Podcasts about design business

317: How to Align Your Bookkeeping with Your Design Business Finances Back with me on the podcast today is Erin McGhee, a financial strategist and accountant who has dedicated her career to building bookkeeping and CFO-level services specifically for the interior design industry. In today's conversation, we're looking beyond the financial reports and focusing on the inputs that drive your numbers long before they ever reach QuickBooks or your accounting software. Erin shares how the decisions, processes, and systems throughout your business directly impact profitability—and where hidden profit leaks are most likely to occur. Our hope is that this episode inspires you to take a closer look at one area of your business, uncover opportunities for improvement, and strengthen the financial health of your company. Topics Mentioned: Backend business operations Alignment of financial workflows Financial system of record Key Thoughts:  Organizing the backend of the business with the design process allows work to flow smoothly. Business processes are changing due to technology and our internal process needs to change as well to support. Be clear on where the detail for your financials lives. Keeping your project management system and financial systems aligned is critical for success. Be clear on when your company recognizes revenue. Contact Michele: Email: Team@ScarletThreadConsulting.com Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Instagram: @ScarletThreadATL Website: scarletthreadconsulting.com LinkedIn: Michele-Williams Contact Erin: Email: erin@mcgheefinancials.com Website: https://www.mcgheefinancials.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcgheefinancials     References and Resources: Work with Me The Designers' Inner Circle - Become a Member Today    CFO2Go Metrique Solutions

In Episode 254, I sit down with Jacqueline Thornton, an award-winning designer and founder of her own creative studio in Pittsburgh, to discuss her journey from working for others to becoming a business owner.We explore the realities of starting a design business, the challenges of creative entrepreneurship, building confidence as a business owner, and what it takes to turn years of professional experience into a company of your own.Whether you're an interior designer, graphic designer, creative professional, or aspiring entrepreneur, this conversation offers valuable insight into making the leap from employee to business owner and creating a career on your own terms.

This episode is one of our Greatest Hits interviews, originally released about two and a half years ago with my close colleague and good friend, Jason Gracia.Jason has built one of the most incredible productized web design businesses I've seen through his company, SWYFT Sites. Since this conversation first aired, he has sold the same core website more than 700 times and generated nearly $2.5 million through the system he created.He's also shared this model inside Web Designer Pro and recently presented his $2 million sales system at one of our ProCon events. This original interview was the conversation that first introduced his system to the world, which is why I wanted to bring it back as one of our Greatest Hits.And the timing couldn't be better.Jason is hosting a completely free Million-Dollar Website Workshop on Thursday, July 16 at 12:00 p.m. Eastern, where he'll pull back the curtain and walk you through the entire system behind SWYFT Sites.I'm a proud partner of Jason's, and this model has helped so many web designers move away from being stuck in daily production and step into the role of business owner.This is especially helpful if:You're tired of being the person doing every part of every website projectYou already serve a specific niche—or want to choose oneWebsites are only one part of a broader marketing or digital agencyYou want to build a productized wing of your existing servicesYou're looking for a more scalable and repeatable business modelJason's approach is one of the best examples of how to turn web design into a systemized offer that can be sold and delivered repeatedly without reinventing every project.In this one, we cover:How Jason built a seven-figure productized web design businessHow SWYFT Sites sells the same proven website system repeatedlyWhy choosing a niche made the model possibleHow he moved from custom projects into a scalable serviceThe systems behind selling and delivering websites at volumeHow productization can help you step out of daily fulfillmentWhy this model works for both web designers and broader agenciesHow Jason generated nearly $2.5 million from one core systemThe difference between owning the business and being the web designerHow to create a productized division without changing your entire companyThis was originally Episode 312, so head to the original show notes for all links and resources mentioned, along with the full transcription at joshhall.co/312.

Have you ever known deep down that something in your life needed to change, but felt completely terrified to take the leap? This week, Jessica sits down with entrepreneur, content creator, and founder of Boxwood Avenue, Chloe Legras, to explore the transformational journey of trusting yourself enough to take aligned action even when fear and discomfort loom large. Chloe shares how a picture-perfect life on the outside masked a growing sense of misalignment within, and how years of inner work eventually led her to make one of the hardest decisions of her life: leaving a marriage, rebuilding from the ground up, and following a lifelong dream to move to France. Together, they unpack the realities of navigating uncertainty, healing childhood wounds, distinguishing intuition from fear, and learning to trust yourself without having complete certainty. This episode is a powerful reminder that your dreams are often waiting on the other side of the leap you've been afraid to take—and that you already have everything you need within you to begin. This conversation also beautifully mirrors the deeper work of becoming visible, authentic, and magnetic, which is exactly what we're exploring in the Be Seen Challenge. If this episode stirred something in you, take the kickoff quiz (also available in the TBM app) and see what's ready to transform. Find the complete show notes here → https://tobemagnetic.com/expanded-podcast   Resources: The Be Seen Challenge Quiet your inner critic, stop playing small, and start manifesting the life you truly want. Now live inside The Pathway.   Summer Sale: $23/Month Start your manifestation journey at our lowest price of the season: $23/month! Join now and step into the Be Seen Challenge with us before this offer ends.   Free Masterclass: Step Into Your F*ck It Energy If you missed our live masterclass with Lacy and Jessica — don't worry, you can still watch the replay! Learn how to step into your f*ck it energy and feel genuinely safe being seen.   Join the Pathway Membership Use code EXPANDED for 20% off your first month! The Pathway Membership gives you unlimited access to all of our manifestation workshops—including How to Manifest, Unblocking Your Inner Child, Shadow, Love, Money, Rock Bottoms, Ruts, and Energetic Updates —plus 70+ self-hypnosis tracks designed to unlock your full potential. LEARN MORE HERE   Get the latest from TBM Join the Pathway now - Return to Magic Challenge, Money Challenge, and Nervous System Reset available now!   New to TBM? Free Offerings to Get You Started Learn the Process! Expanded Podcast - How to Manifest Anything You Desire  Get Expanded! The Motivation - Testimonial Library Ready to find out what's holding you back? Try our Free Clarity Exercise   Be an EXPANDER! Share Your Manifestation Story Submit to Be a Process Guest What did you manifest during the Return to Magic Challenge? Share a voice note of your question, block, or Process to be featured in an episode!   This Episode Is Brought to You By:  ARMRA - Get 30% off your first subscription order with code TBM  Colostrum: Immune Revival - Immune barrier superfood    PIQUE - Get  20% off any Pique products at piquelife.com/tbm, and use code TBM at checkout.  B•T Fountain | Beauty Electrolyte Sun Goddess Matcha   In this episode we talk about: How Chloe's parents' divorce shaped her identity Growing a business and community from a remote ranch town Recognizing relationship misalignment and distinguishing intuition from fear The role of TBM in major life decisions Why certainty isn't required before taking action Navigating divorce and major life transitions The fear of financial instability & trusting yourself through uncertainty The connection between self-worth and success Manifesting a move to France, living abroad, & creating a new life Healing through family support Social media visibility and authenticity Letting go of the "perfect life" image Personal branding and vulnerability Manifesting dream design clients Working through worthiness blocks The relationship between visibility and manifestation Detaching self-worth from social media metrics Trusting your path even when it unfolds slowly Designing a life aligned with your soul   Mentioned In the Episode:  Find our Be Seen Challenge plus all our workshops and all workshops mentioned inside our Pathway Membership! (Including the Worst Case Scenario DI, Inner Child DI, Safe to Be Seen DI)   Connect with Chloe! Chloe on IG: https://instagram.com/chloe.legras https://www.instagram.com/boxwoodavenue/ HOW TO MANIFEST by Lacy Phillips (with exercises by Jessica Gill)Available now! The Expanded Podcast, from To Be Magnetic™ (TBM), is the leading manifestation podcast rooted in neuroscience, psychology, and energetics. Hosted by TBM's Chief Content Officer Jessica Gill, with monthly appearances from founder Lacy Phillips, Expanded is where science and the mystical meet to help you manifest in the most grounded, practical, and life-changing way.At TBM, we've redefined manifestation through Neural Manifestation™—our proven, science-backed method developed with neuroscientist Dr. Tara Swart. This process helps you reprogram limiting beliefs at the subconscious level so you can create the life most aligned with your authenticity.Each week, we take you inside the TBM practice to help you expand your subconscious to believe what you desire is possible. Through expert interviews, thought leader conversations, TBM teachings, and real member success stories, you'll learn how to: – Rewire your subconscious mind and step into your worth – Heal your inner child and integrate shadow work – Set boundaries, strengthen intuition, and reclaim self-worth – Manifest relationships, careers, abundance, and experiences that align with your true selfWith over than 40 million downloads and a global community in over 100 countries, Expanded has become the gold standard in manifestation content. Think of it as your weekly practice for expanding your mind, believing what you want is possible, and manifesting the life you're meant to live.Past guests include leading voices such as Mel Robbins, Lewis Howes, Jenna Zoe, Martha Beck, Dr. Joe Dispenza, Dr. Gabor Maté, Mark Groves, and Brianna Wiest. Where To Find Us!@tobemagnetic (IG)@LacyannephillipsLacy Launched a Substack! - By Candlelight - Join Here@Jessicaashleygill@tobemagnetic (youtube)@expandedpodcast

