Six Figure Designer

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Struggling to find great clients and design projects? Not making enough money and struggling to manage the projects you have? This is the show for YOU!

Pam Durkin


    • Jun 11, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 24m AVG DURATION
    • 163 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Six Figure Designer

    Ep 161: Invitation: Stop Waiting for Referrals and Start Creating Access

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2026 32:39


    In this episode, I breaks down the “I” in the V.I.P. Method: Invitation. If reaching out makes you feel like you're chasing, begging, or being cringey, this episode will help you see it differently. I explain why better opportunities often come through relationships, why people forget about you when you're not top of mind, and why staying connected in a thoughtful, personal way is a key part of creating access to higher-fee projects. You'll also hear why the phone not ringing with the right opportunities does not mean you're not good enough, it may simply mean the right people don't know what to invite you into yet. I share how to make outreach feel curious, personal, and relevant instead of cookie-cutter, plus I give you one simple exercise to help you reconnect with someone this week. This episode is part of the V.I.P. Method series leading up to the free live workshop, The V.I.P. Path to Your Highest Design Fee, happening June 24th at 12 PM Eastern. Grab your seat with the link below!Ready to stop waiting for better opportunities and start creating access to them?Join me for my FREE live workshop, The V.I.P. Path to Your Highest Design Fee, where I'll show you the three shifts that help designers get seen, invited, and paid for bigger design projects.Wednesday 6/24, 12pm Eastern.

    Ep 160: Visibility: Are You Known for the Work That Can Support Bigger Fees?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2026 27:01


    This episode is part of the V.I.P. Method series leading up to my free live workshop:The V.I.P. Path to Your Highest Design Fee: 3 Shifts to Get Seen, Invited, and Paid for Bigger Design ProjectsJoin me live on June 24th at 12 PM Eastern.Register for the free workshop here: luxuryclientacademy.com/vip-method Your highest design fee does not start when the proposal goes out. It starts much earlier — with what you are known for, who is inviting you into the conversation, and how clearly the opportunity is shaped before you ever present a number. In this episode, we're diving into the V in the V.I.P. Method: Visibility. Many designers are showing up, posting, sharing their work, and even getting referrals — but they are not always becoming known for the kind of projects that can actually support bigger fees. Visibility by itself is not enough. The real question is: Are you visible for the right work?Because if people do not know what kind of projects to send you, they may send you anything...or nothing at all. In the next episode, we'll talk about the I in V.I.P.: Invitation.Once you know what you want to be known for, the next question is: who is already near the clients, projects, and opportunities you want?Ready to stop waiting for better opportunities and start creating access to them?Join me for my FREE live workshop, The V.I.P. Path to Your Highest Design Fee, where I'll show you the three shifts that help designers get seen, invited, and paid for bigger design projects.Wednesday 6/24, 12pm Eastern.

    Ep 159: Your Highest Design Fee Starts Before the Proposal

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 8, 2026 38:05


    Join me for my FREE live workshop, The V.I.P. Path to Your Highest Design Fee, where I'll show you the three shifts that help designers get seen, invited, and paid for bigger design projects.Wednesday 6/24, 12pm Eastern.

    Ep 158: The $20,000 Refrigerator Was Just the Beginning

    Play Episode Listen Later May 25, 2026 45:48


    In this episode, I'm debriefing the Naples Experience (my Signature in-person event), but not in the way you might expect. Yes, there was a $20,000 refrigerator, a private chef that works with the cast of Yellowstone, luxury showrooms, a private sunset cruise, and homes ranging from $8 million to $84 million. But the REAL transformation happened when the designers stepped away from the endless client requests and daily to-do lists and immersed themselves in a room full of smart, driven, curious women who are building businesses at the next level. In this episode, I'm talking about why luxury has to be experienced before it can be confidently sold, how proximity and exposure demystify the high end, and why unforgettable client experiences are what create raving fans.Ready to stop waiting for better opportunities and start creating access to them?Join me for my FREE live workshop, The V.I.P. Path to Your Highest Design Fee, where I'll show you the three shifts that help designers get seen, invited, and paid for bigger design projects.Wednesday 6/24, 12pm Eastern.

    Ep 157: When the Dream Project Is No Longer a Yes For YOU

    Play Episode Listen Later May 18, 2026 43:39


    In this episode, we're talking about the surprising growth moment when a project you once dreamed of is no longer an automatic yes. After a coaching call inside the Luxury Client Academy, I'm sharing the story of a designer who was presented with a large, exciting project that looked incredible on paper, but the builder quality, client expectations, reuse requests, and overall project conditions didn't feel aligned. This conversation became a powerful example of what happens when your standards evolve, your discernment sharpens, and you stop making decisions from urgency. We'll explore how to recognize when hesitation is actually information, how to qualify projects beyond size and budget, and why turning down a “dream” project can be one of the clearest signs that your business has grown.Ready to stop waiting for better opportunities and start creating access to them?Join me for my FREE live workshop, The V.I.P. Path to Your Highest Design Fee, where I'll show you the three shifts that help designers get seen, invited, and paid for bigger design projects.Wednesday 6/24, 12pm Eastern.

    Ep 156: If You Say This Word, I GUARANTEE You're Undercharging

    Play Episode Listen Later May 11, 2026 29:51


    In this episode, we're talking about one tiny word that could be quietly costing you thousands in your design business: “just.” If you've ever said, “It's just a small bathroom,” “It's just a few finishes,” or “It's just a consultation,” you may be unintentionally minimizing the expertise, decision-making, and professional value you bring to your projects. I'll unpack why designers use this word, how it affects your pricing, and why work that feels easy to you is often the exact thing your clients need most. Plus, you'll learn how to catch yourself before you undercharge and start describing your work in a way that reflects the true value of your experience.Ready to stop waiting for better opportunities and start creating access to them?Join me for my FREE live workshop, The V.I.P. Path to Your Highest Design Fee, where I'll show you the three shifts that help designers get seen, invited, and paid for bigger design projects.Wednesday 6/24, 12pm Eastern.

