211: Architect, And: Leslie Sydnor on Shifting from Practice to Design Management

Practice Disrupted by Practice of Architecture · Oct 9, 2025 · 52m

How do you build a career with intention, navigate unsupportive environments, and find the mentors who will champion your growth?

This week, we are joined by Leslie Sydnor, an architect and design manager whose journey offers a masterclass in resilience, self-advocacy, and the power of networks.

Leslie shares her story, from being inspired by New York City construction sites as a child to finding her path at Yale and UCLA. She offers a candid look at her career, including her "dream job" designing low-income housing for the City of New York, her time in small, supportive firms, and a…