Podcast appearances and mentions of kimberley seldon

Want to take on larger, more profitable renovation projects with confidence? In this episode, Kimberley Seldon speaks with Jen Dean about one of the most valuable relationships an interior designer can build: the relationship with a trusted builder. While many designers feel intimidated by construction projects, Jen explains why learning to collaborate effectively with builders can lead to smoother projects, stronger client experiences, and greater profitability. For interior designers looking to expand their expertise, improve project execution, and confidently navigate construction environments, this episode offers practical strategies for building successful partnerships with contractors and trades. In this episode, we learn: - Why some builders hesitate to work with interior designers—and how to earn their trust - How learning to "speak builder" improves communication and collaboration on site - Why every project benefits from a builder kickoff meeting at the outset - What builders need most from designers: clear drawings, documentation, and timely decisions - How strong drawing packages reduce confusion, delays, and costly mistakes - Why asking for feedback strengthens long-term builder relationships - How to navigate preferred trades and vendor relationships professionally - Why documenting questions, decisions, and contractor notes protects the project and everyone involved Ready to build an interior design business that supports your talent? Join us at Business of Design®. https://businessofdesign.com

What happens when a renovation budget jumps from $2 million to $5 million? In this episode, Kimberley Seldon shares a recent client presentation that forced her to confront one of the biggest challenges facing interior designers today: skyrocketing construction and furnishing costs. Rather than panic, value engineer too soon, or compromise the design, Kimberley prepared two thoughtful options and helped her client make an informed decision. For interior designers navigating rising costs, client sticker shock, and difficult budget conversations, this episode offers practical strategies for leading with confidence, expertise, and integrity. In this episode, we learn: • How to prepare clients for budget realities before presenting your design recommendations • Why every designer should consider having a thoughtful Plan B when costs exceed expectations • How to avoid compromising quality while still helping clients make smart financial decisions • Why leadership, confidence, and expertise matter more than ever in today's market • How to manage your own money mindset when presenting high-budget projects • Why clients value honest advice and strategic alternatives more than endless value engineering • How presenting options strengthens trust and positions you as a true advisor, not just a designer Ready to build an interior design business that supports your talent? Join us at Business of Design®. https://businessofdesign.com

You already invested in the project. You hired the photographer. The installation is complete. Then, like so many interior designers, you treat the photoshoot as the final checkbox instead of what it really is: a marketing asset designed to attract your next ideal client. In this episode, Kimberley Seldon is joined by Candice Brooke to discuss why photography is far more than documentation—and how strategic visual content directly impacts the quality of clients and projects you attract. From editorial planning to SEO, Pinterest, social media, and relationship marketing, this conversation reframes photography as a long-term business growth strategy rather than a one-time expense. If you've ever wondered why your projects aren't attracting the level of client you want, this episode may completely change how you approach photography and content creation. What you'll learn in this episode: - Why iPhone photos often attract lower-budget, less committed clients - How professional photography impacts the quality of inquiries you receive - The difference between simply “taking photos” and building a marketing strategy - How to create an editorial calendar that extends the life of one project for months - What designers should plan before a photoshoot to maximize ROI - How to capture content for your website, Pinterest, SEO, and social media simultaneously - Why answering client questions through visual content increases engagement - Why social media is only one part of an effective marketing strategy - How relationship-building and strategic outreach continue to outperform posting alone Ready to build an interior design business that supports your talent? Join us at Business of Design®. https://businessofdesign.com

How do you make smart business decisions when there's no obvious right answer? In this episode, Kimberley Seldon is joined by Andrea Liebross to explore how interior designers can make clearer, more confident decisions—even when uncertainty, fear, or overthinking get in the way. From hiring and pricing to growth and leadership, every business owner faces moments where the next step feels unclear. Andrea shares a practical framework to help you separate facts from emotion, identify your true priorities, and make decisions that support long-term growth instead of self-sabotage. If decision fatigue or second-guessing is slowing your momentum, this episode will help you think and lead more like a CEO. What you'll learn in this episode: - How to separate facts from fear and emotion in business decisions - Why every interior design business needs one clear priority at a time - How hidden beliefs influence hiring, pricing, and growth decisions - Why confidence comes from taking action—not waiting for certainty - How to break overwhelming decisions into clear, actionable next steps - How to lead your business with greater clarity and intention Ready to build an interior design business that supports your talent? Join us at Business of Design®. https://businessofdesign.com

Paint color. Clients think it's the easiest decision. Designers know it's one of the hardest. In this episode, Kimberley Seldon is joined by Susan Jamieson, founder of Bridget Berri Designs and author of Color Rules, to unpack why paint carries so much visual weight—and why even experienced designers can struggle to get it right. From undertones to lighting to sequencing decisions correctly, this conversation reframes how to approach paint color with clarity and confidence. What you'll learn in this episode: - Why paint color is often harder than selecting furniture or finishes - Kimberley's five key principles for choosing paint with confidence - How defining the mood of a space narrows your color options - Why fixed elements should guide your paint decisions - How undertones impact color more than the name on the sample - Why testing larger samples in the actual space is critical - Why paint should be one of the final decisions—not the first Ready to build an interior design business that supports your talent? Join us at Business of Design®. https://businessofdesign.com