    Ep 155: Beyond Product: The Business Strategy Hiding at Market

    Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2026 38:13


    High Point Market is not just about pretty product, new introductions, or showroom visits. It is a business laboratory. If you pay attention, it shows you where your relationships are strong, where your systems may be creating friction, where new opportunities are hiding, and who is truly invested in helping your design business grow. In this episode, I'm sharing the biggest breadcrumbs I picked up from Market, including why vendor relationships are such a powerful asset, how the right partners can feel like an extension of your team, and why networking is essential if you want to build visibility, deepen industry connections, and attract more high-end luxury clients.Ready to stop waiting for better opportunities and start creating access to them?Join me for my FREE live workshop, The V.I.P. Path to Your Highest Design Fee, where I'll show you the three shifts that help designers get seen, invited, and paid for bigger design projects.Wednesday 6/24, 12pm Eastern.

    Ep 154: You've Tried Everything - and That Might Be the Problem

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 27, 2026 39:42


    If you've been thinking, I've tried everything and nothing is working, this episode is for you. In this conversation, we're unpacking why the problem may not be a lack of effort, ideas, or ambition, it may be that you're focusing on the wrong things in the wrong order. I'm breaking down how to identify the tasks that actually move your interior design business forward, why so many designers stay stuck in cycles of over-creating and under-prioritizing, and how to stop chasing what feels exciting in favor of what creates real traction. If your business feels busy but not built, this episode will help you see what needs to change.Ready to stop waiting for better opportunities and start creating access to them?Join me for my FREE live workshop, The V.I.P. Path to Your Highest Design Fee, where I'll show you the three shifts that help designers get seen, invited, and paid for bigger design projects.Wednesday 6/24, 12pm Eastern.

    Ep 153: 5 Money Lessons I Wish I Knew Sooner

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 20, 2026 48:42


    In this episode of I Wish I Knew Sooner, I'm sharing the money lessons that would have saved me so much stress, second-guessing, and unnecessary struggle in business. We're talking about why you can't price for the best-case scenario, the importance of paying yourself first, knowing your monthly number, separating out money that isn't really yours, and planning for the number and type of projects you actually need to hit your revenue goals. If you've ever had money coming in but still felt strapped, overwhelmed, or unsure whether you were truly profitable, this episode will help you start looking at your business finances with more clarity, intention, and confidence.Ready to stop waiting for better opportunities and start creating access to them?Join me for my FREE live workshop, The V.I.P. Path to Your Highest Design Fee, where I'll show you the three shifts that help designers get seen, invited, and paid for bigger design projects.Wednesday 6/24, 12pm Eastern.

    Ep 152: The Fastest Way to Grow as a Designer (That No One Talks About)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2026 21:48


    In this episode, we break down the fastest way to grow as a designer and why being in the right room changes everything.Most designers think the next level comes from more information...another course, another strategy, another system.But in this episode, we're talking about what actually creates real growth in your design business, and why so many designers stay stuck longer than they need to.If you've been feeling isolated, second-guessing your decisions, or unsure how to handle client conversations with confidence, this conversation will shift how you think about growth. If you're ready to step out of your day-to-day and experience this kind of growth in real life…I'm hosting an in-person experience in Naples, Florida May 13-15th.A few days to:Connect with other designersHave real conversations about your businessWork through client scenarios and decisionsTour incredible homes (up to $200M)And get inspired in a completely different environment Ready to stop waiting for better opportunities and start creating access to them?Join me for my FREE live workshop, The V.I.P. Path to Your Highest Design Fee, where I'll show you the three shifts that help designers get seen, invited, and paid for bigger design projects.Wednesday 6/24, 12pm Eastern.

    Ep 151: From Purchasing Panic to Profit Protection on a $34M Project

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2026 30:17


    In this episode, I sit down with one of my interior design coaching clients to talk about a real-world project that pushed her far outside her comfort zone...a $34 million investment property where she had to navigate large-scale purchasing for the first time. Before we began working together, much of the furniture had already been purchased through a local retailer, leaving significant profit on the table. Through coaching, we developed a strategy to handle the accessories and window treatments portion of the project by respecting the client's budget while first protecting the designer's profit and then sourcing within the remaining funds. This conversation dives into the lessons she learned about pricing, purchasing, procurement systems, and confidence, and how this experience transformed the way she approaches protecting profit in her interior design business.Ready to stop waiting for better opportunities and start creating access to them?Join me for my FREE live workshop, The V.I.P. Path to Your Highest Design Fee, where I'll show you the three shifts that help designers get seen, invited, and paid for bigger design projects.Wednesday 6/24, 12pm Eastern.

    EP 150: The Referral That Led to a 6-figure Design Contract: The Strategy Behind the Win

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2026 63:16


    In this episode, I sit down with interior designer and coaching client Audra to share the story behind her biggest project yet, a six figure design contract for a $4.5 million home. Just months earlier, she was questioning whether to continue her business after a difficult year filled with project delays, personal challenges, and slow new business. As we worked together, I encouraged her to recommit to networking and outreach, which led to reconnecting with a realtor who ultimately referred her to the luxury homeowners. Audra shares how she navigated the referral, worked through moments of self-doubt when the clients didn't immediately reach out, and how my coaching helped her prepare for the discovery call, structure the in-person meeting, and confidently present a proposal that ultimately secured the largest project of her career.My in person event is coming up May 13-15th in Naples! Come join us! To get all the info, set a clarity call

    Ep 149: The Unforgettable Advantage (Part 3): Find Referral Partners That Bring Clients

