, because of the credibility he had built through his newsletter. When potential employers or collaborators saw his work, they already felt like they knew him, which made conversations and opportunities flow more naturally.
Similarly, your content can act as a digital portfolio, constantly working for you behind the scenes. Someone might come across your blog post or video months after you publish it and decide to reach out with a business opportunity.
7. Authenticity Wins Every Time
One of the biggest barriers to content creation is fear—fear of saying the wrong thing, fear of looking unprofessional, fear of being judged. Jed’s response? Forget perfection; just be authentic.
People connect with real stories and real people. You don’t need a high-end production team to start a YouTube channel. You don’t need to be a Pulitzer-winning writer to start a blog. What you do need is the willingness to share your experiences, insights, and lessons learned.
The more transparent and human you are, the more your audience will engage with you.
Final Thoughts: Start Small, Stay Consistent
If there’s one overarching lesson from my conversation with Jed Byrne, it’s this: Just start.
Start with one piece of content per week. Start with the tools you already have. Start with the medium that feels most natural to you. And above all, be consistent. The impact of your content will grow over time, opening doors and building relationships in ways you never expected.
Content marketing for architects isn’t just a trendy strategy—it’s a powerful tool to build trust, attract ideal clients, and position yourself as an authority in your field. By sharing what you know, you can build trust, educate your audience, and create opportunities that help you grow both professionally and personally.
Want to hear the full conversation? Listen to my interview with Jed Byrne at entrearchitect.com/595.
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