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Your phone rings after hours and a perfect-fit remodeling lead leaves a voicemail and disappears. We talk with Lauren Scherber, second-generation owner of Castle Building and Remodeling in Minneapolis St Paul, about the practical ways she’s using AI to stop that leak and build a stronger design-build business without losing the human side of the work.

We get into what it really takes to scale a remodeling company from a basement operation into multiple design studios with a full team: designers, project managers, and in-house carpenters. Lauren shares the behind-the-scenes reality of family business succession, why systems and roles matter, and how tough decisions can protect both the company and the relationships that built it.

Then we go deep on AI in remodeling and construction. Lauren explains how AI agents and a modern CRM help capture leads, summarize sales calls, and schedule consultations 24/7. We also cover AI for interior design visualization, faster renderings, and plan and spec comparison that can catch costly mistakes before they hit the field. On the marketing side, we talk digital marketing for remodelers, SEO and AEO, content like remodeling cost guides and “Remodeling 101” videos, and why PR, reviews, and even accessibility now affect search visibility as bots and language models pull from many sources.

If you want smarter workflows, better lead conversion, and clearer positioning in a crowded market, hit play, then subscribe, share this with a builder or designer friend, and leave a review so more pros can find the show.

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics.

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Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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You do not need a massive marketing budget to start showing up on Google. We break down five high impact SEO moves that design and remodeling companies can tackle first, especially if you are tired of relying only on referrals or expensive ads. Jason shares the same practical guidance he gives other remodelers when they ask what they can do now, on their own, to build momentum with search.

We start with the foundation: your Google Business Profile. We talk about fully completing the profile, using the available space to describe services in detail, and making small but meaningful updates like holiday hours. Then we shift into local SEO strategy, including creating city pages and using location based keywords so you can compete in your real service area and improve your chances of landing in the map pack for “remodeler near me” searches.

From there, we get into content that actually differentiates you: documenting the design and remodeling journey from the first meeting through selections, demolition, installation, and the final reveal. We also cover why reviews matter for both rankings and trust, when to ask for them, and how video or detailed written feedback can help. We close with user experience tips, including mobile optimization and site speed, so your website performs well for both visitors and search engines.

If you found this helpful, subscribe, leave a review, and share the episode with a design pro who wants more qualified leads from SEO. What is the first fix you are going to make?

Below are the Top 10 tips discussed:

1. Optimize for Local Search Everywhere: Focus heavily on city-specific service pages, Google Business Profile optimization, and local keywords to dominate local search results.
2. Create Project-Based Content: Showcase detailed before-and-after projects, case studies, and renovation stories to build authority and rank for long-tail searches.
3. Prioritize Google Business Profile (GBP): Consistently update photos, reviews, services, posts, and FAQs because GBP remains critical for local lead generation.
4. Use AI-Assisted SEO Strategically: Use AI tools for research, outlines, optimization, and scaling content while keeping the expertise and voice human.
5. Build Topical Authority: Create clusters of content around kitchens, bathrooms, additions, cabinetry, and remodeling topics to improve overall search relevance.
6. Optimize for Voice & Conversational Search: Write content that answers natural homeowner questions since voice and AI-assisted search continue to grow.
7. Focus on High-Quality Visual SEO: Properly optimize project images, alt text, video content, and file names because visual search is becoming increasingly important.
8. Improve Website Speed & User Experience: Fast-loading, mobile-friendly websites with strong navigation and clear calls-to-action rank and convert better.
9. Generate Consistent Reviews & Reputation Signals: Positive reviews across Google and other platforms strongly influence rankings, trust, and conversions.
10. Create Content for Every Stage of the Remodeling Journey: Develop SEO content that helps homeowners from inspiration and budgeting to hiring and project planning.

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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A remodel can look perfect on paper and still go sideways the moment framing starts. We talk with residential structural engineer Roger Enters of Epong Engineering about what really protects a project: smart planning, clear communication, and getting engineering eyes on the work before assumptions turn into expensive fixes.

Roger shares why residential structural engineering is such a niche, how local licensing and building code expectations vary by market, and why professional trade organizations like NARI and builder associations can raise the standard for everyone involved. We also dig into what “legitimacy” actually means when homeowners are searching for a remodeler or trying to build the right team, plus how showing up to monthly meetings becomes real business development over time.

You’ll hear a real-world case where a sunroom addition nearly went to litigation after the wrong ridge element was used in a vaulted ceiling. Roger explains how an engineer approaches the problem, offers multiple buildable solutions, and helps keep the design intent intact while satisfying inspectors. We also break down one of the biggest homeowner questions in remodeling: removing a wall, understanding load-bearing vs lateral bracing, and why “it’s been fine for 70 years” is not a structural plan.

If you care about safer homes, smoother remodel timelines, and fewer surprises behind the drywall, hit play. Subscribe, share the episode with a builder or designer friend, and leave a review so more people can find the show.

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Your website can be polished and still quietly leak leads. We see it all the time: great designers and remodelers doing strong work, but their site doesn’t show it clearly, doesn’t earn trust fast enough, or doesn’t tell visitors what to do next. So we break down five website upgrades for 2026 that make an immediate difference for the remodeling industry and design professionals who want better inquiries, better fit clients, and a stronger first impression.

We start with high quality photography, because your images are your credibility. We talk about why professional project photos change how homeowners judge your craftsmanship and taste, and what to do if you’re still shooting work yourself. Then we get practical about conversion: a clear call to action that tells people to book a consultation, submit a project form, or take the next step, instead of leaving them to guess. If you’ve ever wondered why traffic doesn’t turn into leads, this is often the missing piece.

From there, we dig into trust and visibility. We explain how to use social proof the right way, including linking out to authentic Google reviews or Houzz reviews, and why third party validation beats self promotion every time. We also make the SEO case for location specific pages and detailed project pages, where you describe materials, phases, and product choices so search engines and AI search can actually understand your work. Finally, we talk video marketing for your website, even simple Canva slideshows, to increase time on page and help people stop scrolling and start picturing themselves hiring you.

If you want the other five tips, we point you to where to find them. Subscribe, share the show with a design friend, and leave a review so more remodelers and designers can find us.

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Networking can feel like small talk until you realize it can also be the strongest business development system you have. We sit down with Samantha Vogt, president of the NKBA Texas North Plains Chapter and a senior interior designer at Jay Wiley Designs, to get specific about what the National Kitchen and Bath Association really offers working designers and remodelers who want to grow with more confidence and less guesswork.

We unpack the practical benefits Samantha sees every day: education that goes beyond inspiration, market research that helps you understand shifting budgets and client expectations, and a community that can become an organic referral pipeline. Samantha breaks down NKBA certifications and specialty badges, plus the value of standards and code guidance for kitchen and bath design, from clearances to accessibility considerations. If you’ve ever wished for a clearer roadmap for professional development, this conversation lays out what’s available and how to use it.

We also talk trends and the bigger industry picture, including KBIS, the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show, where vendors, CEUs, and panel discussions can keep you ahead of materials and products your clients will ask about next. And yes, we go straight at the AI question: where AI can support your workflow, why it still can’t replace a designer, and how to stay adaptable without buying into hype.

If you want to connect with the right people, learn faster, and build a stronger design business, press play and take notes. Subscribe, share this with a design friend, and leave a review so more pros can find the show.

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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PR can feel like a black box for designers and remodeling pros, so we’re pulling the curtain back with the 10 questions we get asked nonstop. We talk about what PR actually is (hint: it’s not just “getting into a magazine”), why earned media builds trust in a way paid ads can’t, and how to think about visibility across online publications, local outlets, trade media, podcasts, and even speaking opportunities.

We also get practical about doing your own public relations without hiring a pricey PR agency. We unpack what journalists and editors are really looking for, how to turn your projects and expertise into story-ready angles, and why generic self-praise falls flat. Then we dig into photography expectations, including when professional photos are worth the spend and when high-quality iPhone images can be enough for the right kind of coverage.

From there, we zoom out into strategy: how fast PR can work when you focus, why long-term consistency compounds, and why local press often beats national logos for generating qualified leads in your region. We also clarify the relationship between PR and marketing, explain where press releases fit today, and share a mindset shift for handling rejection so you keep pitching without taking it personally.

If you want more visibility, more credibility, and a clearer path to media coverage that supports your business goals, hit play, then subscribe, leave a review, and share the show with a friend.

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Social media has never offered more ways to reach clients & it has never been easier to waste an entire afternoon scrolling. We break that tension down with 10 practical social media tips for 2026 built specifically for design professionals who need results without burning out.

We start with the foundation, consistency. If a potential client checks your Instagram or Facebook and your last post is months old, trust drops fast. We talk about what “consistent” actually looks like, why one strong post per week can be enough, and how a simple schedule keeps your brand visible while you stay focused on projects. We also share a batching workflow that takes about an hour a month.

From there, we get into community and content strategy for design and remodeling businesses growth. We explain how joining the right groups and engaging with like minded pros helps you earn shares, comments, and long term momentum. The goal is to give people a real reason to keep coming back to your page. We close with the part nobody talks about enough: your relationship with social media. We share how to avoid spreading yourself too thin, set a weekly engagement window, & stop the death scroll so you can stay sharp, healthy, and consistent.

Subscribe, leave a review, & share the show with a friend. See all 10 tips below:

1. Trust-First Content — Authentic content that builds credibility and trust now outperforms overly promotional posts.
2. Short-Form Video Storytelling — Educational and story-driven short videos generate the highest engagement and reach.
3. Authority-Based Content — Businesses that consistently teach and share expertise attract higher-quality leads.
4. Local SEO + Social Integration — Local keywords, geotags, and city-focused content are critical for visibility in 2026.
5. Personal Branding — Owners and leadership teams who are visible online build trust faster than company brands alone.
6. AI-Assisted Content Creation — AI tools are helping businesses create faster, more consistent, and scalable content.
7. Community Engagement — Meaningful interactions and conversations matter more than follower count.
8. Educational Carousel Posts — Informative carousel posts are driving strong saves, shares, and audience retention.
9. Consistency Over Virality — Consistent posting and messaging outperform occasional viral content.
10. Full Buyer Journey Content — Successful brands create content that supports every stage from awareness to conversion.

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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AI search is quietly reshaping how homeowners choose a designer or remodeler, and the rules are not the same as traditional SEO. If you want your business to show up when someone asks ChatGPT or Perplexity for “the best kitchen remodeler near me,” you need more than a pretty website and a few keywords. You need content that answers the questions people actually ask and signals that you’re a credible expert worth quoting.

We talk through the website moves that make you easier for large language models to understand clear service pages, tight structure, and FAQ-style answers around the big trust questions like cost, scope, and timeline. We also explain how to share pricing without boxing yourself into a single number by using ranges and real examples that add context. If your homepage is a wall of text, we explain why that hurts both humans and AI and what “organized” really looks like.

Then we get into why PR is having a real moment. Earned media creates third-party credibility, and that validation is exactly what AI systems tend to rely on when they build answers. We break down how smaller local mentions, trade publication quotes, and smart press release distribution can put your name in more places AI looks. We also share what not to do, including publishing generic AI-written website copy that gets ignored instead of rewarded.

If you want more designers and remodeling leads from AI search, subscribe, share this with a colleague, and leave a review so more pros can find it.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://auditsky.ai (Website AI Audit)
• https://answerthepublic.com/ (Find out what questions people are asking AI)

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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If your design studio feels busy but the bank account never seems to agree, it’s time to zoom out and look at operations. We’re joined by Diane Welhouse of Wellhouse Consulting Services, a certified kitchen and bath remodeler and longtime remodeling professional, to talk about what actually makes a design or remodeling business durable in a tough marketplace.

We start with the unglamorous stuff that changes everything: replacing outdated, paper-based workflows with modern business systems, choosing scalable technology, and building processes your team can follow. Diane explains why “mainstream” tools like QuickBooks and supported project platforms often beat proprietary setups, especially if you want to grow, hire, or eventually sell.

Then we get into pricing strategy, budgeting, and cash flow. Diane breaks down how to use real numbers, not “industry standard markup,” to set rates and margins, track billable hours, and aim for true profit. A big takeaway is reserve planning in three buckets: operating reserves for downturns, capital reserves for future investments, and “human reserves” so you can hire without fear during that 60 to 90 day ramp-up window.

We also connect operations to marketing and PR: defining your mission, values, and ideal client profile, building trust through thought leadership on LinkedIn, working with local media, and using awards plus before-and-after photos as credibility and content. Hit play, then subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a review so more design pros can find it.

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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If you’ve ever thought, “I can design a beautiful space, but commercial feels like a different language,” today’s guest is here to change that. Marcy Sagel is the founder of DesignerBank and principal of MSA Interiors, with 25 years in commercial and multifamily interiors. She helps interior designers build practical skills in Revit, Enscape rendering, and large-scale space planning using real project workflows. In this conversation, you’ll learn what truly separates residential from commercial, and how to level up fast without
guessing.

Commercial interior design can look mysterious from the outside, but once you understand the workflow, it becomes a realistic next step for residential designers who want bigger projects and a wider career runway. We sit down with Marcy Sagel, founder of MSA Interiors and Designer Bank, to unpack what actually changes when you move into multifamily and other large-scale commercial work, and what skills help you contribute fast without feeling overwhelmed.

We get specific about the tools and the expectations. Marcy explains why so many commercial teams rely on Revit, how interior designers use it inside an architectural model, and why firms often require Revit proficiency before they hire. We also talk about the real payoff: stronger job placement, more opportunities across architecture and design firms, and the career leverage that comes from production-ready software skills. On top of that, we explore why rendering matters so much for client buy-in, plus how learning lighting, materials, and presentation techniques can make your ideas land faster.

Then we zoom out to the business side of commercial interiors: working with big teams, staying aligned through schedules and phases, doing early space planning for amenities, and handling value engineering without sacrificing the look. Marcy also shares practical marketing and PR advice for designers who want to break into commercial work locally, often starting with the same residential clients who own businesses and need offices or facilities designed.

If you’re ready to expand your portfolio and design career, subscribe, share the episode with a designer friend, and leave a review so more listeners can find the show.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://designerbank.com/
• https://msainteriors.com/

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics.

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Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Surprise: the star of KBIS wasn’t a futuristic gadget but the return of character. We dive into a wave of “what’s old is new again,” where doors get beaded and chamfered profiles, mullions and mesh come back with purpose, and stained glass quietly flexes in kitchens and baths. After years of flat fronts and white shaker, this shift doesn’t feel fussy—it feels intentional, with cleaner proportions, smarter materials, and a warmer, crafted vibe.

We break down the material story driving that warmth: rift-cut white oak, walnut, and even revived cherry, paired with natural stone that’s reclaiming space from quartz. Countertops move beyond the square edge to ogee, double ogee, and bullnose, while thin 1–2 cm slabs unlock thermoformed curves and softer geometry. We tackle the practical side too—how to maintain ergonomic heights with thinner tops and how new textured finishes manage cleanup. The room expands beyond cabinets as arches, wide crowns, paneled walls, and bold trim treatments turn kitchens into cohesive architectural statements. Color’s still surging, but now in matte appliance finishes—hot pink, mauve, navy, and leafy greens that sit comfortably next to honest wood and stone.

There’s a fresh frontier as well: luxe closets. We’re seeing full-on kitchen-level detailing in wardrobe spaces, from fluted panels and glass doors to island-grade surfaces and lighting. Tile tech adds drama with oversize “wallpaper” porcelains and custom-printed trims that match pattern and tone. And for anyone heading to a massive trade show, we share our battle-tested plan to see more, stress less, and actually capture what matters—when to walk which hall, how to avoid the mobbed booths, and how to mine your photos for early trend signals. The industry mood is upbeat, even as hiring remains tough and AI enters the chat; the real opportunity lies in pairing human craft with better tools and a sharper eye for detail.

If this kind of design intel fuels your work, follow along, share the episode with a colleague, and leave a quick review so others can find it. Got a favorite comeback trend or a question about specifying thin slabs, matte finishes, or closet systems? Tell us what you’re testing next.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-162-KBIS-2026-Trends-from-the-Show-Floor

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Planning your 2026 marketing but not sure where to start—or how to fix what’s not working? We break down a practical path that helps design professionals win more of the right projects without burning hours on tactics that don’t convert. It begins with the must-have foundations: a clear ideal client and a website that proves credibility in seconds. From there, we show how to get discovered locally and convert interest into consultations with a few focused moves.