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 23, 2026 27:31


    In the final episode of The Unforgettable Advantage series, I reveal why some networking relationships generate clients while others never will and understanding the difference can transform the way you build your design business. After discussing why referrals feel inconsistent in Part 1 and how to become memorable in conversations in Part 2, this episode focuses on identifying the referral partners who truly move the needle. I introduce my Profitable Referral Matrix, a simple way to recognize which relationships deserve your attention and how nurturing the right partners can create a more predictable pipeline of projects. If you're ready to stop networking randomly and start building intentional referral relationships that attract the right clients, this episode will show you where to focus your energy.My in person event is coming up May 13-15th in Naples! Come join us! To get all the info, set a clarity call

    Ep 148: The Unforgettable Advantage (Part 2): The Secret to Networking

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2026 20:55


    Most designers walk into networking events hoping to make connections.But many leave wondering if anything will actually come from the conversations they had.Why?Because within the first few minutes of meeting someone, many designers unintentionally become forgettable.In Part 2 of The Unforgettable Advantage series, I explain why most networking conversations fail and how one simple shift can make you far more memorable.My in person event is coming up May 13-15th in Naples! Come join us! To get all the info, set a clarity call

    Ep 147: The Unforgettable Advantage (Part 1): Why 98% of Designers Get Referrals But Only 2% Are Satisfied

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 9, 2026 27:47


    Most interior designers say they get referrals from past clients, but almost none of them feel like it's enough. So what's really going on?In this episode, I kick off a three-part series called The Unforgettable Advantage , a framework that helps designers build strategic referral ecosystems that consistently attract high-quality clients. If your referrals feel inconsistent, random, or unpredictable, chances are you're networking without a clear strategy. In Part 1 of this series, I reveal why most designers struggle with referrals and introduces the first shift required to become unforgettable in the rooms that generate business.Curious about working with me as your mentor and coach?If you want predictable, profitable cash flow in your interior design business through quality referrals, apply to the Luxury Client Academy here>> https://luxuryclientacademy.com/Not sure what to do next in your interior design business to drum up business? Sign up for a clarity call here: https://links.elevateinnercircle.com/widget/bookings/lca-clarity

    Ep 146: The ADHD Designer Brain in Business: Pivot or Push?

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 2, 2026 34:43


    There's nothing more exciting than a new idea. A new offer or a fresh direction.For designers, especially those with ADHD or highly creative brains, novelty feels electric. It feels productive. It feels like momentum.But, are you making a strategic pivot or are you escaping the discomfort of the messy middle?In this episode, I'm diving into the unique wiring of the ADHD designer brain in business, the dopamine spikes, shiny object syndrome and the tendency to overbuild. You'll learn how to discern whether it's time to shift or time to stay the course.Because hard doesn't always mean wrong and boredom doesn't always mean broken.Curious about working with me as your mentor and coach?If you want predictable, profitable cash flow in your interior design business through quality referrals, apply to the Luxury Client Academy here>> https://luxuryclientacademy.com/Not sure what to do next in your interior design business to drum up business? Sign up for a clarity call here: https://links.elevateinnercircle.com/widget/bookings/lca-clarity

    Ep 145: What 3 Days at Disney Did to My Business

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2026 32:54


    I just spent three days at Disney for a mastermind with other entrepreneurs and it did more for my business than another month at my desk ever could. This wasn't about rides or ice cream (although…no regrets!), it was about perspective.In this episode, I'm breaking down the real ROI of getting out of your office and into a room that stretches your thinking. Listen in to what those three days shifted for me, and what it could mean for you.Looking to get some advice on what to do next in your interior design business? Sign up for a free business audit here: https://links.elevateinnercircle.com/widget/bookings/lca-business-audit

    Ep 144: The Micro Yes: Progress When Life Gets in the Way

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 9, 2026 30:44


    Life gets in the way. Not occasionally...constantly. And yet, most of us plan our businesses as if we'll always have unlimited time, energy, and focus. In this episode, I talk about why planning for the best-case scenario sets us up to feel behind and frustrated, and how real progress actually happens when life is messy, distracting, and unpredictable.Instead of big gestures or perfect schedules, this conversation introduces the idea of the micro yes, the small, intentional choices we make daily (or hourly) that move us toward what matters. I'll share why consistency beats perfection, how attention has become our most valuable resource, and why visual reminders can help bring us back to center when motivation fades. Because progress isn't built all at once, but one small yes at a time.Looking to get some advice on what to do next in your interior design business? Sign up for a free business audit here: https://links.elevateinnercircle.com/widget/bookings/lca-business-audit

    Ep 143: Pricing, Process & the Power of No

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 2, 2026 35:22


    Once you stop negotiating against yourself, the real work begins. In this episode, I'm talking about what it actually looks like to put a healthier money mindset into action, through process, boundaries, and pricing decisions that support a sustainable business. I cover why education is part of your role (but convincing isn't), how your process acts as a filter for the right clients, what to do when budgets come up without discounting yourself, and why some clients opting out early is actually a win. This is Part 2 of a two-part series on money mindset and pricing for designers, and it's all about building momentum by holding the line on how you work!Looking to get some advice on what to do next in your interior design business? Sign up for a free business audit here: https://links.elevateinnercircle.com/widget/bookings/lca-business-audit

    Ep 142: The Quiet Ways Designers Sabotage Their Own Pricing

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2026 21:14


    In this episode, we're talking about the money mindset patterns that quietly hold designers back: fitting into client-imposed budgets, internalizing numbers as personal feedback, disqualifying opportunities too early, and negotiating against yourself before you even have the facts.If you've ever lowered your fee without being asked, assumed a client “couldn't afford you,” or walked away from an opportunity before fully qualifying it, this conversation will change how you think about pricing.In this episode, we cover:Why client budgets often feel emotional, and how to stop taking them personallyHow designers create constraints in their own minds before clients ever doHow disqualifying opportunities too early keeps your business stuck This episode is Part 1 of a two-part series on money mindset, pricing, and boundaries. In Part 2, we'll talk about how to put this mindset into action, through process, pricing structure, and momentum.Looking to get some advice on what to do next in your interior design business? Sign up for a free business audit here: https://links.elevateinnercircle.com/widget/bookings/lca-business-audit

    Ep 141: What Would Make 2026 Irreversible?

