Podcasts about design business

What if the fear holding you back isn't failure—but the thought of never trying at all?In this episode, I sit down with Elliot James, founder of a multi–award-winning international interior architecture studio, to talk honestly about what it takes to build a creative career that spans countries, cultures, and markets. Elliot didn't follow a traditional path. He didn't wait until everything felt “safe.” Instead, he followed his curiosity, his ambition, and his passion for design—sometimes with nothing more than a laptop, a website, and a willingness to knock on doors.If you're an interior designer (or aspiring designer) who dreams of bigger projects, international opportunities, or breaking into luxury residential, hospitality design, wellness-focused environments, or commercial projects—but you're afraid of getting it wrong—this conversation is for you. We talk about persistence, risk-taking, networking, word-of-mouth referrals, and how adapting to different cultures can open doors you never knew existed.This episode is a reminder that creative careers aren't built by waiting. They're built by moving forward—one bold decision at a time.Featured GuestElliot James is the founder of Elliott James Interiors, a multi–award-winning international interior architecture studio specializing in luxury residential projects, hospitality design, and wellness-focused environments. With studios in Singapore, Dubai, and London, Elliot's work blends bespoke furniture design, thoughtful client experience, and cultural adaptability to create spaces that function as true sanctuaries.What You'll Learn in This Episode✳️ How to follow passion without fearing creative failure✳️ Building an international interior design career strategically✳️ Networking strategies that lead to word-of-mouth referrals✳️ Taking smart risks to grow your design business✳️ Adapting to cultures in luxury and hospitality marketsRead the Blog >>> 5 Lessons on Building an International Design CareerNEXT STEPS:

Most designers think they need more content, more platforms, or more exposure to grow. That is not the problem. The real issue is misalignment. I see so many talented designers working nonstop and still struggling with unpredictable income. In this episode, I break down the only three marketing activities that actually grow a design business and why everything else is just noise. If you are a freelance designer or a brand and web designer trying to figure out how to get graphic design clients without burning out, this will give you clarity. This is about building trust, creating momentum, and thinking like a creative CEO instead of chasing tactics.You will learn:Why most marketing advice keeps design business owners stuckHow positioning driven content attracts better clientsWhat relationship based visibility really looks likeWhy conversion assets matter more than posting moreHow these three activities work together to compound growthGrab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to rethink how you market your design business.Aventive Academy's Resources:Fully Booked Designer (6-week biz program) : ⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/fullybookeddesigner/⁠⁠From Crickets to Clients: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/crickets-to-clients/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Client Portal for Designers: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Brand Guidelines Template: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Creative CEO Accelerator: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of Turnkey Design Talk, I speak directly to interior designers and decorators who are already in the game — already working, already busy — but quietly wondering why the numbers still don't stack up.This isn't about getting started from scratch, and it's not about motivation or mindset.It's about structure.After 16 years in the industry and dozens of conversations with designers, one pattern shows up again and again: most designers don't need more clients — they need fewer leaks.In this episode, I break down:why bundling everything into one design fee quietly destroys profithow implementation work gets absorbed without being priced properlywhy passing on discounts erodes your value over timehow uncontrolled scope and unlimited revisions kill marginsand what actually needs to change if you want your income to reflect your effortI share real-world examples from working designers to show how these issues develop — not because of lack of talent, but because of the way responsibility, pricing, and boundaries are structured.If you've ever felt exhausted, over-involved, or frustrated by how much work you're doing for the return you're getting, this episode will help you identify where the money is leaking — and why.This is a straight-talk episode for designers who want a business that is:properly pricedcalmly runand built around finished, profitable projectsIf this episode raised questions for you, or you're feeling stuck in your solo design business, you don't have to figure it out on your own.I offer a 30-minute clarity session where we can talk through where you're at, what's getting in the way, and whether I can help.Email me at askadam@turnkeydesignsuccess.com

Text me and tell me what you think of this ep. This episode is a reset.I'm talking honestly about why business feels heavier this year, why motivation is harder to access, and what I actually saw work across 2025 inside real interior design businesses.I walk through the three business decisions that reduced pressure, improved delivery, and stopped everything feeling so hard. These are the same foundations I teach inside Framework Express.If you're listening on release day, Framework Express is open with two places available. Details are below.This episode is for designers who want traction, not hype.watch this ep on YouTube >> https://youtu.be/Wsagx-vkDwMThanks for listening to this episode of "Designing Success: From Study to Studio"! Connect with me on social media for more business tips, and a real look behind the scenes of my own practicing design business. Grab more insights and updates: Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/oleander_and_finchLike Oleander & Finch on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/oleanderandfinch For more FREE resources, templates, guides and information, visit the Designer Resource Hub on my website ; https://oleanderandfinch.com/ Ready to take your interior design business to the next level? Check out my online course, "The Framework," designed to provide you with everything they don't teach you in design school and to give you high touch mentorship essential to having a successful new business in the industry. Check it out now and start designing YOUR own successTHE FRAMEWORK ( now open) https://www.oleanderandfinch.com/the-framework-for-emerging-designers/ Remember to subscribe to the podcast and leave a review. Your feedback helps me continue providing valuable content to aspiring interior designers. Stay tuned for more episodes filled with actionable insights and inspiring conversations. ...

Send Katie a Text Message!! If you've ever looked at your business and thought, “Why did this feel easier when I was making less money?”—this episode is for you.Today, I'm talking directly to designers who are doing “everything right” on paper. The revenue is there. The team is there. The projects are bigger. And yet… everything feels heavier. More complex. More draining.Here's the truth I want you to hear upfront: you didn't do anything wrong. This tension doesn't show up because you failed—it shows up because you succeeded. And in this episode, I walk you through what that actually means and how to respond as a CEO, not by working harder, but by building a business that can truly carry its own weight.In this episode, I cover:Why most designers hit a wall after profitability—not before itThe difference between effort and capacity (and why effort eventually stops working)How to recognize when your business has outgrown its current “muscle”Why more revenue doesn't automatically equal more freedomThe mindset shift from control to capacity—and why letting go is strategic, not recklessHow the wrong client mix can exhaust even the strongest systemsWhy decision-making has to be decentralized if your business is going to scale sustainablyHow processes like project closeouts reduce emotional labor and prevent repeated mistakesThe real reason your business feels heavy (and why it's not a time management failure)I also share personal examples from my own firm—where I hit ceilings, what broke when we grew too fast, and the exact shifts that allowed the business to support growth without burning me out.This episode is about evolution. About recognizing when your business is asking for something different. And about understanding that heaviness is a signal—not a verdict.Final takeaway:If your business feels heavy right now, it doesn't mean you're bad at managing your time. It means your business has outgrown the way it was built—and that's not failure. That's growth asking for leadership.And if you're listening and thinking, “This is exactly where I am,” I see you. You don't need more grit. You need a business designed for the level of success you're already experiencing.As always, your business should be working for you—not the other way around.Connect with Katie LinkedInBusiness Strategy Sessions for Interior Designers Free Resources for scaling your interior design firmWebsite

Frustration in your design business isn't a personal failing—it's information. And if the same frustrations keep showing up in different forms, they're not exceptions. They're patterns. In this episode, Kimberley Seldon unpacks the most common frustrations interior designers face—working nonstop yet feeling financially uneasy, absorbing problems instead of fixing them, guessing instead of knowing—and explains why these challenges persist even in “successful” firms. The issue isn't talent, confidence, or effort. It's operating without the systems that make a business stable, predictable, and sustainable. Kimberley shares hard-earned insights from her own career, including why fixing problems with memory, vigilance, or hustle is exhausting—and why real relief only comes when frustration is replaced with structure. From financial visibility and owner compensation to capacity planning and decision-making, this episode reframes frustration as a signal that you've outgrown how you've been running your business. If you're busy, booked, and still uneasy—or successful but restless—this episode will help you understand why and show you where to start fixing it. In this episode we learn: - Why recurring frustration is a systems problem, not a personal flaw - How treating issues as “one-offs” keeps designers stuck in survival mode - Why managing your business by instinct—especially money—always feels unsafe - The difference between coping strategies and real, structural fixes - Why financial clarity depends on visibility, not revenue alone - How proper systems remove emotion from hiring, spending, and time off - Why capacity—not effort—is the missing link for exhausted designers - The mindset shift from “How do I manage this better?” to “What should already be in place?”

