Design Curious | Interior Design Podcast, Interior Design Career, Interior Design School, Coaching: Recent Episodes
Rebecca Ward, CID | Interior Designer, Interior Design Mentor, Designers Coach
A show for the curious creatives who want to learn what it takes to become an interior designer.
Welcome to the Design Curious podcast!
Each week, you'll learn practical skills every designer needs to develop regardless of whether you want to work for yourself or someone else. You'll learn secrets from professional interior designers to help you avoid costly mistakes & regrets. You'll be encouraged & empowered to overcome your fears of change, failure & money.
With my 20 yrs of experience, I'll help you on the RIGHT WAY to get started.
Discover if interior design is the career for you!
Wondering why your message isn’t reaching anyone? It is because you’re trying to appeal to everyone. Many interior designers run into this problem when they haven’t defined their niche.
With so many designers out there, those who specialize tend to stand out, get more referrals, and often earn higher fees than generalists.
In this episode, I show you how to find or refine your niche so you can stand out, connect with your ideal clients, and feel confident as an expert. Whether you’re new to interior design or thinking about focusing on a specialty, you’ll find clarity and direction here. If you’ve been struggling to attract the right clients or charge what you’re worth, this episode is for you.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
✔️ Why niching down doesn’t limit your opportunities
✔️ The three-part process to uncover your niche (passion, strengths, and market demand)
✔️ How niching makes you stand out in a saturated market
✔️ Why specialists can charge more than generalists
✔️ Real examples of niche statements you can model
✔️ How to use your background, skills, or life experiences to shape your niche
✔️ A simple formula to write your own “I Help” statement
Read the Blog >>> How to Identify Your Design Niche
NEXT STEPS:
🎯 Join the waitlist for Launch Your Business Bootcamp
Check out our Designer's Playlist!
*️ Start Your Interior Design Journey List
*️ From Newbie to Confident Designer List
*️ Switching Gears to Interior Design List
Grab your freebies:
📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign
🌎 Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps
00:00 Introduction: From Dreaming to Designing Series
01:20 Why Defining Your Niche Is the First Step to Standing Out
02:12 Common Myth About Niching
04:46 Generalist vs. Specialist
05:15 Define Your Niche Step 1: What Lights You up as a Designer
07:02 Define Your Niche Step 2: Strengths and Unique Background
08:38 Define Your Niche Step 3: Identifying Gaps and Opportunities in the Market
10:15 Crafting Your Niche Statement: The “I Help” Statement Formula
10:52 Examples of Niche Statements
“Residential was never my preference. I landed here because I graduated right as the pandemic hit, and the entire industry stalled—except residential.”
Or maybe you’ve caught yourself saying, “I’m bored with residential and want to switch to commercial projects.”
Many interior designers find themselves stuck in residential work—not because it’s their passion, but because it was the most accessible way to start. Yet making the leap into commercial interior design can feel overwhelming when you’re unsure about business operations, contracts, or the technology skills needed to compete.
In this episode, Marcy Sagel shares her journey from residential to commercial design, emphasizing the importance of understanding business operations and leveraging new technologies like Revit to stay ahead. She breaks down the realities of running a design firm, the challenges of transitioning into commercial projects, and the strategies that helped her thrive in a constantly evolving industry. You’ll also hear how she builds strong client relationships, fosters collaboration, and creates her training program, Designer Bank, to help designers sharpen their technical skills.
🎧 Tune in now and learn how to build the commercial design career you’ve been dreaming about.
Featured Guest
Marcy Sagel is the founder and principal of MSA Interiors, a nationally recognized commercial interior design firm specializing in multifamily housing, student housing, senior living, affordable housing, and other complex projects. With over 25 years of experience, she has not only led large-scale design projects but also advised manufacturers in developing product lines to meet evolving market demands. A thought leader and speaker, Marcy blends creativity with business acumen and continues to shape the future of commercial interiors.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
✔️ Why the residential to commercial transition is challenging and how to make it smoother
✔️ The importance of understanding business operations, contracts, and financials as a design entrepreneur
✔️ How to adapt quickly to new technologies like Revit and Enscape to stay relevant
✔️ The differences between working with residential clients and large-scale developer teams
✔️ How commercial materials and finishes have evolved to allow for high-end, residential-inspired looks
✔️ Strategies to diversify your revenue streams so your firm can withstand economic downturns
✔️ How mentorship, peer groups, and continuous learning fuel long-term business growth
- Read the Blog >>> >>> Smart Way to Transition From Residential to Commercial Design NEXT STEPS:
🎯 Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Grab your freebies:
📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign
🌎 Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps
0:00 Introduction
2:32 Marcy’s Journey From Residential to Commercial Design
6:41 Starting Her Own Design Firm and the Lessons Learned in Business Operations
9:07 Why Every Designer Must Know Their Numbers and Margins
12:27 The Power of Mentorship and Entrepreneurial Peer Groups
13:50 Transitioning From Cad to Revit and Why Designers Must Adapt
16:46 Designer Bank: Online Training Modules for Designers
22:59 How to Navigate Commercial Design Projects
30:20 How to Future-Proof Your Design Business
Do you ever feel like you’re running your design business on autopilot—too busy with client deadlines to pause and ask yourself if this is really the life and business you want?
Many interior designers fall into the trap of working nonstop but never taking the time to reflect, reset, and plan ahead. The result? Burnout, scattered focus, missed opportunities for real business breakthroughs, and a business that feels more like a burden than a passion.
In this episode, I sit down with leadership coach Sierra Collins and designer and entrepreneur Cathy Tonks to share what’s in store for the upcoming Sacramento Design Business Collective Thrive Retreat for Interior Designers (SDBC Thrive Retreat). We talk about how Thrive Retreat can help you step away from the grind, increase productivity, step into 2026 with clarity and confidence, and create a balanced life where your business supports your dreams instead of competing with them.
If you’ve been craving clarity, accountability, and a community of designers who truly understand your challenges, this episode will show you why the Thrive Retreat could be the one thing you need.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
✔️ Why stepping away from your business is essential for growth and productivity
✔️ The power of DISC and Working Genius assessments in communication and teamwork
✔️ The power of designing a business model that aligns with your life goals
✔️ How procedures, automation, and team building simplify business complexity
✔️ Mindset shifts every designer needs to scale from scarcity thinking to CEO thinking
✔️ The importance of accountability and building supportive design community connections
✔️ How to craft your ideal day and create a 2026 roadmap with intention
Read the Blog >>> >>> Sneak Peek Inside the 2-Day Sacramento Thrive Retreat
NEXT STEPS:
🎯 Sign up for the Sacramento Thrive Retreat! Spots are limited to just 20 designers, and registration closes October 24th at midnight.
Grab your freebies:
📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign
🌎 Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps
0:00 Introduction
02:30 Why Personal and Business Growth Is Non-Negotiable
06:50 How Much Time Designers Lose to Distractions (And How Retreats Reclaim It)
09:40 The Struggle to Honor Personal Time and Why Non-Negotiables Matter
14:15 Day 1 Preview: DISC, Working Genius, the Language for Success
19:40 What Breakout Sessions and Roundtable Discussions Look Like
22:00 Day 2 Preview: Goal Setting, Productivity Hacks, and Preparing for 2026
28:50 Retreat Details: Limited Spots, Payment Plans, and Why This Investment Pays Off
Are you tired of sourcing the same mass-produced furniture pieces your clients can find anywhere?
Imagine offering them something truly unique—a custom furniture solution that not only fits their space perfectly but also reflects their personality and lifestyle.
In this episode, I explore how interior designers can elevate their projects through custom furniture with builder Michael Brinkley. Michael shares how designers can turn client frustrations, like the wrong size, finish, or style in mass-produced pieces, into opportunities by collaborating with a custom furniture maker. He walks us through his creative process, from sketching and 3D modeling to building functional, heirloom-quality pieces that solve real design challenges. Through stories of unique projects, like a dining table made from wine crates and a barn door with a built-in TV, Michael highlights how custom furniture isn’t just a design upgrade; it’s a powerful way for interior designers to stand out in a competitive market.
If you’re an interior designer looking to deliver distinctive, tailor-made solutions for your clients while elevating your business, this conversation will give you the insider’s perspective you need.
Featured Guest:
Michael Brinkley is the owner and master craftsman of Brinkley Furniture, a nationally recognized custom furniture studio in Redding, California. With over 30 years of experience in cabinetry and furniture design, he specializes in creating heirloom-quality, one-of-a-kind pieces that blend timeless design with modern functionality. His work is celebrated nationwide for its craftsmanship, innovation, and ability to bring designers’ and clients’ visions to life.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
✔️ How partnering with a custom furniture builder can help you deliver one-of-a-kind solutions for your clients.
✔️ The process of transforming client ideas into functional, beautifully engineered custom pieces.
✔️ Why communication and collaboration between designers and builders are key to a successful project.
✔️ Real examples of standout custom furniture projects.
✔️ Tips on sourcing materials locally and navigating budget-conscious options without sacrificing style.
✔️ How custom furniture can help you differentiate your design business in a competitive market.
✔️ Why investing in custom furniture is a long-term value for clients, offering heirloom-quality pieces.
- Read the Blog >>> The Impact of Custom Furniture in Your Interior Design Projects
NEXT STEPS:
🎯 Connect with Michael Brinkley and start offering custom furniture solutions that set you apart.
🎯 Join The Sacramento Design Business Collective Thrive Retreat to surround yourself with like-minded designers and learn strategies for growing your interior design business.
Grab your freebies:
📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign
🌎 Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps
0:00 Introduction
2:19 How Michael Discovered His Passion for Woodworking
3:47 Transitioning From Cabinetry to Custom Furniture
6:15 Designing and Prototyping Unique Furniture Pieces
8:56 Working With Interior Designers vs. Direct Clients
10:01 The Process of Creating a Custom Furniture Piece for Designers
12:16 The Story Behind the Wine Crate Dining Table
17:52 Building a Barn Door With a Built-in TV for a Smart Home
20:56 How to Connect With Brinkley Furniture
21:28 Why Custom Furniture Is an Investment, Not an Expense
Is your interior design business stuck in the weeds or stagnant? You're not alone! Many interior designers get caught up in client work and admin tasks, leaving little time to grow or dream bigger.
Breakthroughs don’t usually happen when you’re stuck in your to-do list or working late at the office. They come when you intentionally step back, shift your perspective, and surround yourself with the right people who can inspire and challenge you.
In this episode, I’m sharing how designers can find clarity, creativity, and confidence to grow their business without sacrificing their health or burning out.
If you want more freedom, profit, and joy in your design career, this episode offers both inspiration and practical tips to help you get there.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
✔️ Why stepping away from your daily routine is essential for a designer's business breakthrough
✔️ The science behind how travel and new environments boost creativity by up to 50%
✔️ The power of proximity: how surrounding yourself with the right peers elevates your results
✔️ Why networking and mastermind groups are critical for business growth
✔️ How to work on your interior design business, not just in it
✔️ Why the most successful design firms don’t work more hours—they work smarter
✔️ How attending an interior design business retreat like The Sacramento Design Business Collective Thrive Retreat can spark lasting change
Read the Blog >>> 3 Proven Keys to Your Designer Business Breakthrough
Related Episodes:
✨ Episode 147: Mindset Shift Series: Design a Career That Supports Your Life
✨Episode 153: Mindset Shift Series #4: Normalizing Imposter Syndrome in Interior Design
NEXT STEPS:
🎯 Join The Sacramento Design Business Collective Thrive Retreat to unlock your next designer business breakthrough
Grab your freebies:
📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign
🌎 Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps
01:25 Why You Need to Step Out of Your Daily Routine for Breakthroughs
03:38 The Power of New Environments and Nature
07:49 The Power of Proximity and Who You Spend Time With
08:50 Networking and Building Connections
11:43 The Value of Retreats and Working on Your Business
16:55 How the Design Business Collective Thrive Retreat Can Help You Grow Your Design Business
What if a side project could turn into a full-blown design career?
In this episode, I chat with Bre Hance, founder and principal designer of InHance, who shares how she went from helping her husband with a few design projects to running her thriving interior design and build firm in Los Angeles. She opens up about the early days of her business—starting without a portfolio or website—and how she found her first clients by showing up, being creative, and believing in her skills.
Bre also talks about what it takes to grow a design business, from hiring a team to learning the hard lessons through expensive mistakes. You’ll hear how she discovered her signature style, Elevated Everyday Living, and how social media, especially Instagram, helped her grow her brand and attract ideal clients. She shares her secrets to avoiding stress and building trust.
If you're an aspiring or new interior designer, Bre’s honest insights and practical advice will leave you inspired, wiser, and ready to take action. 🎧 Tune in now!
Featured Guest:
Bre Hance is the founder and principal designer of InHance, a high-end residential design-build firm based in Los Angeles. With over a decade of experience, Bre has designed more than 200 homes across the U.S. Known for her bold use of color, eclectic luxury style, and her trademarked philosophy, Elevated Everyday Living, she helps clients create beautiful, practical spaces from concept to completion.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
📌 Learn how to create authentic content for Instagram to attract your clients and grow your design brand
📌 Get honest advice on scaling smart and staying true to your values
📌 Avoid mistakes that cost thousands and other common pitfalls
Check out the show notes >>> Mistakes, Difficult Clients & Lessons Learned in Running a Design Biz
NEXT STEPS:
🎯 Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Grab your freebies:
📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign
🌎 Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
02:04 Bre's Early Beginnings & How She Got Into Design
06:09 Scaling and Shaping the Business
09:49 Defining Her Signature Style
12:58 Future Dreams: Lifestyle Brand Possibilities
14:09 Impact of the LA Fires and Community Involvement
17:28 Using Social Media to Grow a Design Business
21:58 Mistakes, Difficult Clients & Lessons Learned
31:16 Advice for Aspiring Interior Designers
Do you ever feel like you’re not good enough to be a designer? Have you ever thought, “What if my clients discover that I’m not as skilled as they believe I am?”
In this final episode of the Mindset Shift Series, I discuss the real struggles that new designers face, such as feelings of insecurity and imposter syndrome.
These feelings are completely normal, and even experienced designers go through them.
So, I share simple yet powerful strategies to uplift you when you're feeling down, help shift your mindset, and boost your confidence. Plus, I also share real stories from my own journey.
If you’ve ever felt like you don’t know enough, don’t have a signature style, or wonder why anyone would pay you for your design work, this episode will help you feel seen and supported.
This is also your reminder that you can do hard things, and you don’t have to do them alone. 🎧 Listen now and share it with a designer friend who could use a little encouragement, too!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
📌 Learn how to reframe negative thoughts so you can feel more confident
📌 Leverage community and connection to help you beat burnout and self-doubt
📌 Start seeing your progress even when it doesn’t feel like a straight line
Check out the show notes >>> Normalizing Imposter Syndrome in Interior Design
NEXT STEPS:
🎯 Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Grab your freebies:
📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign
🌎 Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
02:13 Common Thoughts and Limiting Beliefs in New Designers
6:49 Age, Comparison, and the Myth of Being "Behind"
08:29 Understanding Imposter Syndrome
11:00 Building Community and Support Network as a Solution
15:19 Tools for Combatting Imposter Syndrome
16:45 Navigating Nonlinear Progress
19:45 Action Steps for Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
21:44 Wrap-Up and Invitation to a Designer Retreat
Have you always loved furniture, picking out paint colors, making spaces feel beautiful, or helping friends with their homes, but never thought you could actually get paid for it? That’s exactly how Michelle Lynne felt.
In this episode, she shares how she followed a corporate path, managing restaurants and a recruiting firm, until a turning point pushed her to pursue what she truly loved: interior design. Then she built a 7-figure design business without a degree.
Her story proves that your creative passion isn’t just a hobby. It can become a thriving business with the right mindset and support.
If you’re starting out without formal training, Michelle explains why investing in a coach or mentor is the smartest move you can make. It saves you from years of trial-and-error and gives you the clarity and confidence to run your business like a pro.
Michelle also talks about her signature program which offers step-by-step systems designed to help you grow a design business with confidence and profit. Plus, she introduces Sidemark, a powerful tool that saves you time and money by replacing multiple apps with one easy-to-use platform made just for designers.
Ready to stop guessing and start growing? Tune in now and take your next step today.
Featured Guest:
Michelle Lynne is the owner of ML Interiors Group, a successful interior design firm based in Dallas–Fort Worth, Texas. She is also the founder of The Design Bakehouse, formerly known as Designed for the Creative Mind, where she teaches interior designers and decorators how to run a profitable and systemized design business.
Her signature program, The Interior Design Business Bakery, has helped hundreds of designers scale to multiple six figures with confidence and clarity.
She also hosts the Designed For The Creative Mind podcast and organizes the annual Interior Design Business Success Summit. Through all her ventures, Michelle is passionate about helping other designers skip the trial-and-error and grow businesses they love—while staying true to themselves.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
📌 Discover the benefits of investing in a coach or mentor to fast-track your growth and avoid common mistakes in the interior design industry
📌 Find out how using the right tools, like Sidemark, can simplify your business, save you time, and help you stay organized as you grow
📌 Overcome your self-doubt and gain confidence and clarity
Check out the show notes >>> Build a Thriving Interior Design Business Without a Design Degree
Related Episode:
✨ Episode 132: Stress-Free Framework to Attract Clients to Your Design Business With Ben Rutledge
- NEXT STEPS:
🎯 Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Grab your freebies:
📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign
🌎 Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction & Michelle Lynne's Bio
01:44 Michelle’s Unconventional Journey into Design
05:07 Transition From Home Staging to Interior Design
07:05 The Struggles of Building a Design Business
08:56 Introduction to the Design Business Bakery
14:17 The Story Behind the “Bakery” Branding
16:19 Authentic Branding and Lessons Learned
20:16 Inside ML Interiors Group & Studio Works Co-Op
26:22 Sidemark: Software for Designers
29:29 Advice for Aspiring Designers
“I’m not a numbers person!”
“I just want to design, not run a business!”
Does this sound like you?
Many interior designers have a passion for dreaming up beautiful spaces, but stepping into the role of a CEO can feel uncomfortable, like wearing a hat that doesn’t quite fit. I understand—I've felt the same way before.
In this episode, I share how I changed my mindset and embraced the CEO role, and how you can do the same. My goal is to help you avoid burnout, ensure you’re charging what you’re worth, and prevent chaos behind the scenes.
I break down the mental barriers that hold designers back from realizing their leadership potential and explain how understanding business fundamentals can supercharge your creative success.
I also guide you through the four CEO mindsets that helped me build a business I love: visionary thinking, confident decision-making, strong leadership, and financial ownership.
Being a CEO doesn’t mean losing your creativity; it’s about building a strong foundation that supports and enhances your design talents.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to elevate your existing practice, this episode will help you transform from a hesitant creative into a powerful business leader.