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 19, 2026 17:17


    Most years don't fail, they fade. In this episode, I explore the difference between trying and deciding, and why the years that change everything are often quieter, more intentional, and rooted in a single clear choice. If you've ever found yourself living in “almost”, almost committed, almost ready, almost confident, this conversation will feel like a mirror.I also shares why real change rarely happens in isolation, and how clarity needs space and structure to turn into commitment. This episode is an invitation to pause, reflect, and ask the question that matters most as you look ahead: What would make 2026 impossible to go back from?Looking to get some advice on what to do next in your interior design business? Sign up for a free business audit here: https://links.elevateinnercircle.com/widget/bookings/lca-business-audit

    Ep 140: Stop Planning 2026 as Your Old Self

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2026 17:27


    Most people don't fail at their goals because they lack discipline, they fail because they're planning the future as a version of themselves they've already outgrown. In this episode, I talk about why identity matters more than strategy when it comes to planning a year that actually works, and how making decisions from your “old self” creates unnecessary friction, burnout, and stalled momentum. You'll hear how your calendar, pricing, and boundaries are shaped by who you believe you are, and what starts to shift when identity catches up with growth. This episode is a quiet invitation to stop forcing a new year from an old version of yourself and begin planning 2026 from a truer, more aligned place.Looking to get some advice on what to do next in your interior design business? Sign up for a free business audit here: https://links.elevateinnercircle.com/widget/bookings/lca-business-audit

    Ep 139: 2026: The Year YOU Did it Differently

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 5, 2026 21:35


    Most people plan a new year by adding more goals, systems, and expectations...and end up overwhelmed before January even ends. In this episode, I share why I'm doing the opposite as I head into 2026, starting with subtraction instead of addition. You'll hear why releasing what no longer serves you isn't quitting, but leadership, and how creating space is often the missing step between ambition and real momentum. If planning a new year already feels heavy, this conversation will feel like an exhale. I'm hosting a live planning experience called 2026: The Year You Did It Differently, where we start with subtraction, clarity, and intention before we talk about goals or growth. If you're ready for no more normal, this is for you. It's January 22, 2026 at 12pm. Sign up info is below.

    Ep 138: The Yin & Yang of Design SUCCESS: Balancing Marketing, Systems & Sanity

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 15, 2025 44:47


    In this episode, I sit down with Dixie Willard, founder of Poised and Plumb for a candid conversation about the two essential forces that drive a thriving design business: marketing and systems. Marketing brings in clients, but systems keep them happy.Key Takeaways:How to begin documenting your processes without overwhelm or perfectionism.The Best way to streamline your workflow with tools & templates while maintaining a personal, human touch.Why clear communication, internally and with clients, is the ultimate service.How to avoid tech fatigue and choose software that fits your business (not the other way around).Why progress is better than perfection and small steps toward clarity beat inaction every time.You can connect with Dixie on IG at: poisedandplumb

    Ep 137: [Part 4] The Purchase Problem: Referrals that Don't Turn Into BUYERS (3 Gap Series)

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2025 23:39


    To get great referrals, you can be visible, you can spark interest...but if those referrals don't convert into real buyers, your referral machine stalls right there. In Part 4 (the final episode of this series), we're closing the Purchase Gap, the reason you might be getting leads, but not landing clients at the level you want. Because referrals aren't the finish line, they're the starting line.And if the people being sent your way aren't ready to buy, don't have the budget, or don't understand your value — the system breaks.In this episode, you'll learn:What to do when inquiries are coming in, but aren't converting into clients.The 3 moves that make clients who purchase effortless inside the Luxury Client AcademyMy 4-step Qualifying process that saves time, tears, and wasted energy When Visibility, Interest, and Purchase are aligned, referrals stop being random and start being reliable, and closing becomes the obvious next step! Want the full Referral Machine installed in your business?Join me live for Double Your Referrals on Dec 3rd at 12PM Eastern.I'll teach this entire framework, plus scripts and templates you can implement immediately. Sign up link is below

    Ep 136: [Part 3] The Interest Problem: Great Conversations, NO Referrals (3 Gap Series)

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2025 26:42


    Ever leave a networking event thinking, “That was such a good connection!”…and then nothing happens? In Part 3 of this 4-part Referral Machine series, we're closing the Interest Gap, the reason promising conversations don't turn into real business.In this episode, you'll learn:How to spot an Interest problem, when people are excited in the moment but never follow through.The 4 reasons Interest usually dies after a great conversationWhy your mindset is the real gatekeeper to your next level, not your portfolio, not your website, not your logo.The simple Follow-Through Play that makes networking productive without feeling forcedNext up:✅ [Part 4] The Purchase Problem, turning referrals into qualified luxury buyers! And if you want the scripts, framework, and live coaching to make interest effortless, join me for Double Your Referrals on Dec 3rd at 12PM Eastern, it's free, live, and built to get your referral machine moving. Sign up link is below

    Ep 135: [Part 2] The Visibility Problem: You're INVISIBLE to Your Best Referral Sources (3 Gap Series)