I'm pursuing marketing as my full-time work, but as a side business I like to help people design their spaces, and wardrobes. Sponsored by my business - GladerCreative.com feel free to reach out to me at my website if you have interest in my services. Thanks for listening!-Katherine

Beyond the Sketchbook: Mastering the Business of Design with Industry Leaders. Esteemed practitioners Keith Granet, Grant Kirkpatrick, Tom Stringer, and Louis Taylor share candid insights into the origin stories, critical business skills, and forward-looking strategies necessary to build and sustain a successful design practice. Moderated by Cheryl Durst (EVP and CEO of IIDA), the panel focused on the transition from being a talented designer to running a thriving, resilient business, covering genesis, operations, talent management, branding, and future-proofing. Origin Stories and Industry Appreciation: The panelists shared diverse paths into design. Some were drawn in early (Grant and Tom), while others arrived via finance and business consulting (Keith and Louis). Louis Taylor (Finance, SchappacherWhite) noted that, coming from auditing various industries, design is “absolutely the best industry to work in by far.” The 80/20 Rule of Entrepreneurship: A critical takeaway for design professionals is understanding that running a firm is primarily a business function. Keith Granet and Grant Kirkpatrick stressed that the time split is often 70–80% focused on business (HR, finance, marketing, systems) and only 20–30% on actual design work. Keith Granet (Granet and Associates, Leaders of Design) emphasized that good systems and data tracking (like a monthly “executive summary” of financials) are “freeing” and allow for greater creativity by alleviating stress over payroll and rent. Infrastructure and Skill Development: Hire Your Weaknesses: The consensus was to surround yourself with great consultants (finance, PR, marketing) and “hire your weaknesses” to empower the principal designer to focus on their “highest and best use.” Future Talent Gap: Louis Taylor noted that junior staff coming out of school often require significant training in “soft skills” (people skills, professional email etiquette, presentation, listening) to bridge the gap between conceptual learning and the real-world practice. Branding and Storytelling: Effective messaging must be authentic and focus on an idea bigger than the work itself. Grant Kirkpatrick (KAA Design Group) detailed their use of “The Five Whys” to articulate a vision, which for his firm is the belief that “design elevates the human spirit.” Tom Stringer (Tom Stringer Design Partners) built his brand around his personal value of adventure, which attracts clients who are “kindred spirits.” He emphasized that design is predicated on building trust over multiple generations. Future Proofing and Resilience: AI and Technology: The panelists recognized AI as a powerful, unavoidable tool that will alleviate mundane tasks and enhance existing work, though it also presents a significant challenge (“scares the shit out of us,” noted Keith). Firms must embrace it. * **Talent Retention:** **Institutional knowledge** is key to longevity. Firms are focusing on creating exceptional workspaces, competitive benefits (like sabbatical programs), and internal culture to recruit and **retain the best talent.** * **Mentorship:** Mentoring should be a fundamental part of a firm’s **culture**, not a forced, rigid program. It is essential at all career stages, providing wisdom and long-term connections that help owners stay agile and resourceful.

Send Katie a Text Message!! Choosing a coach is a big decision—especially when your business is already successful, but something still feels heavy. In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on what coaching should (and shouldn't) look like for interior designers. I share the mistakes I've made hiring coaches, the lessons I learned the hard way, and the exact criteria I use now—both when I hire support and when designers consider working with me. This isn't about hype, Instagram followers, or quick fixes. It's about clarity, alignment, and making decisions that actually support your life and your business.IN THIS EPISODE:Why you don't need a coach because you're failing—but because your business has outgrown its current structureThe real signs it's time for coaching (and why exhaustion isn't a motivation problem)How fear keeps designers stuck longer than necessary—and why that's often the most expensive choiceWhy coaching isn't about buying information, but about compressed time, perspective, and decision supportWhat I look for when choosing a coach—and why “been there, done that” is a red flagWhy specialization matters more than popularity when it comes to coachingMy honest take on group coaching vs. private coaching once you're past six figuresThe three non-negotiables every designer should use when choosing a coachHow to know if I'm the right coach for you—and just as importantly, if I'm notI see designers wait too long to ask for help, hire the wrong support, or assume coaching “doesn't work” when it was really just the wrong fit. This episode is about giving you clarity—so you can stop second-guessing yourself and start making decisions with confidence, integrity, and intention. Coaching should feel supportive, aligned, and safe—not pressured or performative.If this episode resonates and you're feeling ready to talk things through, I offer a free 15-minute problem-solving session. No pitch. No pressure. Just clarity. Head to fixmydesignbiz.com and we'll talk about what's actually going on in your business—and whether coaching makes sense for you right now.Remember: your business should be working for you, not the other way around.Connect with Katie LinkedInBusiness Strategy Sessions for Interior Designers Free Resources for scaling your interior design firmWebsite

Increase your income without niching down, rebranding or adding more services or skills. ​Get our 90-Day Revenue Roadmap Training and find out how to go from undercharging and hustling to booking projects you love (at higher prices than you thought possible). Get the full show notes at https://webdesigneracademy.com/177 When you're ready, here are some ways we can help you with your web design business:​

Send Katie a Text Message!! If you feel stuck in indecision, overwhelmed by options, or frozen because you're afraid of making the wrong move in your design business, this episode is for you.In this conversation, I'm talking directly to designers who are waiting for more clarity, more confidence, or more certainty before taking action — and how that waiting is often the very thing keeping them stuck. Indecision isn't neutral. It's still a decision, and it usually comes with hidden costs: stalled growth, increased stress, team confusion, and long-term burnout.We're unpacking why so many designers confuse overthinking with being strategic, and how avoidance quietly undermines your leadership as a CEO. Strong leadership isn't about having all the answers or getting it perfect — it's about making informed decisions, learning from them, and allowing momentum to build. Confidence doesn't come before action. It comes from action.I also share what decision-making actually looks like at higher levels of leadership, why trying to be “nice” can erode trust in your business, and how delaying decisions spreads stress across your finances, operations, and team. This episode is about shifting out of reaction and into intentional leadership so your business can move forward.In this episode, I cover:Why indecision is often more expensive than making the wrong decisionHow overthinking keeps designers stuck and overwhelmedThe difference between thoughtful leadership and avoidanceHow delayed decisions affect your team, culture, and profitabilityWhy action creates clarity — not the other way aroundIf you're ready to stop spinning, stop waiting, and start leading your business with confidence and clarity, this episode will help you rethink how you make decisions and what it's costing you not to.Listen in and let's talk about how to move forward as the CEO your business actually needs.Connect with Katie LinkedInBusiness Strategy Sessions for Interior Designers Free Resources for scaling your interior design firmWebsite