This is part 2 of our “Buy or Sell” series!In part 1 (ep 432), we focused on what it looks like to acquire/buy a web business or their book of clients. In this one, we'll step into the selling shoes and dig into what it looks like to create a sellable web design business.Hans Skillrud is back on and has experience selling his agency in order to go full-time with Termageddon. Jake and John Wooten are building one of the most “sellable” agencies I've seen and have a wealth of experience with creating a productized/systematized web agency.Head to the show notes to get all links and resources we mentioned, along with a full transcription of this episode at joshhall.co/433

Ever thought about acquiring (i.e. buying a web design business) or their book of business as a way to get clients and grow your biz fast?Well, you'll be thinking about it after this conversation with Hans Skillrud, now co-founder of Termageddon, but previously an agency owner who acquired a large book of business, which helped catapult his agency's growth and revenue.We also have Jake Kramer with Artillery Media, who, on the podcast recently, shared that they're in the web business acquisition game, having just purchased a book of business from a web design freelancer. This is part 1 of 2 of our "Buy or Sell" series. Next episode, we'll focus on selling a web design business and what it takes to make your web design business "sellable" one day.Show notes and all links mentioned at joshhall.co/432

Get on the waitlist to find out when Shannon's hosting her next open Live Q&A session answering your web design business questions at https://webdesigneracademy.com/qa In this week's episode, hear Shannon answer six questions from real web designers on getting clients, handling scope creep, transitioning to retainers, getting visible without social media, managing AI overwhelm, and rebuilding after a business break.  What You'll Learn: How to follow up with networking contacts without feeling pushy or salesy What to say when a project becomes more complex than you originally quoted Shannon's free consultation - paid discovery - package matrix process for avoiding scope surprises How to plant seeds for retainer work before a project even ends Why you don't have to keep up with every AI and technology change to serve your clients How to rebuild your client pipeline after a business break (and why you're not behind) Resources: - Package Matrix™ Template: https://webdesigneracademy.com/template - Web Designer Academy: https://webdesigneracademy.com/program - Next Level Mastermind: https://webdesigneracademy.com/next-level-mastermind - 90-Day Shift Coaching: https://webdesigneracademy.com/private-coaching/ - Open House https://webdesigneracademy.com/tour Related Episodes: Episode 193: Stop Waiting for Referrals and Get Booked Out with Sarah Noel Block Episode 194: The Daily Habit For Building a Full Web Design Client Pipeline with Julia Taylor Episode 198: How To Make More With Less Web Design Clients About Shannon Mattern Shannon Mattern is a Pricing Strategist, creator of The Package Matrix™ and the founder of the Web Designer Academy, where she helps experienced women web designers book higher-paying web design projects, charge more with confidence, run projects without overworking and burnout, and break through to their next level of income and freedom. Website: webdesigneracademy.com Instagram: @profitablewebdesigner TikTok: @profitablewebdesigner YouTube: @profitablewebdesigner LinkedIn: shannonmattern

Are you struggling to decide where to spend your time, energy, and money as you build your interior design business? I got you!One of the biggest challenges I see aspiring and emerging designers face is knowing when—and how—to invest in themselves and their business.Many creatives hesitate to spend money on education, systems, coaching, legal support, or professional expertise because it feels risky. But what if not investing is actually costing you more?As interior designers, we regularly ask clients to trust our expertise. We encourage them to invest in professional guidance because we know it saves them time, prevents costly mistakes, and helps them achieve a better outcome. The same principle applies to building a successful design business. If you want clients to value your expertise, you must learn to value expertise yourself.In this episode, I explore the investment mindset that separates hobbyists from serious professionals. I share why adopting a CEO mindset, making intentional investments, and planning for business growth can help you avoid burnout, build client trust, create stronger business systems, and ultimately develop the career and business you've always wanted.What You'll Learn in This Episode✔️ Why an investment mindset fuels long-term business growth✔️ How time investment builds your business foundation early✔️ Questions to ask before every strategic business investment✔️ Why NOT investing often costs more long-term✔️ How professional expertise scales as your business growsRead the Blog >>> Building a Strong Interior Design Business Foundation Through Intentional Investment NEXT STEPS:

Episode OverviewIn this episode of The McClain Method Podcast, John McClain sits down with Debbie Mathews LeRoy, owner and principal designer of Debbie Mathews Antiques and Designs in Nashville, to talk about antiques, sourcing, retail, and profitability inside a modern interior design business.Debbie shares why antiques are becoming relevant again, how she blends her antique showroom with her luxury design studio, and what designers need to know before sourcing antique furniture for clients. This conversation is practical, grounded, and especially helpful for designers who love the idea of antiques but are unsure how to use them confidently or profitably.WHAT WE COVER:Why antiques are relevant again in interior designDebbie explains how clients are looking for homes that feel personal, collected, sustainable, and connected to the past. Antiques offer warmth, story, and a sense of permanence that newer pieces often cannot replicate.How an antique showroom can support a design businessDebbie breaks down how her antique showroom and interior design studio operate as separate businesses, even though they support each other. She shares why each business needs its own numbers, staff, and processes.What designers should know before adding retailJohn and Debbie talk about the dream many designers have of opening a retail shop, and why it is important to understand the business side before adding another revenue stream.Mistakes designers make when sourcing antiquesDebbie shares the importance of inspecting every inch of a piece before buying. She talks about checking drawers, legs, hardware, repairs, comfort, finish, dimensions, and whether the piece is truly functional.How to price and profit from antiquesThe conversation covers antique markups, shipping, tariffs, repairs, rewiring, upholstery, and the difference between sourcing stateside and sourcing in Europe.The 80/20 rule for mixing antiques and new piecesDebbie recommends choosing a clear direction: either 80% new with 20% antique, or 80% antique with 20% new. This helps a room feel intentional instead of hodgepodge.Why storytelling sells antiquesDebbie and John both emphasize that stories help clients connect with antiques. Whether it is a piece from France, a tapestry from Paris, or a chest with visible history, the story often becomes part of the value.GUEST LINKS:Guest website: www.DebbieMathews.com Instagram: @DebbieMathewsHome https://www.instagram.com/debbiemathewshomeResources mentioned: 1stDibs, mentioned as a research and sourcing platform  Chairish, mentioned as a research and sourcing platform  Etsy, mentioned as a sourcing platform with reviews  eBay, mentioned as a sourcing platform  High Point Market Antique and Design Center, mentioned as a place to learn from antique vendorsText Me a Message!FREE VIDEO TRAINING DIRECT FROM JOHN:Design feels natural.The business side doesn't.Join this free 39-minute training for interior designers and learn the 3 secrets to building a profitable, stress-free design business without burnout or chaos.