We walk through the top channels we track each year for designers and remodelers, then spotlight the ones that deliver reliable lift on normal budgets. You’ll hear why Google Business Profile is the smartest entry point for local SEO, how to fully complete and optimize your listing, and how posting a couple times a month can nudge you into the map pack. We also tackle social media with a calm, sustainable plan: four strong posts a month, a clear message about who you serve, and project-driven storytelling that builds trust. No daily grind required.

You’ll learn how to turn ongoing jobs into content—before-and-afters, process snapshots, and client outcomes—and how to use a fast competitor scan to spot service gaps you can own. We touch on connected TV advertising too: when it makes sense, what it costs, and why most firms are better served mastering the basics first. By the end, you’ll have a checklist to align your message, update your proof, and focus your time where it actually moves the pipeline.

If this helped, follow the links in our show notes for the CEU replay and our social masterclass, then subscribe, share with a colleague, and leave a quick review so more designers can find the show.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-161-Listen-to-this-before-setting-your-2026-Marketing-Goals
• NKBA Presentation

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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What does it take to build a resilient remodeling business that lasts? We sit down with Jeff Russell of Russell Room Remodelers to trace a 37-year journey from a broadcasting grad to a trusted contractor serving the Twin Cities. The conversation moves from hard-won lessons on pricing and financial literacy to the everyday choices that shape trust inside a client’s home.

Jeff breaks down why many new remodelers undercharge and how to fix it with real numbers: account for every cost, include the life you need to fund, and divide by true billable hours. We dig into the difference between a P&L and a balance sheet, why the balance sheet is your scoreboard, and how those insights guide margin, markup, and cash buffer decisions. A candid story about a flooded kitchen becomes a masterclass in client communication, accountability, and turning a setback into advocacy.

On the growth side, Jeff shares how he hires for values first, uses strengths tools to place people where they thrive, and taps associations and roundtables for mentorship, shared labor, and practical frameworks. We talk about marketing that evolved from newspapers to the Remodelers Showcase, a modern website, and social content that documents real work. You’ll hear a simple shift that changes everything: aim to make marketing a vending machine, not a slot machine, and keep testing channels like Google Local Services with a clear eye on lead quality and cost.

Finally, we explore smart uses of AI—from drafting sensitive client emails to modeling compensation—while stressing verification on technical topics like codes. If you’re a remodeler, designer, or contractor looking to price correctly, hire wisely, market with intention, and communicate under pressure, this conversation is your field guide.

Enjoyed the episode? Follow and subscribe, share with a colleague, and leave a quick review to help more remodelers find the show.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-160-Lessons-From-37-Years-In-Remodeling-with-Jeff-Russell
• Russell Room Remodelers Website

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Tired of starting the year with big marketing goals and slipping back into guesswork by spring? We’re laying out a simple, durable framework to end random acts of marketing and build steady momentum into 2026, designed specifically for design and remodeling professionals who need results without burnout.

We break down the five pillars that keep your pipeline healthy: a rock-solid foundation with clear ideal client targeting and a trustworthy website, focused visibility where your clients actually are, real authority through case studies and PR, steady nurture that turns interest into action, and a clean sales process that converts projects without pressure. You’ll hear why short sprints on social, SEO, or ads rarely stick, and how a quarterly plan gives you time to execute well, measure honestly, and improve with each cycle.

Together we map practical examples you can copy: polishing your home, services, and portfolio pages; keeping Google Business Profile fresh with reviews and updates; setting a weekly rhythm on one primary social channel; turning finished projects into pitchable case studies; and launching a simple monthly email that educates and builds trust. We also dig into intake scripts, proposals that set expectations, and the accountability systems that protect your marketing time when client work gets busy.

If you’ve tried before and stalled, you’re not alone—and you’re not done. Steal the quarterly structure, apply the five pillars, and give each tactic enough runway to compound. Subscribe, share this with a colleague who needs a sane plan for 2026, and leave a quick review to tell us which pillar you’ll focus on first.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-159-How-to-Stop-Random-Acts-of-Marketing

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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What happens when a remodeling company is born from service instead of sales? We sit down with Houston’s Marlon Stepp to unpack how a volunteer effort after floods and hurricanes became a design-build firm trusted by homeowners, hospitals, gyms, restaurants, and neighborhood nonprofits. The throughline is simple and rare: show up first, do what you say, and put displaced families at the front of the schedule. That relentless focus on people fueled referrals, opened doors to commercial projects, and shaped a brand that leads with integrity.

We talk about the early days of small repair jobs and how consistent delivery led to bigger tables and better conversations. Marlon breaks down how his team grew by tapping classmates and long-time friends with deep trade experience, building a bench of subcontractors who are as reliable as they are skilled. When disaster strikes, they flex timelines to get families back home, and that compassion turns into future work. On the business side, we map the shift from painful downtime to a steady pipeline through raw social video, a clear website, and reviews that travel further than any pitch deck.

Community impact sits at the center. From outfitting outreach kitchens to installing mini libraries in underserved neighborhoods, Marlon’s crew treats service as part of the job—not a marketing afterthought. We dig into why those stories resonate with media and why PR is a natural next step. Then we look ahead: short-term rentals, flips, and a move toward ground-up development that creates housing, supports local needs, and positions the company as a go-to partner when crises hit.

If you’re a remodeler battling slow seasons, a designer eyeing commercial work, or a property owner who values character as much as craftsmanship, this conversation offers a roadmap. You’ll hear how to document your process without overproducing, how to build trust at scale, and how to turn experience on job sites into smart investments and long-term resilience. Enjoy the story, take the tactics, and if it sparks ideas for your own practice, subscribe, share with a colleague, and leave a review to help others find the show.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-158-talking-with-Marlon-Stepp/

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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A new year calls for a smarter format. We’re kicking off 2026 by opening the studio doors to the people building design and remodeling businesses every day—so you hear what’s working, what isn’t, and how to fix it without guesswork or gimmicks. Think of it as a workshop you can return to, with clear steps, practical tools, and honest stories that help you create momentum in your marketing.

We share a big update: Maria is shifting from weekly co-host to recurring expert, bringing focused segments on AI and fast-moving tech that actually help designers save time, refine strategy, and tell stronger stories. No hype—just what to use, what to skip, and how to apply it to PR, social, email, and search. Alongside that, we’re expanding guest features from design and remodeling pros who walk through their journeys, the channels they bet on, and the lessons they learned when campaigns missed the mark.

You’ll also hear two new formats built for action. First, Business of the Month: candid conversations with firms about positioning, lead flow, and marketing choices, followed by targeted next steps you can adapt to your own studio. Second, Fix My Marketing: you send real challenges—flat engagement, messy websites, cold PR outreach—and we respond with specific fixes you can try this week. We’ll keep host-led episodes tighter and more tactical, focusing on the essentials: better pitches, clearer offers, content that converts, and simple analytics that guide smart decisions.

If you want useful tactics, a community of peers, and guidance shaped by what’s happening on the ground, this is your year with us. Subscribe, share with a friend who needs a nudge, and join our newsletter to get resources tied to each topic. Got a success story or a stubborn roadblock? Apply to be featured and let’s solve it together.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-157-Whats-Next-for-Designer-Discussions-Podcast-in-2026

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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A year of experiments revealed a simple truth: design businesses grow faster when they trade constant posting for consistent systems. We open our playbook and revisit the strategies that delivered real results—using social more strategically, running an email newsletter that actually brings referrals, and treating PR as a core engine rather than a nice-to-have. Along the way, we unpack what we learned from KBIS so you can talk trends with clients even if you skipped the show floor, and we share a step-by-step plan for staying visible when inquiries slow.

One highlight you’ll love: a designer from our academy set a bold goal and landed Architectural Digest by following a clear PR routine—tight stories, strong images, and calm, timely follow-up. That story anchors a bigger shift we’re seeing across search. As AI-driven platforms source answers from trusted outlets, media placements now do double duty: they win client confidence and help search engines understand and elevate your expertise. We connect the dots between E-E-A-T signals, local visibility, and how a single placement can ripple through your website, newsletter, and proposals.

If you’ve felt stretched thin by social, we lay out a low-burn approach: fewer channels, batched content, and posts aligned to real business goals. For slower markets, we map a 90-day “momentum sprint” that refreshes your site, activates past clients, and turns one helpful email per send into booked consultations. We also touch on our reintroduction—who we are, what we teach, and how we support designers and remodelers with marketing that respects your time and protects your energy.

If this resonated, tap follow, share it with a colleague who needs a calmer plan, and leave a quick review to help more design pros find the show. Then tell us: which 2025 episode was your favorite and what should we dig into next?

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-156-What-worked-this-year-in-2025

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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If your marketing swings from frantic bursts to total silence, you’re not alone—and you’re not broken. We’ve seen the same pattern in studios and remodelers for years: a few social posts, a one-off newsletter, a trade show, then disappearing when jobs heat up. The result is a lead drought that shows up right when you’re busiest. We’re changing that with a straightforward, design-first framework that turns scattered tasks into a system you can run even on a packed calendar.

We break down the five pillars every design or remodeling business needs: foundation, visibility, authority, nurture, and sales. Foundation starts with your website as the hub you control, supported by practical SEO and a complete Google Business Profile so you’re visible in local search. Visibility is about consistent presence where homeowners and builders already look. Authority builds trust through PR, media mentions, and awards that shorten sales cycles and raise perceived value. Nurture keeps relationships warm with value-first emails and thoughtful check-ins that turn single projects into repeat work and referrals. Sales ties it all together with a clear path from inquiry to signed agreement, backed by simple steps and follow-ups that convert.

You’ll hear real stories that prove small changes move fast. A designer who lived on Facebook rebuilt their foundation after a six-week shutdown and stabilized lead flow. An academy member who felt intimidated by PR landed a Forbes mention within a month once they focused. A celebrated interior designer revived “dead” email by switching to an 80-20 value mix and watched opens and conversions climb. We finish with a quick-start plan for 2026: pick one pillar for Q1, set one action you can complete, and choose one person to keep you accountable. No 60-page plan. Just momentum you can feel.

Ready to ditch random marketing and build a system that holds up under real-world workload? Listen now, then subscribe, share with a colleague, and leave a quick review to help more design pros find us. Want deeper support? Grab the link in the show notes to join our live masterclass and map your 12-month plan together.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• Master Class Link

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Want homeowners to find you on sites they already trust—and choose you faster? We pull back the curtain on a marketing system built for design and remodeling businesses, where credible PR, a sharp website, and practical SEO work together to lift authority and generate better leads. Miriam lays out a step‑by‑step approach to fast media wins using HARO, SOS, and Qwoted, then shows how to pitch editors for regional features that actually drive local projects. She explains when a press release is newsworthy, how to craft it, and why newswires now matter as AI search leans on brand credibility.

From there, Jason builds the digital backbone: your website as the hub, brand consistency across pages, and portfolio updates that attract the right clients. We dive into Google Business Profile tactics that behave like social—weekly posts, Q&A, photos—and share the 90‑day path to measurable visibility. We install Google Analytics and Search Console, then translate the data into clear answers: which channels work, where visitors come from, and what content sparks inquiries. Along the way, we touch email strategy, social support from specialists, and paid ads that avoid common money traps.

Across the conversation, the theme is focus over frenzy. Pick three to five moves, ship them well, and stack proof of authority in places your clients already read. With weekly coaching, guest experts, and a nimble curriculum, you’ll have guidance to personalize your plan and scale what works. Ready to turn mentions into momentum and clicks into consults? Subscribe, share this with a colleague who needs a marketing reset, and join our newsletter or masterclass at designerdiscussions.com. Your next best project might be one credible feature away.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-154-Marketing-Makeover-Masterclass

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Want a website that quietly does the heavy lifting—qualifying visitors, building trust, and turning the right people into clients? We dig into the 2026 web trends that matter for design professionals and remodelers: practical customer experience improvements, content that speaks directly to an ideal client, and AI tools that uncover what you’re missing behind the scenes.

We start with the visitor journey and show how to spot friction by asking someone outside your business to navigate your site. You’ll get simple prompts to guide their feedback and translate it into clear fixes: sharper headlines, stronger proof near claims, and CTAs that meet visitors at the right moment. From there, we make personalization concrete with a tight client avatar that shapes your service pages, portfolio blurbs, and resource hubs. Instead of broad promises, you’ll learn to write specific, outcome-focused copy that mirrors the language your prospects actually use.

Then we put AI to work as a practical auditor. By combining your URL and your client avatar, you can get focused suggestions that touch SEO, messaging, imagery, and internal linking. We explain how to turn those insights into a smoother path from homepage to contact, and when to offer low-friction steps like a quick fit check or a project readiness guide. Along the way, we share a simple method for competitor research so you can fill local gaps with real differentiation—clear process visuals, case summaries with constraints and outcomes, and transparent next steps.

If you want a site that feels custom-fit to your best clients and easier to manage month to month, this conversation lays out a repeatable plan: test, refine, personalize, and measure. For deeper coaching, templates, and live feedback, join our Academy where we review member sites and map upgrades that move the needle. If this was helpful, follow the show, share it with a colleague, and leave a quick review so more designers can find it.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-153-Website-Trends-for-2026

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Prospects decide who to trust long before they ever call, and the media they read shapes those choices. We break down a fast, practical PR system for design and remodeling professionals who want to be discovered as experts—without spending five figures a month on an agency. You’ll hear why third‑party credibility changes buyer behavior, how quick expert quotes outperform long project pitches for busy editors, and the compounding benefits of press logos and backlinks on your website.

We walk through the exact routine that fits real schedules: 20–30 minutes twice a week to scan Qwoted, HARO-style lists, and SOS threads for relevant queries, then craft crisp replies with specific, quotable advice. Along the way, we share real-world wins—early placements in Forbes and the Wall Street Journal—and set honest expectations about the numbers game behind PR. Ten thoughtful submissions might yield one or two features, but those features open doors to higher‑end clients, stronger SEO, and faster sales conversations.

If you’ve wondered what to say, we spell it out: give one sharp takeaway, add a concrete example from your projects, include a short credential line, and link to a relevant page on your site. Keep it simple, be consistent, and run your outreach in one‑ to three‑month sprints so the habit sticks. By the end, you’ll have a clear plan to turn your everyday expertise into media coverage, social proof, and a steady flow of better-fit leads. If this helps, subscribe, share the show with a colleague, and leave a review to tell us your first target outlet.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-152-Get-Quick-Press-PR-That-Works

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Robbie Maynard, a seasoned interior designer with over three decades of experience in San Diego, California, joins us to reveal her remarkable transformation from PR novice to confidently landing features in House Beautiful, Forbes, and Martha Stewart Living.

With refreshing candor, Robbie shares how she initially felt "petrified" when submitting her first pitch to editors. "I thought they wanted me to be a writer and make it sound wonderful," she admits, reflecting a common misconception among design professionals. Through consistent practice and expert guidance, she discovered that editors simply valued her design expertise, not her writing skills—a revelation that freed her to pursue major publication opportunities with confidence.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn as Robbie discusses the evolution of her business strategy. After recognizing that her website showcased outdated Tuscan-style projects no longer aligned with current trends or her preferred design direction, she implemented strategic updates that transformed her client acquisition process. "I was getting a lot of people that wanted Tuscan... and I didn't really want that anymore," she explains, highlighting how targeted marketing attracts ideal clients.

Perhaps most valuable is Robbie's perspective on client selection, gained through years of experience: "Every client is not your client." She now approaches initial consultations as mutual interviews rather than sales opportunities, ensuring better project outcomes and more satisfying professional relationships. This mindset shift represents a crucial evolution for designers looking to elevate their business.

As the interior design industry continues to evolve, with traditional revenue streams disrupted by online retailers, Robbie shares her plans to adapt through specialized service packages focused on kitchen design and exploring alternative income sources like affiliate marketing. Her willingness to continuously reinvent her business approach offers inspiration for designers at any career stage.