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2025 21:21


    If your referrals have been slow, unpredictable, or packed with the wrong kind of inquiries, this episode is going to make everything click. In Part 2 of the series, I'm closing the Visibility Gap, the reason so many talented designers stay the best-kept secret in their market even when their clients are thrilled. This episode breaks down how to get visible in the right places to the right people, so referrals become consistent and scalable.In this episode, you'll learn:Why your referrals are trickling in even when your work is amazing.The difference between visibility that feels busy… and visibility that pays.The 3-part Visibility Filter to identify exactly who you should be getting in front of Next up:✅ [Part 3] The Interest Gap, how to turn promising connections into real follow-through and referrals. And if you want the scripts, framework, and live coaching to make visibility effortless, join me for Double Your Referrals on Dec 3rd at 12PM Eastern, it's free, live, and built to get your referral machine moving. Sign up link is below

    Ep 134: [Part 1] The 3 Gaps that Keep You From Getting REFERRALS

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 26, 2025 16:41


    If your referrals feel slow, unpredictable, or like they're coming from the wrong people, there's a reason, and it has nothing to do with your talent. In Part 1 of this 4-part series, I'm breaking down the three gaps that are the leaks in your referral pipeline, the places where momentum stalls and opportunities never convert.In this episode, you'll learn:1) Why your referral system feels random (even when you're “doing all the things”).2) The 3 gaps that keep referrals from flowing:Gap #1: Visibility: You're the best-kept secret, or visible in the wrong rooms.Gap #2: Interest: You meet great people, but they don't follow through or refer.Gap #3: Purchase: You attract inquiries that don't match your budget level or value.3) The VIP Method that closes the gaps and creates a simple system so referrals stop being accidental and start being predictable. If you want high-quality referrals that turn into real buyers, start here.This episode sets the foundation for the series, and shows you exactly what needs to change before the phone starts ringing consistently. Next up:✅ [Part 2] Visibility Gap, how to stop being the best-kept secret and get seen by the right partners. And if you want the scripts, framework, and live coaching to make referrals effortless, join me for Double Your Referrals on Dec 3rd at 12PM Eastern, it's free, live, and built to get your referral machine moving. Sign up link is below

    Ep 133: How to Build PROFITABLE Referral Relationships

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2025 27:16


    If you want more referrals but it's just not happening, here's what you need to know. Most designers either stay invisible (because they don't know what to say), or they jump in too fast, asking for business before any trust exists.You need to go on a date before you get married. In this episode, I'm breaking down the exact process for building profitable, predictable referral partnerships without being pushy, awkward, or overly forward. You'll learn:The common mistakes designers make in partner outreachWhy warming up people mattersThe goodwill-first strategy (the only approach that works)A few scripts you can use TODAY to make outreach easier & more profitable!New Workshop coming Wednesday, December 3rd 12pm Eastern (11am Central/10am Mountain/9am Pacific)Double your REFERRALS: 3 Simple Steps to get partners that refer clients 24/7Grab your seat here!https://elevateinnercircle.com/double-your-referralsApplications now open for the Luxury Client Academy. Apply here https://www.luxuryclientacademy.comNew Workshop coming Wednesday, December 3rd 12pm Eastern (11am Central/10am Mountain/9am Pacific)Double your REFERRALS: 3 Simple Steps to get partners that refer clients 24/7Grab your seat here!https://elevateinnercircle.com/double-your-referralsApplications now open for the Luxury Client Academy. Apply here https://www.luxuryclientacademy.com

    Ep 132: 2 WEEKS from Stuck to $12K (& it didn't stop there!)

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 18, 2025 44:44


    Ep 131: The dreaded DRY SPELL. Why isn't the phone ringing?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 13, 2025 43:51


    If your inbox has been quiet and the phone hasn't rung in weeks, you're not alone. Every interior designer hits a dry spell at some point. But if it's been months and zero new projects, this episode is your wake-up call. Sign up for my FREE workshop: Double your referrals: 3 Simple Steps to get partners that refer clients 24/7, 12/3, 12pm Easternhttps://elevateinnercircle.com/double-your-referrals I share what's really going on when leads disappear, and it's not just the economy. (Although yes, cycles are real!) Whether you've been relying on the phone to “just ring,” or you've lost touch with your past clients and trade partners, this episode will help you course-correct, without panicking.You'll learn:Why the freeze-panic-flail cycle keeps repeating in your businessThe 3 groups of people who are most likely to refer your next projectWhat to say when reconnecting (without sounding salesy or desperate)My 4-step H.O.M.E. Follow-Up Formula to rebuild trust and spark opportunityNew Workshop coming Wednesday, December 3rd 12pm Eastern (11am Central/10am Mountain/9am Pacific)Double your REFERRALS: 3 Simple Steps to get partners that refer clients 24/7Grab your seat here!https://elevateinnercircle.com/double-your-referralsApplications now open for the Luxury Client Academy. Apply here https://www.luxuryclientacademy.com

    Ep 130: If You're All Over the Place, You're in the Right Place

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 10, 2025 30:20


    Feeling scattered? Disorganized? Wondering if you're too all over the place to even work with a coach? Maybe you're exactly where you need to be.Sign up for my FREE workshop: Double your referrals: 3 Simple Steps to get partners that refer clients 24/7, 12/3, 12pm Easternhttps://elevateinnercircle.com/double-your-referralsIn this episode, I share how the chaos in your business often mirrors that big pile of laundry we all dread - everything jumbled together, overwhelming, and impossible to sort through. I share how to take your business from from “dumped on the floor” to “sorted, folded, and put away” in your marketing and operations, one intentional system at a time.