Betsy Helmuth discusses expanding to new visual platforms, announces the Affordable Interior Design YouTube channel, and introduces a business Q&A series. She offers advice on subcontracting, creating design packages, finding affordable artwork and chandeliers, and evaluates butcher block countertops. 0:00 Introduction to visual content on new platforms 0:32 Announcement of Affordable Interior Design's YouTube channel 1:46 Introduction to business question Q&A series 2:20 How to submit questions for future episodes 2:53 Advice on subcontracting design selections for builders 8:11 Tips on creating design packages 13:46 Sponsor: Premium Membership 15:03 Finding affordable artwork alternatives 18:16 Locating budget-friendly cascading chandeliers 22:08 Evaluating butcher block countertops - Affordable Interior Design now has a YouTube channel along with Instagram and Facebook pages, making it easier for listeners to visualize design concepts discussed in the podcast. - When meeting with a luxury homebuilder or any new client, focus on asking detailed questions to understand the scope of work before discussing pricing or presenting packages. - For clients seeking high-end design elements on a budget, use Google image searches and specific search terms to find affordable alternatives that match the style of more expensive pieces. Don't forget to subscribe for more design tips and inspiration! Links: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Uploft.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AffordableInteriorDesign.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Submit your design questions⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to be featured on the show ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Become a Premium Member⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and access the bonus episodes Click ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to become an interior designer with Uploft's Interior Design Academy. Get Betsy's book: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠betsyhelmuth.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠For more about our residential interior design services, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ModernInteriorDesign.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ For our commercial interior design services, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠OfficeInteriorDesign.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@uploftinteriordesign⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/UploftIntDes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠tiktok.com/@uploftinteriordesign⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠linkedin.com/company/uploft-interior-design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you enjoy the show, please spread the word and leave a review on iTunes! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Grab our High-Converting Proposal Template and learn what to include (and what to leave out) to turn more of your proposals into higher-paying clients: webdesigneracademy.com/proposal Episode 199: The Sneaky Word Sabotaging Your Web Design Business with Aiza Cheung of Studio Coya In this episode, I'm joined by brand designer Aiza Cheung of Studio Coya - a branding studio specializing in turning signature offers into recognizable, sellable brands. Aiza shares the time she almost abandoned the exact offer her clients loved most because she thought she should be doing something bigger. We talk about the 'should' trap, her pricing evolution, how she structures her business around travel and flexibility, and the mindset blocks that keep capable service providers from showing up fully. What You'll Learn: Why 'should' is one of the most dangerous words in your business - and how to spot it What it looks like to design your business around the life you actually want Taking your foot off the brake: the mindset work underneath the business strategy Resources Mentioned: Studio Coya: https://studiocoya.com/ Aiza on Instagram: @studiocoya Nourish Your Brand Podcast by Aiza Cheung - search on your podcast app Next Level Mastermind: webdesigneracademy.com/next-level-mastermind Related Episodes: Episode 191: How To Choose the Right Web Design Business Model - https://webdesigneracademy.com/how-to-choose-the-right-web-design-business-model/ Episode 189: How To Price Custom Web Design Projects with Shannon Mattern - https://webdesigneracademy.com/how-to-price-custom-web-design-projects-with-shannon-mattern/ About the Guest Aiza Cheung is the brand chef and designer behind Studio Coya, a branding studio with a food-themed twist. She specializes in branding signature offers for high-achieving service providers through her seven-day Offer Oven sprint. Aiza helps business owners make their best work recognizable, clear, and ready to sell. About Shannon Mattern: Shannon Mattern is a pricing strategist, creator of the Package Matrix™ and the founder of the Web Designer Academy, where she helps experienced women web designers book higher-paying web design projects, charge more with confidence, run projects without overworking and burnout, and break through to their next level of income and freedom.

Grab our High-Converting Proposal Template and learn what to include (and what to leave out) to turn more of your proposals into higher-paying clients: webdesigneracademy.com/proposal Episode 199: The Sneaky Word Sabotaging Your Web Design Business with Aiza Cheung of Studio Coya In this episode, I'm joined by brand designer Aiza Cheung of Studio Coya - a branding studio specializing in turning signature offers into recognizable, sellable brands. Aiza shares the time she almost abandoned the exact offer her clients loved most because she thought she should be doing something bigger. We talk about the 'should' trap, her pricing evolution, how she structures her business around travel and flexibility, and the mindset blocks that keep capable service providers from showing up fully. What You'll Learn: Why 'should' is one of the most dangerous words in your business - and how to spot it What it looks like to design your business around the life you actually want Taking your foot off the brake: the mindset work underneath the business strategy Resources Mentioned: Studio Coya: https://studiocoya.com/ Aiza on Instagram: @studiocoya Nourish Your Brand Podcast by Aiza Cheung - search on your podcast app Next Level Mastermind: webdesigneracademy.com/next-level-mastermind Related Episodes: Episode 191: How To Choose the Right Web Design Business Model - https://webdesigneracademy.com/how-to-choose-the-right-web-design-business-model/ Episode 189: How To Price Custom Web Design Projects with Shannon Mattern - https://webdesigneracademy.com/how-to-price-custom-web-design-projects-with-shannon-mattern/ About the Guest Aiza Cheung is the brand chef and designer behind Studio Coya, a branding studio with a food-themed twist. She specializes in branding signature offers for high-achieving service providers through her seven-day Offer Oven sprint. Aiza helps business owners make their best work recognizable, clear, and ready to sell. About Shannon Mattern: Shannon Mattern is a pricing strategist, creator of the Package Matrix™ and the founder of the Web Designer Academy, where she helps experienced women web designers book higher-paying web design projects, charge more with confidence, run projects without overworking and burnout, and break through to their next level of income and freedom.

Send Katie a Text Message!! One of the biggest misconceptions I see in the interior design industry is the belief that profitability automatically means your business is healthy.It doesn't.You can have beautiful projects, happy clients, strong revenue, and still be operating a business that can't handle another level of growth.In this episode, I'm breaking down the difference between a profitable design business and a scalable design firm—and why that distinction matters if you're trying to move from six figures to seven figures.We're talking about the hidden ways owners compensate for weak systems, how growth exposes structural problems, and why building a load-bearing business matters more than simply increasing revenue.In This Episode, We Cover:Why profitability and scalability are not the same thingThe signs your business may already be at capacityHow owner dependency creates hidden risksThe four load-bearing elements of a scalable design firmWhy more growth often reveals business weaknessesHow to run a simple load test on your businessThe CEO mindset required for sustainable growthIf you've ever felt like your business is working but something still feels off, this episode is for you.Because the goal isn't just to make more money.It's to build a business that can actually carry the success you're creating.Connect with KatieLinkedInBusiness Strategy Sessions for Interior Designers Free Resources for scaling your interior design firmWebsite

Betsy Helmuth introduces her new YouTube channel, shares a Gilmore Girls-inspired weekend trip, discusses interior design pricing for combining furniture, and explores working overseas and writing a book. She also promotes an online class bundle and requests Google reviews from clients. Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction to new YouTube channel 0:37 Social media links and follow request 1:32 Weekend trip inspired by Gilmore Girls 5:47 Transition to interior design business series 7:11 Pricing for combining furniture from multiple homes 12:53 Asking clients for Google reviews 14:31 Exploring working overseas and writing a book 21:16 Online class bundle promotion 22:30 Closing remarks and credits - Affordable Interior Design now has a YouTube channel, Instagram, and Facebook to help listeners visualize design concepts discussed on the podcast. - When pricing a job for clients combining furniture from multiple homes, consider an hourly rate with a retainer and outline a clear plan of attack to ensure transparency and trust. - For interior designers thinking of working abroad, offering e-design services with a clear communication plan and considering writing a book are viable options to explore. Don't forget to subscribe for more design tips and inspiration! Links: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Uploft.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AffordableInteriorDesign.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Submit your design questions⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to be featured on the show ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Become a Premium Member⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and access the bonus episodes Click ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to become an interior designer with Uploft's Interior Design Academy. Get Betsy's book: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠betsyhelmuth.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠For more about our residential interior design services, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ModernInteriorDesign.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ For our commercial interior design services, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠OfficeInteriorDesign.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@uploftinteriordesign⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/UploftIntDes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠tiktok.com/@uploftinteriordesign⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠linkedin.com/company/uploft-interior-design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you enjoy the show, please spread the word and leave a review on iTunes! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What if the experience you think makes you an outsider in the design industry is actually your greatest advantage? In this episode of Designed for the Creative Mind, Michelle Lynne sits down with interior designer Katie Rainey to discuss her journey from Doctor of Physical Therapy to owner of a thriving interior design firm specializing in waterfront and lifestyle-driven homes. Katies design philosophy is that beauty and function are necessities, not luxuries.  With a Doctorate in Physical Therapy and a background in human movement, she crafts spaces that are both beautiful and intuitively designed for real life.  She partners with busy families and professionals seeking solace in nature - whether by the water in Annapolis or in the mountains of New Hampshire - guiding them through the intricacies of a renovation or a new build.  With deep construction knowledge, she collaborates closely with builders and architects to ensure seamless execution from concept to completion.  As part of a military family, Katie has lived across the U.S. and in Europe.  She draws inspiration for her designs from this global design perspective, having lived in diverse landscapes. Katie shares how she initially hid her medical background, believing it had little relevance to design, only to discover that her expertise in movement, ergonomics, and human behavior became one of her strongest differentiators. From designing custom solutions that improve clients' daily lives to building a business rooted in confidence, process, and professionalism, Katie offers valuable lessons for designers at every stage of business. The conversation also explores networking, pricing, client communication, boundaries, and the mindset shifts that helped Katie transition from treating design as a passion to running it as a profitable business. Whether you're transitioning from another career, struggling to communicate your value, or looking for encouragement to own your unique story, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and inspiration. In This Episode, We Discuss: Katie's transition from physical therapy to interior design Why your previous career can become your biggest business advantage Using ergonomics and human movement to create more functional homes How Katie found her unique positioning in the design industry The mindset shift from hobbyist to business owner Learning to separate emotion from sales conversations The "Pass the Salt" approach to discussing money with clients Why clear processes create better client experiences Educating clients through deliverables and expectations The importance of boundaries and scope management Networking strategies that helped Katie build a business in a brand-new market How confidence and consistency lead to stronger business growth Balancing motherhood, business ownership, and personal fulfillment Key Takeaways Your Past Experience Is Part of Your Expertise Katie spent years downplaying her background as a physical therapist before realizing it gave her a unique perspective that directly benefits her clients. The skills, knowledge, and experiences from previous careers often become the very thing that sets designers apart. Design Is More Than Making Things Beautiful A successful design must function for the people who live in it. Katie's understanding of ergonomics and movement helps her create spaces that support her clients' lifestyles while remaining beautiful. Confidence Comes from Process One of Katie's biggest business breakthroughs came from developing a clear process and communicating it effectively. When clients understand what to expect, they feel more confident moving forward. Networking Doesn't Have to Be Complicated From introducing herself to architects to striking up conversations at the gym and ice rink, Katie demonstrates that meaningful business relationships often start with a simple conversation. Business Growth Requires Personal Growth Success isn't just about improving your design skills. It's about developing confidence, setting boundaries, understanding your value, and learning how to lead clients through decisions. Memorable Quotes "Own your background. Whatever you did before design, there's something there that makes you a better designer." "If it looks beautiful but doesn't function for you, what's the point?" "You're not trying to convince clients to hire you. You're guiding them as the expert." "We are a for-profit company, not a non-profit." "We're most memorable in person, not behind our computer." "Whoever is going to hire me isn't going to hire you because I'm not you and you're not me." Connect with Katie Rainey Website: katieraineydesign.com Instagram: @katieraineydesign Facebook: Katie Rainey Design Connect with Michelle Lynne If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow interior designer who could benefit from today's conversation. For coaching, mentorship, and business resources for interior designers, visit our website at thedesignbakehouse.com.  Loved This Episode? Leave a review and share this episode with another designer who needs the reminder that their unique background isn't something to hide—it's something to build on.  