Send us a textIn this episode of The Business of Beautiful Spaces, Laura breaks down how interior designers can begin using AI in a practical, ethical and non-intimidating way in 2026. Whether you are AI curious, quietly resistant, or already dabbling, this conversation is designed to help you see AI as a supportive team member rather than a threat to your creativity or value. AI cannot replace your intuition, your eye, or the human connection you build with clients, but it can absolutely remove the repetitive, time consuming work that keeps you out of your creative zone.Laura walks through simple, starter level ways to introduce AI into your business right now – from drafting client emails and summarizing meetings to supporting social media content, refining website copy, organizing project communication and assisting with early concept exploration. From there, she explores more advanced strategies for designers who are ready to integrate AI deeper into their workflow, including AI assisted design development, procurement support, predictive project planning, business intelligence analytics and client style profiling. Finally, she offers a future focused look at where AI is heading in the design industry, and why designers who learn to partner with it will be able to work with more ease, clarity and profitability.In this episode, you will learn:How to think about AI as a tool that supports your business, not a replacement for your talentSimple, beginner friendly ways to use AI for admin, communication, content and client supportHow more advanced AI tools can streamline design development, procurement and project managementWhy AI will increasingly become a core business support system while designers remain at the heart of the creative processA free way to support the show is by leaving a five star rating and review on Apple Podcasts. It helps more designers discover The Business of Beautiful Spaces and step into their role as confident, profitable CEOs.Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

Starting a design business isn't just about being talented, it's about building a real business foundation that can support you long-term.In this episode of the Interior Design Business Podcast, I'm sharing what it really takes to start a design business—step-by-step—like a giant checklist. Most designers start by helping friends and family, but eventually you have to learn how to shift from “free help” into a legitimate business without becoming the gift that keeps on giving forever.I'm walking you through the legal and operational setup you need (licenses, insurance, business structure, and naming), how to build out your vendor accounts and trade relationships, what support teams you need behind the scenes (from delivery and installers to remodel trades), and what systems you must have in place to stay organized and profitable.Then I'll cover the other half of success: marketing. Because if you want clients consistently, you need to know who your ideal client is, what problem you solve, and how to position yourself as the obvious choice—even when you're just getting started.This episode is packed, practical, and designed to give you clarity on what to do first… and what to build over time.In this episode, I cover:How most design businesses start (friends & family) and why that can become a trapHow to transition from “free help” to a real business modelWhat to set up first: licenses, tax IDs, insurance, LLC/S-Corp structureHow to choose a business name and secure your URL earlyWhy joining a design organization helps open doors and builds credibilityWhat vendor accounts you must open (furniture + decor)The wholesale discount benchmark you should aim for (at least 50%)Why retail-only sourcing can't create a financially sustainable businessThe essential furniture-side support team:Receiving warehouseWhite glove delivery crewInstallers (drapery/shades, wallpaper, painters, workrooms, upholstery)The essential remodel-side support team:Cabinet linesTile/stone/plumbing/appliances/flooring vendorsCAD drafterGeneral contractors (you need more than one)Engineers + key tradesWhy you need designer software as your first business systemWhy your first hire should be a bookkeeper (and what they deliver monthly)How to set up banking + credit card payments for faster cashflowWhy marketing is half the job—and how to define your brand + ideal clientWhy a website makes you “real” (even if it's just one page)Why networking beats social media for client acquisition (10 to 1)How design awards build credibility even without full-home photographyShow notes are available at interiordesignbusinessacademy.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademyFollow us on Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy

Increase your income without niching down, rebranding or adding more services or skills. ​Get our 90-Day Revenue Roadmap Training and find out how to go from undercharging and hustling to booking projects you love (at higher prices than you thought possible). Get the full show notes at https://webdesigneracademy.com/176 When you're ready, here are some ways we can help you with your web design business:​

Send Katie a Text Message!! As we step into 2026, I wanted to record this episode before you opened your inbox, before you looked at last year's numbers, and before you started telling yourself stories about what this year needs to be. This is your 2026 pep talk. Because most designers don't start a new year with a clean slate — they start it carrying the emotional weight of the year before. And if we don't address that first, it quietly shapes how we show up, the goals we set, and the decisions we make. In this episode, I'm walking you through how to release last year without ignoring it, move out of overwhelm, and step into 2026 with clarity, intention, and confidence.In this episode, I talk about:Why 2026 does not need to be a reaction to 2025 — and how trying to “make up” for last year leads to burnoutThe truth about why most designers struggle (hint: it's not talent, it's systems, boundaries, and emotional energy)How carrying shame or comparison into a new year limits your capacity before you even beginWhy defining how you want your business to feel matters more than jumping straight into revenue goalsHow to set goals without shame, pressure, or punishmentWhat makes a goal actually supportive using a simple SMART frameworkWhy being “behind” is a dangerous story — and how being informed puts you in a position of powerHow intentional reflection leads to better decisions, not self-judgmentIf you're heading into 2026 feeling overwhelmed, behind, or unsure where to start, this episode is your reminder that you are not failing — you're informed. You're allowed to begin again, design this year differently, and build a business that works for you instead of the other way around. And if you want help figuring out your next right step, I invite you to book a free 50-minute problem-solving session with me at fixmydesignbiz.com. Let's get clear, get honest, and move forward intentionally together.Connect with Katie LinkedInBusiness Strategy Sessions for Interior Designers Free Resources for scaling your interior design firmWebsite

As we step into a new year, I want to talk today about something that sounds really simple, but in my experience has the power to quietly change everything about how we work, how we earn, and how we show up every day. This year, my word is boundaries. And today, I'm walking you through why boundaries, not hustle, not motivation, not another strategy, are often the missing piece between intentional growth and sustainable success. So I'm going to share the boundary that would have changed everything for me in 2025, the boundaries I'm actively putting into place for this coming year, 2026, and how you can identify the one boundary that would make the biggest difference in your own business this year. Mentioned in this episode: Access the full video interview with Elana Steele of Steele Appliance here: https://www.reneedevignierdesign.com/appliance Sign up for my weekly newsletter here: https://www.reneedevignierdesign.com/from-the-jobsite  Find the full shownotes at: https://devignierdesign.com/interior-design-boundaries 

In this solo episode, Olivia Tati opens up about her decision to close a profitable interior design business so she could pursue the work that truly lights her up—real estate investment coaching

You're not a charity. You're not your client's financial rescue plan. And you're definitely not in business to burn out.In this episode of the Interior Design Business Podcast, I'm diving into Part 4 of my Financially Sustainable Design Business series—and this one is all about the energetic side of money. Because here's the truth: the mindset and beliefs you hold about money can block profitability faster than any pricing mistake.I'm sharing how to stop subconsciously repelling money, why over-giving leads to resentment and burnout, and how to shift into a healthy “giving + receiving” loop that creates consistent income. Plus, I'll walk you through the practical side of sustainability: setting income targets, reviewing every job like a scorecard, and tracking the KPI that truly matters—job profitability.If you want a business that's profitable year after year (without hustle), this episode is your wake-up call.In this episode, I cover:Why your money mindset impacts your ability to be financially sustainableThe difference between welcoming money and repelling moneyHow “client-first” thinking can quietly turn your business into a charityWhy burnout and resentment are the warning signs of underchargingThe infinity loop of giving and receiving—and why you must allow bothHow to track income daily to grow your revenue consistentlyHow to set annual + monthly gross income goals that actually workWhat job profitability is (and why it's your most important KPI)The profit margin targets you should aim for in furniture and remodeling projectsShow notes are available at interiordesignbusinessacademy.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademyFollow us on Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy

Increase your income without niching down, rebranding or adding more services or skills. ​Get our 90-Day Revenue Roadmap Training and find out how to go from undercharging and hustling to booking projects you love (at higher prices than you thought possible). Get the full show notes at https://webdesigneracademy.com/175 When you're ready, here are some ways we can help you with your web design business:​

2026 is going to separate designers who lead from designers who get replaced. I am seeing clear shifts in how clients hire, what they value, and what they are willing to pay for. AI is changing the industry fast, but not in the way most designers think. In this episode, I am sharing my real predictions for 2026 based on what I see inside my own agency and from working closely with designers who want to grow as creative CEOs. This conversation is for every freelance designer, brand and web designer, and design business owner who wants to attract better clients, price with confidence, and build a business that lasts.You will learn:Why AI will replace low level execution but not strategic designersHow to position yourself so clients see you as an expert, not a task takerWhat clients actually look for when hiring in 2026How simplicity in offers and systems leads to higher incomeWhy strategy is the skill clients pay for and how to start using itGrab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to rethink how you approach how to get graphic design clients, pricing design services, and stepping fully into the creative CEO role.Aventive Academy's Resources:From Crickets to Clients: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/crickets-to-clients/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Client Portal for Designers: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mockup Magic: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Brand Guidelines Template: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 12-Week Business Program for Designers: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/profit⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join My Weekly Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Creative CEO Accelerator: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator⁠⁠⁠

In today's episode, I'm joined by my amazing COO and bestie, Taylor, for the much loved “Ask Me Anything” series, where I answer your top Human Design questions and give you the no-fluff, straight-talking support you've come to expect.We cover everything from the fear of stepping into your own business, to how to expand without hustling, the energetics of social media criticism, rewiring old identity patterns, and navigating relationships through the lens of Human Design and Gene Keys. I also break down what happens during a Uranus Opposition and how your chart changes during major transits.It's real, practical, and packed with tools to help you trust yourself, move forward, and stop making yourself wrong for being who you are.I trust you will get what you need from this episode, and make sure you come let me know how it resonated with you on instagram @the_human_design_coachBig love,MxxOTHER RESOURCESWant more on Human Design? Explore the ways to get involved below:Get Your Free Human Design Chart: https://www.emmadunwoody.com/get-your-chartThe Feminine Success Framework: https://www.emmadunwoody.com/feminine-success-frameworkMaggie - Magnetic by Design AI: https://www.emmadunwoody.com/maggieThe HDx Collective: https://www.emmadunwoody.com/collectiveHuman Design Unhinged: https://www.humandesignunhinged.com/Secret Podcast: The Human Design Podcast (Unhinged): https://thehumandesignpodcast.supercast.com/Instagram @the_human_design_coachMusic: Spark Of Inspiration by Shane Ivers - https://www.silvermansound.comSupport the show

88: 5 Hard Truths That Changed My Design Business in 2025 (And What You Need to Know Before Next Year)SHOW NOTES:In this episode of The McClain Method Podcast, John McClain asks: are you running a beautiful design business that feels chaotic behind the scenes? This year-end reflection episode is for interior designers who are ready to work smarter, not harder.In this episode, I'm sharing 5 business lessons that transformed my interior design business in 2025 and the practical strategies you can implement right now to build a more profitable, sustainable design firm.WHAT INTERIOR DESIGNERS WILL LEARN:LESSON 1: Business Pivots for Interior Designers Why scaling back on design projects actually grew my business. Learn how to identify what you're doing out of habit vs. alignment, and why reinvention is strategic CEO thinking.LESSON 2: Rest as a Business Strategy for Creatives How a 2-month sabbatical brought more clarity than years of hustling. Discover the "do later" list method that reduces overwhelm and protects your creative energy.LESSON 3: Using AI in Your Interior Design Business Best practices for AI tools without losing your brand voice. Why starting with pen and paper matters, and how to blend AI efficiency with authentic communication.LESSON 4: Delegation Strategies for Design Business Owners Master "diligent delegating" for team members and AI tools. Learn why poor results usually mean unclear instructions, and how to onboard effectively for better outputs.LESSON 5: Sustainable Growth for Interior Designers Why quarterly goals beat yearly overwhelm. Redefine growth beyond revenue with systems, pricing clarity, client boundaries, and business confidence all count.FREE BUSINESS PLANNING TOOL FOR DESIGNERS: Download my Start, Stop, Continue Guide—the quarterly reflection framework I use to stay aligned and profitable.

You're not a furniture store. You're not a contractor's free assistant. And you're definitely not a charity.In this episode of the Interior Design Business Podcast, I'm diving into Part 3 of our financially sustainable design business series. This time, we're getting crystal clear about what you really sell, your design time. Discover the one metric that will transform your business, why chasing product sales is a trap, and how to set up your LOAs to finally get paid what you're worth.Let's talk about the true key to a million-dollar design business: consistently selling 20 hours of design time per week.In this episode, I cover:Why product sales are not the path to profitabilityHow to structure your design process (and LOA) for clarity and confidenceThe 20-hour weekly design time goal that builds 7-figure businessesWhy fee-based pricing beats hourly billingHow to handle add-ons, scope creep, and client changes without losing moneyShow notes are available at interiordesignbusinessacademy.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademyFollow us on Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy

Running a six-figure design business while raising kids is not about working nonstop or separating life into perfect boxes. It is about creating flow, flexibility, and freedom. I built my agency from home with a remote team, a dedicated studio space, and systems that keep everything running even when life gets busy. In this episode, I am sharing what real balance looks like for a creative CEO and how I make both business and motherhood work together.You will learn:How to create systems that support your business when life gets busyWhat balance really looks like for a design business ownerHow to structure your days for focus, flexibility, and family timeThe mindset shift that removes guilt and helps you stay presentGrab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to design a business that supports your life, not the other way around.Aventive Academy's Resources:From Crickets to Clients: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/crickets-to-clients/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Client Portal for Designers: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mockup Magic: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Brand Guidelines Template: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 12-Week Business Program for Designers: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/profit⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join My Weekly Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Creative CEO Accelerator: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator⁠⁠

Most interior designers want more profit, more stability, and less financial stress—but the idea of “saving more” often feels overwhelming. In this episode, Danielle Hendon breaks down a simple, sustainable strategy that any design professional can start today: saving just 1% of all revenue and putting it out of sight, where it can quietly grow into a real financial buffer. It may sound small, but this habit builds confidence, financial resilience, and a margin of safety your business desperately needs. Danielle explains how this 1% shift changes your behavior—helping you become more intentional with spending, more strategic with pricing, and more disciplined in how you manage cash flow. If you've ever avoided looking at your numbers or felt anxious about unexpected expenses, this conversation offers a doable first step toward a more profitable, stable design business. In this episode we learn: - How taking 1% of all revenue and putting it in a separate account builds financial strength - Why training your brain to operate without that 1% increases creative problem-solving - How to build a consistent savings habit—even if you've struggled with it before - When (and how) to increase from 1% to 2% once the habit feels easy - Why always putting your own needs last leads to burnout and financial vulnerability - The three profit levers you can pull in your interior design business to increase sustainability