A room without art isn't finished—it's staged furniture waiting for a point of view. In this episode, Kimberley Seldon is joined by Sarah Hurt to tackle one of the most common confidence gaps in interior design: making decisive art selections. Too often, designers defer to the client—hoping they'll “find something meaningful”—and in doing so, weaken their authority and stall the project. This conversation reframes art as an essential part of the design process, not an afterthought. From sourcing original pieces to guiding clients with confidence, you'll learn why strong designers don't wait—they lead. If you want your projects to feel complete, be published, and stand out, it's time to make the art call. What you'll learn in this episode: - Why deferring art decisions weakens your authority as a designer - The difference between decorative “tourist art” and original, collectible work - How to guide clients toward discovering their personal art preferences - Why final art decisions should happen in the home—not the gallery - How to curate multiple pieces into a cohesive, intentional collection - Opportunities in the emerging art market under $10,000 - How partnering with an art consultant can strengthen your expertise Ready to build an interior design business that supports your talent? Join us at Business of Design®. https://businessofdesign.com

Struggling to get clients for your interior design business? You're not alone—and it's probably not a talent issue. In this episode, Kimberley Seldon sits down with Elizabeth Rees to break down what actually works when it comes to marketing for interior designers. Because the designers landing projects aren't necessarily more skilled—they're simply more visible, more consistent, and more willing to take action before they feel ready. If you've been relying on referrals, posting on social media without results, or waiting for the “right time” to put yourself out there, this conversation will change how you approach growth. This is a practical, no-fluff look at how to build traction, generate leads, and create momentum in your interior design business—without waiting for perfection. What you'll learn in this episode: - Why referrals alone won't sustain long-term growth in your interior design business - How to get interior design clients—even if you have no network - The real purpose of networking and how to use it to generate opportunities - Why visibility matters more than perfection in your marketing strategy - How to measure ROI beyond immediate revenue and short-term wins - The difference between being busy and being strategically visible - How to repurpose content to increase reach without extra work - Why in-person networking is still one of the fastest ways to grow - How rejection helps you build momentum and resilience - What “scrappy marketing” looks like when scaling your design business

“It ain't what you don't know that gets you into trouble. It's what you know for sure… that just ain't so.” In this episode, Kimberley Seldon sits down with entrepreneur and author Jill Salzman to unpack the hidden thinking patterns that keep interior designers stuck—financially, professionally, and mentally. Because most of the time, the issue isn't a lack of strategy. It's the beliefs you've built your business on. From pricing and profitability to clients and growth, designers often operate from assumptions that feel true—but quietly limit progress. This conversation challenges those assumptions and helps you see where your thinking—not your effort—is holding you back. If you've ever thought, this should be working by now, this episode will hit home. What you'll learn in this episode: - Why the problem you think you have is often not the real problem - How beliefs about money and clients quietly limit business growth - The difference between being busy and being truly profitable - Why designers stay stuck in “good enough” instead of building great - How fear of success shows up as overwork, undercharging, or avoidance - The role of vulnerability in making real business changes - Why the wrong peer group can keep your business small - The difference between a coach, consultant, and true thinking partner - How to recognize when your thinking—not your strategy—is the issue

Some episodes are about systems. Some are about mindset. This one is about what happens when life changes everything. In this deeply personal conversation, Kimberley Seldon sits down with interior designer Jodie Carter to talk about loss, resilience, and what it takes to keep going after unimaginable grief. Jodie shares the story of losing her 12-year-old son, Hamish, after years of bullying—and how she found her way forward as a mother, a business owner, and a human being. This episode is honest, moving, and unexpectedly practical. Because even in the hardest moments, there are lessons about boundaries, pricing, purpose, and the role your work can play in rebuilding a life. At its core, this is a conversation about returning to your business—and your self—with more clarity, stronger conviction, and a deeper understanding of your value. What you'll learn in this episode: - Why grief doesn't follow a straight line—and neither does recovery - How to continue meaningful work, even in the face of profound loss - Why interior design remains an act of service, even for affluent clients - How stronger boundaries and better pricing transform client relationships - Why raising your rates can increase trust, respect, and profitability - The role community plays when life becomes overwhelming - Why sometimes the most important business lesson is also a life lesson: stick to the plan Ready to build a business that supports your talent? Join us at Business of Design®. https://businessofdesign.com