Ready to transform your own design business through strategic marketing and PR? Sign up for our Designer Discussions Academy at designerdiscussions.com and get personalized guidance from our team of experts.

More on Robbie:

• https://www.robbieinteriors.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/robbieinter

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Ever wonder who's really behind the Designer Discussions podcast? Meet Jason, Miriam, and Maria – three industry experts who joined forces to create a no-nonsense resource for design professionals navigating the complex worlds of marketing, PR, and business growth.

Jason brings a unique dual perspective as both an architect and marketing agency owner. His journey began teaching at LSU, implementing marketing strategies for his own firm before expanding to help other designers. This blend of architectural expertise and marketing know-how gives him unparalleled insight into the challenges design professionals face from multiple angles.

Miriam (who good-naturedly mentions being mistakenly called Swedish when she's actually Swiss) contributes over 20 years of PR expertise, including nearly 15 years leading PR for Kohler's kitchen and bath division. After establishing her boutique PR firm, she recognized that traditional publicity services were often financially out of reach for many designers, which inspired her to create more accessible solutions. Her international background and deep industry connections make her a powerhouse resource for design professionals seeking media attention.

Maria rounds out the trio with 20+ years of interior design experience and what she calls a "tech-forward" mindset. As a University of Texas graduate who approaches design business challenges fearlessly, she cuts through industry fearmongering to deliver practical technology and business advice based on real application rather than anxiety-inducing tactics.

What began as a Clubhouse room during the pandemic has evolved into a comprehensive resource including the podcast, the Designer Discussions Academy, and personalized services – all designed to simplify marketing and boost business for design professionals. The team's organic growth reflects their genuine commitment to helping others succeed through strategic, integrated approaches rather than quick fixes or intimidation tactics.

Ready to transform your design business with guidance from experts who understand your unique challenges? Subscribe to the podcast, explore the Academy membership at designerdiscussions.com, and join a community of professionals who are learning to market themselves with confidence and authenticity.

Links referenced in this episode:

• https://www.designerdiscu

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Ever wondered why design school taught you everything about color theory but nothing about growing a successful business? That glaring gap in education is exactly what The Designer's Academy addresses—and after two incredibly successful years, we're opening enrollment for our third session this October.

The Academy began as a simple PR membership but evolved when we realized designers needed comprehensive business education covering digital marketing, public relations, technology implementation, and now AI integration. What makes our approach unique is that you're learning directly from three specialists who actually work in these fields daily: a digital marketing agency owner, a boutique PR firm founder, and a tech-savvy interior designer who developed her own app. This isn't theoretical knowledge—it's practical expertise you can immediately apply.

Our members' success stories speak volumes. One secured a prestigious Forbes feature just one month after implementing our PR strategies. Another established strong Google Maps rankings within six months of following our Google Business Profile guidance. When members faced technical hurdles—like discovering duplicate business profiles online—we provided step-by-step support that saved them countless hours of frustration. Perhaps most transformative has been our AI implementation training, where we've broken down complex technologies into manageable processes that members describe with visible relief as "pretty easy" to integrate into their workflows.

The Designer's Academy runs for 12 months, providing structured learning that starts with quick-win fundamentals before building to more sophisticated strategies. Weekly video calls and fresh monthly content keep your entire team updated on best practices, with direct access to ask us questions at any time. This personalized guidance drastically cuts the learning curve compared to pre-recorded courses where you're left to figure things out alone.

Ready to fill the business education gap in your design career? Join our waitlist through the link in our show notes to access the early bird special before we launch in October. Don't just outsource your marketing and PR—master it with expert guidance from people who understand your industry challenges.

Links referenced in this episode:

• https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/kkpsJI5HHzeAYWc6SQ9j

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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The digital landscape is shifting beneath our feet as AI reshapes how content is discovered, shared, and monetized online. For creators and business owners who've invested years building valuable online resources, this evolution presents both challenges and opportunities.

In this eye-opening episode, Maria breaks down how AI systems are fundamentally changing website traffic patterns and potentially undermining revenue streams for content creators. When AI tools scrape your website and present information directly to users, those users never land on your site – eliminating opportunities for ad revenue, lead generation, and sales conversions. But there's a solution emerging.

Maria introduces us to Cloudflare's groundbreaking new features that put control back in creators' hands. Launched July 1st, these tools allow website owners to decide exactly how AI interacts with their content. Want certain pages available to everyone? No problem. Need to protect proprietary information or images from being scraped? You can block specific AI tools. Most intriguingly, Cloudflare now offers a micropayment system that requires AI companies to compensate you when they use your content – creating a digital tollbooth for your intellectual property.

For designers and visual professionals, this represents a crucial development. Your portfolio images, which once might have been silently incorporated into AI image generators' training data, can now be protected. Your expertise, shared through years of blog posts and articles, can either be monetized or shielded from exploitation.

The conversation offers practical guidance on implementing these protections, acknowledging that while Cloudflare's interface isn't the most intuitive, the benefits justify the learning curve. The hosts emphasize the importance of strategic planning – deciding what content to protect, what to monetize, and what to freely share to maximize visibility while preserving revenue opportunities.

Ready to take control of your online content in the AI era? Listen now, then visit designerdiscussions.com to join our Academy membership for ongoing support, weekly live sessions, and expert guidance on navigating this rapidly evolving digital landscape.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.desig

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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The rules of search have fundamentally changed, and businesses that don't adapt risk becoming invisible online. Gone are the days when keyword optimization alone could propel your website to the top of search results. Today, AI-powered search has revolutionized how potential clients find and evaluate businesses.

When someone searches for information related to your services, they're likely to encounter an AI-generated overview that summarizes key points without ever needing to click through to a website. Our research shows a staggering statistic: when these AI answer boxes appear, traditional links get clicked only about 8% of the time. With two-thirds of Google queries now resulting in "zero-click" searches, your visibility strategy must evolve.

What powers these AI overviews? Large language models prioritize information from sources they algorithmically trust—especially media publications with established credibility. This is where PR becomes your secret weapon. When your business earns mentions in respected outlets, particularly regional or niche publications relevant to your audience, you gain a powerful advantage in AI search. One strategic media placement can surface across hundreds of different AI queries, functioning as a multiplier for your online presence.

Even traditional press releases have found renewed importance in this landscape. Their structured format—with headlines, quotes, and factual information—aligns perfectly with how AI systems process information. For design professionals and remodelers, this means incorporating targeted media outreach into your marketing strategy isn't just beneficial—it's essential for being discovered by potential clients.

Ready to leverage this powerful approach? Our Designer Discussions Academy teaches proven methods for securing media coverage that boosts your visibility in the AI search era. Visit designerdiscussions.com to learn how we can help position your design business at the forefront of this new search landscape.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-147-The-Secret-To-AI-Search

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Tired of endlessly creating social media content with little return? This eye-opening episode reveals how content calendars can transform from tedious scheduling tools into powerful opportunity generators for your design business.

Miriam and Maria challenge the common misconception that content calendars merely help you post consistently. Instead, they demonstrate how planning eight weeks ahead creates three game-changing opportunities. First, you'll discover how advance planning facilitates strategic collaborations with complementary businesses like landscape designers or window specialists – effectively doubling your audience reach without doubling your workload. Rather than creating new content from scratch, you'll learn to repurpose existing portfolio images within seasonal frameworks that resonate with both clients and media.

The hosts share practical strategies for batching content production, allowing you to capture multiple posts in a single day. By thinking like a magazine editor with a seasonal editorial calendar, you can work smarter rather than harder. Most valuably, you'll learn how this approach positions you to become what the hosts call a "media darling" – a trusted resource that local publications, newspapers, and TV segments actively seek out for seasonal home-related content.

As a special bonus, the episode introduces a custom GPT tool developed specifically for designers that generates location-specific, seasonal content ideas with minimal input. This technological solution addresses the time constraints many designers face when developing strategic content plans, even suggesting potential collaboration partners and local publications to approach.

Ready to transform your marketing approach from reactive to strategic? Listen now and discover how simple seasonal planning can expand your reach, save you time, and elevate your status as a design authority in your community. Join our Academy to access this GPT tool and receive personalized coaching to implement these strategies in your business.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-146-3-Opportunities-Content-Calendars-Can-Make-for-You

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Are you ready to revolutionize your design business's digital marketing strategy? The landscape is changing rapidly, and staying ahead means embracing sophisticated tactics that your competition hasn't mastered yet.

Jason dives deep into three game-changing marketing approaches that are reshaping how successful designers connect with clients in 2025. First, discover the critical differences between traditional SEO and AI search optimization – and why most designers are missing this crucial distinction. Learn the exact process for creating content that AI tools actually favor, including the specific formatting techniques that make your expertise discoverable when potential clients ask questions through ChatGPT and similar platforms.

The conversation then shifts to a surprising take on influencer marketing that doesn't require celebrity partnerships or massive follower counts. Instead, Jason reveals how to leverage local influence and manufacturer relationships to build credibility that resonates deeply with your target audience. This approach taps into existing trust networks that high-end design clients already value, creating powerful endorsements that feel authentic rather than promotional.

Finally, get the behind-the-scenes truth about paid advertising that most marketing agencies won't tell you. Beyond simply creating attractive ads, Jason explains the systematic monitoring and optimization process that prevents wasted budgets and declining returns. These practical insights help designers avoid the common pitfalls that make many small businesses abandon advertising altogether.

Ready to implement all ten advanced marketing tactics for 2025? Join us in the Designer Discussions Academy this August, where we'll expand on these strategies with step-by-step implementation guidance tailored specifically for interior design professionals. Visit designerdiscussions.com or click the link in our show notes to secure your spot and transform your marketing approach before your competition catches on.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-145-Clicks-Creators-and-Algorithms-Advanced-Tactics-for-2025

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Struggling to generate consistent leads for your design business? The answer might be sitting right in your existing marketing toolkit.

Email marketing has the potential to become your second most powerful lead generation tool after client referrals—even outperforming expensive SEO and PPC campaigns. Yet many designers watch their promising email efforts fizzle out as open rates plummet from 40% to single digits within months.

The culprit? Self-promotion overload. One world-class designer we worked with sent beautifully crafted emails showcasing her impressive portfolio for over a year, yet her open rate had fallen to just 8%. The solution lies in the 80-20 rule: dedicate 80% of your email content to delivering genuine value to your audience, with only 20% focused on your services—and even that promotional content should tie meaningfully to the value you're providing.

Strategic list segmentation is equally crucial, allowing you to personalize content for different audience groups—homeowners, manufacturers, other designers, or current clients. What once required hours of additional writing can now be accomplished in about 30 minutes per segment using AI tools. And don't overlook the technical side: authenticating your email domain ensures your messages actually reach inboxes instead of disappearing into spam folders.

By implementing these strategies, our Academy members consistently achieve open rates exceeding the industry average of 25%. Want to transform your email marketing from an ignored obligation into a powerful lead generator that works even while you sleep? Join our Designer Discussions Academy, where we tackle a new marketing challenge each month, providing hands-on guidance to grow your design business. Sign up through the link in our show notes to secure your spot for our October enrollment.

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Unlocking the power of regional publicity could be your design business's greatest untapped marketing resource. Many designers dream of national magazine features while overlooking the goldmine in their own backyard – local publications that reach the very clients who might actually hire you.

This episode shatters the common misconceptions about media coverage. Getting press doesn't require hiring expensive PR firms or having celebrity clients. Regional magazines actively seek local talent and compelling projects to showcase. Unlike national publications that receive thousands of pitches weekly, local editors are typically more approachable and genuinely interested in featuring businesses from their community. The perceived value of print coverage remains remarkably high in the design world, providing credibility that digital mentions simply can't match.

What makes regional publicity particularly powerful is its targeted reach. When potential clients in your area see your work beautifully displayed in a local magazine, it positions you as a trusted expert while building valuable relationships with media professionals. These features provide exceptional social proof, enhance your reputation, potentially improve your SEO, and can continue working for your business for years after publication. We break down exactly how to craft effective pitches: identifying compelling project stories, finding the right editor contact, creating an introduction email, and providing quality photography. With these straightforward steps, you'll discover that pitching your work is far less intimidating than you might have imagined.

Ready to get your projects the visibility they deserve? Join our Designer Discussions Academy where we guide you through every aspect of marketing your design business. Sign up for our waiting list at designerdiscussions.com and transform how potential clients discover your work.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-143-How-regional-PR-drives-your-business

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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When economic uncertainty looms, most businesses make the critical mistake of slashing their marketing budgets first. But what if that's exactly the wrong move? In this illuminating episode, Jason shares battle-tested strategies to keep your design business visible and thriving during economic downturns—without breaking the bank.

Drawing from his wealth of marketing expertise, Jason walks through practical, low-cost approaches that design professionals can implement immediately. From website optimization and Google Business Profile maintenance to email list segmentation and automated follow-up systems, these strategies require minimal financial investment while delivering maximum impact. The common thread? Strategic thinking and consistent effort outweigh throwing money at marketing problems.

The episode takes a fascinating turn when Miriam shares insights from her time at Kohler Company, revealing how their visionary leader Herbert Kohler Sr. approached recessions differently. While competitors retreated from trade shows and advertising, Kohler maintained visibility—allowing them to capture market share while others disappeared from consumers' consciousness. This real-world example powerfully illustrates why maintaining your marketing presence when others pull back might be your most strategic business move.

Whether you're feeling the economic pinch now or simply want to prepare your design business for future uncertainty, this episode provides a clear roadmap for recession-proofing your marketing. Ready to implement these strategies and potentially emerge stronger while competitors struggle? Subscribe to Designer Discussions for more insights that help your design business thrive in any economic climate.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-143-How-to-Recession-Proof-your-Marketing-Plan

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Facing a business slowdown? Your first move shouldn't be panic—it should be strategic competitor analysis. Jason shares a powerful yet underutilized approach that helped one Dallas designer develop an entirely new revenue stream matching or exceeding her design business income.

The conversation begins with a sobering reality check about social media reach. With Facebook delivering only 2% organic reach, Instagram 9%, LinkedIn 5%, and Twitter 3%, designers must shift their perspective on social platforms. Rather than viewing them as daily marketing necessities, Jason suggests using social channels strategically for competitor intelligence.

This comprehensive analysis approach starts by identifying your true competition—both those you recognize and those search engines define as your competitors. By examining what they post, how frequently they publish, engagement rates, and especially which ads they run consistently (those running 90+ days are definitely working), you'll discover gaps in the market where you can provide unique value.

The beauty of this approach lies in its versatility. The insights gained from competitor analysis extend far beyond social strategy, informing your website content, service offerings, blog topics, and overall marketing direction. By understanding what resonates with your audience and identifying where competitors fall short, you position yourself to thrive regardless of economic conditions.

Ready to implement these strategies and more? Jason invites listeners to join the Designer Discussions Academy, opening for enrollment in October. This membership provides weekly actionable steps to simplify marketing and boost business growth in the design industry.

Take control of your business future now. Remember, your potential clients learn 80% of what they'll know about you before ever making contact—will they find you or your competition when searching for their perfect project?

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-141-What-is-the-first-thing-to-do-when-your-business-starts-to-slow-down

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Ready to break free from the social media hamster wheel? This eye-opening episode tackles the uncomfortable truth about social media marketing for design professionals. Maria delivers a refreshing perspective that will transform how you approach your digital presence.

For years, designers have been chasing viral moments and follower counts, hoping to attract high-profile clients, television opportunities, or magazine features. But this approach fundamentally misunderstands how business development actually works in the design industry. When you examine the data, the disconnect becomes clear – even if you achieve that coveted viral moment, your content reaches geographical locations where you don't even offer services.

We dive into what potential clients are actually doing before they contact you. With 82% of consumer research happening before the first phone call, your digital presence matters – but not in the way you might think. Your website, Google Business Profile, and social accounts serve as validation of your expertise, not primary marketing channels. This distinction changes everything about how you should approach content creation.

The numbers don't lie. Current organic reach statistics reveal the harsh reality: Facebook (2.2%), Instagram (9.4%), LinkedIn (5.3%), and Twitter (3.6%). This means the vast majority of your followers never see your posts unless you pay to promote them. We outline a simplified content strategy that respects your time while still providing the social proof potential clients seek.