    Ep 129: Fall in Love with VISIBILTY (Without the Ick)

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 3, 2025 39:02


    *Get a seat in my new workshop: Double your REFERRALS*If your client referrals have dried up and the thought of being more visible makes you want to throw up, is episode is for you.Today, we're diving into why client referrals aren't a sustainable strategy, what's really behind the fear of marketing yourself, and how to reconnect with creativity and curiosity so that marketing starts to feel natural, aligned, and even… fun.You'll learn:Why relying on client referrals keeps you stuck in reactive mode, and what to do instead.The emotional truth behind why marketing feels “salesy” (hint: it's not about strategy).How to work through the discomfort of showing up online instead of scrapping everything and starting over.Why perfectionism is just fear wearing nice clothes.How to bring your creativity and curiosity into your marketing so it feels authentic, not exhausting.New Workshop coming Wednesday, December 3rd 12 pm EasternDouble your REFERRALS: 3 Simple Steps to get partners that refer clients 24/7Grab your seat here!Applications now open for the Luxury Client Academy. Apply here

    Ep 128: Missing the Mark on Marketing? Top 3 MISTAKES I See Designers Making

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2025 32:38


    In this episode, I dive into how to sustain effective marketing momentum in the final quarter of the year. With the holiday season approaching, I talk about why NOW is the PERFECT time to stay visible, connect with potential clients, and strengthen referral relationships.Open Office Hours this FRIDAY! 10/24 10:00 Eastern. Free and open to all coaching clients and non-clients. RSVP to the next session here: pam@elevateinnercircle.comGet on the Luxury Client Academy Waitlist: https://www.luxuryclientacademy.com

    Ep 127: How to Network Without WASTING Your Time

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2025 25:16


    Open Office Hours this FRIDAY! 10/17 12 Eastern. Free and open to all coaching clients and non-clients. RSVP to the next session here: pam@elevateinnercircle.comFeeling overwhelmed by all the events, expos, and networking invites?In this episode, I'm helping you sort the signal from the noise so your time spent networking actually leads to relationships, referrals, and great work...not just another stack of business cards.We'll talk about:• The 3 types of rooms, and which ones to prioritize• How to spot the right collaborators fast (without the pitch)• What conversation themes actually uncover fit and valuesIf you've ever walked into an event and thought, “Why am I even here?”, this one's for you!Open Office Hours this FRIDAY! 10/24 10:00 Eastern. Free and open to all coaching clients and non-clients. RSVP to the next session here: pam@elevateinnercircle.comGet on the Luxury Client Academy Waitlist: https://www.luxuryclientacademy.com

    Ep 126: Is your pipeline getting CRUNCHY?

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2025 9:00


    This episode kicks off Week 2 of my October Open Office Hours, a 4-week live series all about falling back in love with your business again.RSVP here: pam@elevateinnercircle.comIn this episode, I go over what this week's live zoom session will be like, how it can help you get unstuck and why you need to be there!Office hours:When: Friday, Oct 10 @ 2PM EasternTopic: Finding Clients When Your Pipeline Feels CrunchyHow: Free, casual, and open to anyone (not just clients!)I'm hosting these sessions as a mix of market research + meaningful conversation, a space to share what's really working (and what's not) when it comes to getting clients.

    Ep 125: Small but MIGHTY: A Smarter Way to Run Your Design Business

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2025 34:10


    Bigger isn't always better, it's just…bigger. And sometimes, it's a whole lot messier.In this episode of the Six Figure Designer Podcast, I'm sharing why the most profitable and fulfilling design businesses aren't the ones chasing more staff, more projects, and more hustle. They're the ones making intentional choices about which clients to serve, how to market, and who to network with. You'll hear the story of a designer who looked “successful” on paper with 23 projects, but was underpaid and stuck on the hamster wheel. After repositioning her for better projects, everything shifted. Fewer jobs. Bigger profits. More breathing room.If you're juggling a full plate of projects, constantly working, but still not seeing the profit you want, take a listen as I dive into what it really takes to thrive as a lean, boutique design business.Open Office Hours this FRIDAY! 10/24 10:00 Eastern. Free and open to all coaching clients and non-clients. RSVP to the next session here: pam@elevateinnercircle.comGet on the Luxury Client Academy Waitlist: https://www.luxuryclientacademy.com

    Ep 124: Client-First Doesn't Mean You Come SECOND

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2025 25:33


    In today's episode, I'm diving into a pattern I see far too often: changing your own boundaries before the client even asks you to.Whether it's squeezing in more rooms for the same fee or downplaying the real time and expertise your work requires, I'm going to talk about why this happens, how it shows up in your business, and what to do about it. You'll learn:Being “client-centric” doesn't mean saying yes to everything. When you lower your standards to be helpful, you're not serving your client, you're diluting your value.If your offers aren't clearly defined, you'll constantly be negotiating them on the fly. Clarity for you = confidence for them.You don't need to justify your pricing, you need to own it. Stop explaining, start leading.Practice matters. Walking through real client questions in advance makes you sharper and more grounded when it counts.Get on the Luxury Client Academy Waitlist: https://www.luxuryclientacademy.com

    Ep 123: What I DO That Most Coaches Don't

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2025 12:49


    If you've ever hired a coach, or considered it, and felt unsure if it was really going to move the needle in your business, this episode is for you.I pull back the curtain on how my coaching inside the Luxury Client Academy is intentionally designed to be different, and why it works. No fluff. No general advice. Just deep, individualized support that actually helps you grow a luxury-level, referral-driven design business.You'll hear:Why accountability is only part of the equation (and what most coaches miss)The 5 specific things I deliver that help designers earn back their investment 10x overHow my process is structured to get you clarity fast and keep you movingWhat a real business audit looks like, and why it's the first thing we do togetherThe power of consistent, customized coaching every two weeks (with real-time access between calls!)Why being “organized” isn't a bonus—it's the backbone of real business growthIf you've been stuck in the cycle of “figuring it out,” this episode will show you what it looks like to finally move forward with a clear plan, strong support, and me in your corner who treats your business like it's my own.Learn all about the Luxury Client Academy with the apply link below.Applications now OPEN for the Luxury Client Academy until FRIDAY 9/19 >> Apply here!