You've priced your design work. You've marked up your product. So why does it still feel like you're working for free?In this episode of the Interior Design Business Podcast, I'm diving into Part 2 of our financially sustainable design business series, focusing on boundaries. From endless client emails to last-minute add-ons and ghosting clients who suddenly reappear, this episode will show you exactly how to protect your time, your money, and your sanity with strong, clear boundaries.In this episode, I cover:The biggest time and money leaks in your businessWhy boundaries are essential to long-term profitabilityHow to respond to sneaky scope creepThe “end date” clause every LOA should includeWhat to say when a client ghosts you and comes backShow notes are available at interiordesignbusinessacademy.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademyFollow us on Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy

Send Katie a Text Message!!  If you want 2026 to look different than 2025, this episode is where that shift begins. Today, I'm walking you step-by-step through the 2025 Business Audit Worksheet and showing you how to look at last year honestly — without judgment, without overwhelm, and without getting stuck in the past. This isn't busy work or a reflective exercise for the sake of reflection. It's about understanding what actually happened in your business so you can make grounded, confident decisions about where you're going next. You can't build your next chapter without understanding the last one, and this episode gives you the structure to do exactly that.IN THIS EPISODE:Why reviewing 2025 realistically is the most important step before planning 2026How to use the 2025 Business Audit Worksheet as a decision-making tool, not a report cardThe difference between being busy and being profitable — and how to spot the gapWhich numbers matter most when you're scaling and why avoiding them keeps you stuckHow to evaluate your time, energy, and stress alongside revenue and profitHow to identify offers, projects, and clients that delivered both profit and alignmentWhy misaligned services quietly drive burnout — even in “successful” businessesHow the 80/20 rule reveals what actually moved the needle in 2025What you need to stop doing before you can scale sustainably into 2026Why letting go of what no longer fits is leadership, not failureWHY THIS EPISODE MATTERS: So many designers want clarity for the year ahead, but clarity doesn't come from guessing, hoping, or planning based on emotion. It comes from data, patterns, and honest reflection. This episode helps you slow down, pull your business over to the side of the road, and assess what really happened in 2025 — so you're not building 2026 on assumptions, habits, or outdated models. Looking back isn't about staying stuck. It's about choosing your next move with intention. If listening to this episode surfaced questions about your numbers, pricing, offers, or next steps, that's exactly where real growth begins. I offer a free 15-minute problem-solving session to help you translate what you're seeing in your audit into clear, actionable decisions for 2026. No pressure, no scripts — just clarity. You can book that conversation at fixmydesignbiz.com. Your business should support your life, not consume it.Grab your 2025 Audit Worksheet HEREConnect with Katie LinkedInBusiness Strategy Sessions for Interior Designers Free Resources for scaling your interior design firmWebsite

Eddie Lobanovskiy, David Kovalev, and Phil Goodwin didn't grow a design agency through hype.They built a subscription design business around systems, clarity, and predictable delivery, and that's what attracted buyers.After years inside traditional agencies, they replaced proposals, meetings, and slow timelines with a simple operating model: recurring revenue, structured delivery cycles, and clear documentation. That structure made the business easier to run, easier to evaluate, and easier to acquire.Their founder story shows how operational clarity turns a service business into a buyer-ready asset.You'll hear:Why subscription service businesses attract more buyers than agenciesHow predictable revenue builds buyer confidenceWhat makes service businesses easier to diligence and acquireWhen founders hit a growth ceiling and decide to sell3 lessons from Jamm Designs' journey:Systems win because buyers trust consistency.Predictability matters because clarity reduces risk.The right buyer scales what founders choose not to.For founders building service businesses and thinking about an exit, this episode shows how systems, not hype, create real acquisition demand.Follow the guests:► Phil Goodwin► David Kovalev► Eddie Lobanovskiy► Unfold

In this episode, we're dismantling the 12 beliefs quietly sabotaging your interior design business growth, the limiting mindsets about pricing, portfolios, networking, and visibility that keep talented new designers stuck, undercharging, and invisible. If you're in your first or second year and wondering why marketing feels hard, why clients question your pricing, or why you're still waiting for that "big break," this episode shows you what beliefs to release and how to reframe them for real momentum. In this episode, you'll hear: (04:15) Why you don't need an office to hit six figures (06:30) How to network with intention (not desperation) (13:30) Stop announcing you're new and lead with confidence instead (18:22) The pricing trap keeping you undervalued (23:10) Why your portfolio doesn't need to be perfect to start (26:45) When certifications become procrastination (29:15) How boundaries build your brand (33:42) Why you can work from anywhere (even after moving cities) (38:55) The one client who brought in $1.5M, and why consistency is your big break If you're ready to attract better clients, price with confidence, and build interior design marketing strategies that actually work, join me for my complimentary masterclass, "7 Shifts to Grow Your Design Firm Without Burning Out," at melissagalt.com/BestDesignYear, or DM me "BEST YEAR" and I'll send the link. You've got this: I've got you always! Connect with Melissa Website Instagram Facebook Group  

Starting your own interior design business sounds exciting… until you sit down to actually do it and wonder, Where do I even begin?Maybe you've dreamed about launching your business for years, but the legal setup feels overwhelming.Maybe you've done a few side projects, but don't feel “official” yet.Or maybe you're terrified of getting your first paid client, pricing your services, or setting up systems that won't fall apart the moment you take on real work.If that sounds like you, today's episode will feel like the permission slip—and roadmap—you've been waiting for. I'm answering the most common FAQs about my Launch Your Business Bootcamp, an 8-week step-by-step program designed specifically for interior designers who want to build a profitable, structured, and legitimate business from the ground up.If you've been dreaming about making design your full-time career—without the guesswork, trial-and-error, or expensive mistakes—this episode will show you how to officially start your business, attract clients, and finally move from “I want to be a designer” to “I run a real design business.” This is your year. And I'm here to guide you every step of the way.What You'll Learn in This Episode✔️ Who the Launch Your Business Bootcamp is best suited for✔️ Why this program helps you avoid the most common business-killing mistakes✔️ What you'll accomplish week-by-week inside the 8-week business launch roadmap✔️ How the program is delivered and why the format helps you take real action✔️ What makes this different from other design business courses or mentorships✔️ How to know if now is the right time to finally launch your interior design businessRead the Blog >>> Frequently Asked Questions About Launch Your Business BootcampNEXT STEPS:

A beautiful portfolio doesn't guarantee a profitable business.In this episode of the Interior Design Business Podcast, I'm kicking off a multi-part series on building a financially sustainable design business. Today's focus? Understanding how to separate your design services from product sales, and why clinging to retail vendors and discount pricing is keeping you stuck.If you want to create a business that pays you consistently, covers your team and tools, and leaves room to grow, this is where you start.In this episode, I cover:What it really means to have a financially sustainable businessWhy designers must separate services from product salesThe hidden cost of using Pottery Barn and WayfairHow vendor discounts work, and how to use them profitablyWhy retail pricing isn't a problem (it's your solution)Show notes are available at interiordesignbusinessacademy.comFollow us on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademyFollow us on Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy

Send Katie a Text Message!! Welcome back, designers! This is Part 2 of The Design Business Growth Blueprint, and today we're shifting from the hard-number reality of Part 1 into something just as important -  building your 2026 strategy like a true CEO. Not from vibes, not from wishful thinking, and definitely not from “I just want to make more next year,” but from real data, real capacity, and real clarity about the life you actually want to live. In this episode, I'm walking you through how I create strategic growth plans inside my own multimillion-dollar design firm, and how you can do the same. Grab your notebook and your favorite pen, we're going deep.IN THIS EPISODE, I BREAK DOWN: • The difference between being a business owner running on feelings and being a CEO making decisions from data • The four essential data categories every designer needs to evaluate before planning 2026: revenue + profit reality, time tracking, true capacity, and demand • Why numbers don't shame you — they reveal you — and how that clarity becomes your power • How to evaluate where your time actually goes and why time, not money, determines your scalability • Why your business should expand and contract like an accordion depending on the season of life you're in • The three must-haves for growing into high six figures and seven figures: repeatable services, pricing that reflects demand and capacity, and a proactive team plan • The biggest traps designers fall into every year, feeling-based goals, vanity  • Why the 2026 Business Blueprint Worksheet will help you set up a confident, strategic Q1 This episode is all about stepping into your CEO era - not by hustling harder, but by grounding your decisions in numbers, capacity, clarity, and the reality of the life you're building. As you look toward 2026, I want you to sit with one big question: What does your life need next year? When you honor that answer, everything else gets clearer.If you want support building out your strategy, head over to fixmydesignbiz.com and grab the 2026 Business Blueprint Worksheet when you register for the masterclass. It will walk you through your data, help you find your gaps and opportunities, and give you the clarity you need to set goals like a CEO, not a business owner running on fumes.I can't wait to hear what your life is asking for in 2026. Send me a DM on Instagram or LinkedIn and tell me - I read every single one.Connect with Katie LinkedInBusiness Strategy Sessions for Interior Designers Free Resources for scaling your interior design firmWebsite

Jay Clouse is best known for two things:Being the founder of Creator Science, and being one of the most prominent thought-leaders in the content creator spaceBeing the first 4x guest on the Web Design Business PodcastJay and I connected early in his journey into the world of courses, coaching, podcasting, memberships and content creation and over the last 5 years, I've seen him excel in all areas.So much so, that I'm a paying member of his community “The Lab” where I keep tabs on all things socials, content creation, podcasting, memberships and more.But a big shift happened for Jay last year when he and his wife had their first little cuddly Clouse. So for this chat, we focus on that – specifically what he's learned in growing and maintaining his business with harsher time and bandwidth constraints as a new parent.Enjoy! And if you're this season as well, just know, the sleep deprivation DOES get better

“I just want to design, but why is this so hard?” I get it! You love creating beautiful spaces, choosing finishes, and watching your vision come to life — but when it comes to running your design business, you suddenly feel lost. Pricing, contracts, permits, marketing, and systems aren't what you signed up for. You became a designer because you love design, not because you wanted to be an entrepreneur.So many interior designers share that same fear and frustration: I love what I do, but I don't know how to run a business.In this episode, I sit down with award-winning designer and educator Katie Malik, founder of Interior Design Deconstructed, who shares her honest journey from passion-driven creative to confident business owner. Like so many of us, Katie started her design career thinking her talent alone would be enough—until the reality of entrepreneurship hit. Through mentorship, business coaching, and intentional training, she learned how to build a sustainable practice that honors her creativity and her bottom line.If you've ever felt overwhelmed by the business side of design, this conversation will remind you that you don't have to figure it out alone. With the right guidance, systems, and support, you can transform your passion into a profitable design business. That's exactly what I help designers do through my Launch Your Business Bootcamp—a step-by-step program designed to walk you through every stage of building a profitable interior design business — one that lets you thrive doing what you love.Featured Guest:Katie Malik is an award-winning interior designer and founder of Interior Design Deconstructed. With a Master's in Philosophy from Cambridge University and advanced training in house whispering — a psychotherapy of space rooted in feng shui and energy alignment — Katie helps clients create homes and businesses that feel as good as they look. A triple UK Property Awards winner featured in Architectural Digest, Grand Designs, and The Times, she also mentors emerging designers to build profitable, purpose-driven studios.What You'll Learn in This Episode✳️ How to transition into interior design from another career with confidence✳️ Why creative passion isn't enough — and what business skills truly matter✳️ How investing in mentorship and coaching can fast-track your growth✳️ The surprising power of networking and community for designers✳️ What house whispering is and how energy and psychology connect to design✳️ Why clarity about your business goals helps you grow with easeRead the Blog >>> 5 Ways to Build a Strong Design Career FoundationNEXT STEPS:

Still buying retail? It's killing your margins. In this episode, Rebecca talks with John Genova of Dovetail Furniture about the real profit advantages of sourcing wholesale and why strong vendor partnerships are essential as your design business grows. You'll learn how to choose the right trade vendors, what to look for at markets, how MAP pricing protects you, and why reliable partners can simplify your workflow and boost your bottom line. Designers in their growth years will take away practical steps for improving profitability through smarter sourcing.   This episode was sponsored by Dovetail Furniture.     Looking to elevate your business? Learn more about our courses ➡️ Want the complete blueprint to calculate your design fee with confidence and ease? Learn more about my Pricing with Confidence course ➡️Want to be the first to know when the next episode drops? Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to the Resilient by Design Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts!

Increase your income without niching down, rebranding or adding more services or skills. ​Get our 90-Day Revenue Roadmap Training and find out how to go from undercharging and hustling to booking projects you love (at higher prices than you thought possible). Get the full show notes at https://webdesigneracademy.com/171 When you're ready, here are some ways we can help you with your web design business:​

Welcome to Resourceful Designer! I'm Mark, and today I want to share something fascinating that can make a real difference in how you communicate with your design clients. Did you know that the pronoun you use, choosing "I" instead of "we", can actually impact whether or not a client hires you? Most of us, especially solopreneurs, try to sound bigger and more established by saying "we" when talking to clients, but research shows that using "I" instead creates a stronger emotional connection. When I use "I" instead of "we," clients see me as more personally invested in their project, which boosts satisfaction and even sales. I'll give some practical tips on how to implement this, why it works, and how a simple change in wording can make your business stand out. Stick around for insights that could help you build more profitable and meaningful client relationships!

Send Katie a Text Message!! In today's episode, I'm getting real with you — lovingly calling you out and calling you up. If you've been stuck in planning mode, waiting for the “right time,” or drowning in overwhelm while nothing truly moves your business forward, this is your wake-up call. I'm sharing the mindset shifts, micro-actions, and systems my clients use to stop overthinking, start taking action, and create a design business that actually supports their life.IN THIS EPISODE, I TALK ABOUT:Why overwhelm isn't a capability issue — it's a direction issueThe real reason designers get paralyzed by analysisHow to identify the #1 bottleneck slowing every project downWhy confidence is a byproduct of action (and won't show up first)The power of taking one 20-minute step today, not somedayWhat “micro-CEO time” looks like and why it changes everythingHow to balance running your current business while building the one you actually wantWhy hiring for what drains you is more effective than hiring for what feels “expected”How improving one strategic area can ripple across your entire business If you feel stuck or overwhelmed, I want you to hear this: you don't need a perfect plan, a free week, or a burst of confidence to create real change. You need one clear decision and one 20-minute action. That's it. DM me and tell me the one thing you're committing to after listening — I respond to every message, and I'm here to support you as you step out of analysis mode and into the version of your business you actually want to lead.Connect with Katie LinkedInBusiness Strategy Sessions for Interior Designers Free Resources for scaling your interior design firmWebsite