Ready to transform your relationship with social media? Join us for this perspective-shifting conversation that will free you from digital overwhelm and help you create a sustainable, effective online presence that actually supports your business goals. Don't miss our follow-up episode where Jason dives deeper into optimizing your digital marketing approach!

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-140-How-to-break-up-with-social-media

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Feeling like your social media growth has hit a wall? You're not alone. Design professionals everywhere are experiencing diminishing returns despite increased effort—low view counts, minimal engagement, and the constant pressure to pay for reach.

The Designer Discussions team dives deep into this common frustration and introduces an exciting alternative: Blue Sky. This emerging platform operates fundamentally differently from traditional social media. Unlike conventional platforms where companies own your content the moment you post it, Blue Sky gives you complete ownership and control over your creative assets—a game-changer for designers who invest heavily in professional photography and project documentation.

Blue Sky functions like WordPress for social media, allowing you to post once and have your content appear in multiple formats: a Twitter-like feed, an Instagram-style format called Flashes, and a TikTok-style experience called Starlight. With chronological posting and no algorithm manipulation, your content reaches your audience organically every time you post. Plus, your Blue Sky content appears in Google searches, potentially boosting your SEO when potential clients search for design services in your area.

While it's not perfect—lacking the targeted advertising capabilities of Meta platforms—Blue Sky offers designers a refreshing opportunity to reclaim their digital presence. Our recommendation? Don't abandon your existing platforms yet, but consider experimenting with Blue Sky by repurposing content you've already created. Claim your specialty and location in your username before someone else does, and treat it as another digital portfolio that could reach new audiences with minimal additional effort. After all, as Maria points out, "This is like 2009 Instagram time over on Blue Sky"—a chance to establish yourself early on what could become the next major platform for creative professionals.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-139-What-the-future-of-social-media-looks-like

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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The digital landscape is shifting rapidly, but contrary to popular belief, SEO isn't disappearing in the age of AI—it's evolving. Jason breaks down exactly how to make your website discoverable across all platforms, whether through traditional Google searches, voice commands, or AI-powered tools.

At the heart of modern searchability is the E-E-A-T principle: Expertise, Experience, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness. This framework helps you create content that not only attracts your ideal clients but also signals to search engines that you're a credible source in your specific location and field. With AI-generated content creating unprecedented noise online, standing out requires a more strategic approach than ever before.

Jason emphasizes that AI should be your assistant, not your replacement. While using AI to generate outlines or identify keywords can be valuable, simply copying and pasting AI-generated content makes your site indistinguishable from countless others. The magic happens when you personalize that foundation with your unique perspective and expertise. Beyond content, technical elements like schema markup help search engines understand exactly what services you offer, while properly structured individual service pages allow you to demonstrate deep expertise in each area rather than providing surface-level information on a single page.

Ready to transform how your website performs across all search platforms? Join our Academy membership where we, the Designer Discussions podcast hosts, serve as your personal coaches. We'll show you how to customize your marketing strategy through weekly live sessions, exclusive community resources, and expert guidance tailored to your unique business. Visit designerdiscussions.com today to learn more!

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-138-How-to-get-your-website-found-by-all-search-engines

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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What happens when design trends come full circle? In this illuminating conversation with kitchen designer and educator Jan Rutgers, we explore the fascinating evolutions and throwbacks dominating KBIS 2025. Having toured the show for three consecutive years, Jan shares how today's cutting-edge designs are actually sophisticated reimaginings of elements from decades past.

The reign of hard, angular kitchen elements is giving way to what Jan calls "soft geometry" – curved islands, arched cooking hearths, and rounded fixtures that not only look beautiful but solve practical problems like the dreaded "hip bangers" of rectangular corners. These softer forms create more comfortable, functional spaces while adding visual interest.

Color has returned with surprising warmth, featuring muted 70s-inspired palettes of terracottas, greens, and yellows appearing on everything from cabinet doors to appliances. Meanwhile, fluting (also called pole wrap) continues its dominance but is evolving toward wider slat applications that create more architectural presence.

Perhaps most exciting is the movement beyond basic shaker doors, with manufacturers finally introducing leather, metal, and textured center panels. Freestanding vanities lead this charge with curved drawers, multiple finishes, and exceptional interior functionality – proving that beautiful design doesn't require sacrificing practicality.

For designers navigating industry uncertainties, Jan offers valuable perspective on the "changing of the guard" as veterans retire and new professionals enter the field. This transition, coupled with the enduring consumer desire for beautiful, functional spaces, creates opportunities for differentiation through thoughtful marketing and diversified product offerings.

Whether you're a design professional looking to stay ahead of trends or a homeowner planning your next renovation, this episode provides crucial insights into where kitchen and bath design is heading – with one foot firmly planted in the wisdom of the past.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-137-KBIS-2025-Trends-from-the-Show-Floor

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Are you ready to abandon minimalism and embrace a future rich with color, texture, and sustainability? Discover how home design is evolving by 2025 as we, Maria, Miriam, and Jason, unpack the findings from the ASID trend report. We're shedding light on the shift away from monotonous gray and white palettes to spaces that celebrate wellness and complexity. Prepare to learn about the rise of layered lighting for better sleep and blackout drapes that ensure your sanctuary is serene. We're also talking about the enduring charm of natural elements like real plants, which are not just pretty but also improve air quality.

In our exploration of future trends, we emphasize the importance of accessibility and how it elevates everyone's lifestyle. Listen as we discuss the transformation of luxury from excess to sustainability, featuring bold material combinations and unique designs. The resurgence of moody colors and textures signifies a departure from minimalism, with efficient European-style kitchens and adaptable living spaces taking center stage. As we become more aware of mental health, home design is responding with cozy and flexible environments. New professionals are seeking mentorship and positive office experiences, while builders focus on affordable, low-maintenance options for first-time buyers. Join us in this conversation about longevity, adaptability, and sustainability in design.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-136-Top-2025-Home-Design-Trends

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Unlock the secrets to mastering your digital life as we uncover the best apps for design professionals in 2025. Miriam, our app connoisseur, guides us through a journey of productivity and scheduling tools that promise to enhance your life without overwhelming it. We'll discuss the importance of conducting an app purge to maintain balance and wellness, and the growing integration of AI in iOS updates. With an eye on protecting personal privacy and business operations, learn how to disable data collection and notifications effectively. This episode is your guide to curating an app selection that aligns with your personal goals and strategies, ensuring a more controlled and beneficial digital experience.

Explore the power of productivity with tools and techniques that streamline both work and personal life. From Grammarly's free version for Mac enthusiasts to the dynamic Motion calendar management tool, we share practical advice for optimizing your time. Discover how Boomerang for Gmail enhances email management and how Asana can coordinate tasks seamlessly. We also venture into wellness with apps like Deepak Chopra's Presence, Calm, and Headspace, along with exercise and journaling tools like Glow and the Five Minute Journal. Listen as we share personal experiences and recommendations, encouraging you to experiment with these apps to find the perfect fit for your wellness and productivity needs.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-135-Best-Apps-for-your-Work-and-Life-in-2025

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Unlock the secrets of edutainment in design as we explore its evolution from classics like Sesame Street to modern platforms like TikTok and Instagram. With special guest Maria, we unravel how storytelling, engaging visuals, and interactive elements can not only captivate audiences but also build brand loyalty for designers and remodelers. Discover how to navigate the challenges of social media and harness its power to keep your audience hooked. Maria offers valuable insights on leveraging TikTok and addresses concerns about its future, ensuring you're equipped to adapt and thrive in the ever-changing digital landscape.

In our episode, we also focus on three essential marketing strategies tailored to the design industry, promising to elevate your client relationships and satisfaction. We reveal the importance of educating clients on project timing, fostering trust through transparency, and demonstrating expertise by addressing common challenges with insightful solutions. With a prediction about TikTok's potential suspension looming, we emphasize the nuances of migrating successful content to other platforms like Instagram or Facebook, preparing you to maintain engagement no matter what changes come. Join us for an episode packed with actionable insights to transform your brand and connect with your audience more effectively.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-134-Edutainment-Success-Formula

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Unleash the full potential of your 2025 marketing and PR strategies with our latest episode, where we guarantee insights that will transform your approach. Learn how to effectively reverse engineer your annual goals by tapping into the power of your ideal client avatar, as we link back to the foundational guidance of episodes 24 and 76. Join us as Jason shares innovative tactics for optimizing your website amidst the AI revolution and the clever use of your Google Business Profile as a social media platform to boost local search visibility. You'll walk away with a toolkit of actionable strategies to ensure your business thrives in the new year.

Miriam brings her wealth of knowledge to the table, spotlighting the art of integrating PR into your marketing efforts with finesse. Discover the triad of reactive PR, project features in publications, and strategic publicity to elevate your brand's presence. The episode underscores the pivotal role of professional photography in your marketing arsenal and introduces edutainment as a captivating content creation strategy that could set your brand apart. Don't miss out on this comprehensive guide that promises to refine your PR and marketing strategies, ensuring they resonate powerfully with your audience in 2025.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-133-Marketing-and-PR-Planning-for-2025

The links and past episodes mentioned in the episode​ are:

• Episode 109
• Episode 105
• Episode 76
• Episode 24
• NKBA Webinar - Top Marketing Trends That Will Dominate In 2025

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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This episode focuses on essential digital marketing trends for designers in 2025, emphasizing the significance of AI, SEO evolution, and personalized content. With insights gathered from market research, the hosts outline how these elements will shape the industry's future and offer actionable strategies for growth.

• Exploring the role of AI in marketing for designers
• Understanding Search Generative Experience (SGE) and SEO
• Importance of personalized content in a competitive landscape

Visit designerdiscussions.com and enter your information for a free download of the full trends list.

Links Mentioned in this Episode

• NKBA Webinar - Top Marketing Trends That Will Dominate In 2025

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Explore how to transform your design business for the better and unlock the secrets of successful collaboration in our special year-end review of Designer Discussions. Join Jason, Maria, and Mirjam as we highlight the most captivating moments of 2024, including Katie Decker's expert insights on optimizing design operations for profitability and her memorable tips from High Point. Relive the intriguing revelations on the evolution of digital PR with Mirjam, including the unique journey of Haro, and discover unexpected tech facets with Maria’s deep dive into AI and chat GPT-4.

Celebrate the collaborative spirit that defines our industry with Maria's reflection on Tori Sikama's episode, where photography transcends its role as a mere marketing tool to become an integral part of brand partnerships. Hear firsthand how building relationships with photographers can elevate your business branding and content creation. Reflect with us on the rich insights our guests have shared, and join us in anticipation of the exciting innovations and opportunities awaiting us in 2025.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-131-Year-End-Review-2024

The links and past episodes mentioned in the episode​ are:

• Episode 130
• Episode 127
• Episode 126
• Episode 125
• Episode 109
• NKBA Webinar

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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What if you could streamline your business operations and boost your profitability with a few key strategies? Join us as Katie Decker Erickson, a multifamily and commercial designer turned business coach, unravels the secrets of implementing effective processes that keep your business running smoothly, even when team members are unavailable. Discover how establishing well-defined processes allows designers to focus on their creative strengths while bolstering the firm's capacity to handle more projects and attract high-value clients.

Scaling your business is within reach when you master communication and pricing confidence. Learn from Katie's expertise on proactive client updates, which not only minimize confusion but also enhance satisfaction. Dive into the world of software tools that simplify operations, noting that the right combination tailored to your needs can significantly elevate your firm's efficiency. Katie stresses the importance of market research and competitive pricing, urging designers to charge their worth and target clients who truly appreciate their expertise.

Strong client relationships and a clear business identity are the cornerstones of success. Katie shares her strategies for targeting your ideal audience and building trust, emphasizing the importance of a specialized approach rather than trying to be everything to everyone. Whether you aim to scale up or refine your boutique business, listen in for actionable tips on nurturing client connections and the value of a vibrant community and resources. Don't miss out on this opportunity to align your business with your unique goals and elevate your marketing game with personalized coaching and expert insights.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-130-The-Power-of-Processes-and-Profitability

The links mentioned in the episode​ are:

• https://colorworks.design/
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/deckerkatie/
• https://www.facebook.com/colorworkscoaching/
• https://www.youtube.com/@ColorfulConversations

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Discover the key strategies for transforming your website into a powerful conversion tool with insights from seasoned marketing expert, Jason. His extensive experience highlights the crucial role of maintaining an updated, engaging website as the central hub for your business, rather than depending solely on social media platforms. Jason shares practical advice on tailoring your website's content to captivate your ideal client, emphasizing the need to feature current, relevant projects. He provides actionable tips on arranging your site's layout to not only capture but also sustain visitor interest, ensuring that your online presence effectively represents your brand.

Learn the essential elements your website should highlight above the fold to maximize impact, including clickable contact numbers, compelling calls to action, and authoritative logos that establish trust and credibility. Jason's expertise sheds light on showcasing testimonials and media features to reinforce your business's reliability. Whether you specialize in remodeling or interior design, his guidance will equip you with the knowledge to present your business in the best possible light, making your services more appealing and accessible to your target audience. Tune in to elevate your website's effectiveness and enhance your brand's digital footprint.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-129-How-to-Optimize-Your-Website-for-Conversions

The links and past episodes mentioned in the episode​ are:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-128-How-to-develop-a-digital-brand-for-your-business
• https://developers.google.com/speed
• https://gtmetrix.com/
• https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Can consistency in your brand's voice make or break your design business? Join us on Designer Discussions as Jason, Maria, and Mirjam unravel the secrets to building a digital brand that resonates with reliability and professionalism. Discover the art of crafting comprehensive brand guidelines, covering everything from logo variations and font styles to mission statements. By maintaining uniformity across all digital platforms, your brand becomes easily recognizable and trusted by clients. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting, Jason's insights into creating consistent brand messaging are indispensable.

We journey through the essentials of developing a client avatar and understanding your target market, fundamental steps that shape your branding strategy. Empower your team and external partners, such as marketing or PR agencies, with these guidelines, ensuring they represent your brand accurately. This episode is packed with valuable advice to enhance your digital presence and fortify your brand identity. Tune in to learn how a consistent brand voice could transform how clients perceive your design prowess and operational dependability.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-128-How-to-develop-a-digital-brand-for-your-business

The links and past episodes mentioned in the episode​ are:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-2-branding-for-high-dollar-sales
• https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store/products/23
• https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Can you imagine transforming the way you manage business tasks with just one tool? Join us as we unlock the future of design office efficiency with ChatGPT's latest advancements. This episode, featuring Maria's expert insights, promises to equip you with the knowledge to revolutionize your workflow. From structuring emails and drafting presentations to handling difficult customer interactions, discover how these new features can save you time and reduce stress. By utilizing the groundbreaking Canvas feature, simultaneous collaboration on a single document becomes a reality, eliminating the hassle of juggling between multiple prompts.

But that's not all—ChatGPT's capabilities extend beyond traditional writing tasks. Learn to effortlessly create spreadsheets or presentations that meet your business needs. Maria walks us through practical applications like generating furnishing budget spreadsheets or crafting ready-to-use social media prompts. Whether you're looking to streamline operations or enhance content creation, our conversation is packed with valuable tips and insights to help you maximize the potential of cutting-edge AI tools. Let us help you transform your business operations with ChatGPT 4.0.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-127-Chat GPT-Tools-to-help-you-save-time

The links mentioned in the episode​

• https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store/products/23
• https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Discover how to transform your work environment with insights from Dr. Katie Thomas, a seasoned organizational psychologist and founder of Better Work Experience. With over two decades in the field, Dr. Thomas shares her expertise on the pivotal role of leadership as the steady anchor amidst the chaos of modern work life. From navigating generational diversity to adapting to technological disruptions, she emphasizes the necessity of self-awareness and trust-building in leadership. Through assessments and coaching, she assists leaders in identifying blind spots and fostering team resilience. Listen in to learn how leadership development not only enhances team dynamics but also aligns teams with the overarching goals of the organization.