Tune in now and take the first step towards becoming the CEO of your business!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
📌 Overcome your mindset blocks so you can stop avoiding the business side and start leading with confidence
📌 Get practical tips to reduce chaos, avoid burnout, and run a well-oiled design business
📌 Be empowered to take back control and create a business that supports the life you love
Check out the show notes >>> Mindset Shift Series #3: Step Into Your Power as a Creative Business Owner
Related Episodes:
✨ Episode 146: How to Build Your Dream Design Team Without the Headache With Ronniesha Rivera
NEXT STEPS:
🎯 Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Grab your freebies:
📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign
🌎 Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction: Mindset Shift from Creative to CEO
03:05 Why Creatives Resist the CEO Role
05:48 4 Core CEO Mindsets to Adopt
12:31 Practical Shifts for Stepping Into the CEO Role
15:11 Final Reminders
16:33 Challenge for the Week
Do you ever wonder if it’s really possible to switch careers and succeed in interior design—even without a design degree?
In this 150th episode, I chat with Caron Woolsey, a self-taught designer who left her job in oil and gas to follow her love for design. What started as decorating her own home turned into a growing business, CW Interiors, with a strong and creative team behind it.
Caron shares how she faced fear, built confidence, and turned a passion project into a full-time career. She gives helpful tips on knowing when it’s time to hire, how to build a strong team, and what to look for in new designers.
If you're not sure whether you can make interior design your real job, Caron’s story will inspire you to take that first brave step even if you're scared.
🎧 You don’t need a degree to get started—just courage, creativity, and a willingness to learn. Listen now to get the boost you need to start your own design journey.
Featured Guest:
Caron Woolsey is the founder of CW Interiors, a design studio based in The Woodlands, Texas. After a 16-year career in the oil and gas industry, she discovered her true passion for interior design while building her own home. What began as a creative hobby soon grew into a thriving business. Today, Caron leads a talented team and partners with homeowners, builders, and developers to create timeless, storytelling homes across The Woodlands, Houston, and Conroe areas.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
📌 Get real talk on starting without a design degree
📌 Learn powerful lessons on growing a team the right way
📌 Be empowered, especially the non-traditional design professionals, to take the first step
Check out the show notes >>> Building a Design Business From the Ground Up
NEXT STEPS:
🎯 Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Grab your freebies:
📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign
🌎 Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
02:59 Caron’s Career Path to Design
04:38 Taking the Leap Into Business
05:24 Early Business Struggles
07:10 Learning Without a Mentor
08:28 Team Growth and Dynamic
10:04 When and How to Start Hiring
13:11 What She Looks for in a Hire
14:47 Balancing Business and Creativity
16:34 Establishing Mission and Values
19:34 Team Communication
21:42 With Degree vs Without Degree When Hiring
22:29 Advice for Aspiring Designers
Do you feel nervous, unsure, or even a little awkward before meeting your first design client? You're not alone!
Many new interior designers feel pressure to prove themselves; they fear they won’t be taken seriously or worry about saying the wrong thing. Some try to be extra helpful—giving away too many ideas or avoiding money talk—just to impress the client.
While these feelings are completely normal, especially for beginners, new designers can present themselves as confident, trusted guides and position themselves as experts, even if they are just starting out.
In this episode, I share how to shift your mindset from trying to impress your client to confidently leading the consultation. I provide practical strategies for setting the right tone from the beginning, including guiding clients through the consultation, asking powerful questions, and demonstrating your value without giving away free work. I also walk you through creating structure, building trust, and positioning yourself as the solution to your client's design challenges.
Ready to level up your client consultation skills and stop feeling like an amateur? Tune in and learn how to turn that first meeting into your moment of authority. Then, share this episode with a fellow designer and tag me with your favorite takeaway!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
📌 Discover how to take control of the meeting and show up as the expert your client needs
📌 Avoid common mistakes new designers make during consultations
📌 Get a simple, step-by-step flow to guide your meetings, build trust, and turn consultations into actual paid projects
Check out the show notes >>> Show Up as the Expert During Client Consultation
Related Episodes:
- 👉 Episode 144: How to Rewire Your Money Beliefs to Increase Profits in Your Design Business With Audrey Faust NEXT STEPS:
🎯 Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Grab your freebies:
📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign
🌎 Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
02:39 Mindset Shift #1: Don’t Work for Free (The Importance of Paid Consultations)
04:48 Mindset Shift #2: Take the Lead With Confidence
06:55 Consultation Process: Confidence Through Clarity & Consistency
08:00 Confidence Through Asking Strong Questions
08:33 Confidence Through Setting Expectations Around Budget and Process
10: 03 Common Pitfalls to Avoid During Consultations
13:12 Language Framing: How To Sound Like the Expert
15:26 Recap + Mindset Check
Do you feel stuck in your current job, wondering if it is too late to follow your dream of becoming an interior designer?
In this episode, you will hear how Steve Saide made a bold career switch after 30 years as a lawyer and found his passion in hospitality design. Now leading the design team at Furnished Quarters, Steve shares how he designs beautiful, livable spaces for corporate travelers who stay for weeks—or even years—at a time.
Steve's story proves it is never too late to start fresh, and that design does not have to follow a traditional path. So, if you are unsure about how to make the leap or where your design career could lead, this episode gives you real answers and encouragement.
💡 If Steve can do it, so can you! Tune in now to learn how to start your path into interior design—no matter your background.
✨ Want help starting your design career? Check out My Design Mentor!
Featured Guest:
Steve Saide is the Executive Vice President of Interior Design at Furnished Quarters, a company that provides stylish, fully furnished apartments for corporate travelers. After a 30-year career as a lawyer, Steve made a bold career shift into interior design. His eye for creativity and passion for functional, home-like spaces now help shape the unique design style of the company’s long-term stay residences.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
📌 Be inspired on how to pivot into interior design even after a long career in another field
📌 Get insights on where real design inspiration comes from (hint: not always magazines!)
📌 Discover what makes hospitality design different from regular home design
Check out the show notes >>> How a Lawyer Became a Designer and Found His Dream Career
NEXT STEPS:
🎯 Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Grab your freebies:
📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign
🌎 Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction & Redefining Hospitality Design
03:13 Steve Said's Career Transition from Law to Interior Design
09:00 About Furnished Quarters
10:30 Approach to Design for Corporate Apartments
12:10 Quantity and Design Execution
14:30 Design Limitations & Smart Solutions
17:30 Keeping Up with Trends
18:30 Impact of COVID and Economic Uncertainty
24:55 Creative Inspiration Sources
27:25 Advice for Aspiring Hospitality Designers
Imagine starting your mornings without stress—just coffee, a quick workout, maybe a quiet moment with your kids—before diving into focused work hours you set. Your calendar feels manageable because you’ve planned ahead: 🗓️ client meetings on Tuesdays and Thursdays 🎨 creative work (like mood boards or sourcing) on Wednesdays ✍️ admin or content creation from home on Mondays 🚙 Fridays off or just light work so you can hit a yoga class, run errands, or unwind.
You love what you do.
You’ve got time for family.
And you still get to pour into your creative passion.
Feels pretty amazing, right?
Well, it’s possible. You can create a career that supports the life you actually want, not the one the industry tells you to chase.
In this episode, I’ll show you how to build a business that aligns with your values, goals, and lifestyle.
🎧 If you’re ready to ditch the hustle and define success on your own terms, hit play now. Let’s start designing a life you love.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
📌 Learn how to design your design career or business like a project, with purpose and clarity
📌 Identify your non-negotiables so you can set a schedule that works for you
📌 Break free from hustle culture and redefine success on your own terms
Check out the show notes >>> Mindset Shift Series: Design a Career That Supports Your Life
NEXT STEPS:
🎯 Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Grab your freebies:
📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign
🌎 Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
01:52 Default vs. Designed Career Paths
02:30 Intentionality in Career Planning (Plan with the End in Mind)
05:07 Rebecca’s Personal Work Schedule
07:45 Ideal Week and Lifestyle Alignment
09:30 Reverse Engineering Your Business Model
11:04 Common Mindset Blocks
12:26 Action Steps To Design a Career with Purpose
Have you ever wasted hours searching for the right help for your interior design business, only to feel frustrated and stuck? What if there was an easier way to find the right people who truly understand interior design?
In this episode, I chat with Ronniesha Rivera, an interior designer and founder of Vetted By Design—a free centralized platform for interior designers to connect with highly vetted professionals without stress.
Ronniesha shares her painful story of hiring the wrong bookkeeper early in her business, which cost her thousands of dollars. From that mistake came a brilliant idea: a one-stop, trusted place where interior designers can find reliable pros who understand the industry, like 3D renderers, bookkeepers, lawyers, virtual design assistants, social media managers, and more.
If you are starting your design business or growing your team, this episode will give you a smart solution to save time, avoid costly mistakes, and build a team you can trust.
🎧 Tune in now to learn how Vetted by Design can help you grow your business with less stress and more support.
Featured Guest:
Ronniesha Rivera is the founder and CEO of Vetted By Design (VBD). He passion for VBD stems from her challenges as an interior designer. After years in the industry, she grew frustrated with endlessly searching through Facebook groups and Google just to find the right professionals to hire. She knew there had to be a better way—a centralized platform where designers could easily connect with vetted businesses that cater to our industry. And that’s exactly why Vetted By Design was created.
Ronniesha believes Vetted By Design can help any designer at any stage of their business.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
📌 Learn how to avoid costly hiring mistakes and build a reliable team
📌 Discover a free tool to find highly vetted professionals across various specialties faster, easier, and stress-free
📌 Grow and scale your interior design business more effectively
Check out the show notes >>> How to Build Your Dream Design Team Without the Headache
NEXT STEPS:
🎯 Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Grab your freebies:
📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign
🌎 Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction and Overview of Vetted by Design (VBD)
02:15 Ronniesha’s Journey into Interior Design
04:23 Hiring Mistakes and Painful Lessons
06:42 The Birth, Concept, and Mission of Vetted by Design
11:05 Categories and Coverage
12:41 The Vetting Process
16:20 How Designers Use the Platform and Pro Qualifications
22:13 Future Plans and Expansion
Is the interior design industry evolving too quickly, and are you prepared for it?
Or maybe you are questioning whether pursuing a career as an interior designer is still a wise decision in today's landscape.
In this episode, I take you through how the interior design industry has changed over the past 15 to 20 years, and what that means for you today.
From pandemic ups and downs, to social media trends, to working with AI, you'll learn how the industry has grown and where it’s going next.
If you’re wondering what skills and services clients need now, this episode gives you clear answers. I share what services clients are looking for, which skills matter most, and how you can stand out. The career is always changing, but that means more opportunities if you're ready to adapt.
Tune in now to stay confident and creative in a changing world.
👉 Need help launching your interior design business step-by-step? Join the Launch Your Business Bootcamp—doors are still open!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
🎨 Find out which tools, tech, and mindset shifts are helping designers succeed today, even without a degree or traditional experience
💡 Get insights into growing trends like e-design, content creation, niche services, and how you can use them to stand out and reach more clients
🏷️ Review your existing business model and pricing structures to determine the best approach for your interior design practice
Check out the show notes >>> The State of Interior Design in 2025
NEXT STEPS:
🎯 Join the Launch Your Business Bootcampand launch your design business this summer
Grab your freebies:
📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign
🌎 Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
01:37 Pandemic’s Impact on the Industry
03:37 Rise of Work-From-Home and Home Office Design
03:58 Sustainable Design Trends
04:59 Social Media’s Influence
06:15 Tariffs & Economic Uncertainty
07:42 Career Trends in Interior Design
10:19 Virtual & E-Design Opportunities
10:50 Rise of Design Content Creation
12:21 Niche Specializations and Digital Tools
14:07 Job Opportunities in 2025
14:37 Education and Licensing Trends
15:41 Impact of AI and Business Model Shifts
17:20 The Future of Interior Design
"You have to work hard for money" or "Money doesn't grow on trees" are just a few of the money beliefs that many of us grew up with. These childhood beliefs may be quietly hindering your design business.
In this episode, I chat with expert CFO and money mindset coach Audrey Faust who explains how your early experiences with money shape your current success, often without you even realizing it.
As a creative professional, you’re trained in design, not finance. But to grow a profitable business, you need both. Audrey shares how to shift your thinking and set up smart financial systems that support your success. She explains how your subconscious mind—where 95% of your thoughts live—might be running the business, and how to retrain it to support growth, confidence, and profit.
If you're ready to stop undercharging, feel more confident with your money, and start building a design business that thrives, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now and grab Audrey’s free Profit Accelerator Workbook to take the first step toward mastering your money and your mindset!
And if you need a step-by-step guidance to feel empowered in your business finances, check out Profitable Business Academy and use code DESIGN35 for 35% off.
Featured Guest:
Audrey Faust is an expert CFO and money mindset authority who helps entrepreneurs create the financial strategies they need to scale their businesses for increased profit and growth.
Through her unique blend of financial expertise and mindset coaching, Audrey empowers her clients to master their financial data with clarity and confidence. Her signature approach goes beyond numbers, instilling a strategic money mindset that fuels growth, boosts profitability and enables entrepreneurs to make empowered, forward, focused decisions.
Audrey's best selling book, She Grows Rich, further explores these transformative principles, offering women actionable steps to become financial powerhouses.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
📌Learn how to overcome limiting money beliefs and start believing in your value as a designer
📌Get simple, clear steps to separate business and personal finances and avoid common financial mistakes designers make
📌Stop stressing over money (aka pricing) and start making empowered, confident decisions
Check out the show notes >>> How to Rewire Your Money Beliefs to Increase Profits in Your Design Business
Links Mentioned:
💡 Need guidance in your business finances? Check out Profitable Business Academy and use code DESIGN35 for 35% off💡 12 Secrets from an Expert CFO: Free Profit Accelerator Workbook
💡 She Grows Rich for personal financial inspiration and business insights
NEXT STEPS:
🎯Join the Launch Your Business Bootcampand launch your design business this summer
Grab your freebies:
🔖Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
🎨3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign
🌎 Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction: Money Mindset and the Creative Professional
03:05 Audrey’s Background and Path to Coaching
04:51 The Role of Money Mindset in Sustainable Growth
08:20 How to Reprogram Limiting Beliefs
10:07 First Financial Steps for New Designers
12:39 Sweat Equity and the Timeline to Profitability
15:11 Pricing Strategies and Profitability
18:01 Overcoming Money Blocks When Pricing Projects
21:08 Handling Project Issues and Reserves
22:21 Final Takeaways for Financial Success
Are you stuck thinking "What if I mess up?" or "What if I don't sound like I know what I'm talking about?" when calling yourself an interior designer?
You're not alone.
Many talented people with a natural eye for design stay stuck because they're waiting for someone to give them permission to start their careers. But here's the truth: you don't need anyone's permission except your own.
In this episode, I talk about why you don’t need permission from anyone to become an interior designer—you already have what it takes. I share stories from my journey and common fears many new designers have, like not knowing enough or worrying they’ll make mistakes.
You will learn how to move forward despite your fears, and understand why your “why” is most important. I also provide three simple steps to start your interior design career immediately!
Creativity is personal, and being an interior designer means being brave enough to try. Whether you want to change your niche, charge for your work, or say yes to something new, this episode gives you the permission to begin.
Stop waiting for the perfect moment or the perfect skills. Your design career starts the moment you decide to believe in yourself. Listen now and give yourself permission to become the interior designer you've always wanted to be – because I am officially giving you that permission right here, right now.
If you need help getting your business off the ground and running, join the Launch Your Business Bootcamp. Classes start in July.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:👉 Overcome your fear-based thoughts and start believing in your own design abilities
👉Get official permission to start your interior design career today, with or without a degree or a perfect plan
👉Learn the 3 simple steps you can take this week to launch your design business
Check out the show notes >>> Stop Waiting for Permission and Start Your Interior Design Career Now
NEXT STEPS:🎨 Join the Launch Your Business Bootcampand launch your design business this summer
Grab your freebies:
📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign
🌎 Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
02:07 Personal Reflection on Waiting for Permission
03:12 Common Mindset Blocks
03:58 Core Principle: Expertise Comes From Starting
04:39 Signs You're Ready to Start
06:24 Affirmations and Mindset Shifts
09:40 Direct Permission Statement
10:00 Practical Steps to Get Started
11:49 Overcoming the Starting Hurdle
Are you drowning in design project chaos, juggling emails, texts, and scattered communication that's driving you crazy? You're not alone! Today's guest has been there too.
I interview Erinn V, a luxury interior designer and the founder of StyleRow, a powerful platform made to help designers like you stay organized, save time, and run your business better.
Erinn shares how she grew from decorating her apartment to designing homes for celebrities and creating a tool that solves the very problems she faced in her own business.
StyleRow solves the biggest headaches designers face: scattered communication, complicated client presentations, and time-consuming administrative tasks. The software allows designers to centralize project communication, create easy-to-navigate client dashboards, and save up to two-thirds of their back-office time - all while providing a seamless experience for clients.
If you're ready to get more done without the stress, tune in now and learn how StyleRow can help you work smarter, not harder.
Featured Guest:
Erinn Valencich is an entrepreneur who began her career at a young age. She graduated from high school early, choosing to forgo college to enter the workforce immediately. At 24, she founded her design firm, Erinn V Design Group (EVDG). She later established a furniture brand, Erinn V, and most recently became a software visionary by creating StyleRow, a platform designed to help designers communicate, present, and design, as well as discover the best offerings in the luxury design world.
EVDG has designed projects worldwide, alongside a wide array of home and lifestyle products including door & cabinet hardware, Hollywood Hills by ERINN V. for Baldwin Hardware, furniture with Universal Furniture and Ambella Home, rugs with Creative Touch and Mehraban, lighting with Fine Art Handcrafted Lighting and window coverings with Hartmann & Forbes, alongside more collaborations to come.
Her work has been featured in Elle Décor, Architectural Digest, Town & Country, and House Beautiful, among other publications.
Erinn has four horses and resides with her husband in the Santa Rosa valley.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
💡 Learn how to reduce administrative stress and create a more profitable workflow
🎨 Discover a tool to save time and stay organized while managing multiple design projects
🔖 Get real advice from an industry leader to grow both creatively and professionally in the design field
Check out the show notes >>> The Tool That Helps Interior Designers Stay On Track and Save Time
Links Mentioned:
- StyleRow, a project management tool for interior designers
NEXT STEPS:
-
Join the Launch Your Business Bootcampand launch your design business this summer
-
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career Connect With Me:
-
Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- Instagram: @rwarddesign
-
Website atrwarddesign.com
-
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
2:37 Erinn V's Background and Early Career
06:44 Getting Her First Clients
07:44 Transitioning to Luxury Design
11:33 Developing a Furniture Brand
15:55 The Birth of StyleRow
21:05 Features and Benefits of StyleRow
29:36 Erinn's DIY Courses
30:57 Advice for Aspiring Designers
Interior designers often get confused about whether to hire an employee or an independent contractor because the decision involves several complex factors—legal, financial, and practical—that aren't always clear at first glance.
In this episode, I break down the pros and cons of both options, including cost, commitment, legal rules, and how much control you have. I also share my real-life experience of hiring interns and contractors to full-time employees, and explain why shifting your mindset from fear to strategy is key to sustainable growth.
I also talk about setting up your business as an S-Corp, protecting your work with contracts, and why thinking like a CEO is key to building a business that lasts.
Tune in now and start building a business that supports your growth.