Have you been dreaming about starting an interior design career, but keep telling yourself you'll start when the time is right? Maybe you're balancing a full-time job, raising kids, managing a household, or simply trying to figure out if you're talented enough to make a creative career shift. I'm here to tell you something important: that perfect season is never coming. And the longer you wait for it, the longer you stay stuck in a career that isn't feeding your soul.In this episode, I'm answering the real-life questions aspiring interior designers ask before making a career change. Questions like: Can I build an interior design business while working another job? Can I start a creative career while raising kids? How much time do I realistically need to invest each week? These are practical concerns, and they deserve honest answers.Whether you're pursuing interior design as a career shift, launching your first design business, or exploring a more flexible creative lifestyle, this episode will help you understand how to move forward with confidence, professionalism, and purpose.What You'll Learn in This Episode✔️ How to balance interior design alongside your current job✔️ Starting a design business while raising your children✔️ How many weekly hours do you realistically need✔️ Why intentionality beats hustle culture every time✔️ How structure actually creates more flexibility in your businessRead the Blog >>> 4 Real-Life Questions About Starting an Interior Design BusinessNEXT STEPS:

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Laura breaks down why a lead tracker is a non-negotiable tool for interior designers who want more consistent revenue and a calmer, more predictable pipeline. A lead tracker gives you visibility and control, so you stop relying on your inbox, DMs, and memory to manage inquiries. It also gives you grace, because when you can see the full timeline of a lead, you stop taking silence personally and start responding like a CEO with a clear follow-up system.Laura explains exactly what to include on your tracker, from lead basics and lead source to project scope, budget range, and pipeline stage. The real game-changer is tracking key dates at every touchpoint: when you responded, when you sent the welcome guide, when discovery was scheduled and completed, when the proposal and contract were sent, when follow-ups happened (and how), and when the contract and deposit were received. Those dates reveal where leads ghost or drop off, help you calculate your standard time-to-close, and show you which stage needs refinement.You will also learn when to send the “magic email” for drifting leads. It is a kind but firm message that creates a clear decision point, removes pressure, and protects your calendar by giving the client two paths forward: move ahead by a specific date, or pause and reconnect later. With a date-based lead tracker, you gain powerful metrics like conversion rates by stage, response time, sales cycle length, follow-up effectiveness, drop-off points, pipeline value, and lost-lead reasons, all of which help you nurture and finesse your process so closing clients becomes more predictable.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 episode, Shaun and Rebecca sit down with Hema Persad, founder and principal designer of Sagrada Studio, a Los Angeles-based interior design firm creating layered, personal, and highly intentional residential and commercial spaces. Hema shares how she moved from law to celebrity styling to interior design, and how each chapter shaped the way she runs her studio today.Hema gets candid about building a luxury interior design business, creating tiered service offerings, managing client expectations, outsourcing strategically, working with contractors, and refusing to tolerate mediocrity in her team, her process, or her life. This conversation is packed with honest interior design business advice for designers who want stronger boundaries, better systems, and a more profitable studio.In this episode they discuss:How Hema transitioned from attorney to celebrity stylist to founder of Sagrada StudioWhy outsourcing CAD drawings and low-value tasks can help interior designers focus on higher-level workThe difference between full-service interior design, consultations, and smaller client offeringsHow Hema is building a three-tier design business with The Expert, in-studio consultations, and white glove full service designWhy showing too much behind-the-scenes process can undermine a luxury client experienceHow designers can manage client expectations around delays, procurement, contractors, and scope creepWhy people pleasing does not serve clients, teams, or interior design business ownersHow Hema structures her team around design, procurement, and project execution to improve accountabilityMentioned:Hema Persad on InstagramSagrada Studio on InstagramSagrada Studio's WebsiteOur links:Subscribe and leave a review - Apple PodcastsLike, Comment, & Follow - Hot Young Designers Club InstagramRebecca's InstagramShaun's InstagramFor more information - Check out the website

Betsy Helmuth discusses launching a YouTube channel and social media presence. She answers questions about starting an interior design business, recommends furniture companies, and addresses client budget concerns. Felicia's powder room design query is also covered. Episode concludes with a promotion for online class bundles. 0:00 Introduction to new visual platforms 0:32 Announcement of YouTube channel and social media 1:38 Betsy Helmuth introduction and allergy discussion 3:16 Start of business-focused episode 3:43 Irene's question about getting started as an interior designer 4:34 Recommendations for furniture companies 10:53 Premium membership promotion 11:56 Casey's question about client budgets 19:51 Felicia's question about powder room design 23:29 Conclusion and online class bundle promotion - Affordable Interior Design now has a YouTube channel where you can see recordings and clips of podcast episodes. - When starting as an interior designer, building relationships and asking for referrals can help grow your business. - Always recommend a backsplash for vanities to prevent water damage and ensure long-term durability. Don't forget to subscribe for more design tips and inspiration! Links: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Uploft.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AffordableInteriorDesign.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Submit your design questions⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to be featured on the show ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Become a Premium Member⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and access the bonus episodes Click ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to become an interior designer with Uploft's Interior Design Academy. Get Betsy's book: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠betsyhelmuth.com/book⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠For more about our residential interior design services, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ModernInteriorDesign.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ For our commercial interior design services, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠OfficeInteriorDesign.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Follow Us: Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@uploftinteriordesign⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠facebook.com/UploftIntDes⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠tiktok.com/@uploftinteriordesign⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠linkedin.com/company/uploft-interior-design⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ If you enjoy the show, please spread the word and leave a review on iTunes! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are you making business decisions based on facts, or are you guessing and hoping things will work out? In this episode, I'm talking about how to build a six-month runway for your interior design business. This is one of the simplest ways to understand what it really costs to keep your business running and whether you have the financial stability to make decisions with confidence. I walk through the four cost buckets every designer should know: fixed costs, variable costs, invisible costs, and future costs. I also share how to calculate your monthly run rate, why paying yourself needs to be included, and how to compare your six-month runway number to what you actually have in the bank and in secured revenue. I share how to look at your business finances in a practical, non-intimidating way so you can plan ahead, prepare for slower seasons, and make better decisions about hiring, spending, scaling, and saying yes or no to projects.   Episode Resources: Know your Numbers | Part 1 Understanding your Project Profitability with Merilee Wright Know your Numbers | Part 2 What it costs to run your business with Merilee Wright   This episode is sponsored by Programa. Programa is project management software built specifically for interior designers. It's designed to save you hours every week and reduce the errors that come from managing projects across scattered documents and systems. Use code RBD25 for 25% off annual Programa plans. Click to learn more.  

