What does it really take to bring an unboring architecture conference to life?

In this episode of Archicon Uncut, Aya Shlachter and Nikita Morell go behind the scenes of the final stretch leading up to Archicon 2026. They talk about the decisions, details and unexpected moments that come with building a conference from the ground up, from hand-selecting the speakers and shaping the program to creating an experience where architects can connect, learn and actually enjoy themselves. They also discuss why simply showing up can sometimes lead to opportunities you never saw coming.

Key Takeaways

• What goes into building Archicon behind the scenes.

• Why Archicon was designed to be an interactive, unboring experience.

• The importance of creating genuine connections within the architecture community.

• Why showing up can lead to unexpected opportunities.

Timestamps

(0:00) Montage & Intro

(0:33) The idea behind an "unboring" architecture conference

(1:25) Building community over maximizing profit

(2:50) Behind the scenes of launching the event

(3:47) Why the talks are designed as conversations

(5:11) What Nikita is most excited to hear at the event

(6:00) Aya's shortlist of speakers and why experience matters

(8:20) Creating a space without ego or awkward networking

(10:12) Aya's reunion story and the power of showing up

(11:08) Why architects need to prepare for the future of the profession

(12:05) The coffee meeting that led to a career connection

(13:31) Final invitation to Archicon and closing remarks

About the Host:

Aya Shlachter is the Founder and CEO of MGS Global Group, an architectural support services firm serving hundreds of architecture practices worldwide. With over 18 years of industry experience, she helps firm owners scale smarter, adopt emerging technologies, and build resilient, future-ready practices. Aya also hosts the AI for Architects and Architect My Business podcasts and is the co-founder of Archicon 2026, a global architecture business conference. She was named a 2025 Global FWN100™ Most Influential Filipina Woman in the World in the Founder and Pioneer category for her leadership in business and AI.

Nikita Morell is a positioning and messaging strategist who works exclusively in the built environment. Nikita Morell is the only brand messaging agency in the world that services only architecture firms, helping them clarify their message, strengthen their brand, and win right-fit work. She is also the Founder of DIRT - a positioning and brand messaging agency for AEC tech and construction firms. She has spoken for AIA, RIBA, Architizer, and Business of Architecture, and publishes one of the most-read newsletters in the architecture business space.

Connect with Aya Shlachter:

Email: aya@mgsglobalgroup.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aya_shlachter/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayashlachter/

Connect with Nikita Morell:

Email: hello@nikitamorell.com

Website: https://nikitamorell.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikita-morell/