Welcome to builttothink - updated

From Great Ideas to Political Darwinism, Start with what Matters, Leave the Rest

Welcome to builttothink.

My professional journey, shaped by building theory and execution, has evolved into a study of the public policies that influence our cities. This path took an unexpected turn when Nashville neighborhood groups invited me to assist them. I reluctantly committed, and now I serve enthusiastically.

This work, partnering with neighbors and not just individuals trained in the nuances of land use, was a pause to change my glasses and view the world through a new lens. It taught me a valuable lesson (and drawing on my experience with a state-level appointment): to make sense of government, you need a peculiar but essential toolkit. Forget narratives, simplify complexity, and filter. And most importantly, bring a willingness to investigate the simplest subjects, because that’s often where the most profound absurdity is hiding.

For those who know me, my primary execution principle is to focus on the big rocks first. To put it more simply: “Start with what matters; leave the rest.” This is critical because if you don’t, nothing good happens. It also means recognizing that when bad policy is the only option on the table, doing nothing is a valid solution.

This perspective has turned me into part activist, part student of civic dysfunction, and a keen observer of what one might call drama, theatre, and political Darwinism. My commitment to you is to post observations every week or two.

I am Christopher Remke, AIA [ret]. While my past experience included managing companies, organizing projects, and building teams, as well as holding a state-level executive appointment, I do not write from theory. I write from execution.

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