In this episode, Anne sits down with James Dolenc and Tom Riker, the founders of James Thomas, to explore their unconventional path from corporate careers to building one of Chicago's most respected residential design studios.James and Tom share the story behind their 23-year partnership, the lessons they've learned growing a business together, and why culture has remained at the heart of their firm's success.  Their work has been featured in leading design publications, showcased on Homeworthy and most recently selected for the 50th Anniversary Kips Bay Decorator Show House in New York, one of the design industry's most prestigious showcases.  Along the way, they discuss the importance of kindness in leadership, developing a distinctive brand voice, mentoring the next generation of designers and creating homes that feel deeply personal rather than trend-driven. They also offer their unique perspective on how anyone can discover and express their own “voice” through their personal homes. This episode is a thoughtful conversation about partnership, creativity, and the values that sustain both a design practice and a meaningful life.As with every Classic & Curious episode, the conversation concludes with a collection of inspirations—from favorite hotels and brands to timeless advice and unexpected discoveries—offering a deeper glimpse into the people, places, and ideas that continue to spark curiosity and s​hape a considered life. Connect with James Thomas on IG @jamesthomasinteriors and JamesThomasInteriors.comConnect with Anne: @classicandcuriouslife, classicandcurious.com and on Substack: Curiosities by Anne Kokoskie

I spent $5,000 testing Meta ads for my branding agency and got zero clients from it.And honestly, I do not think the experiment failed at all.Because what it revealed about buyer psychology, attention, intent, branding, and how high ticket services actually convert was probably more valuable than the money itself.A lot of entrepreneurs assume that if their audience exists on Instagram or TikTok, those platforms automatically become the best place to market. But attention and buying intent are two very different things. Cheap leads, strong ad metrics, and visibility do not automatically translate into trust, readiness, or purchasing behavior.This conversation explores Meta ads, branding, entrepreneurship, premium services, buyer behavior, niche positioning, and the difference between interrupting attention versus capturing intent while building a specialized business in real time.Links to Connect:Media & speaking: ⁠https://kadysandel.com⁠My skincare branding studio: ⁠https://aventivestudio.com⁠For designers: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/profit⁠Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/kadysandel/⁠

311: How Intentional Messaging Elevates Your Design Business With me today is Jaquilyn Edwards of Ochre and Beige. Jaquilyn helps interior designers step into high-end positioning through their words, systems, and client experiences—so their value becomes unmistakable. In today's episode, we explore how intentional messaging builds trust faster, strengthens boundaries, and ultimately grows and protects your profit. Our hope is that you walk away with insight and clarity to run a thriving business that truly reflects the caliber of your work. Topics Mentioned: AI impact on copywriting Luxury strategy Affluent client messaging Key Thoughts:  AI can be cost effective to help with copywriting but it creates generic content that lacks personalization. Luxury in design also refers to luxury communication which is clear. Messaging may need to be repositioned over time to attract ideal clients.   Contact Michele: Email: Team@ScarletThreadConsulting.com Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Instagram: @ScarletThreadATL Website: scarletthreadconsulting.com LinkedIn: Michele-Williams Contact Jaquilyn: Email: jedwards@ochreandbeige.com Website: www.ochreandbeige.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/ochreandbeige LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jaquilynedwards

Send Katie a Text Message!! In this episode, I'm walking you through exactly what I would fix first if I stepped into your interior design business and helped you scale to seven figures. And here's the truth most people won't tell you—you don't need to work more, take on more clients, or post more content. What you actually need is to fix the right things in the right order.If your business feels busy but not profitable, or like everything is urgent but nothing is truly moving the needle, this episode is going to hit home. I see so many talented interior designers stuck not because they aren't capable, but because their business is built on their personal capacity instead of scalable systems.I'm breaking down the biggest misdiagnoses I see—like thinking you need more leads, lower prices, or more help—when in reality, the issue is often your business model, pricing structure, positioning, or lack of clear processes.We also dig into what actually creates a sustainable, profitable design business: a clear business model that supports your revenue goals, pricing that protects your profit, positioning that makes you the obvious choice, a sales process that converts the right clients, and systems that allow your business to run without everything depending on you.And maybe most importantly, we talk about your role as the founder. Because if you're still doing everything, approving everything, and carrying the entire business on your back, scaling will always feel out of reach. Your next level isn't about doing more—it's about stepping into leadership and building a business that can actually support your life.If you've ever felt like your business has so much potential but you can't keep growing this way, this episode will help you identify what's really holding you back and where to focus next.Connect with KatieLinkedInBusiness Strategy Sessions for Interior Designers Free Resources for scaling your interior design firmWebsite

Join Carina today in this special episode where she talks about the 3 Gaps for designers, the three things no one tells you, and the research behind design and business education. Furthermore, Carina interviews graduate Katie Winn who talks about her experiences at the University of Arts & Design.Learn more about UAD's degrees and certificates at www.uad.education.  Get my free gift to you here: https://www.designsuitecourses.com/intentional

Send us Fan MailThey create some of the most recognizable homes in Columbus, Ohio. But behind the aesthetic is pressure, conflict, obsession, and nonstop work.This conversation with Stacy and Tracy from Paul + Jo Studios gets into what it actually takes to build a design business as a married couple while raising kids, renovating homes, running projects, and trying not to lose yourselves in the process.We talk about creativity vs. practicality, entrepreneurship, farm life, parenting teenagers, and why Tracy and Stacy still believe beautiful spaces can change how people feel.Also, we chat about Brene Brown, meditation, sheep trauma, and why silence feels like luxury once you become parents.

In this special edition episode of the Web Design Business Podcast, I'm sharing a recent live interview I did with my mate from down under – James Barnard – one of the most prolific designers in the graphic, branding, and logo design space.James invited me into his Designerrrs community for a live Q&A session which turned into a masterclass chat about how to build, grow, and scale a freelance design business.He was kind enough to let me repurpose this interview for you! Whether you're a web designer, graphic designer, or brand designer, this one digs into my experience from starting out to scaling up with a big emphasis on how to SCALE YOUR WAY.Gosh doesn't that sound like a good course?!? In this episode, we cover:My full career trajectory in web designThe key stages of building and growing a design businessWhat scaling actually looks like (and when to do it)How to start thinking about team building and hiringWays to get everything off your shoulders as a solo designerMindset shifts required to grow beyond freelancingHead to the show notes to get all links and resources we mentioned, along with a full transcription of this episode at joshhall.co/426Your special offer:Get 3 days free access to my scale your way course (actually, my entire course suite) inside Web Designer Pro® here!Claim my 3-day trial to all Web Designer Pro Courses →After trial, continue access to all courses for only $49/mo.

Profit leaks in your interior design business are rarely dramatic. More often, they show up quietly through over-delivering, unclear scope, misaligned clients, weak discovery, inconsistent systems, and pricing that supports maintenance instead of growth. Those small patterns can create longer hours, heavier projects, and revenue that looks strong while profit quietly slips away. In this episode, you'll learn where profit is established long before the final invoice and how to strengthen the front end of your business so your projects are more profitable from the start. You'll also hear how clearer boundaries, stronger systems, better-fit clients, and value-based pricing help your design firm grow without adding more effort, stress, or burnout. In this episode, you'll hear: (01:55) Why profit is established at the beginning of a project, not at the end (04:30) How over-delivering erodes your timeline, effective rate, and bottom line (07:26) Why expanding scope without change orders creates hidden profit leaks (09:24) How misaligned clients drain time, energy, and profitability (11:56) Why design discovery must set the tone for leadership, trust, and profit (15:38) How consistent systems and value-based pricing support sustainable growth If you're ready to identify and stop your profit leaks, schedule your complimentary Design Business Assessment at melissagalt.com/DBA. It's a high value, confidential Zoom consultation where I look at where you are, where you want to be and provide a clear path to close the gap.  