What does it take to build an interior design firm that can withstand economic uncertainty, shifting markets, and hesitant clients? In this episode, Kimberley Seldon speaks with Andria Cowan-Molyneaux, owner of a thriving 18-person, $4M+ interior design firm located in a town of just 17,000 people. In a seasonal economy with no luxury boom to rely on, Andria has built a business designed to stay strong during turbulence rather than react to it. Instead of pulling back during uncertain times, Andria doubled down on strategy, marketing visibility, community involvement, and operational discipline. The result is a resilient design firm that continues to grow even when the market wobbles. This conversation is a masterclass in leadership, profitability, and long-term thinking for interior design businesses. In this episode we learn: - Why marketing only when you're slow is the fastest way to stay slow - The difference between advertising and brand-building — and why it matters for interior designers - How philanthropic campaigns can outperform paid advertising in ROI - Why design awards strengthen credibility, especially in smaller markets - The real math behind growth: consistently feeding the overhead machine - How in-house manufacturing improves margin, control, and design differentiation - Why charging $250/hour in a rural community is not bold — it's responsible business - How professional associations shorten the learning curve and prevent costly mistakes - Why competitors can become collaborators — especially in uncertain economic times If you're building an interior design firm that needs to grow, adapt, and stay profitable in changing markets, this episode will show you the quiet systems and strategies that make resilience possible. Ready to build a business that supports your talent? Join us at Business of Design®. https://businessofdesign.com

What happens when an experienced interior designer hits a creative wall—and nothing is working? In this solo episode, Kimberley Seldon walks through a real-time creative block inside a design project: the false starts, overthinking, “good enough” decisions that aren't good enough, and the creeping doubt that follows. But this isn't about talent or burnout. It's about process. Kimberley breaks down exactly what went wrong—and how skipping foundational steps like reviewing client input, defining direction, and working within constraints led to weeks of stalled progress. More importantly, she shows how returning to those same steps unlocked clarity and momentum. This episode is a practical reset for interior designers who want to move past creative blocks and design with intention, structure, and confidence. What you'll learn in this episode: • Why creative blocks happen to experienced interior designers (and why it's not about talent) • How relying on inspiration instead of process leads to stalled progress • Why “I don't hate it” is a dangerous standard in design decisions • The real cost of skipping foundational steps in your design process • How AI and efficiency tools can accidentally remove critical thinking time • Why revisiting client notes and inspiration is key to moving forward • How constraints (not freedom) lead to stronger design solutions • How to break overwhelming projects into smaller, solvable pieces • Why presenting multiple options reduces pressure and increases clarity • The difference between reactive designing and intentional design leadership If you've ever felt stuck mid-project, this episode will show you how to get unstuck—without waiting for inspiration to return. Ready to build a business that supports your talent? Join us at Business of Design®. https://businessofdesign.com

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

Procurement can make or break an interior design business. In this candid panel conversation, Kimberley Seldon is joined by Alexander Spalding of Daniel House Club and interior designers Jamie Gasparovic and Meredith Huck to talk about one of the biggest pain points in the industry: how to manage procurement without sacrificing profit, time, or sanity. Together, they unpack why so many designers resist focusing on profitability, how procurement quietly drains resources when handled inefficiently, and why outsourcing the heavy lifting can actually improve margins. They also explore the real cost of going direct, the hidden time lost managing multiple vendors, and why trust, customer service, and reliable systems matter more than ever. The conversation also touches on the decline of retail shops, the role of online retailers, and the importance of choosing vendor partners who support your business goals—not just your orders. If procurement has ever felt overwhelming, messy, or not worth the trouble, this episode will challenge that thinking and show you a smarter way forward. What you'll learn in this episode: - Why designers often resist prioritizing profitability - How procurement can drain time, energy, and margins - Why outsourcing procurement can improve efficiency and profit - How to evaluate vendor relationships for service, pricing, and reliability - Why billing for procurement hours matters - How strong systems and trusted partners support a healthier design business

At some point in every design career, curiosity starts to feel like restlessness. You're capable. Experienced. Successful. And yet—something feels contained. In this episode, Kimberley Seldon sits down with Edith Ponciano to explore what it really takes for interior designers to expand beyond residential work and step into hospitality, hotel, and restaurant design. This isn't about reinventing yourself. It's about translating the skills you already have into a new context—one that involves different decision-makers, timelines, language, and expectations. Edith shares practical insight into how hospitality projects operate, why reputation matters more than visibility in commercial work, and how designers can build credibility in unfamiliar environments without overreaching. If you've been considering commercial or hospitality design but aren't sure how to begin, this episode offers clarity on what actually matters—and what doesn't. What you'll learn in this episode: - Why knowing who makes decisions on hospitality projects matters more than selecting finishes - How to step into new project types by observing and learning before leading - Why reputation compounds faster than visibility in commercial and hospitality design - How adapting your language for architects, operators, and vendors protects your design intent - Why doubt often signals missing context—not missing talent Ready to build a business that supports your talent? Join us at Business of Design®. https://businessofdesign.com