And if you need help getting your business off the ground and running, join the Launch Your Business Bootcamp. Classes start in July.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Get a clear comparison of hiring options to make the right decision for your interior design business
- Learn how setting up your business structure (like switching to an S-Corp) can make hiring easier and more legit
- Set up your design business for long-term success and potential future succession planning
NEXT STEPS:
-
Join the Launch Your Business Bootcampand launch your design business this summer
-
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career Connect With Me:
-
Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- Instagram: @rwarddesign
- Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction: Why Hiring Help Becomes Necessary
(02:48) Fears and Misconceptions About Hiring Employees
(04:16) Low-Risk/Low-Reward of Contractors vs. High-Risk/High-Reward of Employees
(04:54) Rebecca's Journey into Hiring
(08:23) Benefits of Becoming an S-Corp
(13:15) Advantages of Hiring Employees Over an Independent Contractor
(16:47) Legal Considerations (Especially in California)
(18:58) Mindset Shift and Strategic Hiring
(20:37) Practical Tips for Hiring and Managing Employees
(22:10) Final Thoughts
Interior designers have the ability to shape experiences through their work. Whether it's helping a family feel more connected at home, creating a more uplifting environment in a senior living space, or reducing stress in a healthcare setting, their contributions go beyond merely making spaces look beautiful. They play a vital role in improving people's lives.
In this inspiring episode, I chat with Blima Ehrentreu, founder and CEO of The Designers Group, who shares how interior design becomes meaningful when driven by purpose. From calming urgent care centers to uplifting senior living communities, Blima shows how thoughtful design can help people feel safe, supported, and inspired.
You’ll discover how designing with empathy and intention can transform everyday spaces into places of healing, comfort, and connection. Blima also shares how she grew her firm across North America, the lessons she’s learned from real-life mistakes like how to handle mistakes and lead a team, and how she now mentors others to do purposeful work through her TDG Insider program.
If you want your work to feel more fulfilling and make a real impact, this episode is for you. Tune in now and discover how to bring purpose into your projects and create spaces that change lives.
Featured Guest:
Blima Ehrentreu, founder and CEO of The Designers Group, is a creative visionary and industry trailblazer. Committed to empowering women and driving philanthropy, Blima's impact goes beyond traditional design boundaries. Her passion and leadership showcase the transformative power of purpose-driven design in creating a better world.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn how to design with purpose and impact
- Get real-world business and leadership insights
- Discover mentorship and giving-back opportunities
Check out the show notes >>> The Power of Purpose-Driven Design in Changing Lives and Spaces
Links Mentioned:
- Apply for the TDG Insider program to shadow the team in the New York office
- TDG Furniture Exchange if you have furniture to donate; giving furniture new life rather than disposal
NEXT STEPS:
- Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
- Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- Instagram: @rwarddesign
- Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(02:00) Blima's Early Interest in Interior Design
(03:11) Education and Foundational Experience
(04:41) The Importance of Design Implementation
(06:04) Influence of Cross-Industry Design Experience
(08:44) The Growth of The Designers Group
(09:48) Mentorship and Scaling the Business
(12:14) Overcoming Challenges and Learning from Mistakes
(16:11) Dream Projects and Purpose-Driven Design
(19:20) Advice to Aspiring Interior Designers
(20:54) How to Join the TDG Insider Mentorship Program
(21:59) Charitable Initiatives of The Designers Group
Is it possible to become an interior designer without going back to school?
If you're dreaming of a second career in interior design but don’t have the time or money for a two- or four-year degree, this episode is for you.
I share practical ways you can use the skills you already have to get hired in a design firm—even if you’ve never worked in interior design before.
You'll learn what small firms are really looking for, and how your background in project management, sales, customer service, client relations to creative problem-solving and business know-how, or creative work like event planning or graphic design could be just what they need.
I also share how to build a starter portfolio, highlight your strengths in your resume and cover letter, and stand out with tools like CAD software and short certifications.
You don’t need a degree to get started. All you need is a smart plan and the confidence to show what you bring to the table.
And if you want help finding your path, check out My Design Mentor, or join the Launch Your Business Bootcampto get your business off the ground and running.
Tune in now and take your first step toward a career you’ll love!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover how your current career skills transfer to interior design
- Get practical tips for building a starter portfolio without formal experience
- Find out what a smaller design firm really looks for in new hires and prepare yourself accordingly
Check out the show notes >>> Switching to Interior Design Career? How to Make Yourself Marketable Without a Degree
Episode Sponsor: Sourcing for sheets and comforters? Check out Cozy Earth and use code DESIGNCURIOUS for 40% off
NEXT STEPS:
- Get on the waitlist Launch Your Business Bootcamp to secure your spot
- Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
- Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- Instagram: @rwarddesign
- Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(01:55) Understanding the Interior Design Job Market
(03:49) Identifying & Communicating Transferable Skills
(08:59) Developing a Portfolio Without Formal Training
(11:07) Networking and Professional Development
(14:13) Recap & Final Encouragement
Have you ever wondered if it’s too late to pursue your dream of becoming an interior designer?
In this episode, you’ll meet Alison Geise, a former dietitian and law school grad who took the scenic route to interior design and built a thriving business doing what she loves. If you’re thinking about switching careers, Alison’s story will show you it’s possible.
Alison shares how her love for decorating turned into a full-time career, even after years in completely different fields. She talks about the steps she took to learn design, how she filled the gap in business knowledge, and why her unique life experience now sets her apart in the industry.
Whether you’re just starting or thinking of a fresh start, this episode is packed with helpful tips for making your move into design the smart way.
Ready to turn your passion into a profession? Tune in now, take notes, and explore how second chances can lead to stunning design careers.
Featured Guest:
Alison Giese is the visionary founder and principal designer of Alison Giese Interiors, an esteemed, boutique interior design firm based in San Antonio, Texas.
She has cultivated a reputation for seamlessly blending sophisticated elements with unparalleled finishes, resulting in homes that are visually stunning and deeply reflective of her client's distinct stories.
Alison's journey into interior design is as unique as her creations. After a diverse career as a registered dietitian and law school graduate, a transformative move overseas ignited her passion for design, prompting her to pursue a certificate in interior decorating. Drawing inspiration from her travels and rich experiences, she creates interiors that embody a refined sense of place and character.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn actionable tips on how to start your design career without a design degree
- Discover business and creative tips for designers so you can work smarter and stay creative
- Get inspired by a real career change and pursue your passion for design
Check out the show notes >>> Expert’s Insights on Transitioning to Interior Design Career With Alison Giese
NEXT STEPS:
- Get on the waitlist Launch Your Business Bootcamp to secure your spot
- Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
- Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- Instagram: @rwarddesign
- Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(01:45) Alison's Journey into Interior Design
(05:26) Balancing Law School and Design Passion
(07:22) Design Education and Business Learning Gaps
(09:34) The Interior Design Business Launch Pad
(11:11) Alison's Design Philosophy
(14:25) Diversifying Revenue Streams
(16:39) On Starting Her Design Career Solo
(19:28) Favorite Project: The Unicorn
(21:34) Balancing Creativity and Business
(25:49) Tools and Software for Business Efficiency
(27:04) Advice to Aspiring Designers
Are you worried about getting through those tough first two years of your interior design business? Most new businesses fail in this critical period, but yours doesn't have to!
In this episode, I share practical strategies to help you become profitable more quickly. I walk you through actionable steps for building a strong network, creating an impressive portfolio even with no prior experience, creating service packages that attract first-time customers, and leveraging your connections to find your initial projects. I explain exactly how to make yourself visible in the market. Plus, I share my journey of gradually building my business while working full-time before transitioning to independence.
Profitability typically takes about two years, but with the right approach, patience, and consistent effort, you can overcome the challenges of your first two years and build a successful design career.
Whether you're just starting or struggling to gain traction, this episode will help you build momentum. Also, join the waitlist for my upcoming Launch Your Business Bootcamp, where I'll personally guide you through setting up your design business - your ticket to turning your creative dreams into a profitable reality.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Get a step-by-step guide to generate your first clients with zero experience
- Gain the motivation and practical knowledge to overcome common startup challenges
- Evaluate your profitability and create a plan to potentially speed up the two-year timeline
Check out the show notes >>> Strategies to Become Profitable in Your First Two Years as an Interior Designer
Links Mentioned:
- Sourcing for sheets and comforters? Check out Cozy Earth and use code DesignCurious for 40% off
NEXT STEPS:
- Get on the waitlist Launch Your Business Bootcamp to secure your spot
- Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
- Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- Instagram: @rwarddesign
- Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(01:36) Profitability as a New Interior Designer
(04:04) Building Your Network
(09:34) Creating a Portfolio Without Clients
(11:43) Business Development Strategies
(14:14) Financial Considerations
(14:56) The Launch Your Business Bootcamp
(15:53) Mindset for Success
Wondering how some designers turn their passion for history into a thriving business?
In this episode, I sit down with Anika Schachtler, who has carved out an exciting niche restoring and redesigning historical homes from the 1800s and early 1900s in Quebec.
Anika shares her journey from design school graduate to successful business owner, revealing how she built a network of skilled craftspeople who understand historical restoration. She explains the delicate balance between preserving original features and creating functional spaces for modern living, showing how she combines antique pieces with contemporary comforts.
If you've been considering historical home design as your niche, this episode offers practical insights to help you get started. Anika discusses the importance of finding the right support network, working smart rather than hard, and managing the business side of design. She highlights how restoration work involves much more than furniture selection—from working with old electrical systems and stone foundations to planning thoughtful extensions.
Ready to explore historical home restoration as your design specialty? This episode will help you understand what it takes to succeed in this rewarding niche. Tune in now!
Featured Guest:
Anika, an interior designer from Quebec, started Anika Schachtler Design to help homeowners breathe new life into their century-old homes while keeping their souls intact.
She specializes in renovating and restoring farmhouses and cottages from the 1800s and early 1900s, creating spaces that feel timeless, welcoming, and built to last. Her approach is thoughtful and hands-on, blending the best of the past with the comforts of today.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover a profitable design niche - the historical home restoration
- Understand the unique approach required for historical homes
- Get practical business insights about working smart, managing challenges, and growing a business
Check out the show notes >>> Turning Your Love for Historical Homes into a Thriving Design Business
NEXT STEPS:
- Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
- Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- Instagram: @rwarddesign
-
Website atrwarddesign.com
-
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(01:39) Anika's Journey into Interior Design
(03:29) Renovating Historical Home
(05:25) Choosing to Run Her Design Firm
(08:49) Advice for Designers
(10:45) Common Misconceptions About Interior Design
(11:48) Anika's Design Approach
(14:06) Inspiration, Motivation, and Future Plans
What makes turnkey interior design services unique, and how do they differ from full-service design?
In this episode, I break down turnkey styling—the extra layer of service that transforms an empty house into a completely livable home. Learn the difference between standard full-service design (which includes mood boards, floor plans, and furnishings) and turnkey services that add those final touches clients need to simply "turn the key" and move in.
I walk you through exactly what turnkey items to include in each room—from luxurious sheets and towels to kitchen essentials, decorative accessories, and organizational solutions.
I also share practical advice on sourcing these items, asking clients the right questions about their lifestyle needs, and even including a personal story about learning the importance of offering sheet selection to clients. You'll discover how offering these additional services not only delights your clients but can also become a valuable addition to your design business.
If you are looking for a roadmap for implementing turnkey styling in your design business, this episode is a must-listen. By the end, you'll understand how to anticipate your clients' every need and create a home that's truly ready for living from day one.
Tune in now!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover how to expand your design services beyond traditional full-service interior design with turnkey styling
- Learn specific room-by-room turnkey recommendations - a complete checklist for implementing turnkey styling service in your design business
- Gain insights on how to build a reputation for exceptional, comprehensive interior design services that clients will love and recommend
Check out the show notes >>> Turnkey Styling Services Your Clients Will Love
Links Mentioned:
- Sourcing for sheets and comforters? Check out Cozy Earth and use code DESIGNCURIOUS for 40% off
NEXT STEPS:
- Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
- Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- Instagram: @rwarddesign
- Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(02:01) Full-Service Interior Design vs. Turnkey Service
(05:13) Turnkey Items for Kitchen
(06:48) Turnkey Items for Bathroom
(08:04) Turnkey Items for Bedroom
(11:16) Turnkey Items for Living Room & Common Areas
(13:49) Enhancing Client Experience with Turnkey Services
Struggling to make your interior design business stand out in a crowded market?
In this episode, I sit down with Nicole Lashae Ben, a design strategy expert who reveals how interior designers and product manufacturers can boost their brand awareness and revenue. Nicole shares her journey from watching HGTV as a middle schooler to creating Thrive in Design, a company that helps creative professionals develop powerful marketing strategies.
Nicole offers practical advice for designers looking to elevate their brand, including the importance of finding a specific niche and creating partnerships with complementary brands. She explains how design thinking and strategic storytelling can help you connect with clients emotionally, using examples from successful companies like Nike.
Ready to elevate your interior design brand and increase your client base? Tune in now and start your journey to a more successful, distinctive design brand!
Featured Guest:
Nicole Lashae Ben, MA, CEO and Founder of Thrive In Design, is a seasoned expert in the interior design industry with over 17 years of experience. A graduate of Syracuse University and the Savannah College of Art and Design, she founded Thrive In Design to help interior product companies boost brand awareness and revenue through a human-centered approach.
Nicole has successfully implemented strategies that have generated over $15 million in sales and won over two dozen sales awards for top international brands. Her proprietary method, A.C.E. The Journey, enhances customer experiences and equips sales teams to secure more specifications. Nicole is passionate about the intersection of design and strategy, striving to ensure that both thrive in the industry.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn how to collaborate with complementary brands to scale your design business
- Understand how finding your specific niche and telling your authentic brand story across all platforms can transform your business
- Get practical advice on avoiding burnout while building a successful design business
Check out the show notes >>> How to Make Your Interior Design Brand Stand Out in a Crowded Market
NEXT STEPS:
- Get on the waitlist Launch Your Business Bootcamp to secure your spot
- Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
- Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- Instagram: @rwarddesign
- Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(02:37) Nicole's Journey into Interior Design
(07:15) The Birth of Thrive in Design
(13:03) Services and Approach
(19:05) Balancing Entrepreneurship and Personal Commitments
(22:51) Courses and Services Offered
(24:34) Advice for Designers
Are your designs ready for the future?
As people age, their homes should remain safe, comfortable, and stylish. But designing for aging in place requires more than just grab bars and wider doorways—it’s about creating a home that supports independence and well-being.
In this episode, I talk about how you can integrate aging-in-place principles into your interior design projects and introduce a program that allows you to become a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS). This certification can set you apart in the design world and help you tap into a growing market of clients seeking innovative and thoughtful home design.
I also share practical tips for designing homes that can adapt to changing physical needs while maintaining a stylish appearance and avoiding the feel of a hospital environment.
Ready to transform spaces and help people live comfortably at every stage of life? Tune in now and start creating spaces that truly stand the test of time!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover the essential design features that keep homes functional, stylish, and comfortable for years to come
- Learn actional tips to make homes safer and more comfortable for aging clients while keeping them stylish and functional
- Get certified as an Aging in Place Specialist to boost your career as an interior designer
Check out the show notes >>> Boost Your Design Career With Aging in Place Design & Certification
Links Mentioned:
-
Sourcing for sheets and comforters? Check out Cozy Earth and use code DESIGNCURIOUS for 40% off
-
NEXT STEPS:
- Get on the waitlist Launch Your Business Bootcamp to secure your spot
- Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design! Grab your freebies:
-
Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
- Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- Instagram: @rwarddesign
- Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(02:05) Differences Between Aging in Place and Universal Design
(04:13) Key Considerations for Aging in Place Design
(06:19) Functionality and Convenience in Design
(09:50) Designing for Different Rooms
(13:37) Emotional and Practical Aspects of Aging in Place
(15:15) Certification and Specialization in Aging in Place
"I don't know where to start!" Marketing overwhelms you, with so many platforms (Instagram, Pinterest, SEO, email, ads). You struggle to create a clear strategy and wonder which efforts will bring results.
"I hate self-promotion—I don’t want to sound salesy!" You love creating beautiful spaces but dislike talking about yourself. You worry about coming across as pushy instead of naturally attracting clients.
"Technology stresses me out!" CRMs, email marketing, and automation tools sound helpful, but learning them feels overwhelming. You want simple, done-for-you solutions that don’t require becoming a tech expert.
I hear you! Many interior designers struggle with scattered tools, complicated strategies, and the challenge of standing out.
So in this episode, I chat with marketing expert, Ben Rutledge from Sidemark, who shares simple ways to take the stress out of marketing. He explains how to build systems that work, attract your ideal clients, and use automation to stay organized—so you can focus on designing, not just selling.
Ben also reveals the biggest mistakes designers make in marketing and how to avoid them.
Don't let marketing be your constant struggle. Tune in now and learn how to streamline your design business with the right marketing strategies and systems. Plus, don’t forget to grab Ben’s free 2025 Interior Designers Marketing Checklist.
Featured Guest:
Ben Rutledge is co-founder of Sidemark, a marketing solution for interior designers.
With 15-plus years in small business marketing, Ben now helps interior designers simplify and succeed in marketing. He enjoys demystifying the process, building strong brands, and driving growth.
Ben lives in Colorado with his wife, Nicole, and loves getting outside every chance he gets.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn how to attract your ideal clients without feeling scattered or stressed
- Set up systems that make your business look more professional even if you’re just starting out
- Develop a plan on how to nurture leads without feeling salesy
Check out the show notes >>> Stress-Free Framework to Attract Clients to Your Design Business
Links Mentioned:
- The 2025 Interior Designers Marketing Checklist
NEXT STEPS:
- Get on the waitlist Launch Your Business Bootcamp to secure your spot
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
- Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- Instagram: @rwarddesign
-
Website atrwarddesign.com
-
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(2:34) Ben’s Journey into Interior Design Marketing
(4:07) Addressing Overwhelm in Marketing
(6:09) What Sidemark Offers
(10:54) Who Sidemark Helps
(12:02) 2025 Marketing Strategies for Interior Designers
(13:44) Key Marketing Questions for Designers
(14:24) The “Pie Shop” Analogy for Marketing
(15:41) Nurturing Leads and Closing Sales
(18:38) Importance of Systems in Business
(20:55) The Value of Setting Up Systems Early
(25:32) The Role of Email Marketing in Interior Design
(29:48) Overcoming the Fear of Self-Promotion
(34:03) How Often to Send Emails
Are you exhausted from juggling client demands, endless decisions, and late-night work sessions? You're not alone.
Burnout is a common struggle for solopreneurs and interior designers, but it doesn’t have to be your reality.
I completely understand how burnout feels; I experienced it myself early in my career. Thankfully, I've learned effective strategies to manage it. I’m happy to say I’m no longer an overwhelmed and burned-out designer. This shift has made a big difference. It improved my ability to be the best designer for my clients.
In this episode, I explore the common causes of burnout and share my personal experiences in overcoming it. I also provide practical tips for maintaining inspiration and avoiding burnout, which can help you in your own design career.
If you are looking for ways to reclaim your creativity, reduce stress, and enjoy the career you love, this episode is for you.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover practical tips for setting boundaries and saying no to projects that aren’t a good fit.