Our conversation takes an intriguing turn as Dr. Thomas delves into the finer points of team dynamics and employee engagement. She uncovers how unresolved conflicts and unclear roles can sabotage even the most talented teams, offering practical strategies like team-building exercises and open dialogues to address these issues. We explore the concept of alignment in teams and its critical link to employee engagement. Dr. Thomas passionately discusses the importance of genuine human connections in boosting productivity and loyalty, asserting that engagement is rooted in meaningful relationships with colleagues and the company's mission. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that promises to elevate your team's potential and create a thriving work culture.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-126-Creating-Better-Work-Experiences

The links mentioned in the episode​

• www.betterworkexperience.com
• www.linkedin.com/in/dr-katie-thomas

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Can digital PR platforms truly transform your business? Tune in to uncover how the evolution of these platforms, starting with Peter Shankman's pioneering HARO, has reshaped the landscape for design professionals seeking press coverage. You'll gain insights into Shankman's latest venture, Source of Sources (SOS), which aims to rekindle HARO's original accessibility. As we navigate this transformative PR terrain, we also address the pivotal role of AI, cautioning against over-reliance on shortcuts that promise effortless media placements without the requisite effort.

Join us as we explore the nuances of leveraging platforms like Quoted, Connectively, and a nod to Harrow's evolution. Discover how Quoted's approval-based system, though intricate and costly, offers rich insights for crafting effective pitches. Learn about Connectively's AI-driven approach to matching journalists and sources, and the emphasis on creating original content to maintain credibility. With actionable steps to simplify your marketing and boost business growth, we also invite you to enhance your strategies through our Designer Discussions Academy membership. Stay with us for practical tools and insights tailored to elevate your design business.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-125-The-evolution-of-digital-PR

The links mentioned in the episode​

• Source of Sources
• Qwoted
• Connectively
• Designer Discussions Academy

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Ready to revolutionize your marketing and PR game? Discover the groundbreaking Designer Discussions Academy, where we break down complicated strategies into manageable, impactful actions. This episode unveils the Academy's unique approach, led by our very own "Dr. Flankenstein" (Jason), designed to help design professionals overcome the hurdles of effective marketing. Learn how our weekly Q&A sessions and comprehensive curriculum can transform your brand into the go-to name in your community.

Join us as Maria, Miriam, and Jason share the journey from a niche PR membership to a full-fledged educational powerhouse. Gain insights into the supportive community we've built, offering direct access to industry experts and practical advice tailored for designers and remodeling studios. Whether you're looking to enhance your marketing prowess or establish a strong local presence, this episode is packed with invaluable tips and success stories from those who've already benefited. Tune in and start your transformative journey with the Designer Discussions Academy today!

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-124-DD-Academy-New-Launch

To learn more about the Designer Discussions Academy, click the link below:

• https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Can networking feel daunting, especially if you're not a social butterfly? Imagine turning casual conversations into powerful business opportunities without stepping too far out of your comfort zone. Join Jason, Maria, and Miriam on this episode of Designer Discussions as we unravel the secrets of networking tailored for design professionals. Whether it's leveraging LinkedIn connections, engaging with professional organizations like ASID and NKBA, or even educating your own family and friends about your work, we offer practical strategies to expand your reach effortlessly.

We didn’t just meet by chance; our professional bonds were forged online, illustrating that meaningful relationships can start with a simple message. Tune in as we share personal stories about unexpected networking hotspots, from college alumni events to sports watch parties. Even if you experience social anxiety or have a packed schedule, we’ve got you covered with tips on making every interaction count. Learn how to harness the power of your immediate network and discover that networking success is more accessible than you think.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-123-The-Importance-of-Networking

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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What if everything you thought you knew about copyright and AI was turned upside down? In this eye-opening episode of Designer Discussions, Maria takes us on a deep dive into the murky waters of AI-generated content and its legal implications for design professionals. Prepare to uncover the crucial distinctions between human-made creations and AI-generated images, and why the latter remains unprotected in the public domain. Through riveting examples and real-world scenarios, Maria reveals the essential updates you need to make to your client contracts, ensuring you stay ahead of the legal curve in this rapidly evolving landscape.

Beyond just the legalities, Maria stresses the importance of understanding the terms and conditions of AI platforms. Did you know that images created on free accounts are not only non-commercial but also must be clearly labeled with the platform name and creation date? This episode is a treasure trove of indispensable information, from the potential pitfalls of using AI in your design projects to the ethical obligations of giving proper credit. Tune in and arm yourself with the knowledge to navigate the intersection of design, AI, and copyright law like a pro. This is one episode you can't afford to miss.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-122-The-Top-Things-to-Know-About-AI-and-Copyright

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Ready to elevate your PR game in 2024? Discover the latest must-have tools and strategies that will keep you ahead of the curve. Miriam sheds light on the shifting PR landscape, spotlighting three essential platforms: Connectively (formerly HARO), Quoted, and the new Source of Sources (SOS). Each platform offers distinct advantages, from robust paid subscriptions to a rapidly growing free service. Join us as we explore these tools and share actionable insights to make your PR efforts more effective than ever.

But that's not all! We also delve into the critical role of AI in PR. While AI can be incredibly helpful for brainstorming and outlining, over-reliance can get you blacklisted by journalists and platforms. Learn how to strike the perfect balance between leveraging AI and crafting original, engaging content that stands out. Tune in to this week's episode for these crucial updates and more, ensuring your marketing strategies are cutting-edge and effective in the coming year!

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-121-Marketing-Updates-for-2024

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Ever wondered how to revolutionize your email marketing strategy to maximize engagement and open rates? Tune in to the latest episode of Designer Discussions, where Jason, Miriam, and Maria reveal insider tips on leveraging email automation uniquely tailored for design professionals. Jason refreshes insights from his NKBA presentation, emphasizing the critical role of personalization in email campaigns. Discover how to create effective workflows, segment your audience, and utilize AI to draft welcome messages that resonate with different demographics while maintaining your brand's unique voice.

Join us as we explore the importance of regular follow-up workflows, how to gather and utilize audience feedback, and the benefits of investing in the paid versions of top email service providers like MailChimp, Constant Contact, and AWeber. Jason shares practical advice on understanding your email analytics to tailor your content better and improve engagement. This episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you enhance your email marketing efforts, build stronger connections with your audience, and ultimately drive your business forward.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-120-Email-Marketing-Tips

Previous Episodes Referenced:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-19-email-marketing-tips-for-interior-designers

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Can you imagine not being able to visualize your dream home, even when described in vivid detail? Join us as Maria uncovers the intriguing world of aphantasia, a condition that makes it challenging for some clients to picture design concepts. Discover how this "mind blindness" influences their decision-making and learn creative strategies to bridge the gap between a designer's vision and a client's visualization abilities. Using insights from Scientific American and compelling real-life scenarios, Maria emphasizes the critical role of repeated visual affirmations and contextual support in guiding clients through the design process.

In the latter part of the episode, we introduce you to the Designer Discussions Academy membership. Imagine having personal coaching from your podcast hosts and gaining access to a treasure trove of resources designed to elevate your marketing and business growth. Engage with like-minded professionals in our vibrant community through weekly live sessions, and never miss an opportunity for continuous learning. Make sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share the podcast with your network. For more exclusive content and updates, don't forget to visit our website and follow us on social media.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-119-Seeing-Visuals-from-the-clients-perspective

Previous Episodes Referenced:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-84-easy-ways-to-talk-about-money
• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-54-how-to-build-trust-with-your-clients
• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-44-Loss-Aversion-Why-Do-Renderings-Work

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Have you ever considered the environmental cost of using AI in your interior design projects? Join us as Maria sheds light on the surprising amount of energy needed to generate AI images, comparing it to more familiar energy consumptions like charging a smartphone. We delve into the often-overlooked environmental footprint of AI processing centers, discussing the enormous amounts of energy and water they consume. For interior designers committed to sustainable practices, this episode is a must-listen as we offer practical advice on making more eco-conscious decisions when incorporating AI into your business.

In the second part of our episode, we focus on maintaining brand integrity while using AI image generators like MidJourney. Maria offers a wealth of insights, from enhancing design projects with efficient tools to understanding why AI should be avoided for logo creation due to copyright concerns. Learn to be a responsible AI user by opting for energy-saving settings and balancing AI-generated content with genuine, human-created work. This episode provides valuable tips for integrating AI into your design business without compromising your professional identity or values, ensuring you attract real, engaged clients.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-118-Best-Practices-for-Sustainable-Use-of-AI

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Can the right content type exponentially increase your website traffic? Discover the insider secrets as Miriam, Jason, and Maria highlight the top three types of content that can turn your design website into a traffic powerhouse. This episode promises to equip you with actionable strategies to draw in a crowd, from creating compelling how-to guides and eye-catching infographics to engaging videos that showcase your expertise.

Join us as Jason unpacks how-to guides that not only attract DIY enthusiasts but also convert them into clients seeking professional help. Learn why infographics are a game-changer for those who prefer visual content, and how videos on platforms like TikTok and YouTube can give your audience a dynamic glimpse into your design skills. Whether you're a seasoned designer or just starting out, these tips are sure to transform your online presence. Don't miss this episode packed with practical advice and expert insights!

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-117-3-types-of-content-that-drives-traffic-to-your-website

Episodes mentioned in this podcast:

• Episode 116 - Are Blogs Dead - Designer Discussions
• Episode 93 - 10 Common Video Marketing Mistakes - Designer Discussions
• Episode 62 - Video SEO Tips for Designers - Designer Discussions
• Episode 40 - How to drive traffic with SEO - Designer Discussions
• Episode 33 - Video Marketing Tips for interior designers - Designer Discussions
• Episode 29 - Reels and TikTok - Short Format Video Tips for Interior Designers - Designer Discussions

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Embark on a transformative journey through the ever-evolving landscape of design journalism with us. Discover how the humble beginnings of personal blogging catapulted into professional powerhouses like Design Milk and Apartment Therapy, with insights from Miriam, a pioneer in the blogosphere. Witness the seismic shift to Instagram and TikTok, unveiling how these platforms are rewriting the rules for trend-spotting and media research. As we reminisce about the mid-2010s—the pivotal moment when the balance tipped towards social media—we'll dissect the current prominence of TikTok and its influence on public discourse, and whether blogs still hold their ground in this digital tapestry.

Fasten your seatbelt as we navigate the turbulent future of TikTok amidst swirling uncertainties and potential bans, probing its indispensable role in the marketing strategies of savvy businesses. With the wisdom of our guest Jason, delve into the enduring relevance of blogs, armed with analytics to sculpt content that resonates deeply with your audience. We'll share expert strategies for leveraging your Google Business Profile to attract local clientele and extend an exclusive invitation for a content review to ensure your website is a magnet for your ideal customer. Tune in for an episode brimming with strategic insights that promise to redefine your approach to content creation and elevate your presence in the design world.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-116-Are-Blogs-Dead/

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Discover the startling truth behind the investor-driven revolution in home design as we unpack the effects of private equity's stronghold on the market. With 44% of last year's home flips attributed to investors, you'll get an inside look at how this shift is not just altering the landscape of homeownership, but also redefining the value and investment we place in our living spaces. This episode peels back the layers on the surge of short-term rentals and its implications for the interior design industry, questioning whether the essence of creating a home is being lost to the lure of quick profits.

As we navigate through the ripple effects of economic uncertainty, hear from industry leaders on how rising interest rates and escalating costs are steering homeowner decisions. We offer a strategic playbook for design businesses bracing for these changes, discussing the pivot from expansive to intimate renovations and the importance of marketing to maintain a steady course through economic headwinds. Drawing on past corporate war stories like those from Kohler Company during the 2008 financial crisis, we provide guidance on how high-end clients are likely to weather this storm, ensuring you're equipped with the knowledge to adapt and thrive in this evolving market.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-114-HARO-is-Dead-Best-Ways-to-Get-Quick-Press-Right-Now

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Discover the seismic shift in the PR universe with the transformation of HARO into Connectively, and the ripple effects it's created across the industry. Our PR whisperer, Miriam, takes you through the dramatic evolution of this vital service, from its 2008 inception by PR guru Peter Shankman to its controversial revamp by Cision. Get ready to grasp the full implications it holds for your business and PR strategy.

As we unravel the layers of HARO's metamorphosis, we'll also consider Shankman's bold response: the launch of Help Every Reporter Out (HERO). You'll get a front-row seat to the community's reaction, strategies to adapt, and whether HERO might just save the day for PR professionals seeking media connections. Join Miriam, Maria, and Jason for an insightful tour through the latest PR landscape—it's an episode packed with industry intel you won't want to miss!

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-114-HARO-is-Dead-Best-Ways-to-Get-Quick-Press-Right-Now

Reference Links from the Episode:

• https://helpeveryreporter.com/
• https://www.connectively.us/

Sign-up for Designer Discussions Interior Design Media Opportunities service:

• https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/subscribe

Other Episodes Discussed in this episode:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-94-top-10-pr-questions
• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-92-the-quickest-and-easiest-way-to-get-press
• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-69-how-to-get-found-by-the-media
• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-10-how-to-get-press-as-an-

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Unlock the full potential of your design collaborations with our latest episode, where I, joined by Miriam and our special guest, Maria, reveal the secrets to forging powerful brand partnerships in the world of interior design. We delve into Maria's triumphs at KBiz and provide a wealth of expertise on how to approach brands, pitch perfect content, and use strategic timing to get your projects featured in top magazines. We're not just sharing our experiences; we're equipping you with the tools to capture a brand's attention, plan professional photography, and maximize social media and PR to amplify your design narrative.

This episode is a goldmine for designers eager to elevate their work through strategic collaborations. As we unwrap the art of concise communication with brands and media, we emphasize the elegance of a one-page PDF pitch and the craft of including just the right project details to pique interest. With actionable steps on initiating contact with brand PR representatives and coordinating project asset releases, both budding and veteran designers will find value in our discussion. Join us, along with Maria's insider insights, to learn how to navigate the intricacies of brand partnerships and secure those coveted media spots that will spotlight your design prowess.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-113-Brand-Partnerships-Part-2

Other Episodes Discussed in this episode:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-108-how-to-start-conversations-with-brands-at-kbis

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Could the rise of Search Generative Experience (SGE) spell the end for traditional SEO? That's the burning question Jason and Maria tackle in today's engaging discussion. As AI reshapes the way Google Search operates, we peel back the layers of this intricate digital evolution. Prepare to have your mind expanded as we reveal the strategies that will not only preserve, but elevate, your website's content in the age of SGE. Dive into the nitty-gritty with us and grasp the continuing importance of comprehensive content—content that reigns as king and queen in this AI-dominated kingdom.

Join us for a stimulating session where we shine a light on the future of online search and content creation. Discover the secret to differentiating your website through in-depth articles, videos, and their transcriptions, ensuring you stay ahead of your competition in SGE searches. With insights into tailoring your content to the ideal client, we confirm that SEO is far from obsolete—it's simply evolving. Embrace this shift with us and learn how to keep your content not just relevant, but indispensable.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-112-How-AI-is-Changing-Google-Search

Here is a link to Google's explanation of SGE
https://static.googleusercontent.com/media/www.google.com/en//search/howsearchworks/google-about-SGE.pdf

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Discover the seismic shifts that have rocked the digital marketing world as our hosts Jason, Maria, and Miriam, guide you through the transformative events of the past five years. We're unmasking the effects of the pandemic that shoved businesses into the online arena, escalating competition, and driving up ad costs. And that's just the tip of the iceberg. We're talking about the social media juggernaut's leap with the rise of TikTok, forcing platforms to adapt with a newfound emphasis on video content. It's a battleground out there, and we're arming you with the insights to navigate it.

As the chatter online grows louder, we dissect the role of AI in content generation and its double-edged sword for small businesses vying to be heard. Jason stresses the art of tailoring content to captivate your ideal client amidst a noisy digital landscape. With ad prices soaring and lead quality waning, we confront the real struggle businesses face on social media. It's not just about brand awareness but fostering authentic connections and sparking genuine engagement. Join us for this captivating conversation, and gear up to elevate your digital marketing game to new heights.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-111-How-Marketing-has-changed-over-the-course-of-the-last-5-years

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Prepare to illuminate your world with insights from Jan Rutgers, an industry savant fresh from KBS 2024, as she casts a light on revolutionary interior design trends. This episode is a treasure trove that promises to enrich your understanding of how cutting-edge cabinet lighting is transforming the way we dwell, with innovations like adjustable shelf lighting and temperature control setting the stage for a new era of functionality and style. Water-resistant lighting for showers and the serene beauty of floating design elements are also on the agenda, revealing how these trends are not just enhancing kitchen and bath spaces, but redefining them.