Diversity in interior design isn't a side initiative—it's a leadership responsibility. In this episode, recorded in partnership with the High Point Market Authority's Diversity Advocacy Alliance (DAA), Kimberley Seldon sits down with DuVäl Reynolds, an active member of the DAA, to explore how access, representation, and leadership are shaping the future of the design industry. Together, they discuss the vital role High Point Market plays—not just as a global sourcing destination—but as a platform for visibility, mentorship, and meaningful industry change. The Diversity Advocacy Alliance was created to expand opportunity and remove barriers within interior design, and DuVäl shares what that work looks like in practice. This conversation reframes diversity as a growth strategy—one that strengthens creativity, deepens collaboration, and ensures the long-term health of the profession. When more voices are invited to the table, the entire industry becomes more innovative and resilient. What you'll learn in this episode: - Why diversity in interior design is a leadership issue, not a trend - The mission and impact of the High Point Market Authority's Diversity Advocacy Alliance - How High Point Market creates visibility and opportunity for emerging professionals - Why representation fuels creativity and business growth - How established designers can actively support inclusion within the industry - Why long-term industry growth depends on access and mentorship Ready to build a business that supports your talent? Join us at Business of Design®. https://businessofdesign.com

When inquiries slow down or leads don't convert, most interior designers assume they need better marketing. But in many cases, the real issue isn't visibility—it's sales. In this episode, Kimberley Seldon is joined by returning guest and marketing strategist Daniela Furtado to unpack what a healthy sales funnel actually looks like in a design business. Together, they dig into the real numbers behind inquiries, close rates, and response times—so you can pinpoint exactly where opportunities are leaking out of your process. Daniela explains why looking at sales data without emotion leads to better decisions, how a surprisingly high close rate can signal underpricing, and why designers need to reclaim leadership in the sales conversation. She also shares her proven intake call script, designed to qualify clients faster and book better-fit projects with confidence. If you want clarity instead of guesswork—and a sales process that supports growth without burnout—this episode shows you exactly what to fix next. What you'll learn in this episode: - What realistic sales conversion rates look like at different stages of a design business - How to track inquiries and identify patterns in your sales funnel - Why emotion-free data leads to smarter, calmer decisions - When a high close rate is actually a warning sign of underpricing - How to qualify clients faster by leading the sales conversation - Why response time can make or break a deal - Creative ways designers are using sales data to generate new revenue streams Ready to build a business that supports your talent? Join us at Business of Design®. https://businessofdesign.com

Most interior designers believe growth means saying yes to more projects, being more available, and pushing harder. In this solo episode, Kimberley Seldon explains why that mindset is exactly what keeps design businesses stuck, overextended, and exhausted. Drawing on a tap-dancing metaphor that lands harder than expected, Kimberley reframes growth as a design problem, not a motivation problem. She breaks down why capacity-based businesses quietly cap growth, how decision fatigue drains energy faster than workload, and why the most profitable designers don't move faster—they operate with clarity. This episode challenges the assumption that effort equals progress and shows why real growth requires stronger systems, clearer constraints, and a fundamentally different way of leading. If you're ambitious but maxed out, this conversation will help you see what's actually holding you back—and why the solution isn't working harder. What you'll learn in this episode: - Why 2x growth often creates more stress instead of more profit - How capacity-based businesses unintentionally limit growth - Why decision fatigue—not workload—is the real cause of burnout - The difference between flexibility and fragility in a design business - Why constraints create leadership, leverage, and clarity - How unpaid labor hides behind the label of “high-end service” - Why meaningful growth requires a stronger container, not more effort Ready to build a business that supports your talent? Join us at Business of Design®. https://businessofdesign.com

AI has interior designers asking the wrong question. The real issue isn't “Will this replace me?”—it's “Where does responsibility live in my business?” In this grounded, practical conversation, Kimberley Seldon is joined by Sheilah MacSporran, CEO and co-founder of DesignFiles, to cut through the hype and talk honestly about what AI can—and cannot—do inside a design firm. This episode reframes AI as a support tool, not a magic wand. You'll learn why AI is most effective when it reinforces clear thinking, strong systems, and confident decision-making, and how reducing friction at key moments in the design process helps clients move forward faster and with less fear. Rather than chasing the newest tools, this conversation focuses on using AI intentionally to increase capacity, clarity, and leadership. If you're curious about AI but wary of losing control, this episode will help you understand where it belongs—and where it absolutely doesn't. What you'll learn in this episode: - Why AI will never replace interior designers—because responsibility can't be automated - How clearer presentations reduce client fear and speed up approvals - Where AI actually fits into the design process (and where it doesn't) - Why designers with strong systems benefit most from AI tools - How eliminating friction increases capacity without adding staff - Why small process improvements outperform massive tech overhauls Ready to build a business that supports your talent? Join us at Business of Design®. https://businessofdesign.com

