Architect Exam Podcast
The Architect Exam Podcast is a free ARE exam prep resource covering all six NCARB divisions. Each episode breaks down exactly what you need to know for the architect registration exam – no fluff, no filler, just the content that actually shows up on the test.
No need to take notes while you listen. For many episodes, we’ve already made a free two-page set of study notes for you – just head to the episode page and grab them. Whether you’re just starting the ARE or grinding through your last exam, there’s something here for every stage of the licensing journey.
The podcast covers all six ARE 5.0 exam divisions:
- Practice Management (PcM)
- Project Management (PjM)
- Programming & Analysis (PA)
- Project Planning & Design (PPD)
- Project Development & Documentation (PDD)
- Construction & Evaluation (CE)
Ready for more than a podcast? ARE Boot Camp is a 10-week coaching program that gives you a clear roadmap, weekly live sessions, and accountability all the way to your last exam. Learn more about ARE Boot Camp →
Browse our complete library of podcast episodes and companion articles below. Each episode comes with an in-depth article that expands on the key concepts.
This podcast is also available on YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts
Do I need to take notes while I listen? Nope. For many episodes, we’ve already made a free two-page set of study notes for you. Just go to the episode page, enter your email, and download them. Hit play and just listen.
Where can I listen to the Architect Exam Podcast? You can listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or right here on this website. Many episodes are also embedded directly inside the Young Architect Academy courses – so if you’re a member, you’ll find relevant episodes built right into the course content you’re already studying.
Does the podcast cover all six ARE 5.0 exams? Yes. Episodes cover all six NCARB divisions – PcM, PjM, PA, PPD, PDD, and CE – plus study strategy, AIA contracts, building codes, and CDT exam prep. Use the category links above to find episodes for the specific exam you’re studying.
ARE Podcasts by Exam:
- All ARE Exams
- PcM: Practice Management
- PjM: Project Management
- PA: Programming and Analysis
- PPD: Project Planning and Design
- PDD: Project Development and Documentation
- CE: Construction and Evaluation
- AIA Contracts
- Building Codes
- CDT: Construction Documents Technology
- CCCA: Construction Contract Administration
- Study Strategies & Tips
- NCIDQ IDFX Exam
- NCIDQ IDIX Exam
- NCIDQ IDPX Exam
What Is a Foot Candle? Lumens, Lux, and Luminance
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Free CDT and CSI Certifications Presentation | Fall 2026
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Historic Preservation: From Rehabilitation to Reconstruction
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Architecture Firm Finances: From Salary to Profit
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Vapor Barriers Explained: Water, Air, and Moisture in Walls
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Seismic Irregularities: Soft Story to Shear Walls
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Sealant Types, Backer Rod, and Joint Design for Buildings
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Building Area Measurements: The GRUN Framework Explained
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Project Delivery Methods: DBB, Design-Build, CMAR, and More
Project delivery methods define the contractual relationships between the owner, the architect, and the contractor on every construction project. This post breaks down all the major construction delivery methods, from Design-Bid-Build to CMAR to...
Types of Insulation: Materials, R-Values, and Assemblies
Understanding the types of insulation is one of the most tested topics on the ARE, and for good reason. Insulation affects everything from energy performance to moisture management to fire safety. This post breaks...
Types of HVAC Systems and How to Choose
Understanding the different types of HVAC systems is one of those topics that separates architects who can coordinate with engineers from architects who just nod along in meetings. Whether you’re studying for the ARE...
How to Study for the Architect Exam in 2026
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Business Entity Types for Architects: LLC, LLP, S-Corp
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OFCI: Owner Furnished, Contractor Installed Simply Explained
OFCI (owner furnished, contractor installed) is one of the most misunderstood procurement methods in construction. The OFCI meaning is straightforward on the surface, but it often delivers coordination headaches and liability questions that catch...
The War of Art: Lessons for Exam Success
Steven Pressfield’s The War of Art explains why you keep sabotaging your architect exam prep and how to stop. This war of art summary breaks down Pressfield’s concept of Resistance, the invisible force behind...
Fire Sprinkler Systems: Wet, Dry, Pre-Action, Deluge
Fire sprinkler systems are one of the most critical life safety systems in any building. This guide breaks down the four main types of sprinkler systems, how they work, when to use each one,...
Owner’s Consultants: Know Where Your Liability Ends
Learn the difference between owner’s consultants and architect’s consultants, including where the liability falls, what coordination actually requires, and how to protect yourself on the ARE and in practice. This podcast is also available...
How to Become an Architect: What You Need to Know
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Visual Learner Myth: Why You Need Multiple Study Methods
The visual learner myth has convinced thousands of ARE candidates that watching videos is enough to pass the architect exam. It’s not. This post breaks down the learning pyramid, explains the difference between active...
PA, PPD, and PDD: Know the Difference Before You Study
The ARE technical exams (PA, PPD, and PDD) test your ability to define, design, and document a building project. This guide breaks down what each exam actually covers, how they connect, and why understanding...
Division 01 General Requirements: Running Your Project
When you open a set of specifications, you probably flip straight to the division you care about. Concrete? Division 03. Steel? Division 05. Finishes? Division 09. But general requirements, the very first division in...
Plumbing Valves: Every Type You Need to Know
Plumbing valves are one of those topics that sounds intimidating until someone actually breaks it down. Whether you’re studying for the ARE, preparing for the CDT, or just trying to understand the different types...