- Learn productivity & time management tools to streamline your business and maintain a healthy work-life balance
- Create a work schedule that supports your well-being while staying on top of your projects
Check out the show notes >>> How to Stop Burnout and Protect Your Creative Energy
NEXT STEPS:
- Get on the waitlist Launch Your Business Bootcamp to secure your spot
- Use Full Focus Planner to set and track your 2025 goals
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
- Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- Instagram: @rwarddesign
- Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week!
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(02:46) The Reality of Burnout in Interior Design
(05:20) The Impact of Burnout
(07:45) Setting Boundaries to Prevent Burnout
(10:30) The Role of Self-Care in Avoiding Burnout
(16:22) Productivity & Time Management Tools
(20:07) Strategies to Avoid Overwhelm in Business
Are you struggling to generate consistent, high-quality leads for your interior design business?
Many designers rely on social media and word of mouth, but these methods alone may not bring in steady, high-quality leads.
In this episode, Porsche Williams, CEO of The Prototype, shares her expert strategies for building a stress-free, scalable lead generation system that nurtures relationships and drives long-term growth.
She explains the biggest mistakes designers make—like focusing too much on new leads and forgetting past clients—and reveals how to create a simple system that keeps your pipeline full.
Plus, Porsche shares a step-by-step framework to help you stay top-of-mind with potential clients.
Don't let lead generation overwhelm you. Tune in to this episode and learn how to create a scalable, stress-free system that allows you to focus on your creative vision while attracting your ideal clients.
Featured Guest:
Porsche Williams is the CEO of The Prototype, a business concierge firm specializing in client experience and lead generation for interior designers with a passion for streamlining business growth.
She helps designers attract ideal clients, nurture relationships, and scale with confidence, all while staying focused on their creative vision through The Prototype's expertise in client experience and lead qualification.
Since 2020, her team has supported luxury interior design and architecture firms across the US, Canada, and Australia and partnered with IDS, ASID, Mydoma by Studio Designer, and more.
Now, she's bringing her expertise to The Designer's Guide to Reliable Lead Generation, a course designed to help designers build scalable, stress-free lead generation systems while strengthening relationships and driving long-term growth.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn how to re-engage past and current clients for steady leads
- Identify missing steps in your client experience that repel great clients
- Develop a plan for strategic gifting and industry partnerships (like working with realtors and builders) to generate high-quality leads faster
Check out the show notes >>> Struggling to Get Clients? Here’s a Better Way to Find Leads
Links Mentioned:
- The Lead Generation Jumpstart
- 2-Minute Quiz: What’s Holding You Back in Your Business
NEXT STEPS:
- Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Listen to Related Episode:
- Episode 16: How Outsourcing Client Intake Helps Interior Designers Convert and Retain Clients
Connect With Me:
- Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- Instagram: @rwarddesign
- Website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(05:05) Common Mistakes in Lead Generation
(07:47) Strategies for Effective Lead Generation
(12:53) Structuring Lead Generation & Client Retention
(17:32) Practical Tips for Improving Lead Generation
What does luxury really mean in interior design?
Many designers say they offer a luxury service, but what makes a design truly high-end?
In this episode, I explain what it means to be a luxury interior designer and how to attract the right clients.
I also share how to communicate the value of high-end design, price your expertise confidently, and provide a white-glove experience that clients are happy to pay for.
If you are transitioning to high-end projects or just curious about what sets luxury apart, this episode will help you understand the key details that elevate your services.
You’ll learn why luxury isn’t just about expensive materials—it’s about customization, seamless service, and creating a stress-free client experience.
If you’re ready to level up your interior design business and attract clients who appreciate everyday luxury, this episode is for you! Tune in now and start elevating your design services!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover the specific details and white-glove experiences that define luxury
- Evaluate whether your current design services can be considered "luxury" and identify areas for improvement
-
Implement strategies to enhance the luxury experience for your clients
-
Check out the show notes >>> 6 Ways to Deliver a Luxury Interior Design Service
Links Mentioned:
* Grab the Everyday Luxury Checklist
* Sign up for My Design Mentorto kickstart a successful career in interior design!**NEXT STEPS:**
Grab your freebies:
* Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
* 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career**Connect With Me:**
* **Email:**podcast@rwarddesign.com
* **Instagram:**@rwarddesign
* **Website** atrwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(1:55) Defining Luxury in Interior Design4:31 What Luxury Clients Expect
(06:57) Luxury as a High-Touch Service
(09:12) Pricing & Value in Luxury Design
(09:46) High-Value Details That Define Luxury
(12:36) Access to Resources and Execution in Luxury Design
(14:47) Final Thoughts and Conclusion
Have you ever wondered if you need a design degree or a perfect career plan to become an interior designer? Think again!
In this episode, I sit down withStef Johnson, founder ofStef Johnson Design, who shares her inspiring journey from growing up around design to running a successful interior design studio.
Stef’s path wasn’t straight—she explored event planning, worked in real estate, and even managed construction projects before finally launching her own business. Her story proves there is no one "right" way to build a fulfilling career in this creative field.
Whether you are just starting or thinking about shifting into interior design, this episode will encourage you to take the first step—even if you don’t have it all figured out yet! Tune in and start paving your path in design.
Featured Guest:
Stef Johnson ownsStef Johnson Design (SJD), a full-service interior design studio based in North Carolina providing a classic approach to easy luxury in residential and commercial projects.
For over a decade, the SJD team has offered a unique combination of design and construction knowledge. They pride themselves on prioritizing clients’ tastes and taking a cost-effective approach to every job. Stef believes a home should reflect her client’s unique personality highlighting objects they love.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn how to start a design career from any background and navigate the early stages of your interior design career
- Get practical tips and strategies to improve your design business practices
- Be inspired to follow your passion
Check out the show notes >>>From Economics to Interiors: The Journey to Becoming an Interior Designer
NEXT STEPS:
- Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
-
Email:podcast@rwarddesign.com
-
- Instagram:@rwarddesign
- Website at
rwarddesign.com Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(01:47) Stef’s Background in Interior Design
(02:31) Early Career Path & Exploration
(06:34) Building Her Expertise & Going Solo
(10:29) Handling Client Projects Across Different Regions
(14:42) Stef's Design Philosophy & Style
(18:24) Lessons in Running a Design Business
(19:53) Advice for Aspiring Interior Designers
What happens when things don’t go as planned in your design projects?
A contractor gets sick, a supplier raises prices, or a hidden problem adds unexpected costs—these surprises can cause major stress and financial loss.
Uncertainty is inevitable, but with the right preparation, you can stay in control and keep your business running smoothly.
As an interior designer, you need to be ready for the unexpected.
In this episode, I share real-life stories of unexpected challenges and how to handle them like a pro. Learn the proactive strategies I use to manage these situations, including building a solid contract, establishing a retainer policy, leveraging your professional network, maintaining financial buffers, and keeping your business profitable - even when the unexpected happens.
With these strategies, you’ll feel more confident and prepared for anything that comes your way.
Don't let the unexpected catch you off guard. Tune in to discover the best ways to safeguard your interior design business and keep your projects on track. Plus, check outMy Design Mentor for expert guidance as you build a thriving design career.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover real-life stories of delays, cancellations, and hidden costs, and how to manage them
- Evaluate existing contracts for provisions for cancellations, pauses, and unforeseen events
- Identify strategies to establish a financial safety net to avoid debt and burnout
Check out the show notes >>>How to Handle Unexpected Problems in Interior Design Without Losing Money or Feeling Stressed
NEXT STEPS:
-
Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
-
Grab your freebies:
-
Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Connect With Me:
- Email:podcast@rwarddesign.com
- Instagram:@rwarddesign
- Website:rwarddesign.com
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(02:00) Uncertainty in Design Projects
(04:08) Real-life Challenges & Unexpected Situations
(08:28) Contracts as Protection
(12:13) Managing Client Expectations
(13:32) Financial Strategies for Stability
(14:40) Proactive Strategies for Managing Unexpected Situations
(15:45) Knowing When to Enforce vs. Bend Contract Terms
(19:26) Building a Support System
(21:04) Final Thoughts and Conclusion
Are you wondering why, despite having a beautiful website, you are not attracting your ideal clients?
As interior designers, we often prioritize the visual aspects of our websites, such as design and imagery, while overlooking important functional and strategic elements.
While a stunning website is important, if it doesn’t guide visitors toward taking action, you may be missing out on valuable inquiries and bookings.
In this episode, web design expert Cathleen Barnes shares how interior designers can turn their websites into powerful tools that attract high-end clients and increase conversions.
She reveals the top mistakes designers make—like weak call-to-actions, unclear client processes, and generic testimonials—and explains how to fix them.
She also shares smart strategies like using case studies instead of simple portfolios, streamlining client onboarding, and improving website navigation for a seamless user experience.
By applying these tips, you can create a website that not only looks stunning but also works behind the scenes to grow your business.
Don't let your website be a missed opportunity. Tune in now and start making simple but powerful changes that will set you apart in the interior design industry!
Featured Guest:
Cathleen Barnes is the founder of Cathleen Barnes Consulting, a web design and branding studio focused on creating strategic websites for interior designers.
With over 10 years of experience in e-commerce, Cathleen has recently shifted her focus to the interior design industry. She helps designers recognize the value of their websites, which often serve as the first impression for potential clients.
Her approach goes beyond aesthetics; she understands the unique challenges designers face and how their audience interacts with their sites. By leveraging strategic insights, she ensures that each project aligns with her clients’ business goals.
Cathleen has successfully partnered with numerous interior designers to enhance their online presence and improve conversion rates through strategies centered on brand positioning and streamlined client onboarding. She empowers designers to fully utilize the potential of their websites.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn how to create a strategic website that attracts and converts high-end interior design clients
- Identify common website mistakes designers make and fix them to enhance your online presence
- Transform your portfolio into compelling case studies that showcase your expertise and make potential clients eager to work with you
Check out the show notes >>> The Secret to a High-Converting Interior Design Website That Brings You More Clients
NEXT STEPS:
- Join my Launch Your Business Boot Camp!!! I'll help you launch your design business this spring.
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(02:42) Cathleen Barnes: Background and Motivation
(04:44) The Importance of Strategic Website Planning
(08:49) Common Mistakes in Website Design That Interior Designers Make
(12:20) How to Get Better Client Testimonials
(16:08) Missed Opportunities in Website Strategy
(20:08) How to Attract High-End Clients Through Your Website
(25:30) The Website Design Process at Kathleen Barnes Consulting
"How can I show what I can do if no one gives me a chance?"
This is a question I often hear from young designers struggling to find paid internships or get clients to take a chance on them. It’s frustrating, discouraging, and can leave you feeling stuck. You know you have the passion and potential to succeed, but without experience, it feels like you’re standing at a locked door, waiting for someone to hand you the key.
Don’t worry—there are creative and practical ways to build your skills and portfolio!
In this episode, I’m sharing actionable strategies to help you gain the experience you need to stand out. From offering free design help to friends and family, to job shadowing, creating mock projects, and building vendor relationships, you’ll learn how to showcase your talent and make your mark as a designer.
You don’t need a fancy job to start building your portfolio—you just need the right plan! I also introduce you to my My Design Mentor program, where you can gain hands-on experience through sample projects, so you feel confident applying for jobs or starting your own business.
Whether you’re fresh out of school or transitioning into interior design, this episode is packed with advice to help you get scrappy, increase your knowledge, and build connections that will open doors. Tune in now and take the first step toward your dream design career!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover resourceful ways to get hands-on experience and build your portfolio without a traditional job
- Develop the skills and confidence to showcase your talent and attract opportunities
- Get practical, actionable tips to build your network and use vendor relationships to your advantage
Check out the show notes >>> Creative Ways to Build Your Interior Design Portfolio and Get Hired
NEXT STEPS:
- Sign up for My Design Mentor to get an internship or sample project experience
Grab your freebies:
- The Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide
- Furnishings Investment Guide
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Listen to Related Episode:
- Episode 05: The Do’s and Don’ts of Interior Design Internships
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction: Creative Ways to Build Your Interior Design Portfolio and Get Hired
(01:23) Challenges Young Designers Face in Gaining Experience
(03:06) Gaining Experience Through Small Projects
(04:35) Internships and Job Shadowing
(07:09) Creating a Portfolio Without Clients
(08:19) Building Vendor Relationships
(09:42) Online Learning & Volunteering
(11:56) Networking & Finding Opportunities
Fear, self-doubt, and limiting beliefs are the three major obstacles that can leave an interior designer feeling stuck, unsure of their path, and questioning how to build confidence as they begin their interior design career.
In this episode, I sit down with Diamond Drip, a business strategist and personal growth expert, who shares how understanding your unique Human Design can help you overcome fear and self-doubt.
She explains that Human Design reveals your natural strengths, decision-making style, and purpose, so you can align your passion for interior design with your true self.
Diamond also shares her journey of breaking free from burnout and finding success by embracing her innate gifts. Plus, you’ll learn practical tips to harness your creativity and stay productive by working with your natural energy cycles.
Don’t miss out—pull your Human Design chart today and start designing a career and life that feels aligned, fulfilling, and uniquely you!
Featured Guest:
Diamond Drip is an award-winning speaker. Her journey has been featured on KQED radio, On Stage Plus TV, New York Weekly, and numerous podcasts.
With a background in visual communications & business strategy and a passion for personal growth, Diamond brings a unique blend of creativity, expertise, and energy to every conversation. Her mission is to help women break free from fear and self-doubt and step boldly into their power. Using tools like Human Design and Gene Keys, she guides folks to trust their intuition, embrace authenticity, and unlock their full potential. Her favorite saying is, "The limit doesn't exist, but fear and self-doubt will make you think it does."
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover how to use Human Design to help you understand your natural strengths, decision-making process, and life purpose
- Be inspired and empowered to break free from limiting beliefs, boost your confidence, and navigate challenges as a newbie
- Learn practical tips to help you maximize creativity, focus, and efficiency in your design work and daily life
Check out the show notes >>> Overcome Fear and Self-Doubt; Boost Your Interior Design Career With Human Design Insights
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(02:16) Diamond’s Background and Entrepreneurial Journey
(06:11) Introduction to Human Design for Entrepreneurs
(09:19) Detailed Explanation of Human Design
(12:09) Applying Human Design to Business
(14:28) Applying Human Design in Interior Design Projects
(15:56) Consulting Services Offered by Diamond
(18:26) Fertility Awareness Method for Creativity and Productivity
(23:09) Overcoming Fear and Limiting Beliefs Through Self-Discovery
NEXT STEPS:
Join the waitlist: Launch Your Business Boot Camp—spots are limited!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you an aspiring interior designer dreaming of starting your business, but feeling overwhelmed by all the steps involved?
I've got you covered! I am here to guide you through the process of launching your interior design business in just 2 months.
In this episode, I am sharing my personal experiences and insights on the challenges of starting a business, PLUS introducing you to the ultimate solution to help you go from aspiring designer to client-ready entrepreneur in just two months with my Launch Your Business Boot Camp.
I am breaking down each week of the program, guiding you through branding, financial management, and launch planning so that you’ll be ready to open your doors and attract clients by spring.
Don’t let fear hold you back from building the design business you’ve always wanted. The Launch Your Business Boot Camp is designed to remove the guesswork of setting up your interior design business and make starting it exciting, not scary.
Ready to take the leap? Tune in now and Sign up for the Launch Your Business Boot Camp today.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover the step-by-step process for launching your interior design business
- Overcome the fear and uncertainty of entrepreneurship
- Be client-ready by Spring and capitalize on the seasonal demand
Check out the show notes >>> Designer's Boot Camp: Step-By-Step Guide to Launching Your Dream Interior Design Business Without Feeling Overwhelmed
NEXT STEPS:
Join the waitlist: Launch Your Business Boot Camp—spots are limited!
(0:00) Introduction & Overview of Launching Your Interior Design Business Boot Camp
(03:28) Overview of Launch Your Business Bootcamp
(04:39) Week 1: Foundation Building: Core Values and Business Messaging
(06:10) Week 2: Branding and Website Setup
(07:39) Week 3: Legal and Administrative Setup
(08:54) Week 4: Business Operations/Running the Business
(10:13) Week 5: Money Management
(10:54) Week 6: Launch Planning
(11:37) How to Join the Launch Your Business Boot Camp
Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
State laws often define the scope of practice, certification requirements, and licensing regulations for interior designers. Staying informed ensures you comply with these rules, allowing you to work legally and avoid fines or penalties.
In this episode, I have an insightful conversation with Genise Plessas, a seasoned interior designer and advocate for the profession in California. Genise delves into the challenges facing interior designers, particularly the proposed changes by IDEX that could create unnecessary barriers for both commercial and residential designers.
She shares valuable insights into the work of the California Legislative Coalition for Interior Designers (CLCID), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and empowering individual designers.
She also reveals the resources every designer needs - a comprehensive guide on codes and regulations, as well as study materials to help you prepare for the IDEX exam.
Plus, hear her inspiring story of starting her design business, working internationally, and balancing creativity with technical know-how.
Whether you're a newbie dreaming of your first big project or a seasoned pro navigating new rules, this episode offers a wealth of information to help you stay informed and navigate the industry's ever-evolving landscape. Tune in now!
AND don't forget to get on the Launch Your Business Boot Camp waitlist to secure your spot and get ready to launch your design business in 2025!
Featured Guest:
Genise Plessas is the owner of Genise Plessas Designs and brings over 27 years of experience in interior design. She assists clients in achieving the best possible design outcomes for their individual and business projects.
With an office in Granite Bay, California, Genise has built a reputation in her private practice and as a partner in the commercial interior design industry. She educates clients on how to fashion a beautiful aesthetic while selecting products to fit and perform at the highest level using state-of-the-art innovations and technology.
She currently sits on the California Legislative Coalition for Interior Designers known as CLCID; is a past president of the California Central Nevada chapter of the American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) as ASID as well as past president of the California Capital Chapter for National Kitchen and Bath Association (NKBA).
Connect with Genise Plessas:
Website: Genise Plessas Designs
Email: geniseplessasdesigns@gmail.com
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn how evolving legislation, like California's certification requirements, could impact both residential and commercial interior designers
- Get access to valuable tools, like code guides and study materials, that can help you navigate certification exams and stay compliant with state laws
- Gain insights and practical advice from a seasoned designer for balancing creativity with technical skills
Check out the show notes >>> How New California Design Legislation Could Transform Interior Design Practices in 2025
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction & Announcement: Waitlist for "Launch Your Business Bootcamp" for aspiring interior designers in 2025
(03:12) Genise Plessas: Career Journey in Interior Design
(06:52) Challenges and Transitions in Genise's Career
(10:23) Insights from Working Internationally and in Commercial Design
(12:19) Genise's Involvement in Interior Designers Organizations
(13:51) Understanding California Legislative Coalition for Interior Designers (CLCID) Mission and Goals
(20:23) Perspective on California Legislation Updates and Industry Challenges
(27:40) The Importance of Designer Advocacy
(34:06) How to Get Involved and Stay Informed
NEXT STEPS:
Join the waitlist for the Launch Your Business Boot Camp—spots are limited!
https://rwarddesign.myflodesk.com/launch-your-business-bootcamp
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign
Thanks for listening!