Design doesn't exist in a vacuum. It responds to real life — and sometimes, real loss. In this thoughtful conversation, Kimberley Seldon sits down with Megan Reilly, co-founder of WestEdge Design Fair, to explore how the role of interior designers is evolving beyond aesthetics and into responsibility. They discuss how design shows up during disruption and rebuilding, why resilience and smarter material choices are becoming non-negotiable, and how industry platforms like WestEdge are adapting to support designers who want to do meaningful, relevant work without sacrificing business sustainability. This is not about burnout, martyrdom, or working for free — it's about clarity, education, and community. If you've been feeling the pull toward more impact but aren't sure how to balance that with running a healthy business, this episode offers a grounded, honest perspective on what it means to be a designer right now — and how to step into a bigger role with intention. What you'll learn in this episode: - Why design has consequences far beyond aesthetics - How designers can contribute meaningfully during rebuilding and recovery - What resilience, sustainability, and smarter material choices look like in practice - Why in-person events and industry platforms matter more than ever - How designers can expand their impact without diluting their business model - Why education and community are strategic advantages — not “extras”

Your calendar can look reasonable and still leave you exhausted. Your team can be busy and still underperform. Your revenue can grow while your sanity quietly erodes. That disconnect isn't a motivation problem — it's a capacity problem. In this episode, Kimberley Seldon sits down with financial strategist Megan Dahle to unpack why so many interior designers hit an invisible ceiling in their business without realizing it. Capacity isn't about how much work you want to take on — it's about how much your current business structure can actually support without degrading profit, time, or the client experience. Together, they explore how decision load, responsibility, and constant context-switching drain capacity far faster than hours worked — and why adding more clients or more staff often makes things worse. This conversation isn't about pushing harder. It's about seeing clearly, identifying the real constraint in your business, and making calmer, more strategic decisions because of it. If growth feels heavier instead of easier, this episode will help you understand why — and what to change next. What you'll learn in this episode: - Why feeling overwhelmed isn't a time-management failure - How decisions, responsibility, and context-switching drain capacity faster than hours worked - How to identify your real capacity ceiling without complex spreadsheets - Why adding more clients or more staff often amplifies stress instead of solving it - How understanding capacity reframes pricing, staffing, and leadership decisions - Why protecting your attention turns time into a luxury product — without blindly charging more

After decades in business, many interior designers reach a quiet crossroads: Is this as good as it gets? In this thoughtful, grounded conversation, Kimberley Seldon sits down with Michael Abrams and Gina Valenti to explore what it really looks like to evolve a design firm after 25 years—without chasing trends or reinventing yourself for attention. Michael and Gina share how experience becomes a competitive advantage when paired with clarity, alignment, and intention. From earning partnership and planning succession to protecting your reputation and learning to say no without apology, this episode offers a real-world roadmap for designers who are successful—but restless. If you're thinking about what's next for your firm, your role, or your legacy, this episode gives you both permission and practical insight to design a future that can truly carry you forward. What You'll Learn in this episode: - Why rebranding later in your career can be a strategic advantage - How partnership is earned—not granted—inside a mature design firm - What healthy disagreement looks like in long-standing professional relationships - Why trust, not talent, is the true currency with clients - How to spot red flags before they cost you time, money, or sanity - Why saying no protects your brand more than saying yes ever could

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

Most interior designers don't avoid their numbers because they're bad at math—they avoid them because no one ever explained the financial system in a way that actually made sense. In this episode, Kimberley Seldon sits down with Hannah Cole, artist turned tax expert, to dismantle the myth that creatives “just aren't good with money” and reveal the real issue: running a business while guessing instead of knowing. This conversation takes a clear-eyed look at what happens when smart, capable designers disengage from their financial reality. From payroll blind spots to the false comfort of being “busy,” Hannah reframes financial literacy as a visibility problem, not a math problem. You'll learn why nonstop work doesn't guarantee profit—and how simple habits like time tracking can quickly restore clarity and confidence. If you've ever felt uneasy about money despite working around the clock, this episode will help you understand why—and show you where to start fixing it. What You'll Learn in this episode: - Why creatives aren't bad at numbers—they're bad at operating in mystery - How being “busy” can hide serious profitability issues - Why payroll is the most dangerous expense designers underestimate - The difference between gut-feel decisions and data-backed leadership - When it makes sense to DIY your finances—and when it doesn't - How basic tax literacy protects your business and future income - Why time tracking is one of the fastest paths to financial clarity

Most interior designers don't have a branding problem—they have a brand drift problem. As your skills, confidence, and fees evolve, the brand you built early on can quietly fall out of alignment with who you are now. And when that happens, it doesn't just feel off—it actively repels the clients you want to attract. In this candid conversation, Kimberley Seldon sits down with brand strategist Puja Malhotra to unpack what designers get wrong about branding—and what actually matters. From that subtle hesitation you feel before sharing your website, to the hidden cost of inconsistency, this episode reframes branding as a strategic business tool, not a creative indulgence. If your work has leveled up but your brand hasn't kept pace, this episode will put language to that uneasy feeling—and show you exactly what to do next. What You'll Learn in this Episode: - Why brand hesitation signals misalignment, not insecurity - How experienced designers outgrow DIY branding without realizing it - The difference between being visually “interesting” and truly memorable - Why consistency builds trust faster than creativity - How your website should function as an employee—not a portfolio graveyard - When to audit your brand—and when it's time to bring in professional help - Why timeless branding matters if you plan to grow, scale, or trademark