Send Katie a Text Message!! In this episode, I'm unpacking something I see all the time in design businesses—and it might surprise you. It's not that you need to think bigger. It's that your business may not be built to support the growth you say you want.I know how easy it is to believe the next level comes from bigger goals, more confidence, or finally stepping into your “CEO era.” But if your structure is weak, scaling doesn't create freedom—it creates more chaos. More clients, more pressure, more decisions, and more dependency on you.Inside this conversation, I'm walking you through the real difference between motivational thinking and strategic thinking, and why scaling well requires completely different decisions—not just bigger vision. Because if your team still relies on you for everything, your inbox is running your day, and every project still depends on your constant involvement… growth is only going to amplify those problems.We're talking about what CEO thinking actually looks like in practice. Not as a personality trait, but as a decision-making framework. I'll show you how to start identifying where your business is breaking under growth, how to stop operating as the bottleneck, and how to shift from reacting to designing a business that can actually hold more.This episode is your invitation to stop chasing bigger for the sake of bigger—and start building a business that is stronger, more sustainable, and truly supports your life.If you've ever felt like your business grows… but your freedom doesn't, this one is for you.Connect with KatieLinkedInBusiness Strategy Sessions for Interior Designers Free Resources for scaling your interior design firmWebsite

Sponsored by ⁠⁠Web Designer Anthology⁠⁠ Stop building from scratch on every project. ⁠⁠Web Designer Anthology⁠⁠ gives you conversion-focused website templates, strategic frameworks, and design-systems methodology so you can work smarter and make more in less time. Get access to 20 conversion-structured website templates, 600+ strategic design assets, homepage and sales page formulas, and an AI assistant trained to help you build results-driven websites faster.

Sponsored by ⁠⁠Web Designer Anthology⁠⁠ Stop building from scratch on every project. ⁠⁠Web Designer Anthology⁠⁠ gives you conversion-focused website templates, strategic frameworks, and design-systems methodology so you can work smarter and make more in less time. Get access to 20 conversion-structured website templates, 600+ strategic design assets, homepage and sales page formulas, and an AI assistant trained to help you build results-driven websites faster.

Text me and tell me what you think of this ep. Interior designers who feel overwhelmed by AI typically don't have a tool problem — they have a prioritisation problem. Australian AI strategist Rhiannon Lee recommends three starting points: spend four minutes meeting Claude, do a five-minute audit of your most repetitive business tasks, and invest time in free AI literacy resources. Chasing AI image generation is the biggest time drain to avoid.EPISODE OVERVIEWThe noise around AI is loud right now. Everyone's screaming that Claude killed interior designers, that you need to understand MCPs and managed agents and agentic workflows — and meanwhile you're just trying to run a studio and not lose your mind.This episode is not that.Rhiannon Lee, AI strategist for Australian interior designers, cuts straight to what actually deserves your attention this week — if you're starting from scratch, if you're overwhelmed, or if you've been dabbling but can't see a clear path forward.Three things. Fifteen minutes. Actual forward momentum.WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODEWhy the overwhelm is real — and why it doesn't mean what you think it means The wave of AI experts, the screaming headlines, the feeling that you're already behind. Rhiannon talks about why it feels like going from zero to hero overnight, why that's disorienting even for people who are genuinely across it, and why the existential stuff is worth sitting with — without letting it stop you.Claude vs ChatGPT: the honest comparison interior designers actually need Not a feature list. A practical frame. ChatGPT is your dinner bestie who knows your history — great for thinking out loud, voice memos, and unpacking what's in your head. Claude is Lord Business from the Lego Movie — your chief of staff, your executive assistant, the one you brief every morning and who executes without needing to be managed. They're not interchangeable. They work better together.How to use both tools without burning through tokens Rhiannon's actual workflow: think out loud in ChatGPT, get a tight synopsis, take that synopsis to Claude. Minimise spend. Maximise output. It's a small shift that makes a big difference.The five-minute business audit that unlocks everything else Before you build anything in AI,Thanks 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...

Running a business means you're constantly evolving, and in this solo episode I'm sharing with you guys what that's looked like for me lately, what I've outgrown, what I've let go of, and what's working in this season of business for me and my micro agency model.Also if you're curious to learn more about Scale with Confidence send me a DM on insta @hellojunecreative!Links:The Design Minimind - My 1:1 coaching program for designersDownload my FREE Creative Direction Figma Template (includes 4 audio trainings as well)Become a member with Editorial Stick images and use code “BETTER15” to receive 15% off your membership.Enjoy 1 month of Showit FREE with my code “HelloJune” when you sign up.*Get 30% off of your HoneyBook subscription - The CRM I use in my studio.*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

Send Katie a Text Message!! If you've ever thought, “I want more in my business, but I don't know if I can handle more,” this episode is for you. Today I'm breaking down one of the biggest reasons interior designers struggle to scale—and it's not your talent or your work ethic. It's your business model. If your business is built on the assumption that you have unlimited energy and capacity, it will eventually hit a ceiling. In this episode, I walk you through what's really keeping you from reaching that million-dollar mark, what it's costing you, and how to start building a business that actually supports your life.IN THIS EPISODE: Why your business can look successful but feel exhausting to run, the real reason your growth is capped, how over-functioning is limiting your ability to scale, the hidden patterns keeping you stuck, why more revenue doesn't always mean a stronger business, what a sustainable business model actually looks like, and simple questions to help you identify where your business relies too much on you.You can build a profitable business that still costs you too much—mentally, emotionally, and physically. This episode will help you recognize when your business has outgrown its current model and give you permission to redesign it in a way that supports your life. Because a million dollar business isn't just about making more, it's about building something that can hold more without breaking you.Connect with KatieLinkedInBusiness Strategy Sessions for Interior Designers Free Resources for scaling your interior design firmWebsite

Want to know what's really behind under-earning, decision fatigue, and burnout in design businesses? It's not pricing, marketing, or even workload — it's the decisions designers make long before a project ever begins. Kimberley Seldon is joined by life coach Andrea Liebross to explore why hesitation is so costly, how “nice” projects quietly drain CEO energy, and what it looks like to lead your business with clarity instead of hope. Together they unpack how designers end up negotiating with themselves, saying yes when their instincts say no, and taking on work that slowly erodes time, margin, and focus. Andrea shares a practical decision filter you can use to evaluate opportunities quickly and confidently — without burning relationships or shutting doors. If you've ever felt stuck between yes and no, this episode will change the way you make decisions in your business. In this episode we learn: - Why “maybe” is more dangerous to your business than “no” - How to evaluate opportunities using a simple 3-step decision check: ROI, alignment, and capacity - The difference between revenue and real profit — and why hope is not ROI - How decision fatigue leads to burnout, under-earning, and leadership exhaustion - A practical grid to sort opportunities into Hell Yes, Absolute No, Delegate, Delay, Delete, or Do with Changes - Language for declining or reshaping a project without damaging the relationship - Why strong design businesses are built on clean decisions, not good intentions

When most people start an interior design business, they assume the hardest part will be creating beautiful spaces. But in reality, the design isn't the biggest challenge — the business side of interior design is where many new designers struggle.I've seen talented designers make the same mistakes repeatedly when they first start their businesses. These mistakes don't happen because they lack creativity or skill. They happen because no one teaches designers the sales guidance, client boundaries, and business structure required to run a profitable design business.In this episode, I'm sharing three common mistakes new interior designers make when starting their design business — mistakes I made in my early days as well. If you understand these pitfalls early, you can avoid wasting time, losing confidence, or creating unnecessary chaos in your projects. My goal is to help you build stronger client relationships, create a clear design process, and run a professional design business from the start.What You'll Learn in This Episode✔️ Why designers must lead the client, not follow✔️ How boundaries build trust and prevent project chaos✔️ Why interior designers must embrace the salesperson role✔️ How to reduce client decision fatigue during presentations✔️ Essential steps to make your design business officialRead the Blog >>> Interior Design Business Mistakes New Designers Must AvoidNEXT STEPS:

This week on Unjaded, I'm pulling back the curtain on the opening of Blue Sparrow -- my new online resale shop -- and using it as a live case study in what it actually looks like to make decisions from your Human Design. Not the pretty, cleaned-up version. The real one.Because this decision took a year. One full year. And if you know anything about Manifesting Generators, you know how painful that is.We're going deep on:The emotional authority piece no one talks about -- what it means to "wait your wave" when you have more than one wave, and why one wave is almost never enough for a real decision. I walked through three emotional waves before Blue Sparrow made sense. And I'd do it again.Abstract circuitry and verbal processing -- if you go around the mulberry bush when you talk (or think, or plan), you may have abstract circuitry in your design. The 46-29 and 41-30 channels in my design mean I'm always pulling from past experience to create forward-facing insight. It's not a flaw. It's the circuitry doing its job.Your Human Design signature and your sales -- this is the part I did not expect. The moment I committed to opening Blue Sparrow, my Human Design business sales spiked. Not a coincidence. When you're satisfied (Generators and MGs), successful (Projectors), surprised and delighted (Reflectors), or at peace (Manifestors), your aura expands. You magnetize people to you. When you're frustrated, angry, bitter, or disappointed? You push them away. Full stop.Why I'm leaving the bricks and mortar -- nothing against my partner Lisa (whose undefined G Center means that location is absolutely right for her). But I'm a second line with a markets environment and an emotional authority. I felt unsettled in that space from early on. Normalizing the knowing -- even when it doesn't make logical sense -- is the work.The big rock planning method -- how I prioritized Blue Sparrow as my Q1 non-negotiable and let other things slide to make it happen. The online store opened March 25th with $7-8K in inventory and a lot of conviction.If you want to understand your own design deeply enough to make decisions like this -- with your body, not your head -- readings are still half price on the site. Grab yours herehttps://www.vickiedickson.com/human-design-readingBlue Sparrow Shop: bluesparrow.caFollow along on Instagram: @bluesparrowshopBook a Human Design Reading: https://www.vickiedickson.com/human-design-reading