    Ep 122: How to Become 50 Mile FAMOUS

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2025 12:50


    What if the key to more dream projects isn't being everywhere online... but being unforgettable to the right people locally?In today's episode, I shares how 50 Mile Fame is the real secret to consistent, high-quality referrals in 2025, and why it beats chasing Instagram trends every single time.You'll hear:What “50 Mile Famous” actually means (and how it changed Pam's business)Why vendor relationships still outperform social mediaHow to build trust with builders, realtors, editors & more in your local areaThe Shock & Awe Box strategy for making a lasting impressionWhat you really need to become the go-to designer in your marketWhether you're feeling invisible in your community or just overwhelmed by all the online noise, this episode will ground you in what works, relationships, trust, and intentional visibility.Inside the Luxury Client Academy, we take this even further:Build your Top 10 Referral ListDesign your custom Shock & Awe BoxSet up follow-up systems that keep you top-of-mindAnd learn how to position yourself as the designer every vendor wants to referThis isn't fluff. This is how you become known, trusted, and booked in the circles that matter. Be sure to apply with the link below!Learn all about the Luxury Client Academy with the apply link below.Applications now OPEN for the Luxury Client Academy until FRIDAY 9/19 >> Apply here!

    Ep 121: Worried? Will the LCA work for you?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 16, 2025 8:33


    In this short but powerful episode, I shine light on the three biggest fears designers have when deciding whether to join the Luxury Client Academy:

    Ep 120: The Hidden COST of “I'll Just Figure It Out Myself”

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2025 32:15


    As designers, we pride ourselves on being resourceful, so it's easy to fall into the trap of thinking we should be able to figure it all out on our own. But what's that mindset really costing you? In this episode, I break down the true price of staying stuck in DIY mode, and how trying to “do it all yourself” is actually delaying your growth, draining your energy, and keeping you from the clients and projects you really want. You'll hear:The 3 most overlooked costs of figuring it out yourself (time, money, and confidence)What shifts happen when you get real support (and stop second-guessing every move)How the Luxury Client Academy helps designers attract aligned, high-trust clients again and again If you're tired of piecing it all together alone and ready to finally realize those financial and project goals, this episode is for you! Apply for Luxury Client Academy elevateinnercircle.com/lca-salesLearn all about the Luxury Client Academy with the apply link below.Applications now OPEN for the Luxury Client Academy until FRIDAY 9/19 >> Apply here!

    Ep 119: The Referral System That Saved My Calendar, My Sanity & My Profit

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 8, 2025 33:03


    If you've been banking on client word-of-mouth, this episode is your reset. I'm sharing the referral system that changed my business and why 90% of my best projects came from industry partners.In this episode:Learn who gets the first call in your market—and why you need to be in their orbitAvoid the “one-basket” trap and diversify where your projects come fromGet my approach to outreach that feels genuine (not salesy) and actually gets replies

    Ep 118: From Winging It to LEADING It: How Audra Transformed Her Discovery Calls

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2025 52:42


    Sign up for my FREE Rapid Referrals Challenge coming up 9/10/25. Secure your seat here: elevateinnercircle.com/rapid-referral-challenge In this episode, I'm sharing how Audra, one of the incredible members inside the Luxury Client Academy, completely changed the way she approaches discovery calls.She used to go in unsure, trying to say the “right” thing and hoping it would land. Now?She shows up as the expert.She leads the call with intention.And her clients feel the shift.Here's what we break down in this episode:What changes when you stop “winging it” and start leading the callHow confidence and clarity build trust (and close better clients)Why discovery calls aren't about impressing, they're about qualifyingAudra's exact mindset shift that helped her step into leadershipHow to know if your discovery call is working for you, or against youIf you've ever walked away from a client call feeling unsure, undervalued, or like you gave too much away… this episode will feel like a breath of fresh air! If you've been looking to change how you've been getting business, then check out my Luxury Client Academy, doors open soon!Sign up for my FREE Rapid Referrals Challenge coming up 9/10/25. Secure your seat here: https://elevateinnercircle.com/rapid-referral-challengeApplications now OPEN for the Luxury Client Academy >> Apply here!

    Ep 117a: Design Is Better Together: With ASID CEO Khoi Vo

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2025 11:22


    In this special episode recorded live at ASID's National Conference, Gather, I got to sit down with ASID CEO Khoi Vo and talk about the enduring value of a professional community in a fast-paced, digital world. On point for celebrating celebrating 50 years of design leadership, you'll hear Khoi's perspective on why in-person connection still matters, what makes gatherings like this irreplaceable, and how ASID continues to serve designers at every stage of their journey. It highlights how meaningful connection is what drives a sustainable, joyful design business. If you're a small-but-mighty designer who wants to grow through relationships, this episode will remind you: design is better together!Sign up for my FREE Rapid Referrals Challenge coming up 9/10/25. Secure your seat here: https://elevateinnercircle.com/rapid-referral-challengeApplications now OPEN for the Luxury Client Academy >> Apply here!

    Ep 117: Why Gatherings Matter: 50 Years of Connection, Community & Craft

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2025 11:34


    Sign up for my FREE Rapid Referrals Challenge coming up 9/10/25. Secure your seat here: elevateinnercircle.com/rapid-referral-challengeIn this special episode recorded live from ASID's Gather conference, I reflect on the power of real-world connection in an increasingly digital world. As ASID celebrates 50 years, I explore what professional community still means for today's boutique designer and how showing up in person leads to more meaningful relationships, stronger referrals, and a more joyful business.If you're feeling stuck behind a screen or wondering how to grow your business without the social media hustle, this episode will remind you, it's not about growing your audience but your influence with the right people.Sign up for my FREE Rapid Referrals Challenge coming up 9/10/25. Secure your seat here: https://elevateinnercircle.com/rapid-referral-challengeApplications now OPEN for the Luxury Client Academy >> Apply here!