Have you set your goals for 2025 but worry about how to achieve them? The key to success might lie in the power of accountability.
Accountability can be the missing piece that keeps you focused, motivated, and on track as you work toward your goals for the new year. If you struggle to follow through on your interior design goals or often let yourself off the hook, this episode is for you.
I share real-life examples and proven strategies to help you clarify your priorities, boost your motivation, and stay consistent—whether you’re a new designer just starting or a seasoned pro looking to grow.
Ready to make 2025 the year you elevate your design career? Join me in the Launch Your Business Boot Camp, a hands-on program designed to help you confidently start or grow your interior design business. Don’t wait for the perfect moment—start today, and let accountability guide you to a thriving, fulfilling career! Check the show notes to learn more.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover the psychology behind accountability and how it can increase your chances of achieving your interior design goals
- Learn practical tips to clarify your priorities, set measurable goals, and build lasting habits
-
Get the opportunity to join the Launch Your Business Boot Camp so you can start your interior design business with ongoing support and accountability
-
Check out the show notes >>> How Accountability Can Help You Reach Your 2025 Goals and Grow Your Design Career
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(02:07) Definition and Context of Accountability
(03:31) Statistics and Psychology of Accountability
(05:58) Benefits of Accountability
(07:03) How to Build an Accountability Systems
(12:28) Announcement: Launch Your Business Boot Camp
Links Mentioned:
* Full Focus Planner *t*o set and track your 2025 goals
* Get on the waitlist for the boot camp to secure your spot and get ready to launch your design business in 2025**NEXT STEPS:**
Join the waitlist for the Launch Your Business Boot Camp—spots are limited!
https://rwarddesign.myflodesk.com/launch-your-business-bootcamp
Grab your freebies:
* The Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide
- Furnishings Investment Guide
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
-
3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
-
Take a Quiz!
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!Listen to Related Episode:
- Episode 67: Boost Your Interior Design Career in 2024 with the Power of Focus
- Episode 68: The Power of Intention: How to Set and Achieve Your Goals for 2024 With Sierra Collins
Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Happy New Year and welcome to 2025!
January is all about fresh starts, and many of us are setting goals to prioritize self-care and build better routines. A thoughtfully designed home gym can make all the difference—offering not just convenience but also a space that inspires consistent use and supports wellness goals.
For us interior designers, this is the perfect time to help clients align their homes with their health and wellness aspirations, making it the perfect moment to explore this growing trend.
If you’ve ever wondered how to create a home gym that’s both stylish and functional, this episode is for you! I sit down with Chris Howell, founder of SPX Gym Design, to uncover the secrets of designing luxury wellness spaces that seamlessly fit into any home while meeting each client’s unique needs.
From choosing the perfect flooring to incorporating features like saunas and cold plunges, Chris shares practical tips and his inspiring journey from personal trainer to gym design expert. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned designer, this episode is packed with actionable ideas to elevate your projects and delight your clients.
Tune in now to make 2025 your year for innovative design!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover practical tips on designing home gyms that seamlessly blend functionality and style, catering to your clients' unique needs
- Learn how to collaborate with architects, interior designers, and clients to craft bespoke spaces that inspire fitness and relaxation
- Explore innovative design solutions to incorporate wellness features like saunas and cold plunges to elevate your interior design projects
Check out the show notes >>> Home Gym Designs: Practical Tips to Blend Style, Functionality, and Client Wellness Goals
Timestamps:
(0:00) Introduction
(02:54) Chris Howell's Journey to Gym Design
(05:37) Product Design and Customization in Gym Design
(8:45) Key Considerations for Designing Home Gyms
(14:45) Challenges with Second-Floor and Small-Space Gyms
(16:48) Incorporating Adjacent Wellness Features
(18:35) Collaboration with Designers and Homeowners
(27:10) Addressing Common Mistakes in Gym Design
Featured Guest:
Chris Howell is the founder and owner of SPX Gym Design, a company that has been transforming spaces Since 2017. SPX Gym Design fuses interior design with custom gym equipment, creating bespoke wellness environments for high-end homes of NFL athletes and boardroom executives.
He has collaborated with prestigious brands such as Soho House Gyms, 1Hotel, Gurney Resorts, Proper Hotels, and C4 Energy. His innovative approach to gym and wellness design has positioned SPX Gym Design as a leader in the industry.
Currently based in Jupiter, Florida, Chris continues to revolutionize the fitness and wellness landscape with his unique vision and expertise.
Connect with Chris Howell:
- Website: www.spxfit.com
- Instagram: @spxgymdesign
NEXT STEPS:
Join the waitlist for the Launch Your Business Boot Camp—spots are limited!
https://rwarddesign.myflodesk.com/launch-your-business-bootcamp
Grab your freebies:
- The Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide
- Furnishings Investment Guide
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Take a Quiz!
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
As a visionary for my company, taking time to reflect is essential. It allows me to review the events of the past year, recognize my growth, and learn from the lessons it brought. Reflecting also helps me plan with intention and shape a clear vision for the year ahead.
While I can’t control every circumstance, I can control how I approach the future, set meaningful intentions, and focus on what I want to achieve in the coming year.
In this special year-end episode, I share how to reflect on your wins, lessons, and growth from 2024 while preparing to embrace 2025 with clarity and purpose. I guide you through setting goals, choosing a "Word of the Year," using a planner to stay focused and accountable, and crafting a vision board to keep you motivated toward your goals.
I also introduce exciting updates to My Design Mentor and an all-new Launch Your Business Boot Camp! These resources are designed to give aspiring interior designers the guidance, accountability, and tools they need to build a thriving business.
Whether you’re dreaming of starting your career or ready to leap into entrepreneurship, this episode is packed with tips and inspiration to help you make it happen.
Start 2025 with intention! Listen now, and take the first steps toward turning your creative goals into reality. Don’t forget to join the waitlist for the boot camp—spots are limited!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover how to reflect on your personal and professional growth from the past year and use those insights to set clear, intentional goals for 2025
- Learn how to create your vision board to keep your goals top of mind and fuel your motivation throughout 2025
- Get early access to a boot camp so you can launch your interior design business in 2025
Check out the show notes >>> Start Your 2025 Journey: Reflection, Goal Setting, and Vision Board for Success
NEXT STEPS:
Join the waitlist for the Launch Your Business Boot Camp—spots are limited!
https://rwarddesign.myflodesk.com/launch-your-business-bootcamp
Grab your freebies:
- The Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide
- Furnishings Investment Guide
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Take a Quiz!
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
"Do I need a formal degree in interior design to succeed? What steps should I follow in the design process? Should I add new services like construction management or staging? How do I diversify my offerings while staying true to my brand?"
These questions reflect a critical milestone in a designer’s career journey, helping them go from establishing their practice to running a thriving business.
In this episode, you will find answers from Michelle Norgren, the founder of Harmony Homes, a successful luxury interior design and construction firm. She shares her inspiring story highlighting how she built her business during the uncertainties of the pandemic and the systems she developed to ensure her team runs like clockwork.
She also reveals practical strategies for growing your design business, from using tools like Motion AI to streamline tasks, to hiring the right people to cover your weaknesses.
Whether you're just starting or looking to scale up, Michelle’s insights will help you create clear processes, improve client relationships, and achieve your goals.
If you’ve been searching for ways to grow your interior design career with confidence and clarity, this episode is for you! Don't miss this opportunity to gain practical, battle-tested advice from an interior design entrepreneur who's been in your shoes. Tune in now!
Featured Guest:
Michelle Norgren is the owner and founder of Harmony Homes, a luxury interior design and construction firm.
With a background in architecture and a passion for creating beautiful, functional spaces, Michelle launched Harmony Homes to help clients bring their dream homes to life.
Under her leadership, the company has become known for its seamless design-build approach, ensuring every project reflects the firm's ethos, where beauty, space, and functionality harmonize. Michelle's expertise in both design and construction allows her to offer clients a comprehensive, personalized experience from concept to completion.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
-
- Discover how to build an efficient, collaborative team and implement streamlined processes to manage projects effectively
-
- Learn expert advice on scaling whether it’s expanding into construction, collaborating with architects, or preparing for new build projects
-
- Gain inspiration to turn your creative passion into a thriving, sustainable enterprise Check out the show notes >>> Expert Advice on Building & Scaling Your Interior Design Firm With Confidence
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
-
- The Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide
-
- Furnishings Investment Guide
-
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
-
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career Take a Quiz!
-
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
-
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be! Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Newbie interior designers often have questions as they start building their careers, balancing creativity with client satisfaction, and running a business effectively.
In this episode, I answer questions sent in by listeners over the past couple of months. Some listeners were unsure whether I had covered these topics in previous episodes, and it seems I haven't. I thought it would be a great time to answer some of those questions now. For those starting, these might be the areas you are struggling with right now.
I share my tried-and-true methods for success as an interior designer. From mastering the all-in-one proposal presentation to finding trustworthy contractors, my recommendations will help you avoid common design pitfalls and create a seamless experience for your clients.
And if you’re struggling to organize yourself with several projects at once, my step-by-step approach will help you stay on track without getting overwhelmed.
Don't miss out - listen now and take the next steps towards achieving your design business goals.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover the proven method to present a design proposal that makes clients confidently say “yes” and saves everyone time
- Develop a plan or strategies for organizing your workflow when juggling multiple projects
- Learn practical tips on building a network of reliable tradespeople and vendors to support your work
Check out the show notes >>> Essential Tips for Interior Designers on Presenting Proposals and Managing Multiple Projects
Links Mentioned:
- Interior Designer Business Starter Kit
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- The Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide
- Furnishings Investment Guide
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Take a Quiz!
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Listen to Related Episode:
- Episode 105: The Must-Ask Questions for Successful Interior Design Consultations and Projects
- Episode 103: Project Management 101: Seven Steps to a Stress-Free Interior Design Projects
- Episode 99: Smart Way to Maximize Profits in Your Interior Design Business: Furniture Sales and Designer Discounts
Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Interior designers often find managing the financial side of their business challenging because they are primarily focused on creative work rather than financial planning and analysis.
Many start their careers with a passion for aesthetics, design, and problem-solving for clients’ spaces, not necessarily for crunching numbers. This makes dealing with finances—like budgeting, pricing, and understanding profit margins—feel less intuitive and sometimes even overwhelming.
So if you are an interior designer struggling to manage the financial side of your business and wish you had a trusted advisor to guide you, this episode is for you.
Today, I chatted with Michelle Williams, owner of Scarlet Thread Consulting and Metrik Solutions, who specializes in helping designers take control of their numbers. She shares practical ways to read financial statements, price your services, and understand what your numbers really mean. With easy-to-use tools and strategies, she helps business owners make smart financial decisions—whether it's setting prices, hiring, or planning for future growth.
Michelle also shares insights on setting up a clear financial strategy and tips on adapting the Profit First method.
Don't miss this opportunity to gain the financial confidence and tools you need to take your business to new heights. Tune in now and start owning your numbers!
Featured Guest:
Michele Williams is the dynamic owner of Scarlet Thread Consulting and Metrique Solutions, two companies focused on empowering creative professionals in the design industry including interior designers, workrooms, and window covering professionals. With an eye for detail and a passion for innovation, Michele has carved a niche in providing strategic business coaching and financial analytics to help designers and workrooms navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship.
Michele's commitment to excellence and her unwavering support for her clients have established her as a trusted advisor and thought leader in the design community. Her work not only transforms businesses but also inspires creativity and growth, making her an invaluable asset to the industry.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn practical steps to help you understand your numbers and make smart decisions that support your growth
- Discover how to create a solid strategic plan tailored to your goals
- Apply the Profit First method to manage your cash flow, pay yourself, and keep your business financially healthy
Check out the show notes >>> Master Your Finances: How Interior Designers Can Take Control of Pricing, Planning, and Profit
Links Mentioned:
- Find the books Atomic Habits and Profit First here
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- The Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide
- Furnishings Investment Guide
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Take a Quiz!
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
The interior design industry is quite crowded, especially with the rise of online platforms and social media showcasing designers’ work, making the field more visible and accessible than ever.
The growth in popularity is fueled by shows on networks like HGTV, DIY resources, and the increase in design-focused social media content, which has inspired many people to pursue interior design as a career.
Having said that, how do you stand out in the crowded interior design market? How do you attract your ideal clients and build a thriving, sustainable design business?
In this episode, I share my proven strategies to help you set yourself apart from the competition, whether you are just starting or already growing your business.
From finding your unique voice to mastering smooth business operations, you will find practical ways to become unforgettable to clients. You will learn why it is essential to show off your personality, create systems that run like clockwork, and deliver the kind of customer service people remember.
So don't settle for blending in with the crowd. Discover how to make your interior design services irresistible to your dream clients. Tune in now and start setting yourself apart today!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Uncover proven strategies to differentiate yourself and stand out in a crowded interior design market
- Learn how to leverage your unique expertise and adapt to industry innovations to become the go-to designer in your local area
- Be ready to build a brand that resonates with the clients who want exactly what you offer
Check out the show notes >>> 9 Proven Ways to Set Yourself Apart as an Interior Designer and Succeed
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- The Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide
- Furnishings Investment Guide
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Take a Quiz!
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Listen to Related Episode:
- Episode 68: The Power of Intention: How to Set and Achieve Your Goals for 2024 With Sierra Collins
- Episode 28: Designing Your Success: Finding the Right Niche in Your Interior Design Career with Yvonne Harty
Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Finding balance and fulfillment in a creative career has always been a constant struggle for most interior designers.
Interior designer Laura Martin Bovard has been there - and she's here to share her hard-won wisdom.
In this episode, Laura opens up about her unconventional path to design, learning on the job and building her firm LMB Interiors from the ground up, without a design degree.
She reveals how she overcame perfectionism, set boundaries with clients, and nurtured her entrepreneurial spirit - all while prioritizing self-care through her "Divine Hustler" personal growth practice.
If you’re struggling to balance creativity, business, and personal life, this episode offers real solutions. Tune in for practical tips on growing your design business while taking care of yourself and serving others.
Featured Guest:
Laura Martin Bovard is the principal designer of LMB Interiors, which she launched in 2002 while pregnant with her first child, working from her dining room table.
She runs a successful design firm that focuses on sustainable practices, collaborating with local artisans and contractors as well as using eco-friendly, earth-conscious materials and practices.
Laura is also known as "The Divine Hustler," which reflects her side hustle involving speaking events, retreats, and a blog dedicated to personal growth. As a personal growth junkie, she aims to help other beauty makers discover more about themselves.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn the value of networking, hiring the right people, and building strong client relationships to grow a sustainable and profitable design business
- Discover practical tips on managing a design business while staying true to your creative vision and avoiding burnout
- Be inspired to infuse more self-care, mindfulness, and authenticity into your design practice and entrepreneurial journey
Check out the show notes >>> Balancing Business and Self-Care: Secrets to Success in the Interior Design World
Links Mentioned:
- The Surrender Experiment by Michael Alan Singer
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- The Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide
- Furnishings Investment Guide
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Take a Quiz!
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Do you dream of becoming an interior designer, but wonder what it's really like behind the scenes?
In this episode, I pull back the curtain to give you a realistic look at the challenges of the interior design career.
While the Instagram-worthy staging and design work may look effortless, the day-to-day grind of an interior designer involves grit, problem-solving, defending decisions, and navigating invisible labor that often goes unnoticed.
I share my journey, from initial expectations to the hard-won lessons I learned over nearly 20 years in the industry.
I also talk about the importance of self-assessment, flexibility, finding your "zone of genius," and building a supportive network of peers and mentors to help you overcome obstacles.
If you're ready to go beyond the glamour and develop the resilience needed to thrive as an interior designer, tune in now. My insights might be the reality check you need to set yourself up for long-term success in this dynamic career.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Gain a realistic, behind-the-scenes look at the interior design industry - beyond the glossy social media posts and TV shows
- Learn practical strategies for developing the grit, self-awareness, and support network needed to succeed as a designer
- Assess if you have the right mindset and skills to turn your design passion into a fulfilling, sustainable career
Check out the show notes >>> Preparing for a Career in Interior Design: The Realities, Skills, and Mindset You Need to Succeed
Links Mentioned:
- List of recommended books on Amazon for personal and professional development
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- The Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide
- Furnishings Investment Guide
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Take a Quiz!
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you struggling to attract high-end clients as an interior designer?
In this episode, Hassan from MC Luxury shares the proven marketing strategies that can help you land more projects and grow your brand. From using Instagram to build a personal brand to leveraging email marketing, blogging, and PR, Hassan breaks down exactly what works—and what doesn't—for designers like you.
Hassan explains how to overcome the challenge of reaching your ideal clients, offering solutions that don’t just rely on social media.
He dives into the power of personal branding and reveals how blogging can take you from being a local designer to getting recognized nationally.
Whether you're just starting or want to build a name nationally, Hassan provides actionable tips to help you succeed.
It's time to stop chasing clients and start attracting them. Tune in to get Hassan’s expert insights and apply these strategies today. Don't forget to check out the free eBooks (link below!)
Featured Guest:
Since launching MC Luxury in 2020, Hassan has been at the forefront of revolutionizing marketing for interior designers, specializing in helping them acquire more residential projects through a blend of Instagram, email marketing, blogging, and PR.
With a keen understanding of the design industry's nuances, he has engaged in insightful conversations with top-tier professionals, including a notable conversation with a globally recognized New York design firm responsible for directing projects worth over 5 billion across continents. These interactions have enriched his understanding of effective marketing strategies promising tangible ROI for the design sector. Leveraging this knowledge, Hassan authored three eBooks to empower interior designers to scale their businesses.
Whether you are looking to refine your digital marketing approach or seeking fresh ways to attract clients, MC Luxury will equip you with actionable insights to elevate your practice.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover how email marketing, blogging, and SEO can help you land high-end interior design projects faster.
- Get practical tips on building a strong personal brand that sets you apart, attracts more clients, and eliminates the need for constant ad spending.
- Learn the process of going from a local designer to being featured in top national publications, using effective PR strategies and smart storytelling.
Check out the show notes >>> Powerful Marketing Tips (That Actually Works!) to Get High-End Interior Design Clients
Links Mentioned:
- Instagram Insights for Interior Designers https://www.mcluxury.site/instagramguide
- The Art of Designer Leads https://www.mcluxury.site/resources
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- The Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide
- Furnishings Investment Guide
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Take a Quiz!
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Join the Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Click here.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
What qualities make a client an ideal fit for your interior design business, ensuring a smooth design process?
If you are a client looking for an interior designer, how can you be the best client throughout the interior design process?
In this episode, I break down the traits of an ideal client while walking you through the entire process—from the initial inquiry to the final reveal—highlighting how clear communication, trust, and realistic expectations lead to better outcomes for everyone involved.
Whether you are embarking on your first design project or refining your client approach as a designer, this episode is packed with tips to ensure a successful collaboration.
If you are a client who wants to get the best results from your designer, understanding the designer's perspective can help you become the kind of client that interior designers love to work with. This ensures that your project runs efficiently and that you end up with a design you truly love.
Tune in now and find out how to shape your dream clients!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn exactly what interior designers look for in a client to help your project run smoothly from start to finish.