As we navigate the evolving landscape of kitchen design, you'll be captivated by the concept of 'soft geometry'—an artistic movement breathing life into the corners of our homes through ergonomic and soothing lines. We don't just stop at shapes; the episode also colors your imagination with the latest trend of personalizing appliances beyond the classic stainless steel. Jan Rutgers expertly breaks down the shift from open shelving to innovative storage that frames both purpose and panache, concluding with a look at how sinks have transcended their humble status to become multifunctional 'water appliances.' Tune in for a masterclass in tailoring your living space to match the beat of modern design.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-110-kbis-2024-trends-from-the-show-floor

Website referenced in this episode:
https://vestabul.com/2024/03/12/design-trends-from-kbis-2024-part-1/

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Unlock the secret to transforming a designer's portfolio with the help of Tori Sikkema, a virtuoso in interior, architectural, and lifestyle photography. Through an engaging dialogue, Tori demystifies the indispensable role professional photography plays in propelling designers into the spotlight of press and publications. She offers her seasoned perspective on the nuances of choosing a photographer whose aesthetic complements a designer’s vision and shares how to harness the power of social media to make that perfect match. If you're a designer eager to cast your work in its finest light or a photography enthusiast fascinated by the blend of artistry and design, this episode holds the keys to elevating your visual storytelling.

Step behind the lens with us as we navigate the less often discussed, yet critical aspects of professional shoots, such as image rights, cost-sharing, and crafting a harmonious relationship with photographers. Tori recounts personal experiences that underscore the vitality of clear communication and record-keeping to avoid legal entanglements and maintain fruitful, long-term collaborations. Moreover, we venture into the dynamics of preparing for and savoring the photoshoot process and discuss strategies that ensure your designs continue to captivate audiences across platforms such as Pinterest and Instagram.

Link mentioned in this episode:
The Six S's of Success to get published: https://torisikkemaphotos.com/sixssofsuccess

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-109-Elevating-Your-Design-Portfolio-Through-Professional-Photography-with-Tori-Sikkema

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Ever found yourself at a trade show, admiring brands and wondering how to spark a collaboration that goes beyond a quick exchange of business cards? That’s precisely what we tackle in our latest Designer Discussions podcast. Join Miriam, Maria, and myself along with our guest experts, as we peel back the curtain on the art of conversation at events like KBS. We're not just talking any chat, but the kind that forges partnerships with impact. From navigating the nuances of licensing deals to crafting brand partnerships, we're here to share our personal stories, mishaps, and those golden moments when the stars align, all to help you make authentic connections that last.

We understand that standing out in a sea of designers can be daunting, but with our actionable tips on leveraging past projects and showcasing genuine enthusiasm for a brand's offerings, you'll have a blueprint for success. Our discussion doesn't stop at the how-to; we also cover the who-to. With strategic insights on the difference between engaging with sales reps and connecting with those in charge of collaborations, we'll point you towards the right people to make your partnership dreams a reality. And if you're eager for more, I extend a personal invitation to my talk at K-Biz, where I'll be unveiling secrets to a dazzling marketing plan. So tune in, take notes, and ready yourself to navigate the world of brand partnerships with newfound confidence.

If you will be at KBIS 2024:

• Visit the Designer Discussions Crew in the West Hall at Booth W1168
• Listen to Jason Lockhart's Voices for the Industry Presentation on Tuesday, February 27 from 2:45 - 4:45 in room N260. The title of the presentation, "Master Your Marketing Workshop".

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-108-How-to-Start-Conversations-with-Brands-at-KBIS

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Ever wonder how your favorite brands capture their essence in every tweet, ad, and email? That's the power of a consistent brand voice, and this podcast is your ticket to unlocking it for your own business. Join us—Jason, Maria, and Miriam—as we dive into the world of branding with the aid of emerging AI technologies like ChatGPT. We'll expose the heart and soul of what makes a brand's communication tick, and show you how to emulate it across every channel, ensuring your message is not just heard, but felt.

Maria leads the charge, illuminating the path to crafting a brand voice that's not only unique but rings true with every word. It's not just about sounding good; it's about resonating with your target audience and standing out from the crowd. We'll also explore how AI tools can act as your personal branding assistant, keeping your business on the cutting edge. So gear up for a session that promises to revolutionize your approach to branding, and strap in for an insightful journey into the world of consistent, compelling communication.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-107-Discovering-Your-Brand-Voice-with-AI-Assistance

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Step into the future of design with our eye-opening discussion on the top digital marketing trends for 2024, tailored to transform your interior design or renovation business. As you sip your morning coffee, join Miriam, Jason, and our AI virtuoso, Maria, in uncovering the landscape of upcoming innovations that promise to keep your brand at the forefront. We don't just talk theory; we equip you with the practical know-how to harness these trends, from SEO to the dynamic world of social media.

Imagine your workflow supercharged by AI, where crafting social media posts and blog content becomes a breeze, leaving you more time to ignite your creative spark. We explore the role of chatbots in customer interactions, ensuring your website is responsive round the clock, even when you're catching those essential Z's. For a deeper dive and hands-on exercises, don't miss our full conversation during the upcoming NKBA presentation – it's the blueprint for marketing success that you've been waiting for.

Webinar/Episode referenced in this episode:

• https://nkba.org/learning/webinars/digital-marketing-trends-in-2024-staying-ahead-of-the-curve/
• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-29-reels-and-tiktok-short-format-video-tips-for-interior-designers

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-106-Digital-Marketing-Trends-for-2024

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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How will 2024 unfold for you as an interior designer or webop? Give your journey a formidable head start with our dynamic discussion on planning, marketing, PR, and business development, specifically tailored to your industry. You'll find invaluable tips from us - your hosts, Jason, Maria, and Miriam - on reverse-engineering your goals and optimizing your website for voice-activated search. Maria, our resident AI expert, will reveal why personalized content could be your competitive edge in this thriving design landscape.

We're also unveiling the truth behind password security - the understated hero in safeguarding your online presence. You'll be enlightened on the necessity of password management systems and two-factor authentication as we shine a spotlight on their pivotal role in your online safety. Our conversation further explores the power of PR in establishing credibility and fostering client acquisition, and we'll be suggesting means for cost-effective training, including the possibility of joining our Academy program. We're eager to hear your topic suggestions and invite you to join us at the Designer Discussions Academy for a monthly focus on all things marketing, PR, and business development. So, let's kickstart this new year with a transformative journey for your interior design business!

Episode referenced in this episode:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-98-become-a-marketing-expert-for-your-business
• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-76-developing-a-winning-marketing-and-pr-strategy-for-2023
• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-24-developing-a-winning-marketing-and-pr-strategy-for-2022

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-105-Planning-Tips-for-2024

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Join us, Jason, Miriam, and Maria, as we take a trip down memory lane, reflecting on the gems 2023 has bequeathed us. Let's reminisce about the intriguing insights, our favorite guests, and above all, the episodes on AI that sparked our curiosity and left us in awe. Our very own Maria, our guide in the realm of AI, has done a superb job of demystifying this often-daunting subject, making those episodes an absolute must-listen.

As we wave goodbye to 2023, we can't resist but wonder what 2024 holds for us. The potential leaps in marketing, PR, and business development, and their impact on design businesses promise an exciting year ahead. A point of notable interest from our discussions is the pivotal role AI is expected to play in the upcoming year. Do ensure that you catch our 100th episode where guest host Charmaine pulls back the curtains, offering you a glimpse into our personal lives. Tune in and discover more about our interests, passions, and the driving forces behind what we do. Don't miss out on this chance to know us better!

Episode referenced in this episode:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-100-up-close-and-personal-chatting-with-charmaine-takeover
• https://www.kitchenbathdesign.com/a-year-end-review-of-current-trends/

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-104-The-Best-of-2023-and-Our-Predictions-for-2024

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Unlock the transformative power of Word of Mouth (WAM) in your design business, as we reveal how press, referrals, and AI can construct trust with your customers, amplify visibility, and catapult your interior design or remodeling business to new heights. The digital landscape can be a minefield, so let us guide you through the intricacies of SEO, demonstrating how reviews can propel your rankings and steer the decisions of potential customers.

Stepping into the spotlight, we shine a light on how reviews can not only build trust in your business but also widen your visibility. Harness the might of social proof, use negative reviews to your advantage, and monitor your online reputation with tools like Google Alerts. The podcast doesn't stop at reviews! We venture into unexplored territories of marketing strategies for interior designers, delving into how SEO, press, social media, and AI can upgrade your marketing game. With us at the Designer Discussions Academy, we bring you monthly nuggets of wisdom on leveraging these strategies to make your business flourish.

Episode referenced in this episode:

Episode 7: How To Handle Negative Reviews - Designer Discussions

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-103-Unlocking-the-Power-of-Word-of-Mouth-in-Your-Design-Business

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Dive into the world of sales and discover the unexpected value it holds for interior designers, with insights from our guest Duane Becker. We're unpacking the entire sales process, from the initial client contact to the final farewell, and revealing the pivotal role of a well-versed salesperson. They are not just selling a product or service, they are problem solvers, solution providers and concept introducers. We'll illuminate how to enhance your client's experience and streamline your process with scheduled appointments and structured interaction.

But wait, there's more! We're also putting under the spotlight the importance of effective follow-up strategies and stellar customer service. We'll discuss how to master the art of discussing budget constraints, the essence of providing reasons for follow-ups and how to effortlessly talk money. We'll empower you with knowledge on how to intertwine customer service and sales, and offer unexpected value to your clients. Becker also recommends some enlightening books that can help you imbibe and implement these ideas. So tune in now, this episode is sure to equip you with essential skills to boost your sales process and client service.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-102-Boosting-Client-Services-and-Sales-in-Interior-Design

Episodes referenced in this episode:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-13-How-to-Wow-Your-Clients-Experience

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Uncover the secrets to scaling your interior design business with our engaging discourse featuring sales wizard, Duane Becker. We promise to equip you with effective tactics of where marketing ends, and the sales game begins. Dive deeper into the art of designing compelling content and ads to engage your ideal clientele. With our discussion on the transformation of prospects into clients, we guarantee a paradigm shift in your approach to business.

Intrigued by the crucial role of sales in the design process? Brace yourselves as Duane Becker unravels the mystery of when and where sales come into play. We tackle the struggles of interior designers when selling their work and share invaluable tips on making the client's choices simpler for enhanced sales. Discover how decision fatigue can throw a spanner in your project works and strategies to tackle it. Hop on this enlightening journey to transform your interior design business with us.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-101-A-Winning-Marketing-and-Sales-Process-for-Your-Business

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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As we celebrate our 100th episode we turn over the hosting duties to Charmaine Wynter of Chatting with Charmaine and charmainewynter.com. In this episode Charmaine gets up close and personal with the three host (Jason, Maria and Mirjam), along with discussing what's next for the Designer Discussions Podcast.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-100-Up-Close-and-Personal-Chatting-with-Charmaine-Takeover

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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The Designer Discussions Crew is answering the top 5 listener questions.

1. How relevant is TikTok to the remodeling industry?
2. How can I use AI to enhance my marketing?
3. What are some marketing trends for 2024?
4. How can I use Google products to market my business?
5. How can PR help remodeling companies grow?

Episodes Referenced in the Podcast:
Question 1 - https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-29-Reels-and-TikTok-Short-Format-Video-Tips-for-Interior-Designers
Question 2 - https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-82-Using-Chat-GPT-for-Small-Businesses
Question 3 - https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-96-Why-is-AI-Controversial-in-Interior-Design
Question 4 - https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-40-Driving-more-traffic-to-your-website-through-SEO
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-77-Website-Updates-in-2023
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-89-Number-1-Way-for-Your-Website-to-be-Found
Question 5 - https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-51-how-to-use-marketing-and-pr-to-drive-your-business-with-kerrie-kelly​

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-99-Top-5-Listener-Questions

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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In this episode we will show you how to become an expert at marketing your business, save yourself time, and get the clients you want. To learn more about the Designer Discussions Academy click this link below:

https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-98-Become-a-Marketing-Expert-for-Your-Business

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Without an investment range determined the client and the designer can go around in circles for months developing plans and pricing the project to get it right. Jan has been working with a team of developers and kitchen and bath pros on an app to help design
professionals guide consumers through the budgeting process.

You can check it out at www.designalign.com

There is a place to sign up for a free 10-day trial but you can extend that to 30 days by using the coupon code VESTA.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-97-Prequalifying-clients-through-investment-range

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Don't be left behind! Get started using AI images for your design business and learn how in this episode.

Past Episodes Referenced:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-82-using-chat-gpt-for-small-businesses
• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-86-how-ai-will-impact-the-interior-design-industry

Take advantage of these resources to uplevel your business.
Chat GPT training
https://youtu.be/2zCuMl4j5nU

Chat GPT Webinar -
https://youtu.be/ILbCd-tsVPc

AI How to video
https://youtu.be/i4yxyY8haIQ

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-96-Why-is-AI-Controversial-in-Interior-Design

About Designer Discussions

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY.

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Do you want more incoming calls for new clients? Or do you want better clients? We cover the top 10 Questions about marketing designers and remodelers are asking.

1. Who is my target market? (01:03)
2. How can I reach my target market? (02:10)
3. How can I convince customers to buy my product or service? (03:12)
4. Who are my competitors? (04:47)
5. How do customers perceive my brand? (06:00)
6. How can I make my business more visible online? (07:18)
7. How are customers finding my business? (08:17)
8. Why are customers visiting my website but not purchasing my products? (09:12)
9. How do I create an effective marketing plan? (10:29)
10. What should I do next? (11:04)

Episodes referenced:

Episode 24: Developing a Winning Marketing & PR Plan Strategy for 2022
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-24-developing-a-winning-marketing-and-pr-strategy-for-2022

Episode 73: The Power of Analytics
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-73-the-power-of-analytics

Episode 76: Developing a Winning Marketing & PR Plan Strategy for 2023
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-76-developing-a-winning-marketing-and-pr-strategy-for-2023

Outline Workbook for Client Avatar:
https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-95-Top-10-Marketing-Questions

About Designer Discussions

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY.

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We cover the top 10 PR Questions . . .

1. Do I need an agency or publicist? (1:02)
2. What types of media placements should I focus on to maximize the impact on my brand's visibility? (3:01)
3. What are some practical ways to build relationships with media contacts and journalists without paying for PR services? (5:09)
4. What are the essential elements of a compelling pitch that can capture the interest of editors and journalists? (7:20)
5. How do I get brand partnerships? (9:05)
6. How do I stay up-to-date with the current trends and topics that the media is interested in covering within the interior design industry? (11:50)
7. How do I get a print placement in a national magazine? (13:19)
8. How can I ensure that my design projects are portrayed accurately and positively in media coverage? (16:26)
9. How do I measure the success of my PR efforts in terms of media coverage and its overall impact on my business? (19:22)
10. How can I best support my own PR efforts to increase the likelihood of getting featured in media outlets? (24:08)

Past Episodes Referenced:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-15-do-you-need-a-publicist

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-42-how-designers-can-make-brand-partnerships-work-for-them

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-69-how-to-get-found-by-the-media

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-85-brand-partnerships-through-the-one-room-challenge

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-94-top-10-pr-questions

About Designer Discussions

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY.

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Video is King, and there is no better way to elevate your design business. We cover the top 10 mistakes and tips on improving your videos.