Interior designers often find themselves defending beautiful, well-considered ideas to hesitant clients. But what if that hesitation isn't resistance—it's biology? In this episode, Kimberley Seldon speaks with designer and BOD™ Member, Martha Lowry about neuro-aesthetics and how the brain responds to space long before logic or language catch up. This conversation reframes how designers understand client reactions, decision-making, and emotional buy-in. You'll learn why a room can be technically perfect and still feel “wrong,” how colour and materials trigger powerful subconscious responses, and why deeper, more thoughtful client questioning leads to smoother projects and fewer revisions. By understanding how memory, emotion, and lived experience influence perception, designers can reduce friction, build trust faster, and create interiors that feel as good as they look. What You'll Learn in this Episode: - Why clients respond emotionally to space before they can articulate preferences - How neuro-aesthetics explains hesitation, resistance, and indecision - Why “good design” doesn't always equal emotional comfort - How memory and lived experience shape reactions to colour and materials - The role of biophilia in creating calm, restorative interiors - How deeper client questioning builds trust and reduces revisions

Interior design businesses don't fail for lack of talent—they struggle because the business plan is too vague, too complicated, or never gets implemented. In this episode, Kimberley Seldon shares a simple, actionable framework any interior designer can use to improve profitability, attract more ideal clients, and run a more efficient design firm. Kimberley breaks down the three strategic levers that determine every design firm's success: - Demand (attracting ideal clients) - Margin (pricing, profitability, and scope control) - Efficiency (systems, process, and team capacity) You'll learn how to identify the lever that will make the biggest difference in your business this year—and the specific commitments that support real progress. No wishful thinking. No complicated binders. Just a practical plan you can start using today. Whether you want to increase revenue, raise your rates, improve project management, or regain control of your workload, this episode gives you the clarity and direction you've been missing. In this episode we learn: - Why a real business plan goes beyond revenue—and includes capacity, systems, and leadership - The three levers that drive demand, margin, and efficiency in every interior design business - How to choose the right lever based on your current bottleneck - Practical commitments that move the needle for each lever - Why aligning your business plan with your calendar is the key to implementation - How quarterly reviews prevent overcorrection and keep you focused - The mindset shift designers must make to lead with confidence this year

What would it take for your interior design business to run smoothly—without you being involved in every decision, every email, every crisis? In this episode, Kimberley Seldon shares how she went from burnout and bottlenecks to spending a full month in Barcelona while her business continued to operate beautifully in her absence. This is not a story about working harder. It's about installing repeatable systems, clear responsibilities, and structured communication so your firm stops depending on you for every answer. Kimberley walks through the exact frameworks that replaced overwhelm with clarity and turned a chaotic workflow into a consistent, predictable, profitable design business. If your goal next year is more freedom, less micromanaging, and a business that finally supports the life you want, this episode offers both inspiration and practical direction. In this episode we learn: - How systems—not hustle—took Kimberley from burnout to a month of freedom in Barcelona - How the BOD™ 15 keeps every interior design project on track without constant oversight - How the Trade Partner Agreement eliminates confusion, empowers trades, and reduces interruptions - Why a Client Communication Framework is the secret to repeat work, referrals, and conflict-free projects - The essentials of a profit protocol that ensures sustainable earnings on every job - Why your business can't thrive until you stop being indispensable—and how systems make that possible

Join Kimberley Seldon on the Business of Design podcast as she explores the powerful strategies of upselling and cross-selling to enhance your business with existing clients. Discover how these techniques can transform your projects into extraordinary experiences, boosting both client satisfaction and your bottom line. In this episode, you will learn: - The difference between upselling and cross-selling and why they matter. - How to confidently suggest premium products and services without feeling pushy. - The role of integrity in sales and how to propose upgrades that clients will value. - Practical examples of turning small projects into significant opportunities. - Strategies to grow your business profitably without additional time investment. Tune in to unlock the potential of your current client relationships and elevate your design business to new heights.