In this week's episode, Shay, the COO of Bucketlist Bombshells, joins me to discuss scalable business models for brand and web designers. We talk about the challenges designers face, such as revenue plateaus and burnout, and provide actionable insights on transitioning to more sustainable models, as well as the importance of defining a niche, raising rates, and creating recurring revenue through current clients and monthly membership models.Guest Name: Shay BrownGuest Website: bucketlistbombshells.comGuest IG/Connect in the DM's: @bucketlistbombshellsLinks:Grab your FREE Dream Client Playbook to consistently land more clients & grow your revenue.Get booked out in your business and start generating $5k+ months: She's Fully Booked.Hit 6 figures and ready to scale? Join our small group coaching program. Tune into the Freedom Filled Life Podcast.-----The Design Minimind - Cohort 5 is now SOLD OUT.• Sign up to be notified - Applications for the next cohort open Nov 1st 2026.Get 30% off of your HoneyBook subscription - The CRM I use in my studio.*Enjoy 1 month of Showit FREE with my code “HelloJune” when you sign up.*Earn $100 after you run your first payroll with Gusto, my payroll and compliance software.*Get 50% off your first year of Flodesk, my email marketing software.**These are affiliate links which means I may earn a commission.Connect With Us:Our Free Facebook CommunityOur WebsitePodcast InstagramHello June Creative InstagramThe Design MinimindJoin The Creative Diaries (my email list)Tags: designer, design, brand design, brand identity design, design studio, design business, graphic design, brand designer, better podcast, brand designer podcast, logo design, brand identity design

Most design business owners plan for the new year without actually reviewing the one they just had. And that's a mistake. In this episode, I walk you through how to audit your design business before the new year so you can make smarter, more confident decisions that actually move you forward. Whether you're a freelance designer, brand and web designer, or growing a small studio, this process will help you understand your numbers, refine your offers, and realign your goals for real growth.You will learn:How to review your finances and see where your profit really comes fromWhat to look for when evaluating your client projects and offersHow to streamline your systems so you can save time and reduce chaosWhy clarity matters more than setting random goalsHow to set aligned goals that fit the kind of business you actually wantGrab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to bring strategy and clarity into your next year.And if you're tired of wasting time on invoices, tracking payments, or chasing overdue bills, check out ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠FreshBooks⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. It's the all-in-one invoicing and accounting software I use to stay organized and focus more on design - not admin.Aventive Academy's Resources:From Crickets to Clients: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/crickets-to-clients/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Client Portal for Designers: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Mockup Magic: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Brand Guidelines Template: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 12-Week Business Program for Designers: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/profit⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Join My Weekly Newsletter: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ The Creative CEO Accelerator: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator⁠

When you're first stepping into the interior design world, choosing a business name can feel like the defining decision of your entire future. Many designers freeze because they feel pressure to land on the “perfect” name—one that will carry them for decades. But here's the real truth most new creatives don't hear: you grow, and your business grows with you. Your brand name should have room to grow too.In this episode, I sit down with Nicole Roe, the founder and creative force of R. Nixon Interiors, a construction-savvy designer behind a fast-scaling boutique design firm. Nicole shares how she evolved from running “Nicole Roe Design” as a one-woman show to rebranding into a strong and scalable company identity… and why she will never rebrand again! We dive into the realities of choosing a brand name, the emotional and logistical hurdles of rebranding, and the importance of a name that empowers your team—not just your personal portfolio.If you've been questioning whether to use your name or create a standalone brand—or if you feel paralyzed by the fear of getting it wrong—this episode gives you clarity. We also explore how construction knowledge, hands-on learning, and confidence on job sites can transform your role as a designer making you a trusted partner to contractors and clients alike.Featured Guest:Nicole Roe is the founder and creative director of R. Nixon Interiors, a boutique interior design studio known for blending bold luxury with real-life functionality. With a degree in building construction from Georgia Tech and over 15 years of experience across construction and interior design, Nicole brings unmatched technical expertise to every project. She leads a growing team, operates her own receiving warehouse, and hosts the podcast Highly Affected By Her Surroundings. Nicole is passionate about empowering designers, embracing functional luxury, and pushing the boundaries of boutique residential design.What You'll Learn in This Episode✳️ How Nicole transitioned from a personal-name brand to a scalable firm identity✳️ Signs it's time to rebrand—and how to avoid common rebranding pitfalls✳️ Advantages of having a flexible brand name✳️ How construction knowledge strengthens client trust and contractor relationships✳️ The importance of practicing design and problem-solving in your own home✳️ Team structure ideas that support growth in your interior design business✳️ Tips on stepping confidently into leadership roles in male-dominated spacesRead the Blog >>> Scale & Rebrand Your Design Business + Job-Site ConfidenceNEXT STEPS:

Shaun and Rebecca explore how interior designers can borrow luxury‑hospitality practices (think boutique hotels, high‑end resorts) and apply them to their own design businesses. They dig into the idea that service isn't just about furniture or finishes–it's about how you make your clients feel, and how you structure your process, your purchasing, your hiring, and your client‑experience to reflect that elevated standard. Along the way they share candid business talk about shifting models, hiring help, market tiers, and positioning.In this conversation they discuss:The recent Facebook designer‑group debate about trade discounts vs deep pricing and what that means for profitability.How going up‑market and leveraging stocking dealer accounts can open room for margin (and why that old‑school model still has relevance).The concept of hospitality—drawn from the book Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect by Will Guidara—and how it applies to interior‑design business beyond restaurants. (Unreasonable Hospitality)Practical low‑starts for elevating client experience (handwritten notes, snack trays at presentations, anticipating needs) and the hard part: sustaining it over a full project.Shaun's and Rebecca's personal experiences: one signing a new project at a ‘lowest point,' website copy finally working for leads, and the bravery of hiring operations/ procurement help.The shift from being “just a furniture order‑taker” to being a concierge, experience architect, and partner—and how that reframes your value proposition.The emotional and operational reality of hiring: knowing when you're doing too much, needing to delegate, whether you're ready to manage people (or handlers), and the fear of burning out or falling behind.Mentioned:Design Biz Survival Guide RetreatHouse of Savoy Instagram post exampleUnreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect by Will GuidaraOur links:Subscribe and leave a review - Apple PodcastsLike, Comment, & Follow - Hot Young Designers Club InstagramRebecca's InstagramShaun's InstagramFor more information - Check out the websiteBecome a “Loyal Hottie” - Support us on PatreonDesign Resources - Check out our shop

Feeling stuck in the cycle of doing everything yourself? In today's episode, we explore what it really takes to move beyond survival mode and build a stable, profitable interior design business. Rebecca is joined by design-build founder Mae Reedy, who shares her hard-earned lessons on systems, hiring, communication, and managing a growing team. If you've been in business for a few years and you're craving more stability, better processes, and the confidence to scale, this is your episode. You'll learn how to create predictability inside your projects, protect your creative time, and document your systems so your business can thrive without everything living in your head. Tune in and get ready to build a business that supports your growth, not one that drains it.   Episode Resources Learn more about Mae Reedy on her website and follow her on Instagram. The Game with Alex Hormozi Download our Free Resource ➡️ Pre-qualify your clients with my Discovery Call Script   Looking to elevate your business? Learn more about our courses ➡️ Want the complete blueprint to calculate your design fee with confidence and ease? Learn more about my Pricing with Confidence course ➡️ Want to be the first to know when Power of Process is returning? Click to learn more about the business blueprint for interior design firm owners. ➡️Want to be the first to know when the next episode drops? Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to the Resilient by Design Podcast wherever you listen to podcasts!