    Ep 116: Why Saying 'No' Was the Profit Boost Alfie Needed

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2025 69:35


    Sign up for my FREE Rapid Referrals Challenge coming up 9/10/25. Secure your seat here: elevateinnercircle.com/rapid-referral-challenge After 25 years in the interior design industry, Alfie Rowan has learned how to say no with confidence, qualify clients early, and embrace her authentic self, both in her business and her brand. She shares how this shift helped her raise her rates, attract better-fit clients, and focus on the projects that truly light her up.You'll hear:How Alfie turned down a high-profile project (and why it was the right move)The minimum spend she uses now to filter inquiries (hint: $50K+)The mindset shifts and systems she used to triple a project fee, from $7K to $23KHer advice for designers who feel the pressure to “people please” their way into burnoutA peek into the Naples Experience and how it transformed Alfie's perspective on high-end designAlfie's story is a beautiful reminder that you don't have to water yourself down to be successful, in fact, doing the opposite has drawn her dream clients in.Sign up for my FREE Rapid Referrals Challenge coming up 9/10/25. Secure your seat here: https://elevateinnercircle.com/rapid-referral-challengeApplications now OPEN for the Luxury Client Academy >> Apply here!

    Ep 115: Why Your Design Business Feels STUCK & How to Move Forward

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 25, 2025 25:41


    Sign up for my FREE Rapid Referrals Challenge coming up 9/10/25. Secure your seat here: https://elevateinnercircle.com/rapid-referral-challengeReady to get your design business out of neutral? Let's hit the gas together!In this episode, I'm getting real about why your design business might feel stuck and exactly what you can do about it (no more frantic posting, fruitless pitching, or losing your mind over social media).I'll share the top five reasons things might be stalled, from waiting on those elusive client referrals to chasing every “maybe” lead, getting lost in the social scroll, and more and I'll give you actionable steps so you can move forward with more confidence and less overwhelm.Let's leave burnout behind and build a business you love together!Can't wait to see you in the next episode. Keep going, and stay inspired!Sign up for my FREE Rapid Referrals Challenge coming up 9/10/25. Secure your seat here: https://elevateinnercircle.com/rapid-referral-challengeApplications now OPEN for the Luxury Client Academy >> Apply here!

    Ep 114: Chaos to Clarity: How One Niche Brought Michele's Design Business Back to Life

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2025 55:30


    In this episode, I sit down with Michele Spadavecchia of Asta Design Group to talk about the pivotal shift that completely transformed her interior design business.Like many talented designers, Michele found herself pulled in too many directions, trying to serve everyone, saying yes to every project, and feeling the slow drain of burnout. The joy she once had for her work was buried under constant chaos, unclear direction, and a business model that wasn't working.She almost threw in the towel, but everything changed when we starting working together and Michele made the brave decision to commit to one niche.We talk about:How she identified a niche that was both creatively fulfilling and profitableThe mindset shift that made it easier to say “no” to the wrong projectsWhy focus is the fastest path to better clients, more profit, and renewed energyThe surprising ripple effects a clear niche has on how she approaches marketing, referrals, content and vendor relationshipsMichele's story is a reminder that the right niche doesn't limit you, it frees you. If you've been feeling stretched thin, unclear on your direction, or just plain tired of running on empty, this episode will inspire you to focus on what you love most and build a business around it.To connect with Michele and see here beautiful work: Asta Design Group WebsiteLearn more about The Luxury Client Academy: Apply HereFollow me on Instagram for more referral and business growth strategies: @PamelaDurkinSign up for my FREE Rapid Referrals Challenge coming up 9/10/25. Secure your seat here: https://elevateinnercircle.com/rapid-referral-challengeApplications now OPEN for the Luxury Client Academy >> Apply here!

    Ep 113: Turn Contacts into CONTRACTS: The Referral System That Works

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2025 40:25


    Join the Rapid Referrals Challenge – September 10 @ 12pm ET here: elevateinnercircle.com/rapid-referral-challengeWe'll map your vendor network, decide exactly who to reach out to first, and I'll give you proven templates for what to say so you can start building your own Referral Machine. Relying on client referrals, social media, or ads to fill your business means you're working way harder than you need to. In this episode, I'm showing you:Why client referrals alone can't sustain a thriving design business.The “bridge” to proactive, high-quality industry referrals that deliver 2–3 dream projects a year from one partner.The exact 3-step Referral Machine process I teach inside the Luxury Client Academy.Where most designers get stuck (and how to get unstuck).Sign up for my FREE Rapid Referrals Challenge coming up 9/10/25. Secure your seat here: https://elevateinnercircle.com/rapid-referral-challengeApplications now OPEN for the Luxury Client Academy >> Apply here!

    Ep 112: From $17K to $96K: Tina's Cashflow Breakthrough

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2025 50:30


    Sign up for my FREE Rapid Referrals Challenge coming up 9/10/25. Secure your seat here: https://elevateinnercircle.com/rapid-referral-challengeWhat if one decision could lead to the biggest cashflow breakthrough of your design career?In this episode, I'm talking with Tina Margrander, an incredibly talented designer who used to cap her design fees at $17,000. After joining the Luxury Client Academy, she shifted how she talks about her value, showed up with more confidence, and started attracting the kind of clients who don't blink at premium pricing.Her big win? A $96,000 design fee, and a completely new level of steady, predictable cashflow.Inside this conversation, you'll hear:How Tina broke free from the undercharging trapThe mindset and messaging tweaks that helped her close high-ticket clients with easeWhat changed when she stopped “waiting for referrals” and took control of her marketingThe power of community and coaching in creating real financial momentumIf you're ready to move from income plateaus to profitable projects that flow consistently, this episode will show you what's possible!To connect with Tina, visit her website: https://tinamarie-interiors.com/Sign up for my FREE Rapid Referrals Challenge coming up 9/10/25. Secure your seat here: https://elevateinnercircle.com/rapid-referral-challengeApplications now OPEN for the Luxury Client Academy >> Apply here!

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