In this episode, Advocate in Chief, Kimberley Seldon, shares the story of my personal burnout moment—right in the middle of what should have been a dream project. She opens up about the emotional toll of saying yes too often, working past capacity, and losing the spark that made her fall in love with design in the first place. You'll hear about her efforts to shift from hustle to sustainability and how that helped her reclaim her energy and restructure her business. In this episode we learn: - burnout doesn't always look like a breakdown—it can happen quietly, even in beautiful spaces. - sustainable change often starts with one small but bold decision. - defining your true capacity (and honoring it) is a business strategy, not a luxury. - raising your rates can reduce your workload and increase your revenue. - a signature process saves time, builds confidence, and elevates the client experience. - protecting your energy is not selfish—it's what allows your creativity and business to thrive. Learn more to transform your business, and your life, at https://businessofdesign.com

Slow season got you feeling... stuck? You're not alone. In this episode, our Advocate-in-Chief  shares 5 smart moves every interior designer can make when work slows down. From reconnecting with past clients to finally creating that operations manual, these are actionable, empowering steps to help you emerge from any lull stronger, sharper, and ready for whatever's next. Whether you're in a rut or just need a reset, this is the pep talk you didn't know you needed. In this episode we learn: - why former clients are your most valuable leads—and how to reconnect without being salesy - what goes into a killer operations manual and how it can change your business - systems you finally have time to implement that will pay off all year long - how to use slow seasons to sharpen your skills and expand your value - yes, it's ok to raise your rates even when business feels slow - how mindset shifts during slow periods can lead to powerful breakthroughs Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Let's be honest, some of the most powerful forces holding us back aren't external. Our negative self-talk contributes to lackluster results and keeps us stuck. The messages may sound harmless, even reasonable, overtime they will erode your self-confidence and hamper your success. Change the message, you change the momentum. In this episode we learn:  how negative self-talk quietly sabotages your business growth  the real cost of staying stuck in a negative mental loop  how to identify the limiting stories you keep telling yourself  what it takes to shift your mindset and reclaim momentum Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Ever worried that you're charging too much? Of course you have. You're an interior design professional! But no more says Kristen Apicerno. Kristen, a Kimberley Seldon disciple, initially struggled with charging appropriate fees for her services. She felt that charging a project management fee was "double dipping" and peers and other professionals agreed. This erroneous attitude severely limited her earning potential, that is, until she joined BOD™. Once she implemented the systems, she realized she was undercharging and tackling the most challenging parts of the project for free.  Hear her story of meteoric success.  In this episode we learn: - always take the approach that designer and client are equals, and emphasize that with language - during every step, tell clients what's going to happen before it happens - ask purposeful open-ended questions and let the client do most of the talking - use post-project opportunities to gain repeats and referrals Business of Design® is your blueprint for running streamline projects and building a highly profitable interior design business. Get your business blueprint at https://businessofdesign.com/membership

How do you know when the s%*&'s about to hit the fan? Are there warning signs, and if so, what are they? Kimberley shares her recent experience of being evacuated in the LA fires and relates it to preparedness when it comes to knowing your business is in trouble. In this episode we learn: - by the time your business is in trouble, the chances are you missed multiple warning signs - your P&L can act as an early warning protection system - analyzing incoming inquiries is your number one assessment tool - before it gets dire, get busy with client retention, client growth and client sourcing

Just because you've been doing it that way for years doesn't make it the best way. Don't surrender to so-so, when amazing is just around the corner. In this episode we learn: - top assumptions that need replacing - when it's time to abandon a method of working - why new systems can fast track you to new success Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Kimberley contemplates a tattoo for the new year, while sharing wisdom from the season's best podcasts.  In this episode we learn: 1. systems don't complicate your life, they remove friction 2. no is a complete sentence 3. let me look into that 4. design with intention, not just for attention 5. is this an insurmountable problem 6. when you are speaking to everyone, you are speaking to no one 7. the client's wish list never aligns with the client's budget 8. beware of toxic positivity 9. never be more concerned about your client's money than you are about your own 10. feel awkward for 15 seconds, and see what the client says Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/membership

Not all contracts are created equal. An hourly fee contract has distinct advantages but so does a flat fee contract. Then there's the hybrid contract. Which one is right for you? To be honest, it doesn't matter which you use. All work effectively, provided you know how to calculate required funds, how to ask for the required funds and how to maintain control of the funds. In this episode we learn: - BOD™ finally has an ebook and an audio book - which contract is right for you—hourly, flat, hybrid - learn how to ask for the money you need - learn how to calculate up-front fees Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

The wait is over! BOD™ Run Your Business has arrived. In this episode, Advocate-in-Chief Kimberley Seldon shares her journey over the past two years, offering key insights into crafting the ultimate playbook for running a successful business. In this episode we learn: - what's inside Kimberley's latest book and how it applies to your business - everything starts with your money mindset and limiting beliefs - expertise comes through systems - hourly fees vs. flat fees, which should you use - how to embrace a standardized contract Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Something's gone wrong on the project. Of course something's gone wrong on the project. It's a project, so you can rely on errors, omission and upsets. Don't let it throw you. Deficiencies are part of the business of design. In this episode we learn: - deficiencies are 100% guaranteed to happen - it is impossible to prevent most deficiencies from occurring - during the project, you and your team will prevent hundreds of deficiencies by maintaining systems - deficiencies can be the worst part of the job, stay on top of them Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