Increase your income without niching down, rebranding or adding more services or skills. ​Get our 90-Day Revenue Roadmap Training and find out how to go from undercharging and hustling to booking projects you love (at higher prices than you thought possible). Get the full show notes at https://webdesigneracademy.com/169 When you're ready, here are some ways we can help you with your web design business:​

Hey y'all — welcome back to Design for the Creative Mind. I'm Michelle Lynn, and today we're kicking off a brand-new season called Myth Busting: What People Get Wrong About the Interior Design Industry. And even though I sound like an 80-year-old chain smoker mixed with Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (thanks, Texas allergies), I wasn't about to miss this episode because we're starting with a big one. There's a myth so many designers unknowingly build their entire business around: "I can figure this out through trial and error." And I get it — because that's exactly how I built my business in the early years. But here's the truth: trial and error is the slowest, most expensive, most exhausting "strategy" you could possibly choose. If you've ever felt like every project is a guess, every client pushes a different boundary, and every new inquiry sends you into a scramble… you're not imagining it. That's what running a business on guesswork creates. In this episode, I walk you through what trial and error really costs you — not just in money, but in confidence, clarity, and peace. I talk about how emotional pricing drains your profit, how weak or inconsistent boundaries drain your sanity, and why every project feels urgent when you don't have systems. I also share the moment everything shifted for me and how structure completely changed my business, my margins, my client relationships, and honestly, my life. What You'll Learn in This Episode: • Why trial and error keeps your business in survival mode instead of CEO mode • How emotional pricing, inconsistent processes, and unclear boundaries erode profit and confidence • What clients actually pay for (hint: leadership, not guesswork) • Why systems create clarity, trust, calm communication, and predictable profit • How structure protects your creativity and gives you back your time, energy, and peace • What becomes possible when you finally stop guessing and start leading with intention • Why I created the Interior Design Business Bakery and how it fills the gaps designers have been left to figure out alone If you've been hustling, guessing, Googling, patching together templates, and hoping the next project finally "clicks," this episode is going to feel like a deep exhale. You don't need more trial and error — you need clarity, systems, structure, and support. And you absolutely deserve them. I'm linking everything I mentioned — including the Interior Design Business Bakery — in the show notes. If this conversation hits you in the gut, if you're tired of feeling behind, or if you're craving a business that finally reflects your talent, this is your invitation. It's time to retire the trial-and-error era of your business and step fully into your CEO seat. Until next week — stay creative, stay confident, and stay in your CEO seat.     RESOURCES:   INTERIOR DESIGN BUSINESS BAKERY - Our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://thedesignbakehouse.com/interior-design-business-bakery   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. All-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. https://mysidemark.com/   MARKETING MEMBERSHIP - Join our hands on marketing & visibility program, no contract, only $59/month. https://thedesignbakehouse.com/lead-lab   Stay in touch with Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedesignbakehouse/   Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad    Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact  

If you're still posting “how-tos” and informational tips people can Google in 10 seconds… you're invisible to design clients.In this episode, I break down old marketing vs. new marketing, how to actually stop the scroll in 2025, and why showing up online feels harder than ever (and what to do about it).⁠⁠Join Social Butterfly Club (Marketing Membership For Designers)⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Brief Collective Design Biz Academy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Unlock Secret Podcast Episodes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Share Your Unapologetic Opinion⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Podcast Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠

✨ The Design Minimind - Apply Here (applications open until Nov 20th — limited spots are filling fast!)Episode Description:In this solo episode, I chat about some common mistakes brand and web design studio owners frequently make that are interfering with the growth and profitability as a business owner. Drawing from years of experience and observing patterns among my students in The Design Minimind as a mentor.Episode Mentioned:S5 E14: Iterating on the One-Concept MethodLinks:The Design Minimind - Applications open until Nov 20th!Download my FREE Creative Direction Figma Template (includes 4 audio trainings as well)Get 30% off of your HoneyBook subscription - The CRM I use in my studio.*Enjoy 1 month of Showit FREE with my code “HelloJune” when you sign up.*Earn $100 after you run your first payroll with Gusto, my payroll and compliance software.*Get 50% off your first year of Flodesk, my email marketing software.**Some are affiliate links which means I may earn a commission.Connect With Us:Our Free Facebook CommunityOur WebsitePodcast InstagramHello June Creative InstagramThe Design MinimindJoin The Creative Diaries (my email list)Tags: designer, design, brand design, brand identity design, design studio, design business, graphic design, brand designer, better podcast, brand designer podcast, logo design, brand identity design

Does the business side of design intimidate you? Many creatives dream of launching their own interior design business but freeze when it comes to legal paperwork, contracts, licenses, or financial planning. It feels complicated—almost like a foreign language that wasn't covered in design school.The truth is, understanding the legal and financial setup isn't as scary as it sounds. When you have a clear checklist and guidance, you can turn your creative passion into a legitimate business that clients trust.In this episode, I'm breaking down the non-negotiable legal and financial must-haves to help you build your business on a solid foundation. From your EIN and business license to contracts and bookkeeping systems, you'll have a clear checklist for setting up your design business legally and professionally—so you can stop second-guessing yourself and finally take confident action.What You'll Learn in This Episode✔️ The essential legal steps for launching your interior design business✔️ How to apply for an EIN and why it protects your privacy✔️ Choosing the right business structure: LLC, S-Corp, or Sole Proprietor✔️ The importance of licenses, permits, and business insurance✔️ Why contracts are non-negotiable for every client relationship✔️ Setting up business banking and payment systems for clean finances✔️ How to shift your mindset from hobbyist to confident CEORead the Blog >>> Essential Steps to Set Up Your Design Business LegallyNEXT STEPS:

Send us a textLet's talk about photography—not just taking it, but actually using it to move the needle in your design business.In today's episode of The Business of Beautiful Spaces, I'm joined by Lauren Anderson, founder of Sen Creative and a pro at helping interior designers turn beautiful images into strategic business tools. Lauren's here to show us how to go beyond the portfolio—how to use your photos to build authority, boost visibility, and truly connect with your ideal clients.If you've ever wondered how to stretch the value of a single photoshoot or how to make your work work harder for you, this conversation is packed with insight you don't want to miss.In just one focused hour, we'll dive into whatever you need most—pricing strategies, client management, attracting high-end clients or building repeat business. You'll get clarity, strategy, and expert advice based on my 27+ years of running a thriving, seven-figure design firm.This is your chance to get real answers to the questions you've been dying to ask—from someone who's actually been there.Book your session as you need it—no strings attached.Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us thebusinessofbeautifulspaces@gmail.com or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design I @thorntondesign

In this insightful episode of Design Business Freedom, Melissa challenges the growing trend of over-automation in interior design businesses. While automating certain processes can be a major time-saver, she reminds you that design is a high-touch, sensory-driven, and deeply personal service. Melissa walks you through how automation can subtly erode client trust and connection if you're not using it with intention. You'll learn how to strike the right balance between efficient systems and meaningful moments that foster client loyalty and emotional impact. From the three critical phases where automation should take a back seat to her powerful Five Senses Framework, this episode is your call to reintroduce the magic of real human connection in your design process. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR: (01:01) Why automation should enhance efficiency—not erase intimacy—in your design business (02:34) The truth behind what clients are really investing in (hint: it's not convenience) (03:13) Three high-touch phases in your process where automation should step aside (04:43) How to use personal check-ins, video walkthroughs, and voice notes to deepen client connection (07:09) The Five Senses Framework to elevate every reveal and create unforgettable client experiences (11:07) A simple 10-minute audit to evaluate if you've gone too far with automation SUPPORTING RESOURCES: VIP Designer Branding Retreat and Marketing Reboot – November 12–14, Scottsdale, AZ When you're ready to step into a bigger vision in your design business and create exceptional results and celebrations, book-a-call to explore how coaching can take you there faster, with a solid plan, proven process, and smart strategies.