1. Choosing a Poor-Quality Video Production (01:12)
2. Not Having A Defined Story (02:14)
3. Targeting the Wrong Audience (03:19) – Marketing Studio Link (03:32)
4. Creating Extra Long and Boring Videos (04:06)
5. Not Having a Call-to-Action (CTA) (06:12)
6. Neglecting SEO (06:50)
7. Forgetting the Captions and Sub-titles (07:27)
8. Overdoing Your Sales Pitch (08:52)
9. Not Using Metrics to Track Progress (09:48)
10. Adding Too Many Messages in a Single Video (11:24)

Past Episodes Referenced:

Episode 29: Reels & TikTok Short Format Video Tips
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-29-reels-and-tiktok-short-format-video-tips-for-interior-designers

Episode 33: Elevate your business through video https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-33-video-marketing-tips-for-interior-designers

Episode 62: Video SEO
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-62-video-seo-tips-for-designers

Episode 73: The Power of Analytics
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-73-the-power-of-analytics

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-93-10-Common-Video-Marketing-Mistakes

About Designer Discussions

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY.

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Open your life to the frequent favorable attention in the news media in quick and easy ways. Publications want to hear from you! Be on top of press trends before it's too late.

Past Episodes Referenced:
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-10-how-to-get-press-as-an-interior-design-expert
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-87-marketing-studio

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-92-The-quickest-and-easiest-way-to-get-press

About Designer Discussions

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY.

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Back with our most requested topic: pricing for interior designers. Yes, it's time for a change and we have the most up-to-date profitability techniques for your business.

To contact Keri and learn about her pricing program click link below:
https://www.designandthrivecourse.com/perfectpricingmodelprogram

Past Episodes Referenced:
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-22-how-life-experience-and-mindset-impact-your-design-business

Visit our Marketing Studio for more information:
https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-91-Pricing-Problems-and-Solutions

To contact Keri and learn about her pricing program click link below:
https://www.designandthrivecourse.com/perfectpricingmodelprogram

Past Episodes Referenced:
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-22-how-life-experience-and-mindset-impact-your-design-business

Visit our Marketing Studio for more information:
https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/

About Designer Discussions

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY.

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-90-The-SEO-Formula-for-Blogs

Free Blog SEO download from the Marketing Studio

• https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store/products/29

Episodes Referenced in the Podcast:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/seo-101-understanding-seo-for-interior-designers
• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-40-how-to-drive-traffic-with-seo

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-89-Number-1-Way-for-Your-Website-to-be-Found

Episodes Referenced in the Podcast:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-10-how-to-get-press-as-an-interior-design-expert
• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-69-how-to-get-found-by-the-media

The Complete Guide to Internet Marketing for the Kitchen & Bath Remodel Industry

• https://www.kitchenandbathmarketingsolutions.com/book-offer

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-88-Messaging-for-Your-Ideal-Client

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-86-Marketing-Studio

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-86-How-AI-will-impact-the-Interior-Design-Industry

Links mentioned in this episode for AI images:

https://www.midjourney.com/home/

https://openai.com/product/dall-e-2

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-85-Brand-Partnerships-Through-The-One-Room-Challenge

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-84-Easy-ways-to-talk-about-Money

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-83-How-to-pitch-a-podcast

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-82-Using-Chat-GPT-for-Small-Businesses

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-80-KBIS-2023-Trends-from-the-Show-Floor

Website referenced in this episode:
https://vestabul.com/2023/02/07/kitchen-trends-from-the-kbis-2023-show-floor/

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-80-Social-Media-Tips-for-Design-Professionals

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-79-Leadership-Tips-for-Design-Businesses

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-78-Planning-Your-Content-for-2023

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-77-Website-Updates-in-2023

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-76-Developing-a-Winning-Marketing-and-PR-Strategy-for-2023

Link to Marketing Studio: https://www.designerdiscussions.com/marketing-studio

Past episodes referenced in this episode are:
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-73-the-power-of-analytics
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-24-developing-a-winning-marketing-and-pr-strategy-for-2022
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-6-what-makes-an-interior-designer-marketable

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-75-2022-Year-In-Review

Past episodes referenced in this episode are:
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-31-diversity-in-design-with-kiwana-mcclung
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-38-why-pr-is-so-expensive
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-43-social-proof-the-ultimate-way-to-build-know-like-and-trust
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-44-loss-aversion-why-does-the-rendering-work
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-45-you-have-to-give-to-get-the-power-of-reciprocity
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-47-partitioning-why-its-important-to-end-on-a-high-note
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-49-why-is-seo-so-expensive
https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-65-equity-in-design

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-74-Productivity-Tips-for-Design-Professionals

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-73-The-Power-of-Analytics

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-72-Predictable-client-behavior

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-71-How-a-proposal-impacts-profitability

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-70-Curating-your-client

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-69-How-to-get-found-by-the-media

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-68-Why-Your-Brand-is-Important

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-67-How-to-Recession-Proof-your-Interior-Design-Business

Link to past episodes referenced:
Episode 12 - https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-12-how-to-optimize-your-website-for-visibility
Episode 19 - https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-19-email-marketing-tips-for-interior-designers
Episode 29 - https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-29-reels-and-tiktok-short-format-video-tips-for-interior-designers
Episode 40 - https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-40-how-to-drive-traffic-with-seo
Episode 58 - https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-58-instagram-marketing-tips-for-designers

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-66-Benefits-of-Buying-Groups

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Our guest Nureed is one of the winners of the NKBA Innovators award for her article on the topic of diversity & inclusion. Link to Nureed's article: https://zurl.co/BS5K

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-65-Equity-in-Design

Nureed is sharing the link to the relatively short film created by the Zinn Project in partnership with Richard Rothstein, author of “The Color of Law”. Understanding the history of our nation’s responsibility in residential segregation becomes our individual responsibility to learn about it and recognize where we as designers and architects can make an impact in our own industry. It is undeniable that our industry is so closely linked to the system that was created decades ago and frankly how our industry sees opportunity is built upon inherited wealth and the segregation of cities across the country.

The film is called “Segregated by Design”.
https://www.zinnedproject.org/materials/segregated-by-design/

To contact Nureed, use the links below:
https://www.nuinteriors.net/
https://www.instagram.com/nuinteriors/

Link to past episodes referenced:
Episode 31 - https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-31-diversity-in-design-with-kiwana-mcclung

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-64-Benefits-of-Trade-Associations

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-63-Working-with-a-VA-for-Interior-Designers

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-62-Video-SEO-Tips-for-Designers

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-61-Facebook-ads-101-for-Interior-Designers

For the Facebook ads webinar click the link below:
https://youtu.be/lFtxxpUYIgE

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-60-Organize-your-interior-design-media-assets

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f you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-59-What-are-Interior-Design-Keywords

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-58-Instagram-Marketing-Tips-for-Designers

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-57-Benefits-of-the-One-Room-Challenge

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-56-Podcasting-for-Designers

Click the links below for the links referenced in this episode: 
- BuzzSprout Affiliate Link: https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1822062
- Podcasting 101 Webinar: https://youtu.be/D0mh8qy0Pe8
- Podcast Cheat Sheet: https://www.designerdiscussions.com/podcastcheatsheet.html

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-55-Developing-Productive-Habits-as-a-Busy-Designer

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Today, Maria talks about how to build trust with your clients using tech and other strategies.

● Know, like and trust is critical.

● It’s all about 1) your relationship, 2) consistency and 3) results.

● Here are six things to consider:

○ Are you in touch with the concerns of your client

○ Can you demonstrate results where you applied the concern for others

○ Generate cooperation among all parties

○ Actively demonstrate resolving conflict

○ Others are actively seeking your opinion

○ Anticipate and respond to problems swiftly

Find more info on Maria on https://designappy.com/ and https://www.designerdiscussions.com/

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-54-How-to-Build-Trust-with-your-Clients

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Today’s guest is Melinda Dzinic from Euro Design Build in Dallas. She blew us away with some of the tips she shared about her process.

● Communication is key

● Step-by-step process for everyone involved

● Set design meetings with milestones

● Involve the neighbors!

● Benefits of participating in trade organizations

● The importance of building trust in all business relationships

● Build your reputation with awards - document your projects!

● Find quality brands/products you love

● Deliver projects that are built to last

● Leverage marketing and PR

To get in touch with Melinda, email melinda@eurodesignbuild.com or call (972) 470-0303.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-53-Success-Story-Melinda-Dzinic

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-52-The-Dos-and-Donts-of-Facebook-Ads

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-51-How-to-use-marketing-and-PR-to-drive-your-business

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This is the 50th Designer Discussions podcast episode - wahoo!

Jason, Maria and Mirjam look back on their favorite episodes and guest Elizabeth Kaminski from Elizabeth Helen Design shares how following the tips of the podcast led her to be published in a regional magazine and what else she took away from listening.

Get more info on the podcast and listen to all the episodes at https://www.designerdiscussions.com/

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-50-Designer-Discussions-Success-Story

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Find more information on SEO and all things digital marketing on Jason’s website: https://www.kitchenandbathmarketingsolutions.com/

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-49-Why-does-SEO-Cost-so-much

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Our guest Jamie Gold is a well-known wellness design consultant and the author of three books on design and remodeling, including the award-winning Wellness by Design: A Room-by-Room Guide to Optimizing Your Home for Health Fitness and Happiness.

In this episode, we covered the following:

● What does wellness have to do with design?

● How do you best integrate it into the design process?

● As a designer and journalist at the same time, how should designers use the wellness angle in their marketing/PR?

● Why you should talk with clients about wellness design;

● How to talk with clients about wellness design, and how not to;

● The benefits of being niched in Interior design.

Get in touch with Jamie: jamiegold.net, @JGWellnessDesign (No i on Twitter or Clubhouse)

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-48-Wellness-in-Design

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If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-47-Partitioning-Why-its-important-to-end-on-a-high-note

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In this episode, Mirjam explains what a press release is and when you may need one.

• A press release is an official statement delivered to members of the news media for the purpose of providing information, an official statement, or making an announcement.
• Purpose is to announce something, for example:
  • Company launch
  • New products/services
  • New hires
  • Events
  • Awards
  • New clients/partnerships
  • Company growth
  • Exhibiting, speaking at event
  • New office location
  • Charitable activities
• What goes in a press releases:
  • Ask: who cares?
  • Who, what, when, where, why
  • Boilerplate/backgrounder
  • Facts only - no fluff or salesy language
• Hire a professional to write it!

Below is the link to the PR example Mirjam discussed in this episode:

• https://www.prunderground.com/designer-discussions-launches-educational-marketing-podcast-for-interior-designers/00242636/

To get more info on PR and for questions related to press releases, reach out to Mirjam on https://www.getinkdiy.com/.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-46-When-do-you-need-a-Press-Release

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In this episode, Maria walks us through the behavioral economics concepts of reciprocity.

● You have to give something first before you can get or ask for anything.

● Two prime examples from the world of marketing:

○ Doing PR is based on reciprocity: to get the press you want you have to first give the journalist what they need.

○ Your email newsletter should provide 80% valuable content and only 20% about you, so your reader is engaged and interested.

○ On social media, use a similar approach. Provide lots of entertaining and informative content before asking for anything.

○ On your website, offer people something special to build trust and likeability.

○ Client gifts are key during and after working on a project.

● If you give freely, people are likely to reciprocate!

Learn more about the Designer Discussions hosts at https://www.designerdiscussions.com/

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-45-You-Have-to-Give-to-Get-The-Power-of-Reciprocity

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In this episode, Maria walks us through the two behavioral economics concepts that perfectly explain the reason why renderings work.

● Loss aversion & perceived ownership - make your client see, feel and anticipate the experience, paint the picture of the end result

● Once the client sees the rendering, they feel ownership before they buy and they don’t want to lose it.

● Print media placements carry higher perceived value than online

Learn more about Maria’s digital sketching software to help your clients feel ownership of the project after the first appointment: https://designappy.com/

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-44-Loss-Aversion-Why-Do-Renderings-Work

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In this episode, we explore the concept of social proof and share some tips on how you can apply it to your business.

● Getting published is the ultimate form of social proof.

● Get client testimonials at the big reveal.

● Get video testimonials.

● Ask and manage your online reviews..

● Communicate average client spend to prospects.

Get in touch with us to learn more about how to get more social proof:: Mirjam’s DIY PR program: https://www.getinkdiy.com/ A website review with Jason: https://www.kitchenandbathmarketingsolutions.com/

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-43-Social-Proof-The-Ultimate-Way-to-Build-Know-Like-and-Trust

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This episode focuses on an aspect of brand partnerships that is widely underreported. Mirjam talks to our guest Shanin Polce, a marketing strategist who runs the marketing for PPG/Speakman, about the different ways designers can partner with brands and the benefits of collaborating with smaller companies.

● Different kinds of brand partnerships

○ Paid influencer partnerships (often with bloggers)

○ Licensing partnerships (with high-profile designers)

○ “Grassroots partnerships” where brands and interests alig

● Why “smaller” brands are interested in partnering with designers

○ Brand positioning

○ Exposure

○ True long-term partnerships, brand advocates

○ Content, especially images!

● Benefits for designers to seek out partnerships with brands

○ Product discounts

○ Access to new products

○ Social/PR exposure and other marketing

○ Cost sharing of photography, or other financial incentives

● How to initiate a relationship

○ Find PR/marketing contact and reach out to introduce yourself

○ Tag brand on social media when you use their products

● Caveat

○ Arrangement must be fair for both sides!

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-42-How-designers-can-make-brand-partnerships-work-for-them

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This is the first episode of a series where co-host Maria Martin introduces us to the concept of behavioral economics and explains how the principles apply to the work and business of interior design.

● What is behavioral economics

● Conscious vs. unconscious behavior

● Learning from big biz and applying it to your client relationship

Watch for more episodes in this series!

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-41-Behavioral-Economics-Why-do-we-turn-down-the-radio-when-we-are-lost

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Our own digital marketing Expert Jason explains how you can use SEO to drive traffic to your website.

• SEO needs to be continuous to stay relevant
• It’s “digital ditch digging”!
• Start with an up-to-date website
• Add content to your website - refer to episode #26
• Set up a detailed Google Business Profile
• Name your images
• Use keywords

Find more information on SEO and all things digital marketing on Jason’s website: https://www.kitchenandbathmarketingsolutions.com/

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-40-Driving-more-traffic-to-your-website-through-SEO

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Google My Business Guide: https://www.kitchenandbathmarketingsolutions.com/google-my-business-2022-guide.html
• SEO Checklist: https://www.kitchenandbathmarketingsolutions.com/the-complete-seo-checklist-for-interior-designers-and-home-remodelers.html

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In this episode, the Designer Discussions team discusses their experience and tips for hiring people into your design business.

● When to hire

● What to hire for

● Employees vs. contractors

● Skillset vs. personality

● The importance of job descriptions and SOPs

Find more information on Designer Discussions..

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-39-Hiring-Tips-for-Design-Professionals

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Have you ever wondered why it costs so much to hire a publicist? In this episode, Designer Discussions co-host and PR expert Mirjam Lippuner shares why that is and what options you have.

• In interior design, “being published” is not optional, it’s required to be recognized.
• Not unlike interior design, PR is a service, so publicists get paid for their time.
• You pay for strategic expertise, industry experience, relationships
• Different providers: Large agencies, boutique agencies, solo consultants
• Different ways to charge: typically retainer - long-term because PR is long term, partnership - they are part of your team; Project; Hourly
• Average cost
  • Retainers $3-5K
  • Hourly rates $100-350
• PR is not cheap and it shouldn’t be!

DIY is an option! There are a lot great free resources, and Get Ink DIY offers a unique program that’s a hybrid of DIY and done-for-you.

Find more info on Get Ink DIY here, or email Mirjam at mirjam@getinkdiy.com.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-38-Why-PR-is-So-Expensive

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In this episode, Designer Discussions co-host and PR expert Mirjam Lippuner talks with Kelsey Ogletree, a freelance writer and journalist who contributes to many high-profile media outlets.

• How does a freelance writer work
• What is the difference between an freelance journalist and an editor
• How to find the right freelance writers
• How to pitch a freelancer
• Tips on pitching interior design projects and ideas

Find more information on Kelsey on her website: https://www.kelseyogletree.com/

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-37-How-to-work-with-freelance-journalists-to-get-published

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In this episode, Designer Discussions co-host and digital marketing expert Jason Lockhart shares the three most important things you need to focus on in your marketing.