What do you do when you find yourself with clients who want you to provide everything on their wish list for a fixed amount? They have a budget in mind, and it seems reasonable to them that you should be able to stretch their budget to include everything. Hmmmmm. Let's hear how Kimberley solved this issue on a recent project.    In this episode we learn: - clients are not expert in running design projects, you are - tell them how to spend their money in a satisfying way - remind them how indecision costs them money - forget the kids' rooms, take care of mom and dad first - the budget and the wish list never match Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Kimberley shares some random thoughts from recent coaching calls and client projects. See if you can relate. In this episode we learn: - be like Taylor and make a bold change - good stands in the way of great - no contract will protect you if you don't follow the rules - you are the expert, direct clients to spend money in a way that will bring them the best value Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

It's not how many years you've been in business. It's not how many clients you've serviced. It's not even about always knowing what to say to your clients or trades or staff. Being an expert begins with mindset. If you develop the mindset of an expert, you will become an expert. How do you develop an expert's mindset? By relying on written, repeatable systems that support your business and life goals. In this episode we learn: - I am the expert I am the prize. - I am on a mission to help. - I can only do that if you let me lead. - All will not follow, and that is OK. Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

In this 4-part series, Kimberley will answer 24 questions in honour of 2024. We've broken it down into categories that focus on clients, projects, business, and staff. In this final episode, Cheryl will ask Kimberley 6 questions about staff. 1. Did you ever have trouble keeping staff? 2. What's the secret to retaining staff? 3. We've heard you say you suck at hiring. Why? 4. What is the hardest thing about delegating? 5. What is the best part about delegating? 6. Can you list the pros and cons of employees vs. contractors? Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

In this 4-part series, Kimberley will answer 24 questions in honour of 2024. We've broken it down into categories that focus on clients, projects, business, and staff. In this episode, Cheryl will ask Kimberley 6 questions about business. 1. What is your favorite line in your contract? 2. What is the first change you would recommend to a designer who is new to systems? 3. What is the most common way that designers leave money on the table? 4. Can you share your most recent aha moment? 5. What part of your finances took you the longest to understand, but once you did it's now a critical number you look at? 6. Why is business training so important for design professionals? Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

In this 4-part series, Kimberley will answer 24 questions in honour of 2024. We've broken it down into categories that focus on clients, projects, business, and staff. In the episode, Cheryl will ask Kimberley 6 questions about projects. 1. What is your favorite part of any project? 2. What is the newest system you've implemented? 3. What's a system you've tried, but would not recommend? 4. What is the most underrated step in the BOD15? 5. What is the most common question you get about the BOD 15? 6. What's on the other side of using systems? Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

In this 4-part series, Kimberley will answer 24 questions in honour of 2024. We've broken it down into categories that focus on clients, projects, business, and staff. In the first episode, Cheryl will ask Kimberley 6 questions about clients. 1. What is your go-to line when it comes to working with clients? 2. What is a go-to example you use to set client expectations at the start of the project? 3. What is the hardest thing you've ever had to tell a client? 4. What is the best or most important thing you've learned from a client? 5. After Step 1 and 2, what is the most critical step to stay in touch with clients to manage expectations and keep the project on track? 6. Didn't see that coming. What was an unexpected red flag that happened after the project was already launched? Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

In this episode, recorded live at IDS Toronto 20204, Business of Design® Advocate in Chief, Kimberley Seldon, spoke to a sold-out crowd on being the expert. Confidence in your expertise is the first step in creating the successful interior design business you deserve and desire. By building confidence, you'll be able to honor your value, charge appropriate fees and generate profit year after year. From the position of expert, you can confidently offer your talents and skills to the clients you serve and earn a robust living. Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

The journey to running a mature, profitable design firm is rarely an easy one. In this episode, Advocate-in-Chief, Kimberley Seldon shares some anecdotes on the path to success. In this episode we learn: - clients will follow whatever rules you give them, so don't give them lousy rules - years on the job does not guarantee success or even progress - sometimes our job is to say no, early in the project - the surest way to destroy project success is to allow clients to take the lead Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

Whether you think you can, or you think you can't, you're right. Henry Ford In this episode we learn: - what's holding you back is within your power to change - you don't have to make every mistake yourself - change it now, don't wait for new years' resolutions

If you are working in or working towards delivering a luxury experience to clients, then think carefully before asking them to complete some task on your behalf? Measure the mattress, pick up tiles, receive deliveries…all of these tasks are better left to professionals and not your clients, so says Kimberley. And by the way, she has a lot of opinions in this episode. In this episode we learn: - watch where you put the monkey - even if a request sounds simple, avoid asking your clients to work for you - anticipate future project needs and you'll look like a rock star Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast

In this solo episode, Kimberley shares a current job frustration. She asks the question, how complicated can it be to make over a set of stairs. The answer may surprise you. In this episode we learn: - there's no such thing as an easy job - working with a reliable team of professional trades is the best way to ensure projects run smoothly Success is not an accident. It's a strategy. Business of Design® is that strategy. Become a member, today. https://businessofdesign.com/?ref=2&campaign=podcast