- Discover the key actions that will help keep your design project on track, from initial consultations to the final reveal.
- Get insider tips on how to collaborate effectively with your client, making your project smoother and more enjoyable.
Check out the show notes >>> What Interior Designers Look for in an Ideal Client
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- The Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide
- Furnishings Investment Guide
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Take a Quiz!
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Join the Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at @rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Click here.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you wondering if you can succeed in an interior design career without following the traditional path? How to do it? This episode may be the answer you are looking for.
Colleen Bennett's journey into interior design was anything but traditional. She started with dreams of becoming a lawyer but accidentally landed a job as a furniture representative straight out of college. Then she designed homes for presidents and dignitaries across Latin America.
From launching her first design studio in Costa Rica to managing luxury interiors for Ralph Lauren in over 60 countries, Colleen’s story proves that you can thrive in the design world by embracing unexpected opportunities and leveraging unique skills.
She shares the key mindsets and strategies that allowed her to adapt to different cultures and survive economic downturns while building her business from scratch.
If you're worried about how to succeed as a designer without a formal background, this episode will show you how to turn your passion into a thriving career.
Ready to kickstart your design journey? Tune in and get inspired by Colleen’s resourcefulness and creativity. Don’t miss this chance to learn from a global design powerhouse—grab your notebook and start planning your path to success!
Featured Guest:
Colleen Bennett founded her first Interior Design Studio, Caducus Folium, in 2006. This Costa Rica-based firm quickly expanded into six design centers in Ecuador, Colombia, Mexico, Nicaragua, and Honduras. Colleen designed most presidents’ and dignitaries’ homes in Central America and throughout the region. In 2012 Colleen moved back home to North Carolina and opened the US division of the company, CBB Design Firm, based in Morganton, NC.
Shortly after graduating from Wake Forest University, Colleen became the youngest furniture representative hired by Drexel Heritage. Traveling the world, she visited over 60 countries and designed thousands of vignettes of every style and budget for her clients. In 2009 Colleen was hired as the youngest account manager and visual merchandiser for Ralph Lauren Home where she was responsible for all of their home stores in Africa, Australia, and Latin America.
Colleen takes her international portfolio and brings that resort living to her designs in the NC market. She specializes in residential and commercial designs as well as historic renovations.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover how to build a design business from scratch
- Learn insider tips to standing out in the industry and succeeding in a competitive industry
- Get inspired by an unconventional career path
Check out the show notes >>> How to Build a Successful Career in Interior Design Without a Traditional Path
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- The Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide
- Furnishings Investment Guide
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Take a Quiz!
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Join the Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at @rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you worried about starting or transitioning into a creative career like interior design? You're not alone! It's normal to feel scared about the unknown.
In this episode, I address the most common fears that hold people back from switching careers and pursuing their design dreams.
From fears about your business failing, lacking experience, or managing the financial and legal side of running your practice - I have practical solutions. I share my story of starting a successful design business during a recession and provide actionable advice and resources to help you overcome these hurdles. You'll learn how to build the right framework, develop a confident mindset, and surround yourself with the support you need to thrive as a designer.
If you're ready to take the next step but feeling stuck in fear, this episode is a must-listen. Gain the clarity and courage to make your career change a reality. Tune in now and discover how you can turn your creative passion into a fulfilling, profitable design career.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Overcome your fears with practical advice from someone who has been there before
- Discover valuable resources on starting your own interior design business and setting yourself up for success
- Get the mindset shift and confidence boost you need to transition into a creative career you love
Check out the show notes >>> Common Fears of Starting an Interior Design Career and How to Conquer Them
Links Mentioned:
- Branching Out With Sierra
NEXT STEPS
Grab your freebies:
- The Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide
- Furnishings Investment Guide
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Take a Quiz!
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Listen to Related Episode:
- Episode 48: From Chaos to Cash Flow: The Transformative Power of Hiring a Bookkeeper for Your Design Business With LoriAnn Kuntz
- Episode 68: The Power of Intention: How to Set and Achieve Your Goals for 2024 With Sierra Collins
- Episode 98: Prioritizing Profit: Tips for Interior Designers to Grow Your Business With Danielle Hendon
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at @rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you struggling to scale your interior design business while balancing family life? Or perhaps you're considering adding commercial projects to your list of services.
In this episode, Katie Decker, a successful commercial color consultant and business coach, shares her inspiring journey and practical strategies to help you achieve sustainable growth.
Katie's path to success was anything but linear. From starting in communications to flipping houses and discovering her passion for color consulting, she navigated various challenges before finding her niche in the commercial design industry. Her story demonstrates that with the right mindset and business understanding, you can transform your creative talents into a thriving, scalable enterprise.
Discover Katie's proven methods for transitioning from residential to commercial design, effectively managing rapid growth, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Whether you're looking to scale up or down, Katie's coaching expertise can help you build a business that aligns with your values and life stage.
Tune in and unlock the secrets to growing your interior design firm while staying true to your "why" and enjoying the journey.
Featured Guest:
Katie Decker-Erickson began her career in commercial color consulting as a part-time passion project in 2007. With her MBA, today, her company, Color Works, has grown into a multi-million dollar commercial design company, currently operating in over 20 states nationwide, with a fully remote team of more than a dozen individuals.
Katie is known for her business acumen (having grown her interior design firm by 1500% in a year).
Today, she works with billion-dollar Real Estate Investment Trusts, managing the design of multiple large-scale portfolios, hundreds of properties, and more projects, focusing on design impact experience.
With 15 years in the industry and 18 years teaching graduate & undergraduate courses at four universities, and a wild passion for women's empowerment, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy, Katie is now coaching other designers toward similar success and what scalability looks like, both personally and professionally. When not positioning her team and clients for success, she enjoys travel, hiking, and being on the water.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn how to scale your design business successfully
- Assess if adding or moving into commercial design is the right step for your design business.
- Get empowered with practical strategies for overcoming designers' common struggles like undercharging and feeling undervalued
Check out the show notes >>> How to Grow Your Design Business While Staying True to Your “Why”
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- The Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide
- Furnishings Investment Guide
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Take a Quiz!
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Listen to Related Episode:
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Click here.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you struggling to figure out the best way to charge clients for your design services?
In this episode, I dive into the hotly debated topic of billing methods for interior designers. With so many options—hourly rates, flat fees, square footage models—which one is right for your business?
As someone who primarily does residential remodeling, I found that hourly billing allows me to capture the unknown challenges that often arise on projects. However, I acknowledge that time tracking can be a tedious task. Believing that tracking your time is essential for the health of your design practice, I share practical tips on using time-tracking software like Harvest to streamline your process.
I also explore alternative billing models like fixed fees and cost-plus, explaining when those approaches may be appropriate.
Regardless of your chosen billing method, tracking your time is a critical business expense that will provide invaluable data to improve your profitability.
If you're ready to take control of your design fees and ensure you are getting paid for every minute of your hard work, tune in now. This episode might be the solution you have been searching for.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn the best billing method for residential remodels to help you capture all the work you put into a project
- Discover practical tools for time tracking making it easier to track your time efficiently and ensure you are paid accurately
- Avoid common billing pitfalls and ensure you are billing clients fairly and maximizing your profitability
Check out the show notes >>> Hourly, Flat Fee, or Square Footage? Discover the Best Billing Method for Your Design Practice
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- The Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide
- Furnishings Investment Guide
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Take a Quiz!
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Listen to Related Episode:
- Episode 103: Project Management 101: Seven Steps to a Stress-Free Interior Design Projects
- Episode 99: Smart Way to Maximize Profits in Your Interior Design Business: Furniture Sales and Designer Discounts
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you an interior designer struggling to build a profitable, sustainable business? Do you feel overwhelmed by the marketing and business side of your creative practice?
In this episode, Jacqueline Green, founder of Behind the Design, shares her proven strategies to help designers overcome these challenges. Her journey from corporate marketing to interior design provides a relatable roadmap. She discovered that designers often excel creatively, but need support in branding, systems, and outsourcing. Through her company, Jacqueline empowers designers to transform their passion into a thriving business.
She shares practical tips on networking, content repurposing, and leveraging platforms like LinkedIn.
Tune in now and discover how Jacqueline's expertise can help you build the creative career you've always envisioned.
Featured Guest:
Jacqueline Green is the founder, CEO, and Chief Strategist of Behind the Design, a training and education company that provides interior designers and other creative business owners with the tools they need to build profitable businesses. Through comprehensive education, coaching, marketing, and community offerings, she and her team empower designers to reach their full potential.
Jacqueline is a seasoned commercial interior designer, former college instructor, and highly experienced marketing expert. After working in architectural firms, she knows talented designers and architects grappling with various career and business challenges. With a solid background in business and marketing, Jacqueline realized that she had a unique skill set that would help design firms overcome these pain points and fulfill their deep desire to make a difference and assist others. In 2018, she founded Behind the Design, where her mission was and still is to build a stronger design community by reimagining how we educate, train, and support designers after college.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn strategies to overcome your fear of networking and enhance your visibility
- Develop an action plan for consistent marketing, effective networking, and smart outsourcing
- Overcome common challenges faced by designers & creative entrepreneurs with Jacqueline's insights
Check out the show notes >>> Proven Strategies to Elevate Your Brand, Streamline Operations, and Grow Your Design Business
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- The Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide
- Furnishings Investment Guide
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Take a Quiz!
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
An initial interior design consultation is crucial for laying the foundation of a successful project. It's where you gather all the important info about your client's needs, style choices, and expectations.
But how do you do that? By asking the right questions, of course! Without asking the right questions, you might miss key details that could make or break your design.
In this episode, I walk you through the key questions every interior designer should ask to ensure you understand the project's scope and create a personalized experience that resonates with your client. From finding out if your client is in it for the long haul or aiming for a quick sale to uncovering their pain points and style preferences—everything you need is right here. Plus, I share tips on budgeting and decision-making discussions to keep everyone on the same page.
If you want a clear roadmap for your next initial consultation, you won't want to miss this episode. Tune in now!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover the key questions that will help you fully understand your client's needs, lifestyle, and design expectations
- Learn how to address potential challenges with client decision-making and budget discussions early on
- Modify your existing initial consultation process making your clients feel heard & understood, and delighted with the final results
Check out the show notes >>> The Must-Ask Questions for Successful Interior Design Consultations and Projects
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- The Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide
- Furnishings Investment Guide
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Take a Quiz!
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Listen to Related Episode:
- Ep103: Project Management 101: Seven Steps to a Stress-Free Interior Design Projects
- Ep71: Exploring Color Theory in Interior Design
- Ep101: Easy Guide to Setting a Realistic Budget and Timeline for Your Next Construction Project
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you starting your interior design business but unsure how to manage the financial side? The right money mindset is more important than you think.
In this episode, financial expert Danielle Hayden shares why understanding your money personality is key before launching your business. Knowing your strengths and challenges can help you avoid common pitfalls and set your business up for success.
Danielle also reveals the essential money team you need to build from day one to keep your finances in check. With her practical advice, you’ll learn how to invest in your business wisely and pay yourself properly.
Whether you're just starting or running an established design firm, this episode provides practical solutions to take control of your finances and set your business up for long-term success.
Ready to transform your money mindset? Tune in and discover how to manage your finances better so you can focus on what you do best—designing beautiful spaces!
Featured Guest:
Danielle Hayden is the co-founder and CEO of Kickstart Accounting, Inc. Her bookkeeping and accounting firm is on a mission to coach six-figure and beyond female entrepreneurs so they can better understand their numbers through bookkeeping, financial analysis, and support so they can grow profitable, sustainable and enjoyable businesses.
With over 15 years of experience in finance, Danielle has worked her way from an accounting firm intern to the co-founder of Kickstart Accounting. She understands how complex business finances can be and knows that entrepreneurs need more than just a bookkeeper. They need real financial analysis and support to get the confidence required to create the sustainable wealth they deserve. Danielle brings a unique perspective when it comes to providing business owners with a total package that relates to their finances. She has been a guest on multiple shows, and when she isn't in her money mindset work, you can find her hiking or spending time with her family.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn how your unique money personality can impact your business decisions and financial success, helping you identify strengths and areas to improve
- Build your strategic "money team" to ensure your business finances are managed effectively
- Gain practical advice on how to invest wisely in your business, ensuring sustainable growth and profitability
Check out the show notes >>> The Money Mindset You Need Before Starting Your Design Business With Danielle Hayden
Links Mentioned:
- QUIZ: Know Your Money Personality Type
- Podcast: Business By The Books
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- The Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide
- Furnishings Investment Guide
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Take a Quiz!
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you struggling to keep your interior design projects running smoothly?
Worry no more! I've got it covered.
In this episode, I share the tried-and-tested Seven-Step Process I use in my design firm, Rebecca Ward Design, to help you manage your projects more efficiently and effectively. I walk you through each step—from gathering crucial information to presenting your design and overseeing implementation—so you can deliver beautiful, on-time results that impress your clients and within budget.
Whether you are approaching your first project or collaborating with a designer for the first time, this will give you a clear roadmap to manage your project confidently and easily.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to transform your project management skills—tune in now, and let’s make your next design project a success!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn how to organize every phase of the design project, from the first consultation to the final reveal, ensuring nothing is overlooked
- Discover tools and strategies to keep projects on track, manage time, and stay within budget, making your work easier and more professional
- Refine your current process to ensure that your projects not only meet but exceed your client's needs and expectations
Check out the show notes >>> Project Management 101: Seven Steps to a Stress-Free Interior Design Projects
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- Furnishings Investment Guide
- The Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Take a Quiz!
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Listen to Related Episode:
- Ep101: Easy Guide to Setting a Realistic Budget and Timeline for Your Next Construction Project
- Ep87: How To Organize Your Projects Like a Pro: A Guide to Setting Up an Effective Site Binder
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Click here.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
An interior designer's role is to partner with clients to manifest and bring their dreams to life through personalized designs.
I love how Kelee, my special guest, illustrates that role.
Kelee Katillac, an acclaimed interior designer and author shares her remarkable journey from a childhood of adversity to becoming a respected voice in the industry. She reveals how her personal experiences of marginalization and self-discovery led her to embrace design as a tool for healing, empowerment, and community building. She emphasizes the importance of finding your "three critical moments" - pivotal life events that can inspire your design work and give it deeper meaning.
She also shares her expertise on the science of color therapy and how designers can incorporate it into their practice to promote wellness and personal growth. Spoiler Alert: there's a color meditation towards the end of the episode 😉
Kelee's infectious passion and authenticity shine through in our conversation, making it no surprise that she consistently transforms her client's visions into reality.
Whether you're a seasoned interior designer or just starting, this episode will inspire you to infuse your design work with passion, purpose, and the power to transform lives.
Tune in, get inspired, and start designing with purpose.
Featured Guest:
Kelee Katillac is an interior and architectural designer as well as a preservation consultant. Her work has been featured in the pages of USA Today, House Beautiful, Designer Builder, Traditional Home, Introspective, The Washington Post, Chicago Tribune, The Dallas Morning News, The Boston Globe, Los Angeles Times, and hundreds of others worldwide. The books House Beautiful Pink and Gestalten’s, The Chamber of Curiosity featured her signature style. She has been a guest on CNN, The Oprah Winfrey Show, Discovery Channel, Pure Oxygen, The Family Channel, and many others. In addition, Kelee is the author of two nationally acclaimed books and is the founder of Design Gives Back – designgivesback.com, an initiative to provide rooms of hope, health, and happiness for those critically ill or in need.
Kelee's new book is Historic Style: Honoring the Past with Design for Today.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn how to use your own experiences to fuel your creativity and make your designs meaningful
- Discover how interior design can become a truly healing profession
- Explore how to blend historical inspiration with modern design
Check out the show notes >>> Turning Challenges into Creative Fuel: Kelee Katillac's Journey in Helping Clients Manifest Their Dream Spaces PLUS Color Meditation
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- Furnishings Investment Guide https://rwarddesign.myflodesk.com/furnitureinvestment
- Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide https://rwarddesign.myflodesk.com/budgetandtimeline
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Take a Quiz!
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Coming up with construction project estimates can be challenging. Project costs can quickly add up, potentially causing the client or the project manager to underestimate the project's total cost.
In this episode, I break down the costs of common construction projects so you can plan your project budget with confidence. From painting an entire home to remodeling a kitchen, I share the average costs based on my experience here in Northern California. I even explain why prices can vary and what I do to avoid surprises.
If you are looking for ballpark estimates for your construction project this episode is for you. Listen now to get the tips you need to prepare a solid construction project budget.
Don't forget to check out the show notes for the Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide and additional resources and guides to help you on your journey. Let's make your next project a success!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn how to estimate the costs of various construction projects, including painting, flooring, and kitchen remodels, based on real-world experience
- Understand the average prices for different parts of a construction project, helping you set a realistic budget and avoid unexpected expenses
- Be empowered to confidently discuss budgets with your clients and ensure smooth project execution
Check out the show notes >>> Easy Guide to Setting a Realistic Budget and Timeline for Your Next Construction Project
Links Mentioned:
- The Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide https://rwarddesign.myflodesk.com/budgetandtimeline
- Remodel Survival Guide: a step-by-step process on the construction side of a remodel project
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- Furnishings Investment Guide https://rwarddesign.myflodesk.com/furnitureinvestment
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Take a Quiz!
- Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style if you are curious about your design style
- Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Listen to Related Episode:
- Episode 99: Smart Way to Maximize Profits in Your Interior Design Business: Furniture Sales and Designer Discounts
- Episode 89: How to Approach Your First Remodeling Project with Confidence
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
We did it! We finally made it to 100 episodes and even landed in the top 100 in the Apple Podcast US and top 20 in the Apple Podcast Canada both in Design Category.
Thank you for tuning in each week. To celebrate, I have a special giveaway for you. Scroll down for details on how to enter and win.
Also, in this milestone episode, I have a special guest, Lillian "Lilly" Janik, my associate designer and right-hand gal. She has been instrumental in helping me grow my business, organize it, and manage all the various aspects, including the podcast and my mentorship program, My Design Mentor.
Join us as Lilly shares her inspiring journey from a creative child to a key player in our design firm. Discover how she overcame the challenges of starting her career and the valuable lessons she learned.
If you're an aspiring interior designer or a recent graduate unsure of your next steps, this episode is packed with insights and advice to help you succeed in your creative career. From internships to working with clients, Lilly's experiences offer a roadmap for achieving your dreams in the interior design industry. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from someone who has been in your shoes and emerged successful.
Tune in now and take the first step towards building a fulfilling and prosperous career in interior design.
Featured Guest:
Lillian "Lilly" Janik is an experienced interior designer with a passion for creativity and a keen eye for design. After graduating from CSU Sacramento with a Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design, she has honed her skills, starting as an intern to an associate designer at Rebecca Ward Design firm. With a knack for sourcing furniture and construction finishes, Lilly excels in design drawing and client relations. Her dedication to mentoring interns and sharing her knowledge reflects her commitment to growth and learning in interior design.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn from Lilly's real-life examples and practical advice for navigating your career path in interior design
- Understand the importance of internships and mentorship in shaping a successful design career
- Get inspiration and encouragement as you pursue a career or business as an interior designer
Check out the show notes >>> Tips and Stories for Starting Your Interior Design Journey Plus Celebrating 100 Episodes With Lillian Janik
Join the 100th Episode Giveaway
To celebrate the 100th episode of my podcast, 1 lucky winner will win an Interior Designer's Tool Package which includes:
- Hulken Bag
- Laser Measure
- Full Focus Planner
- Branded Graph Paper Pad
- Custom Scented Candle
- Erasable Pens
- Boss Lady Mug
ENTER TO WIN In 3 easy steps:
- Leave a Star Rating & Review on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser (if you're not an Apple user)
- Follow @rwarddesign on Instagram
- Leave a comment on our giveaway post. Let us know what your favorite episode is.
