In the first episode of No Exceptions Taken, we explore the story of Neighboring Concepts, a Charlotte-based architecture firm that has spent three decades shaping community spaces and strengthening underrepresented neighborhoods. Founded by Darrel Williams, the firm grew into a respected practice grounded in mission-driven design and a deep commitment to civic impact.

When Darrel began preparing for his transition, four leaders stepped forward to guide the firm into its next chapter. Cathy Morrison, Luke Volkmar, Daniel McNamee, and Frank Little brought experience shaped by two historic minority-owned practices, Neighboring Concepts and Gantt Huberman Architects. Their leadership approach reflects the mentorship and values passed down by Darrel Williams and former Mayor Harvey Gantt. Instead of following a traditional succession model, they chose a shared structure built on collaboration, continuity, and a commitment to purpose.

In this episode, you’ll hear the team reflect on:

• The origins and founding values of Neighboring Concepts
• How the firm has shaped underrepresented communities across Charlotte
• What it means to pass leadership across generations
• The importance of trust, connection, and shared responsibility
• How an ownership transition can reinforce and expand a firm’s mission

This is a candid and inspiring look at what it takes to evolve a practice with purpose. If you are a firm owner, next-generation leader, or someone navigating the future of architecture, this story offers a powerful example of what leadership can look like when a team steps forward together.

About Neighboring Concepts

Neighboring Concepts is a community-focused architecture firm based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Their work centers on public engagement, inclusion, and shaping environments where people thrive.

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Visit the firm: https://www.neighboringconcepts.com/

Subscribe to the podcast and join us for future episodes as we explore how transformation takes shape — one firm at a time.

No Exceptions Taken is produced by Apostrophe Consulting. We help AEC firms lead with clarity, strengthen their culture, and navigate transformation with intention.

No Exceptions Taken is a podcast for the architecture community and creative leaders who believe the future is shaped not only by what we build, but by how we lead. Hosted by Je’Nen Chastain — a designer turned entrepreneur and founder of Apostrophe Consulting — the show explores what it really means to lead, create, and evolve in the world of architecture, design, and beyond.

Each episode brings candid conversations with leaders, innovators, and culture-shapers navigating the in-between moments of transformation — leadership transitions, cultural shifts, experiments in new ways of working, and the personal journeys of designing their way through change. Alongside stories from our clients, you’ll also hear from allied professionals who are pushing the boundaries of practice.

This isn’t just another architecture podcast. It’s where business strategy meets creativity, where human-centered leadership takes the spotlight, and where we uncover what it really takes to guide organizations through evolution and transformation.

Expect thoughtful stories that spark curiosity, challenge assumptions, and inspire how we shape the future of architectural practice.