The three M’s of marketing success:

• Know your Market and who you are marketing to
• Also refer to episode #6 of the podcast
• Define your Message to target your ideal client
• Choose the right Media to reach your targets
• Start with your website, as we explain in episode #12

Find more information on Jason and other great resources about marketing here:

https://www.kitchenandbathmarketingsolutions.com/

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-36-The-3-Fundamentals-of-Marketing-Success

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In this episode, Maria Martin, co-host of this podcast, interior designer and Design Appy founder, is talking about how designers can approach pricing their services based on the value they provide, not the hours they spend.

• How to use comparison to help position you offer
• Most budgets are not arbitrary
• Change the framing, the value, the price
• Create your ideal proposal for your ideal client - aim high
• Create a design menu, not just one proposal

Find more information on Maria here: https://designappy.com/ https://www.instagram.com/designappy/

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-35-Pricing-with-context-for-value

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Gretchen Gray has been helping people design and maintain short-term vacation rentals for many years. In this episode she shares some of the key lessons from her experience, which she also shares on her TikTok account “Gretchen Gray Saves The Day”.

• Best ways to prevent guest issues
• Limit notes
• Best paint color and finish choices
• How to choose artwork
• Cleanability of materials
• Check the foundation and infrastructure
• The benefits of automation in the home

Contact Gretchen here:

Gretchen Saves The Day (TikTok)

gretchengray637@gmail.com

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-34-How-to-Design-a-5-star-Airbnb

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This episode’s guest is Matthew Gattozzi is the founder of Goodo Studios where he specializes in using photography and videography for effective marketing.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-33-video-marketing-tips-for-interior-designers

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In this episode, Maria Martin, co-host of this podcast, interior designer and Design Appy founder, is talking about her favorite topic: how to improve your client’s experience during the design process.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

Episode 32 - Three Tips to Improve Your Client's Experience - Designer Discussions

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This episode’s guest, Kiwana T. McClung, is an Associate Professor in the School of Architecture & Design who currently serves as Interim Chief Diversity Officer at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. A graduate of Louisiana State University's School of Architecture and Design, Kiwana is nationally recognized for her research and efforts towards increasing diversity within a school of architecture and curricula.

Coincidentally, she is also a former student of Designer Discussions’ co-host Jason Lockhart. This is a discussion about the state of diversity in architecture and design education and the challenges and opportunities that exist within the education system as well as in the industry itself.

Find more information on Kiwana here:
linkedin.com/in/kiwana-mcclung-ba934b108
architecture.louisiana.edu/node/94
design.lsu.edu/alumni_profiles/mcclung-kiwana/

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-31-Diversity-in-Design-with-Kiwana-McClung

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Fresh off of the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show in Orlando, we’re talking with Jan Rutgers, the president of Vestabul School of Design about the different trends she saw at the show.

Here are 7 predictions from her blog post. Tune in to find out if they all became true!

• More food storage
• Beverage bars
• Solutions for pets
• Linear appliance placements
• Built-in banquettes
• More curves
• Changing color palette

You can find Jan here: 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vestabul_school_of_design/
Website: https://vestabul.com/

Here is the blog referenced in this episode on the 7 trends: https://vestabul.com/2022/02/08/the-top-7-kitchen-design-trends-for-2022/#more-9448

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-30-kbis-2022-review-with-jan-rutgers

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This episode’s guest is Pamela Durkin. She spent 30 year as a high-end designer and now coaches other designers to have a business they love. She famously owns many different kinds of eye glasses as you can see in her frequent original Instagram Reels and now also TikToks. Here are the highlights of Maria’s discussion with Pam:

● The importance of storytelling

● Identify your perfect client

● How to create trendy short-format videos

● How TikTok and Instagram Reels are different

For more info on Pam, go to: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pameladurkin/ Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/indemanddesigner LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pamdurkin/

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-29-Reels-and-TikTok-Short-Format-Video-Tips-for-Interior-Designers

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Our guest Rick Campos is a self proclaimed “recovering interior designer” turned business strategist and influencer on a mission to support and promote the rise of the interior design community. We’re talking to him about what designers have to pay attention to this year:

● E-commerce and how designers are starting to embrace it, reluctantly.
● Delegating tech instead of learning it all.
● Community over competition is rising.
● The challenges and benefits of being a luxury designer.
● How social media and traditional media interact.
● Rick’s best advice for 2022 on pricing and more

For more info on Rick, go to https://www.designbizsurvivalguide.com and https://www.instagram.com/designbizsurvivalguide/

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-28-Changes-Designers-are-Making-in-2022-with-Rick-Campos

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Understanding Influencer Marketing for Interior Designers with Laiza Cors, Founder and CEO of Embello

Laiza Cors is the founder and CEO at Embello, an influencer & digital marketing agency focused on home and lifestyle. In this episode she sheds light on what it really means to be a design influencer:

• Influencers spread brand messages and have vastly diverse audience sizes. Anyone can be an influencer.
• Instagram is still the number one platform for design influencers.
• Not all successful interior designers have a large social following, but you can become an influencer by focusing on growing your social media presence.
• Being an influencer is a full-time job, not a side gig.
• The difference between home bloggers and interior designers.
• Why you need to be strategic with your social media presence.

For more info on Embello and how to work with them, go to embello.com

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-27-Understanding-Influencer-Marketing-for-Interior-Designers

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Search engine optimization or SEO is the process of growing visibility within the search engines by increasing the quantity and quality of traffic to your website. In this podcast session we discuss the basics of SEO and how it impacts the interior design and home remodeling industry with special guest Michelle Deleva of Empire SEO.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-26-SEO-101-Understanding-SEO-for-Interior-Designers

https://empireseoservices.com/

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In this episode we're going to talk about what we can learn from lifestyle brands to show up better on  Instagram.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-25-What-We-Can-Learn-from-Lifestyle-brands-to-show-up-on-Instagram

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The Designer Discussions hosts Jason Lockhart, Maria Martin and Mirjam Lippuner talk about strategic approaches to create a winning marketing and PR plan for the year:

● Align your marketing and PR objectives with your business goals.

● Reverse engineer your goals: annual, quarterly, monthly.

● Then determine the action needed to reach those goals.

● Focus on email marketing and our website, the only two marketing properties you own.

● Use video, video, video!

● Meet your customers where they already are and create a custom message.

● Writing down your goals and creating an action plan is vital.

● How ambitious should a plan be?

● Find an accountability partner.

● Don’t forget to include your Why in the plan.

● Focus on what you can control.

Find additional resources here:

Free KBIS 2022 Exhibit Pass: http://kbis22.nvytes.co/kbis22/register/869378.html

Click link below to set up a strategy session to develop your 2022 marketing plan: https://www.kabms.com/strategy-session

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-24-Developing-a-Winning-Marketing-and-PR-Strategy-for-2022

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In this episode we recap 2021 with some of our favorite topics, favorite episodes, favorite guests, and all of the things that we've learned and what we want to give to our audience in 2022. 

Jason, Maria and Mirjam discuss these topics:

· Our favorite episodes of 2021

· Thanking our guest and listeners for their support

· An overview of how the podcast started

· Our goals for the podcast in 2022

For more information visit us on https://www.designerdiscussions.com/ 

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-23-Designer-Discussions-2021-Year-End-Review

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In this episode we are joined by award winning designer Keri Petersen of KP Spaces. Keri has been featured in HGTV’s House Hunters, Domino Magazine, House Beautiful, Apartment Therapy, Rue Magazine and Seattle Magazine. Keri talks about how every problem in your business that you are experiencing right now can always be traced back to your mindset and your thoughts about those things. 

Keri dives into these topics:
     •How you maybe manipulating your clients and you don’t even know it
     •How hearing the word no can actually help your business grow
     •How avoiding your feelings is stunting growth in your business
     •How to identify the red flags with clients
     •How to truly be honest with your clients
     •How to recognize triggers and embrace them to tell your unique story
     •How to get past the money hang up and charge what you are worth
     •How to develop your branding tools

For more info on what Keri offers, go here: 

https://www.kpspaces.com/interior-designers 

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-22-How-life-experience-and-mindset-impact-your-design-business

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Our guest Troy Sandidge is an award-winning global marketing strategist known as the Strategy Hacker®, generating over $150 Million for Entrepreneurs, Startups, SMBs, and Fortune 100 & 1000 brands over 12 years in the B2B space. He is an international speaker, podcaster, and author who lives on Twitter.

In this episode Troy shares the key considerations for any business owner/entrepreneur to develop a winning marketing strategy:

● You need to build story because authority leads to credibility and visibility.

● Everybody creates content, you have to differentiate yourself.

● If you want to make money, you’ll have to do things that feel uncomfortable.

● You have to distribute your content efficiently and effectively.

● Position yourself on the right platform for your price point.

● Set your big goal first before you do anything.

● Lead with the call to action in your sales and lead with what the experience of working with you looks like.

● “Frame” it until you make it, don’t fake it.

● Diversify! If you’re a jack of all trades, you are a master of none, but better than a master of one!

● Live streaming video (or audio) and email marketing are the most important things to do in 2022.

Find more info on Troy here: Quick Links Site: GrowwithTroy.com

Twitter: Twitter.com/FindTroy

LinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/in/FindTroy

Podcast: iDigress.fm

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In this episode industry icon Cheryl Kees Clenendon, owner and lead designer of In Detail Interiors in Pensacola, Florida, shares her take on how to go about making money doing what you love as an interior designer. Cheryl is also founder of the coaching platform Damn Good Designer (DGD) and an outspoken advocate for effective interior design business practices.

Our interior design host Maria Martin and Cheryl are diving into these topics:

• Biggest challenges for designers: Fees, how to charge
• Why interior designers need to be salespeople first
• Business essentials
  • Website, Q&As
  • Discovery process, repetition is key
  • Scope of work and fee proposal - set clear expectations on deliverables, have templates for different project types
• Build trust with your client first, then spend is less of an issue.
• Use minimum expenditure, not budget
• Think about how much money you need to run your business, then charge accordingly
• Mindset is key: You don’t charge for time, you charge for experience.
• The issue with good-better-best options.
• Elevate your design rate vs project management rate
• Define and track milestones

For more info on what Cheryl offers, go here: https://www.indetailinteriors.com/dgd-interior-designer-business-coaching/

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-20-Minimum-Expenditure-and-Pricing-Strategies

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Of all the marketing methods available, email marketing is one of the most cost-effective ways to market your business. In this episode we how email marketing can help grow your interior design business. 

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-19-Email-Marketing-Tips-for-Interior-Designers

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Establishing systems and processes is vital to business success. In order to run your design business effectively and scale your operations you must have systems and processes in place. In this episode we discuss how to establish systems and processes for your design business. We are joined by special guest, Loren Audrey Taylor of Loren Taylor Interior Design. Loren is an award winning designer with years of experience, and she speaks regularly on building systems and processes for your design business.  

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-18-How-to-Establish-Systems-and-Processes-for-Your-Design-Business

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In today's competitive business environment, learning the art of sales is vital to business success. In this episode you will learn several techniques to help you navigate the sales journey to land your ideal clients.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-17-How-To-Integrate-Sales-into-Your-Design-Process

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This episode talks about apps, tools and software that can help make your business more efficient. If you're looking to be more personally productive, maybe you have a team. You could be team free, whatever it is. Even if you're managing a larger team, we have some type of solution to help you. We all know that here are more programs out there that can help us be organized, run our business smoother and possibly save time.  We talk about how some programs overlap and others are best for solo to small team and larger groups. Please join the conversation and leave a review for this episode and include your time tracking or mileage app that you like!

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-16-Best-Apps-for-Interior-Designers

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In this episode we take a closer look at what it really takes for interior designers to successfully leverage PR for their businesses and how you determine whether you need to outsource your PR to a specialist or keep it in house.

For more details on this topic, check out our NKBA-certified CEU: https://www.kitchenandbathmarketingsolutions.com/2021-pr-workbook.htm

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-15-Do-You-Need-a-Publicist

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3D renderings are a rapidly growing solution being used by more and more designers and builders to show off the finished design before construction begins. In this episode we discuss how incorporating renderings into your design process can amplify and enhance your business.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-14-Why-You-Should-Incorporate-Renderings-into-Your-Design-Process

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A great way to improve your business is to dig into your client experience and bring the Wow factor in. Kimberly Sundt a branding and client experience expert is diving into the interior design business and speaking with us about a way to immediately improve how your clients feel about working with you. It’s a great day to dive in and improve your business with designer discussions.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-13-How-to-Wow-Your-Clients-Experience

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Many design and remodeling businesses have a website, but chances are the content is static and the optimization is minimal. In this session we discuss the basics on how to optimize your website for search so when prospects come to your site you have a better chance of converting them to clients.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-12-How-to-Optimize-Your-Website-for-Visibility

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Have you ever thought about why some clients hire you and while others do not? We are leaning into discovering the importance of the  communication presenting your business to your audience. We will cover learning to identify who you are talking to, and how you are talking to them. Jump in and join the breakdown on the ideal client avatar.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below: 

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-11-Why-your-clients-choose-to-work-with-you

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This episode explains the simplest and fastest way to get media coverage as a designer. HARO is a free service that delivers concrete media opportunities straight to your email inbox on a daily basis. Per month over 30 opportunities come out specifically looking for input from designers. Listen in to learn how you can leverage them for your business.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-10-How-to-Get-Press-As-An-Interior-Design-Expert

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We discuss boundaries that help to make projects move smoother without being caught up in the relationship drama.. Tools that identify these unhappy dynamics and how some clients can be avoided. No amount of service and sacrifice can change how certain clients choose to treat people.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-9-client-behavior-that-can-doom-your-design-project-from-the-beginning

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Over the last year Interior Designers have had to deal with COVID-19 altering the way they do business. One question asked by designers during this time is where the best place to network. Interior Designers across the country (and globe for that matter) have turned to Clubhouse as an option for networking and learning skills to better themselves in their business.  Our guest on today's episode is Charmaine Wynter, founder of Charmaine Wynter Interiors Bespoke and also the founder of one of the largest Clubhouse clubs on the platform, called Designers Masterclass. Charmaine will share some types on what helped her to grow and how this platform can help interior designers in their business.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/how-to-use-clubhouse-for-interior-designers 

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Reviews are an important part of a designers business  because they help form your reputation. Reputation management is critical! It is more than branding so you need to pay close attention to your online reviews closely. Bad review equals a PR crisis. But on the other hand bad review is not as bad as no reviews at all. We will discuss how to handle bad reviews and give you actionable steps to address this issue if and when it happens.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

Episode 7: How To Handle Negative Reviews - Designer Discussions

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In this episode we will discuss what makes an interior designer marketable. What are the things that make you special? What are the things you leave behind in your design process and projects that make you stand out?  

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-6-what-makes-an-interior-designer-marketable

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Online marketing is one of the best ways to promote and showcase your products and services to potential clients with efficiency. In this episode we discuss 3 digital marketing strategies you should be using to gain success in your interior design and home remodeling business.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-4-marketing-101-for-interior-designers

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Learn what a HENRY is and how this can help you better understand clients as an interior designer. We will delve into understanding this concept and applying it to your interior design business.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

Episode 5 - Introduction to Maria and What is a HENRY - Designer Discussions

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In this episode you will get an introduction to Mirjam Lippuner and why she loves to educate interior designers about PR. You will also gain a better understanding of what PR is and how it can benefit the growth of your design business.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-3-pr-101-for-interior-designers

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Do you have a hard time finding clients that will pay premium prices for your services?

Solving the problem many struggle with, which is that they have the mindset of service providers instead of a solution provider. We know that people pay commodity prices for services, but they pay premium prices for solutions. With this NKBA CEU (0.1 CEU) Session, we're going to dive into knowing your value, identifying your x-factor and the specific solutions that you provide, and then showing your value to your ideal clients, so that you can be as delightfully expensive as you want to be.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-2-branding-for-high-dollar-sales

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001 - Welcome to Designer Discussions, a weekly discussion for design professionals (architects, interior designers, home remodelers) that focuses on marketing, branding, PR and business advice. In this episode we will discuss the purpose of the show and how we plan to deliver the content to you in an educational and entertaining way. We will give you a brief introduction into our co-hosts (Mirjam Lippuner, Jason Lockhart and Marai Martin).

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-1-introduction-to-designer-discussions