Giveaway Period: August 5 to 9, 2024
Winner Announcement: August 9, 2024
Grab your freebies:
- Furnishings Investment Guide https://rwarddesign.myflodesk.com/furnitureinvestment
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Take a Quiz:
- Curious about your design style? Take the Quiz: Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style
- Interior Designer!! Take the QUIZ andFind Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Listen to Related Episode:
- Episode 5: The Do’s and Don’ts of Interior Design Internships
- Episode 68: The Power of Intention: How to Set and Achieve your Goals for 2024 With Sierra Collins
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Click here.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Did you know you can profit from selling furniture in your interior design business?
Furniture is an important topic in interior design, especially for those planning to run their own business. It's important to include furniture in your business model to sell to clients and profit from it. However, many people underestimate the costs involved.
In this episode, I talk about this topic and how it can be a game-changer for your design business. I break down the different levels of furniture costs, from budget to luxury, and offer practical advice on setting realistic budgets for your clients.
I also share tips on how to use designer discounts and wholesale accounts to maximize your profits while ensuring your clients get the best value.
If you want to set up your design business the right way, so you can charge for your time and products effectively, make a profit, and help your clients make informed decisions about their furniture investments, this episode is a must-listen.
Don't miss this furniture investment guide to making money through furniture in interior design. Plus, get ready for our exciting 100th episode and a special giveaway!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Understand how to build a successful furniture sales strategy that keeps your design business thriving.
- Get the furniture investment guide to help your clients set realistic furniture budgets.
- Discover how to effectively use designer discounts and wholesale accounts to provide value to your clients while boosting your profit margins.
Check out the show notes >>> Smart Way to Maximize Profits in Your Interior Design Business: Furniture Sales and Designer Discounts
Links Mentioned:
- Furnishings Investment Guide https://rwarddesign.myflodesk.com/furnitureinvestment
NEXT STEPS:
- Curious about your design style? Take the Quiz: Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style
- Interior Designer!! Take the QUIZ andFind Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll in Business of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
During the first six years of my business, I was hoping every month that we'd have all our expenses covered. Running a business this way is not ideal.
Understanding your financial statements and managing cash flow can help avoid surprises and reduce stress in your interior design business.
That's why, in this episode, I've invited Danielle, a Fractional CFO and founder of 4 Corners CFO, to discuss how to make sense of your finances and ensure your design business thrives. She shares tips on avoiding common pitfalls and the benefits of having a financial team, including a Fractional CFO.
Danielle also shares about her career transition and she totally gets the fears and uncertainties that often come with taking that next financial step.
Whether you're just starting in the design industry or transitioning in your career, this episode is full of advice to help you take control of your finances and focus on what you love—designing beautiful spaces.
If you're ready to take charge of your finances and grow your business, you won't want to miss this episode and learn from Danielle's expertise.
Featured Guest:
Danielle Hendon is the founder and owner of 4 Corners CFO, a firm offering financial advisory services to small business owners on a scale that fits their company and budget.
Coupling her decade of experience in corporate finance and accounting with her passion for small business owners, Daniel brings the benefit of big business financial analysis to entrepreneurs.
Now, instead of helping corporations increase share prices, Daniel gets to help business owners increase their livelihoods so they can leave a legacy and lasting impact on their community.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn practical tips on managing your business finances, including cash flow, expenses, and invoicing.
- Understand common financial mistakes designers make and how to avoid them, helping you make smarter business decisions.
- Discover the benefits of having a financial team and how a Fractional CFO can guide you in long-term planning and growth, ensuring your business thrives.
Check out the show notes >>> Prioritizing Profit: Tips for Interior Designers to Grow Your Business With Danielle Hendon
Links Mentioned:
- Visit 4cornersCFO.com/designcurious and grab your free workbook: “Guide to Review Your Expenses”
NEXT STEPS:
- Curious about your design style? Take the Quiz: Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style
- Interior Designer!! Take the QUIZ andFind Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Click here.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Do you ever struggle to explain your design ideas to clients? Do you wish you had the right words to help them understand and love your designs?
I hear you!
In this episode, I walk you through the must-know vocabulary words that every designer starting out needs to incorporate. These are the words I use almost every day, especially when I'm doing presentations or site visits with clients. You'll learn key terms like balance, contrast, and focal point that will really make your designs more understandable and compelling to clients.
I also dive into color terminology and fabric patterns, explaining essential concepts like hue, tone, and texture. By mastering these words, you’ll be able to describe your designs more clearly, making it easier for clients to see the value and beauty in your work.
Listen now to transform how you talk about your designs and ensure your clients fall in love with your ideas. Don’t forget to leave a rating and review, and share your favorite vocabulary words with me!
Let's make design communication easier and more effective together!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn essential vocabulary that will help you explain and defend your design choices more effectively to clients.
- Master key terms and color terminology to describe your designs with clarity, making it easier for clients to understand and appreciate your work.
- Equip yourself with the right words to sound more knowledgeable and professional, increasing your clients' confidence in your design skills.
Check out the show notes >>> Key Interior Design Terms to Communicate Better with Clients and Showcase Your Design Skills
NEXT STEPS:
- Curious about your design style? Take the Quiz: Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style
- Interior Designer!! Take the QUIZ andFind Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Listen to Related Episode:
- Episode 71: Exploring Color Theory in Interior Design
- Episode 81: What's Your Design Style: Exploring 12 Interior Design Styles
Join the Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at @rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Click here.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Do you struggle with clients who have difficulty visualizing their homes? Well, I have some right now. Despite having 3D renderings of the space, it's not quite hitting the mark.
Not everyone can visualize like interior designers, and that's where AI comes in to help!
As the world figures out how to use AI effectively in our work, today, I chat with Kasey Hayano, CEO of HomeVisualizer.AI about the benefits of AI to interior designers and how to use it effectively. She introduces an AI tool that can help you create stunning, photorealistic renders quickly, delighting your clients, and streamlining your workflow without the need for complex software. With features like Auto Style, Custom Design Requests, and Style Fusion, this AI tool can transform your sketches and photos into beautiful renders with just a few clicks.
Imagine showing your clients exactly what their space will look like. This not only helps them see your vision but also simplifies decision-making. Pretty amazing!
This tool is perfect for both seasoned & new designers and small firms. Listen now and learn how HomeVisualizer.AI can transform your design process. Click the link in the show notes to start your free trial and see the difference AI can make in your projects today.
Featured Guest:
Kasey Hayano is the co-founder and CEO of HomeVisualizer.AI, which is a platform that helps designers quickly ideate and create new visual content in an easy-to-use program.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn how to leverage AI to elevate your design projects and stand out in the home industry
- Compare HomeVisualizer.AI with other tools you use in your design projects
- Build your portfolio using HomeVisualizer.AI
Check out the show notes >>> How AI Tools Like HomeVisualizer.AI Can Make Your Interior Design Projects More Creative With Kasey Hayano
NEXT STEPS:
- Curious about your design style? Take the Quiz: Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style
- Interior Designer!! Take the QUIZ and Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Click here.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
As an interior designer, you will make mistakes at some point in your career.
Making mistakes is normal, but learning from them can make a huge difference in your projects.
In this episode, I share my mistakes in interior design projects (hopefully you won't make the same ones!) and the lessons I have learned from them. This comes from a document called "Lessons Learned," where I keep updating it with new lessons from each project. You will hear about actual projects and solutions to help you avoid common pitfalls and improve your design process.
Listen now to learn from my mistakes so you can manage your projects smoothly and keep your clients happy.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Gain insights from actual project errors to avoid making the same mistakes in your design projects
- Discover the most common issues interior designers face and how to solve them
- Get practical tips on implementing effective systems and procedures to keep your projects on track and within budget
Check out the show notes >>> 11 Mistakes I Made in Interior Design Projects and How You Could Avoid Them
NEXT STEPS:
- Curious about your design style? Take the Quiz: Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style
- Interior Designer!! Take the QUIZ andFind Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Click here.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you stuck in your interior design business, unsure how to grow or take that next big step? Are you held back by fear and uncomfortable feelings, preventing you from taking action or leaving your comfort zone?
In this episode, I dive deep into thinking big with Andrea Liebross, business & life coach and the author of "She Thinks Big." Andrea explains what it means to think big, why it's so important, and how to apply it to your interior design business today.
Andrea introduces her powerful TRUST acronym, which she uses to guide her clients to success. This framework provides actionable steps to overcome challenges, manage fears, and take decisive actions that lead to growth. Through real-life examples, she illustrates how shifting your mindset can turn daunting challenges into exciting opportunities.
This episode is a must-listen if you want to break free from small thinking, overcome your fears, and make bold decisions that will drive your interior design business forward.
Tune in now and start thinking big! And don't forget to pick up Andrea's book for even more insights and strategies. Your future self will thank you!
Featured Guest:
Andrea Liebross is a coach, speaker, podcast host, and author of the book "She Thinks Big." She helps entrepreneurs and professionals think bigger and achieve their goals. With her coaching programs and podcast, she provides guidance and support to individuals looking to make significant changes in their lives and businesses. Andrea's expertise lies in helping her clients overcome fear, embrace uncertainty, and take massive action to create the life and business they desire.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover how to break out of the small, safe mindset and embrace big thinking to unlock your full potential
- Learn how to transform your feelings of fear and inadequacy into confidence and proactive decision-making
- Use Andrea's real-life coaching example of thinking big so you can take massive action to drive your business forward
Check out the show notes >>> How to Overcome Fear and Start Taking Action to Grow Your Interior Design Business With Andrea Liebross
NEXT STEPS:
- Curious about your design style? Take the Quiz: Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style
- Interior Designer!! Take the QUIZ andFind Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Listen to Related Episode:
Ep32: Top Secrets and Winning Mindset Behind a Wildly Successful Business Owner with Andrea Liebross
Join the Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you doubting your decision to switch careers to interior design, thinking you'll start with a blank slate? Or are you new to the field and feel unprepared because you lack real experience?
Here's the thing: you are not going into an interior design career empty-handed. You have a lot of skills and life experience that you can bring forward with you.
In this episode, I explore how to turn your life experiences into design gold. Whether it's a trip you've taken, a movie you've watched, living in different homes, or even just the way your own home is set up, these experiences can inspire and improve your design skills, making your projects more functional and beautiful.
Don't miss out on these insights that can help you move forward in your career with confidence. Tune in now and start turning your everyday experiences into design success!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn how your daily life experiences can inspire your design ideas and help you create stunning, functional homes that clients will love
- Discover actionable advice on observing and analyzing home layouts and features so you can avoid common design mistakes
- Gain the confidence you need to switch careers and start in interior design
Check out the show notes >>> Pro Tips to Make Your Life Experiences Boost Your Interior Design Skills
NEXT STEPS:
- Curious about your design style? Take the Quiz: Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style
- Interior Designer!! Take the QUIZ andFind Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll in Business of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
If someone asks if I do staging, I would reply, "No! Only with your existing furniture. I don't have an inventory of furniture."
One of the setbacks keeping me from offering a staging service is the investment and inventory, specifically managing and storing it.
In today's episode, Marianne, a home stager's coach, enlightened me that staging doesn’t require a large inventory or warehouse. She reveals how adding staging to my design services can open up new opportunities. Huh?! All along, I was leaving money on the table!
This episode promises to show you how staging can enhance your design skills, expand your client base, and ultimately increase your revenue. Whether you are a seasoned interior designer considering adding staging to your repertoire or a home stager debating the need for warehouse space, this episode is an eye-opener.
Tune in to learn more about home staging and how it can enhance your design career.
Featured Guest:
Marianne Cherico is a trained personal and professional development coach and the owner of a successful home staging business since 2005.
With a background in real estate, Marianne has coached numerous Home Stagers across the country on mindset skills and savvy business strategies.
Her speaking engagements include several conferences and workshops around New England with the Design for Today collaborative, as well as numerous on and offline venues. Marianne's podcast, Home Stagers and Designers on Fire is a great way to learn business and mindset strategies for those wanting to grow your home staging business. If you're looking for a coach who will help you grow your business your way, Marianne is your gal.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover how adding staging to your design offerings can help you attract more clients and create new revenue streams
- Understand the differences between staging and design and how it can complement a designer's skill set
- Learn practical tips on optimizing homes for sale and creating captivating first impressions
Check out the show notes >>> How Adding Home Staging Can Boost Your Design Business With Marianne Cherico
Links Mentioned:
- Check out episode 125 (my interview) on Home Stagers and Designers on Fire here
NEXT STEPS:
- Curious about your design style? Take the Quiz: Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style
- Interior Designer!! Take the QUIZ and Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Travel is an essential part of a designer's inspiration process. It helps to develop observation skills and think creatively for projects.
Recently, I had the opportunity to visit Sydney, Australia along with other designers in a mastermind group. I arrived a bit earlier with a couple of my colleagues. We spent a few days exploring the city, taking tours, walking through beaches, snorkeling, and tasting the delicacies at every fabulous restaurant we could find. We had a great time together and enjoyed the entire experience to the fullest.
However, the highlight of the trip was the iconic Sydney Opera House. I was surprised by how much it inspired me and how its design elements could be applied to our design projects. In this episode, I am sharing my insights on my trip and how it can be used to enhance design projects.
Travel is not just a luxury. It's a necessity for sparking creativity and refining one's craft. It is not just about admiring the sights; it's about gaining fresh perspectives that breathe life into your projects. So, tune in now and discover why travel is a designer's secret weapon.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover how simplicity can be the cornerstone of elegance
- Be encouraged to think beyond the initial design concept and consider all aspects of a space
- Gain fresh perspectives on design principles like simplicity and lighting, and apply them to your projects
Check out the show notes >>> How a Visit to the Iconic Sydney Opera House Ignites My Designers’ Creativity
NEXT STEPS:
- Curious about your design style? Take the Quiz: Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style
- Interior Designer!! Take the QUIZ andFind Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Do you ever feel frustrated trying to communicate your design vision to contractors during a renovation or remodel? Many interior designers face this challenge due to a lack of construction knowledge.
In this episode, I interview Elizabeth Lord Levitt, founder of Elizabeth P. Lord Residential Design. Elizabeth shares her journey in the remodeling industry and how she developed a deep understanding of construction through her work as a designer. She emphasizes the importance of construction knowledge for interior designers and discusses her efforts to promote construction education in the field. Her mission to integrate construction basics into interior design education highlights a critical gap in the industry, offering a solution to empower designers with the tools they need to excel.
She offers tips on managing client expectations during construction, building trust with contractors, and maximizing the value of remodeling projects. She also discusses the benefits of continuing education and certifications for designers.
Tune in to learn how you can bridge the gap between design and construction, set yourself apart in the industry, and ensure seamless project execution.
Featured Guest:
Elizabeth Lord Levitt is the founder of Elizabeth P. Lord Residential Design, specializing in residential design and construction. With almost 20 years of experience in the remodeling industry, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her designs. She started as a lead designer for a highly regarded design-build firm in Seattle before establishing her own award-winning design firm in Denver, Colorado.
Elizabeth holds a master's degree in real estate construction management from the University of Denver and is a licensed real estate broker. She is also a board member of the Interior Design Society Denver chapter where she holds the Vice President position. She also guest lectures at local and national design industry events on an array of design and construction topics and is the founder of Built for Design Residential Academy, which provides residential construction education curated for the interior design industry through E-course and corporate training.
She currently resides in Denver with her husband and two young daughters, Betty and Lucy.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn how you can acquire construction knowledge so you can effectively communicate your designs to contractors
- Discover how integrating construction understanding into interior design can improve project execution, satisfaction, and budget
- Empower yourself with continuous education and certification so you can stay ahead in the industry
Check out the show notes >>> Smart Ways to Enhance Your Construction Knowledge and Design Communication With Elizabeth Lord-Levitt
Links Mentioned:
- Built4Design Residential Academy
NEXT STEPS:
- Curious about your design style? Take the Quiz: Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style
- Interior Designer!! Take the QUIZ and Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Click here.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Construction projects can be very intimidating. Understanding its nuances is crucial.
In this episode, I delve into the different sizes of construction projects and what to expect every step of the way. I guide you through the process, from small-sized projects like new flooring and lighting to medium-sized remodels like bathrooms and laundry rooms, all the way to larger undertakings such as kitchen remodels and whole-house renovations.
Whether you are going to work for someone and have never been through a remodel before, or you have started your own business and you are approaching your first bathroom remodel and you don't know what to do, this episode is for you.
Don't be afraid to take on rewarding construction projects. With the right knowledge and support, you can confidently take on construction projects that not only enhance your skills but also leave a lasting impact on your clients' homes.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn about the different sizes of construction projects and understand what to expect at each stage
- Receive valuable tips for navigating your first construction project
- Be empowered to take on construction projects and elevate your design career
Check out the show notes >>> How to Approach Your First Remodeling Project with Confidence
Links Mentioned:
- Get the Remodel Survival Guide here: a step-by-step process on the construction side of a remodel project
NEXT STEPS:
- Curious about your design style? Take the Quiz: Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style
- Interior Designer!! Take the QUIZ andFind Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Listen to Related Episode:
- Ep83: Design Your Dream Home: DIY Courses and Downloads for Design Enthusiasts
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Curious about how to build authority in the design industry through social media?
In today's digital world, having a strong online presence is crucial for attracting new clients. However, many interior designers find social media marketing overwhelming. Where do you even start?
In this episode, Emma Tesler who transitioned from interior design to founding a digital marketing agency discusses the importance of social media in building authority and growing a brand. She gives her top tips on using Instagram stories, repurposing content across platforms, leveraging trends, and implementing ManyChat for lead generation. She emphasizes the need for a solid content strategy and the use of analytics to guide potential clients through the sales funnel.
With 8 years of digital marketing experience, Emma provides actionable strategies to create engaging content, maximize reach through trending topics, and convert your online audience into paying customers.
Her unique approach to tailoring content specifically for platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok could be your game-changer. Tune in now!
Featured Guest:
Emma Tessler is the founder and CEO of Ninety Five Media, a digital marketing agency that builds results-driven marketing strategies for scaling brands.
With eight years of marketing experience under her belt, she helps brands connect with ideal clients, build community, and convert audience members into paying customers through social media marketing.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Get actionable tips for building your authority and presence as an interior designer on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok
- Learn how to repurpose your content across various platforms, tailoring it to engage your specific audience
- Evaluate how you currently use social media and incorporate Emma's strategies to stay ahead of the curve
Check out the show notes >>> The Most Effective Strategies for Leveraging Social Media to Grow Your Interior Design Business With Emma Tesler
NEXT STEPS:
- Curious about your design style? Take the Quiz: Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style
- Interior Designer!! Take the QUIZ and Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Click here.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you overwhelmed with the chaos of an interior design project? Juggling plans, specs, and endless details can leave you feeling lost in a maze.