307: Scaling Your Design Business: Benefits of Outsourced Help With me today is Danae Branson, founder of Elite Design Assistants, a virtual assistant agency providing professional virtual design support to interior designers. She is also the owner of Niche Mavin, a freelance gig-based platform serving professionals in interior design, architecture, construction, and real estate. In today's conversation, we're focusing on the benefits of hiring a virtual assistant—whether as ongoing team support or as a flexible, fill-in resource during busy seasons. You'll learn how to assess your needs, determine when it's time to bring in support, and how partnering with a virtual design assistant can help you deliver exceptional design services to your clients. Topics Mentioned: Benefits of Hiring Contractors Fractional Support Cost vs Efficiency Key Thoughts:  Working with experienced professionals when subcontracting makes a difference in continuing service levels. There can be a trade-off between cost and efficiency based on the person you hire. Contractors can be beneficial, especially for short-term surges in work or when a business owner needs temporary relief from overwhelming tasks. Virtual Design Assistants (VDAs) can fill in gaps due to maternity leave, medical leave or hiring delays.   Contact Michele: Email: Team@ScarletThreadConsulting.com Facebook: Scarlet Thread Consulting Instagram: @ScarletThreadATL Website: ScarletThreadConsulting.com LinkedIn: Michele Williams   Contact Danae: Email: danae@elitedesignassistants.com Instagram: @elitedesignassistants, @nichemavin LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danae-branson-a98b31163/ Website: elitedesignassistants.com Website: nichemavin.com   References and Resources: Work with Me The Designers' Inner Circle - Become a Member Today    CFO2Go Metrique Solutions

Send Katie a Text Message!! If you feel busy all day but your interior design business still isn't growing, this episode is going to hit home. I'm breaking down why constant hustle isn't the problem—and why your business might actually be designed to keep you stuck.IN THIS EPISODE:I'm sharing what I see behind the scenes with so many interior designers: full calendars, constant work, and zero real growth. If you're working nonstop but not seeing more profit, freedom, or scalability, it's not a time issue—it's a business design issue.I walk through the patterns I see over and over again—businesses that depend entirely on the designer, revenue that requires the same level of effort every month, and work that never compounds.Then we shift into what actually creates growth: reducing dependency on you, building repeatable processes, and creating structure that allows your business to move forward—even when you're not actively pushing it.This episode is really about stepping into your role as CEO and redesigning your business so it finally supports your life, instead of consuming it.If your business only works when you're working, it's not growing—it's being maintained. And that's why you feel exhausted, stuck, and like nothing is actually changing.This conversation will help you see exactly where you're the bottleneck—and how to start shifting toward real, sustainable growth. LINKS & RESOURCES:Book a free 15-minute problem-solving call: https://fixmydesignbiz.comDo you struggle with sourcing?  Have you lost sales to the internet?  The answer to your profitability problem is a click away!  Join The Designers Collaborative, a buying collective for interior designers that is over 500 members strong.The Designers Collaborative's fearless approach has helped designers break through industry barriers, rethink traditional sourcing models, and tap into the potential of true collaboration—creating stronger businesses and bigger opportunities.  They offer more than a sourcing solution.  The Designers Collaborative has access to the largest number of vendors, plus the resources that put you in control.  The collective connects you with the design industry's lowest prices, plus practical tools, proven resources, and peer support to help you succeed.Enjoy-Over 300 top vendors at the best price tiers-Supportive community of 500 + interior designers-Tools, templates, and education-Meet-ups and events-and so much moreJoin The Designers Collaborative for only $659 for the year.  It will pay for itself in one order.  Join for the profits and stay for the community.You can request their vendor list and apply for membership on their website https://thedesignerscollaborative.com/Connect with KatieLinkedInBusiness Strategy Sessions for Interior Designers Free Resources for scaling your interior design firmWebsite

What if the reason your inquiries aren't turning into clients has nothing to do with your talent… and everything to do with what happens in between? In this episode, Michelle Lynne breaks down the exact gap most interior designers don't realize they have: the missing sales process between inquiry and signature. Through real stories from her own business, she shares how "being easy to work with" was actually costing her clients, confidence, and contracts. From over-delivering on discovery calls to second-guessing every follow-up, Michelle walks you through what it really looks like when there's no system in place—and how everything changes when there is. This episode will help you understand why clarity creates conversions, how to lead client conversations without feeling salesy, and why your sales process is not just about closing—but about protecting your business from the wrong clients. If you've ever had a "this felt like a yes… so why didn't they sign?" moment—this one is for you.   What You'll Learn in This Episode: - Why conversations that feel good in the moment don't always convert - The real reason clients "need to think about it" - How over-explaining and over-giving creates confusion (not trust) - Why "being nice" can actually cost you the sale - The difference between reacting vs. leading on client calls - How a sales process creates confidence—for both you and your client - Why clarity is the most powerful sales tool you have - How a structured process filters out the wrong clients before they ever sign - The hidden cost of letting the wrong clients into your business - Why every part of your business needs a process—especially sales   Key Takeaways: You don't need to become someone you're not to sell well. You don't need scripts that feel stiff or tactics that feel pushy. But you do need a clear, repeatable process that guides your clients from inquiry to decision. Because without it, you're not leading—you're reacting. And when you're reacting, your business becomes inconsistent, unpredictable, and harder to grow. A strong sales process doesn't just help you close the right clients. It protects you from the wrong ones. And that changes everything.   Mentioned in This Episode:   Design Revenue Audit  https://thedesignbakehouse.com/design-revenue-audit   Private Coaching  https://thedesignbakehouse.com/private-coaching   Follow Along:   Instagram  https://www.instagram.com/thedesignbakehouse/   If This Episode Resonated:   Take five minutes today and map out your current sales process.   What happens when someone inquires?   What is the next step?   And the next?   And the next?   Because this part of your business is too important to wing.  

Are you building your interior design business in a bubble?If you're anything like I was in my early years, you probably assumed the hard part was the design. You thought, “If I can create beautiful spaces, the rest will fall into place.” But what no one tells you is this: guesswork is expensive. Shooting from the hip on markups, contracts, pricing, and processes can cost you years of profitability—and a whole lot of stress.In this episode, I sit down with award-winning interior designer and business educator Sonia Barney, founder of the Kaivari platform, to talk about why business support is not optional if you want a sustainable, profitable design firm. We unpack the role of coaching, personalized growth, business systems, and strategic mentorship in helping creative entrepreneurs skip years of trial and error.If you're starting out—or feeling overworked and underpaid—this conversation will help you see why investing in business education and the right coach can completely transform your creative career.Featured Guest:Sonia Barney is an award-winning interior designer, business educator, and founder of the Kaivari platform. With over 20 years in the interior design industry and more than a decade as the owner of Sonia Barney Design, she has seen firsthand how many creatives struggle with the business side of their firms. Known for her analytical, systems-driven approach, Sonia teaches design business strategy through LuAnn University and is passionate about helping designers connect with the right coaches, resources, and community network to support personalized growth and long-term profitability.What You'll Learn in This Episode✳️ Why guesswork kills interior design profitability✳️ How coaching accelerates personalized business growth✳️ When to hire different types of coaches✳️ The power of community for creative entrepreneurs✳️ How vetted mentorship reduces costly business mistakesRead the Blog >>> The Role of Coaching and Business Education in Your Design BusinessNEXT STEPS:

I'm back with a solo episode talking all things spring cleaning… your business that is. With spring right around the corner, I'm sharing exactly how I'm cleaning up the backend of my business and refreshing my systems to stay organized during busy seasons and make sure my team is set up for success.Links:The Design Minimind - My 1:1 coaching program for designersDownload 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

Interior Designer's Business Blueprint   In this episode, Becca and I talk about the role boundaries play in building a sustainable interior design business. We explore why boundaries can feel difficult to set — especially for women and service-based entrepreneurs — and how designers can begin creating healthier expectations around time, scope, communication, and client relationships.   In this episode, we discuss: What boundaries actually are and why they're simply expectations Why interior designers often struggle with setting boundaries The four types of boundaries that help protect your business Time boundaries like office hours, meeting schedules, and communication response times Scope boundaries and how to prevent scope creep in design projects Emotional boundaries and protecting your energy with clients Financial boundaries, including payment expectations and project terms Why clear boundaries help protect your professional reputation How listening to your intuition can help you recognize when a boundary is needed Practical ways to start practicing boundaries in both business and life   If you're ready to build a design business that supports your life — not the other way around — I'd love to invite you inside the Interior Designer's Business Blueprint + Membership. Inside, we help designers refine their processes, strengthen their pricing and positioning, and build profitable businesses with the support of a thoughtful, collaborative community. Doors are open through March 22, so if this conversation resonated with you, now is the perfect time to learn more and join us.   Mentioned in this episode:  DOORS ARE OPEN through March 22nd! - Join Today! Interior Designer's Business Blueprint FREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers  

The moment you file your LLC… the moment you accept your first client payment… the moment you start working with vendors or contractors…You are no longer “just a creative.” You are the CEO of your business.As Danielle Hayden and I discuss in this episode, one of the biggest mistakes interior designers make is thinking they can outsource their financial understanding to bookkeeping services, financial automation, or even AI tools like QuickBooks integrations or ChatGPT.Here's the truth: AI is powerful, but it cannot replace CEO responsibility.With automation and financial tech, many designers assume their systems are handling everything correctly. But inaccurate bookkeeping, duplicated transactions, or improperly reconciled accounts can quietly damage your financial health — and no AI tool will raise a red flag. Instead, it will confidently analyze flawed data and give you misleading conclusions.If you want sustainable business growth, better business decisions, and long-term business protection, you must understand your numbers. In this episode, Danielle shares a powerful framework to help you step into your CEO role with clarity — without doing everything yourself.Featured GuestDanielle Hayden is the co-founder and CEO of Kickstart Accounting Inc., a bookkeeping and accounting firm dedicated to helping female entrepreneurs understand their financials through bookkeeping, financial analysis, and strategic support. With a background as a CFO, Danielle's mission is to equip business owners — from six figures to beyond — with the tools and insights they need to build profitable and sustainable businesses.What You'll Learn in This Episode✳️ Why CEOs must understand their business financials✳️ AI limitations in financial analysis and decision-making✳️ Hidden risks inside QuickBooks financial automation systems✳️ Danielle's framework for deciding when to become an S Corp✳️ Four essential roles for a strong money teamRead the Blog >>> Financial Confidence for Design CEOs with Danielle HaydenNEXT STEPS:

You're fully booked and the money is coming in, but you're more overwhelmed than ever. You haven't built a business... you've built a high-pressure job. In this episode, Sarah Noked (founder of OBM School) and I dig into what it actually means to scale yourself OUT of the day-to-day so your business doesn't collapse the moment you step away. We talk about why web designers are often the biggest bottleneck in their own growth, and exactly what to do about it.

You're fully booked and the money is coming in, but you're more overwhelmed than ever. You haven't built a business... you've built a high-pressure job. In this episode, Sarah Noked (founder of OBM School) and I dig into what it actually means to scale yourself OUT of the day-to-day so your business doesn't collapse the moment you step away. We talk about why web designers are often the biggest bottleneck in their own growth, and exactly what to do about it.

Send Katie a Text Message!! Referrals feel incredible as an interior designer. They're proof your clients love your work and your reputation is strong. But there's something most designers don't realize—referrals alone are not a growth strategy.In this episode, I'm talking about the quiet ceiling referral-driven businesses often hit. When your pipeline depends on referrals, your growth depends on someone else's timing. That's why so many designers experience the frustrating feast-or-famine cycle, even when their reputation is solid.This conversation isn't about abandoning referrals—they're a wonderful byproduct of great work. But if you want predictable growth and a business that truly supports your life, referrals can't be your only engine.Today I'm sharing the mindset shift that moves designers from waiting to be chosen to intentionally creating demand for their services.IN THIS EPISODE:• Why referrals are validation—not a scalable marketing system• The real reason many design firms experience feast-or-famine revenue• The difference between reactive marketing and intentional demand• Simple ways to create consistent visibility without feeling pushy• The CEO mindset shift that allows your firm to scale predictablyReferrals show that your clients are happy—but they don't give you control over your pipeline. If your growth depends entirely on referrals, your business will always feel reactive.The most sustainable design firms build intentional visibility and demand alongside referrals. This episode will help you start thinking like a CEO and create a more predictable, scalable design business.Connect with Katie LinkedInBusiness Strategy Sessions for Interior Designers Free Resources for scaling your interior design firmWebsite

It's difficult to quickly sum up Keith Granet's career: he's been a business consultant to high-profile interior designers for over three decades, but he's also the founder of the Leaders of Design, the chairman of the board at software platform Studio Designer, and the author of several books on the design business. More recently, Granet took over the Decorative Furnishings Association, and is in the process of launching an AI symposium. On this episode of the podcast he speaks with host Dennis Scully about the six qualities successful designers share, why professional education needs to change, and what the design business will look like in 2035.  This episode is sponsored by Ernesta and Resource FurnitureLINKSDennis ScullyBusiness of Home  

Today, I am joined by my friend, John McClain. He and I met at High Point last October and immediately connected.  John McClain is a multi-faceted leader in the interior design industry and proudly serves in his field as an interior designer, product designer, author, speaker, business coach, and podcast host. As the CEO and Creative Director of his internationally acclaimed award-winning interior design firm, John McClain Design, his interior design and home furnishings creations have been featured by numerous shelter publications and television networks including Elle Décor, Traditional Home, HGTV, CBS, and NBC. John is also a contributor to outlets such as Martha Stewart Living, Interior Design magazine, The Wall Street Journal, & House Beautiful. As a product designer, John has created distinctive home furnishings that have not only garnered awards but have made numerous television appearances in their own right. John's coffee table book, The Designer Within: A Professional Guide to A Well-Styled Home, features homes designed in his signature "Comfortable Chic" aesthetic alongside helpful design tips and processes. John has now taken his 15+ years of design business experience and launched an online education & business coaching program, The McClain Method where he instructs and coaches interior designers on best business practices. He continues these lessons on his popular podcast, The McClain Method. So in today's conversation, he and I dive into the real mechanics of running a design business, from the software we love and the ones we hate to the systems that actually support growth. We talk honestly about leadership, profitability, and why the right back-end structure can make or break a design studio. Today's episode is equal parts practical and refreshing, the kind of behind-the-scenes discussions that designers don't get to hear enough. Connect with John McClain: Check out John's AI Brand Voice Kickstart: https://www.mcclainmethod.com/kickstart_prompt John's Website: https://www.instagram.com/johnmcclaindesign Follow John on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themcclainmethod   Mentioned in this episode: Access the full video interview with Elana Steele of Steele Appliance here: https://www.reneedevignierdesign.com/appliance   Find the full shownotes at: https://devignierdesign.com/john-mcclain-design-business-systems 

Is your interior design business feeling stuck, plateaued, or slower than you know it should be? In this episode, we unpack the real reasons talented, driven designers aren't seeing the growth they deserve—and it's not about needing a rebrand, a bigger budget, or a viral moment. It's about the invisible beliefs quietly shaping pricing, marketing, client experience, and results. Melissa shares the mindset shifts that separate six- and seven-figure designers from those spinning their wheels. From scarcity thinking and undercharging to trying to serve everyone and shrinking ambition, this conversation is a powerful reset. If growth has stalled, it's time to flip the switch, think bigger, and take bold, strategic action to build true Design Business Freedom. In this episode, you'll hear: (02:00) Scarcity thinking as invisible handcuffs—and why it's just a lens, not a law shaping your design business growth. (04:12) The myth of "it takes money to make money" and what really fuels profitable interior design success: clarity, courage, and consistency. (08:44) Why trying to serve everyone is the fastest path to no profit—and how defining who emotionally values your work transforms your marketing. (12:54) The role of burning ambition in building a six- or seven-figure design firm—and why shrinking your vision keeps you stuck. (20:40) The hard truth about expecting new results from old habits—and the strategic shifts required for real momentum. (22:49) Five powerful mindset and marketing shifts to reignite growth and position your brilliance in the marketplace. You're invited to The Designer Profit Intensive, a one day, in person, workshop at HPMKT, to redefine your business success with a rate restructure, custom marketing plan to capture your ideal clients organically, and proven design discovery to capture those same clients and deliver a remarkable design experience guaranteed. Get your seat at the table before they're gone! Connect with Melissa Instagram Facebook Linkedin Website