The solution is...the project binder – your ultimate tool for running your project smoothly from start to finish.
In this episode, I discuss the importance of a project site binder and how to set it up effectively to streamline your workflow and keep your sanity intact.
Imagine having all your project essentials neatly organized in one place, accessible to every trade on-site, ensuring seamless communication and coordination. That's precisely what the project site binder offers. From comprehensive drawings and spec sheets to plumbing and appliance details, this binder becomes your job site bible, guiding you through every twist and turn of the project journey.
But the benefits don't stop there! With a well-crafted site binder, you not only enhance efficiency but also elevate professionalism and client satisfaction. Picture handing over a beautifully curated client project binder at the project's end, complete with warranties and maintenance guides, leaving your clients impressed and reassured.
If you wish there is a better way to keep everything organized and accessible during the project management phase of your interior design project, this episode is for you.
Tune in now to learn how to set up your project binder and take control of your projects like never before!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn how to organize all design project essentials in one accessible location and say goodbye to chaos
- Be empowered to take control of your projects with confidence
- Impress your clients with a curated client project binder at the project's conclusion
Check out the show notes >>> How To Organize Your Projects Like a Pro: A Guide to Setting Up an Effective Site Binder
NEXT STEPS:
- Curious about your design style? Take the Quiz: Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style
- Interior Designer!! Take the QUIZ andFind Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed by the chaos of managing your business and personal life? Or maybe you are like me who uses software and systems like Dubsado but has yet to explore all its features and capabilities.
Taryn Rachelle, a seasoned systems expert, shares her journey from diving headfirst into the world of systems to becoming a certified software specialist, navigating the intricacies of platforms like Dubsado, Zapier, ClickUp, and more. With her wealth of experience, she sheds light on how Dubsado stands out in the crowded CRM market, offering customizable solutions for every need.
Join us as Taryn demystifies the complexities of CRMs, emphasizing the importance of finding a tool that aligns with your current and future business needs. She also breaks down the common mistakes business owners make in their systems journey and offers practical solutions to implement systems seamlessly.
Don't let overwhelm hold you back – embrace the potential of systems & automation to reclaim your time and focus on what truly matters in both your business and personal life. Remember, your systems should work for you, not the other way around. It's time to thrive with purpose and clarity!
Featured Guest:
Taryn Rachelle is your girlfriend with a plan and has been crowned the systems and community queen.
As the founder of Taryn Rachelle LLC and the current head of community and partnerships for Dubsado, she is on a mission to help you create a business that is thriving while your personal life thrives as well. With a heart for community, Taryn is a frequent conference speaker, host of She Can Systemize Podcast, and your go-to gal to help you create the business you have always dreamed of and have a personal life that gets more of your time.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover how Dubsado's unique features can revolutionize your business processes and branding efforts
- Learn how to start small, prioritize your pain points, and gradually build a system that works for you
- Overcome common pitfalls and implement effective systems for business and personal success
Check out the show notes >>> Expert Tips on Systems and Automation to Streamline Your Design Business & Personal Life With Taryn Rachelle
Links Mentioned:
- She Can Systemize Podcast
- Check out Dubsado here
NEXT STEPS:
- Curious about your design style? Take the Quiz: Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style
- Interior Designer!! Take the QUIZ andFind Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you struggling to manage your client's expectations, unsure of how to build a solid relationship while navigating through a project?
The challenge of maintaining trust and satisfaction can be daunting, especially in the realm of design. But fear not! In this episode, I share my strategies and insights to help you conquer this hurdle and forge fruitful collaborations.
Join me in this episode as I equip you with the best practices and mindset needed to navigate the delicate balance of managing client expectations and having a wonderful relationship with them. From being transparent about your process and pricing to setting healthy boundaries, you will learn how to set the stage for a relationship built on trust and realistic expectations.
Tune in now and embark on a journey toward greater trust, satisfaction, and professional fulfillment. Your clients will thank you, and your business will thrive.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover the power of transparency right from the get-go
- Learn practical tips to streamline your interactions and foster mutual understanding
- Enhance your professionalism by leveraging technology to enhance communication and efficiency
Check out the show notes >>> 4 Effective Ways to Manage Your Client’s Expectations Through a Design Project
NEXT STEPS:
- Curious about your design style? Take the Quiz: Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style
- Interior Designer!! Take the QUIZ andFind Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you interested in becoming an interior designer but don't know where to start?
Don't worry, I had a great conversation with Debbe Daley, a seasoned mentor and interior design expert, who shares her inspiring story, starting from her childhood fascination with sewing and DIY projects to her eventual foray into interior design. Despite initial hurdles and societal pressures, she persevered, leveraging her passion and resourcefulness to pave her way into the field. From self-taught window treatments to working multiple jobs and running her boutique, Debbe's story highlights the importance of determination, self-belief, and continuous learning in pursuing your passion.
Whether you're considering a career change or exploring your creative side, Debbe's wisdom will inspire you to take the leap and pursue your dreams in interior design.
Tune in and take that first step towards a rewarding future in interior design today!
Featured Guest:
Debbe Daley is an award-winning published interior designer with 30-plus years of experience in the design industry. She is CEO and owner of Debbie Daly Design serving Boston Lowell, Massachusetts, Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and the New England Seacoast area.
She has practiced in the furniture, flooring, and wallpaper industries, space planning, and home renovations all while owning her custom drapery workroom. She is also an educator of interior design, providing new students and change of career-minded individuals with education to begin their career in interior design.
Debbe is also the published author of her first book Interior Motives, Designing A Career With Passion. She is a member of IDS, the Interior Design Society, and holds a seat on the IDS National Board of Directors and president of the Interior Design Society, New England Boston chapter. She is also a member of ASID, the American Society of Interior Designers, and an educator of interior design at Middlesex Community College.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn the importance of seeking opportunities, building relationships, and embracing continuous learning.
- Be empowered to turn your passion into a fulfilling career.
- Get practical tips and advice for navigating the challenges of starting a business in interior design.
Check out the show notes >>> Expert’s Advice on Building a Career in Interior Design With Debbe Daley
Links Mentioned:
- Interior Motives, Designing A Career With Passion
- Interior Design Classes
- Middlesex Community College Interior Design 101
NEXT STEPS:
- Curious about your design style? Take the Quiz: Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style
- Interior Designer!! Take the QUIZ andFind Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you a design enthusiast itching to give your home a makeover but need help figuring out where to start? Do you find yourself captivated by Pinterest boards and HGTV shows, dreaming of creating stunning spaces like a professional interior designer?
Look no further! In this episode, I introduce you to my DIY furnishing and remodeling courses and downloads to help you bring your design ideas to life.
Whether you are looking to furnish your home like a pro, revamp your living space, or explore interior design as a hobby, I've got you covered.
Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your home decor skills and unleash your creativity. Tune in!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Dive into the world of interior design without committing to a career, perfect for those who love design but are still determining if it's the right path for them.
- Explore a range of courses and downloads tailored for DIY enthusiasts, offering practical tips and expert guidance to curate your space like a pro.
- Equip yourself with essential purchasing tips and tricks to stay within your budget while achieving magazine-worthy results.
Check out the show notes >>> Design Your Dream Home: DIY Courses and Downloads for Design Enthusiasts
Links Mentioned:
- Create the space of your dreams with the Home Design Coach Course
- Create your master remodeling plan with the Shifting Spaces Course
- Need some information on your remodeling journey, check out the Remodel Survival Guide
NEXT STEPS:
- Curious about your design style? Take the Quiz: Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style
- Interior Designer!! Take the QUIZ andFind Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Exciting news for the design industry! High Point by Design is revolutionizing the way interior designers experience High Point.
In today's episode, I share my captivating conversation with Jane Dagmi, the managing director of High Point by Design (HPXD). She shares her journey into the design industry, from her early days at Country Living magazine to her role at High Point by Design. She discusses the mission of HPXD and how it supports High Point as a year-round design destination. Jane also highlights the benefits of visiting High Point off-season, the opportunities for students and design enthusiasts, and the exciting events and initiatives planned for the future.
Jane also unveils plans for HPXD, including exclusive events like the Vacation Rental Design Summit and initiatives to promote inclusivity in design, such as exploring the correlation between design and autism. With HPXD, designers gain access to a supportive community, tailored experiences, and invaluable resources to fuel their passion for design.
If you are a designer looking for inspiration and resources to improve your craft, you won't want to miss this episode.
Featured Guest:
Jane Dagmi is the managing director for High Point by Design, a nonprofit organization that champions High Point as a year-round destination for design and creativity by uniting and promoting the city's rich creative and manufacturing ecosystem.
A storyteller, educator, and design enthusiast, Jane was a career journalist and magazine editor before taking on this role in 2022. Her most recent editorial role was as Editor-in-Chief of Designers Today magazine. Beginning there in 2018, she revitalized the struggling publication. She gave it a fresh spin and built a design community around it. Her first foray into magazines was at Country Living magazine in the 90s, and it was there that she attended her first High Point market. After making more than 20 subsequent trips as a visitor, she relocated there with her partner in 2019 and enjoys being part of the city's changing landscape.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover how High Point by Design, a nonprofit organization, is revolutionizing the design industry
- Explore the diverse offerings of High Point by Design, from its curated showrooms to its innovative events like the Vacation Rental Design Summit
- Get a sneak peek into HPXD's plans, including initiatives to promote inclusivity in design and special events that cater to diverse interests within the design community
Check out the show notes >>> Inside High Point by Design: A Year-Round Haven for Creativity and Collaboration With Jane Dagmi
NEXT STEPS:
- Curious about your design style? Take the Quiz: Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style
- Interior Designer!! Take the QUIZ andFind Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you struggling to figure out what design style suits you best?
Well, I have the solution you have been searching for!
In this episode, I introduce my design style quiz, a tool designed to help you uncover your unique design identity. Whether you are a seasoned designer, a design enthusiast, or someone simply curious about interior design, this quiz is your gateway to understanding your personal style preferences. By answering just 14 questions, you will unlock valuable insights into design preferences and gain access to tailored recommendations.
I also explore the 12 distinct design styles, from traditional to glam. If you want to get familiar with all the different styles, regardless of where you are in your design story, this episode is for you.
What are you waiting for? Take the quiz now, discover your design style, and let your creativity soar! Don't forget to share your results with me on Instagram.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover your unique style and transform your space
- Understand the 12 distinct design styles so you can assist your clients in making informed decisions about their design preferences
- Gain access to exclusive Pinterest boards tailored to each style
Check out the show notes >>> What's Your Design Style: Exploring 12 Interior Design Styles
NEXT STEPS:
- Curious about your design style? Take the Quiz: Find Your Perfect Interior Design Style
- Interior Designer!! Take the QUIZ andFind Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Did you know you can incorporate Airstreams and trailers into your Airbnb vacation rental design area? However, designing for Airstreams and trailers is more than a job. It is an art that requires creativity with a side of engineering.
In today's episode, I sit down with Nate Stover, founder and creative force behind Innovative Spaces. He shares insights into the niche world of designing small and mobile spaces, highlighting the challenges of crafting functional Airstreams and trailers where everything from storage to power supply needs to be meticulously planned within a compact area. He emphasizes the importance of keeping builds simple, utilizing materials like ultralight plywood to withstand the rigors of travel, ensuring that the trailers last for decades.
We discuss industry challenges, such as the shortage of skilled trades and the need for more respect towards blue-collar work.
Nate also shares insider knowledge about the current downturn in van life's popularity. This means it is the perfect time to invest in your own van, RV, or trailer and start your adventure! And that's not all – he has also spotted a new trend emerging: converting vintage trailers into unique Airbnb rentals. Imagine the endless possibilities for creative design and unforgettable experiences. Whether you are an aspiring designer or a seasoned pro looking to expand your expertise, tuning in is a must!
Featured Guest:
Nate Stover is the founder, owner, and head builder & designer of Innovative Spaces.
From an early age, he became involved in the trades, from building furniture to building entire homes. His work has taken him through a myriad of crafts, which have constantly been stretched to new limits in the small spaces and vintage trailer world. The trailers he works on at Innovative Spaces allow him to stretch all that he has learned and acquired through his years of experience to their full potential. He does not just use his previous building skills, he is also able to exercise his creative skills to produce something truly unique and functional. Every project that leaves the Innovative Spaces yard represents their ingenuity and years of craftsmanship.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn the secrets of small and mobile space design
- Discover a burgeoning vacation rental and consider adding it to your design area
- Get expert insights and advice on the world of trailer design
Check out the show notes >>> How to Craft Unique Designs in Small and Mobile Spaces With Nate Stover
Links Mentioned:
- Vintage Camper Trader
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Is a trip to the Las Vegas market essential for interior designers?
I always make it a point to attend the Las Vegas market as an interior designer, and my recent visit in January was no exception. However, this time was special because I recorded a podcast straight from the heart of the Las Vegas winter market.
In today's episode, I share my fresh insights and takeaways from the market, uncovering the latest trends in upholstery, artwork, lighting, and more. With a keen eye for detail, I explore the rise of dimensional textures, neutral palettes, and the captivating allure of wall sconces that double as artistic adornments.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your designs and stay ahead of the curve. Tune in now to ensure that your next project dazzles with style and sophistication.
The upcoming market event is taking place in High Point this October. I will be recording a podcast during the event. If you are interested in joining the recording and sharing your input, feel free to message me for more details. Your contribution could help shape the content of the next episode!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Uncover why I go down to Las Vegas market and check things out, and why you should too
- Discover how attending markets like these can revolutionize your projects
- Get the latest trends and innovations straight from the Las Vegas market to stay ahead of the curve
Check out the show notes >>> Trendspotting at the Las Vegas Market: Your Insider's Guide to the Latest in Interior Design Trends
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you curious about the behind-the-scenes of design projects? How does a design expert approach a new project from concept to completion? How does an interior designer juggle creativity with business savvy?
Today, I had the pleasure of speaking with Marosi White, founder and principal designer of Accent Design & Interiors based in Sacramento. She takes us on a journey through her inspiring career trajectory, from her origins in Malawi to her transition into interior design after a degree in Marketing and Management Information Systems.
But the real gem of this episode is her insight into the design process. She walks us through her fluid yet structured design process, from initial meetings to contract negotiations, design development, and client collaboration.
She also addresses project challenges, the value of personal client communication, and maintaining a positive outlook during difficult project phases.
If you are as intrigued as I am, tune in so you won't miss out on valuable tips to make your design journey smooth and successful.
Featured Guest:
Marosi White is the founder and principal designer of Accent Design & Interiors, a full-service interior design studio based in Sacramento.
She is a native of the beautiful country of Malawi and moved to the United States as a teen to attend university. While practicing interior design was always a passion, her career in the field of interior design did not begin till 10 years after graduating from University with a degree in Marketing and Management Information Systems. She returned to school to get her degree in interior design and began to pave wave into the field through teaching at the Art Institute of California.
After eight years of teaching, she established her full-service design studio and enjoys working with a diverse clientele. She has experience working on residential, commercial, restaurant and hospitality, Senior Living office, and retail projects. She holds a true appreciation for the value of feeling supported through major changes. Her philosophy for design is rooted in community, rich cultural inspiration, and functional solutions that enhance connection and inspire joy.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn how Rosi's approach balances client involvement with professional guidance, ensuring a successful and engaging design journey
- Get invaluable tips for navigating your design projects with ease
- Understand the importance of keeping clients in the loop, especially when the wheels of progress seem to slow
Check out the show notes >>> The Design Process That Brings Meaningful Experiences for Your Clients With Marosi White
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Have you ever found yourself lost in a sea of finish selections, unsure of how to choose the right elements for the space you are designing so it won't end up as mismatched puzzle pieces?
I get it! Designers often find finish selection daunting, despite it being the fun part where they create the look of the home.
Today, I delve into the process of selecting finishes for the spaces you design, whether it's commercial, residential, or otherwise. I guide you through considerations such as surface types, countertop details, flooring choices, and even sustainable options, ensuring that the space you are designing looks stunning and aligns with your client's unique needs and values.
Don't let the fear of making mistakes in finish selections haunt you. Tune in and discover the process that transforms overwhelming choices into a cohesive, intentional design.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover a systematic method to streamline your finish selection process
- Learn how to create a comprehensive finished schedule that benefits both you and your client
- Recognize that as an interior designer, you play a crucial role in creating a better space for your client
Check out the show notes >>> Making the Right Finish Selection With Confidence
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Podcasting is a good marketing strategy for interior designers.
As an interior designer, you are always looking for ways to increase your visibility and reach more potential clients. Have you considered podcasting?
Today, I'm chatting with Zandra Zuraw, the brilliant mind behind Slow Home Style. She highlights the transformative potential of podcasts as a tool for interior designers to showcase their personality, values, and expertise.
From crafting standout pitches that resonate with both podcast hosts and potential clients to utilizing podcast exposure effectively, she guides you on how to distinguish yourself in a competitive market.
If you are a newbie designer navigating the challenging landscape of self-promotion, Zandra's wisdom is your compass.
She also shares her inspiring story of venturing into interior design without formal credentials. If you are an aspiring designer looking to make a mark without traditional design school credentials, her story will keep you moving forward.
So don't miss out on this chance to boost your visibility. Tune in to unlock the secrets of leveraging podcasts as a potent marketing tool.
Featured Guest:
Zandra Zuraw is the founder of Slow Home Style, an interior design coaching platform for passionate homeowners. She's currently writing a book about her Slow Style approach to design to be released in Spring 2025 through Gibbs Smith.
Zandra is also the host of the popular podcast Slow Style Home, which has logged over 300 interviews with the most creative people working in the interior industry. Within the first year, it coveted the iTunes New and Noteworthy list and is now in the top 5% of most downloaded podcasts across all categories globally. The show has reached over 1 million downloads and counting.
Her business formerly known as Little Yellow Couch has been featured in many media outlets such as Domino, Better Homes and Gardens, USA Today, and Podcast Magazine. Zandra has been a speaker at several creative business conferences in the US and Canada, talking about the business of podcasting and design.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover how podcasting can help you connect with clients and showcase your design philosophy.
- Understand the importance of a trial-and-error approach, learning from real-life experiences, and building a portfolio through free work
- Get ready to craft your pitch and use it to refine your business plans and marketing materials
Check out the show notes >>> How to Use Podcasting as a Marketing Tool for Your Interior Design Business With Zandra Zuraw
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Imagine the thrill of having your interior design project featured on the cover of a magazine, capturing the attention of potential clients, and elevating your professional standing.
But how do you make this dream a reality?
In today's episode, I share tips on getting your interior design projects published. I also guide you to overcome potential hurdles, such as the need for reshooting by larger publications and offer you valuable insights from a magazine editor's perspective.
If you are an interior designer dreaming of seeing your projects on the pages of a magazine, to boost your brand, increase awareness, and elevate your authority, this episode is for you.
Tune in now and transform your designs into captivating stories that captivate editors and readers alike!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn the essential steps and insider tips to transform your interior design projects into magazine-worthy features
- Uncover the nuances of pitching your projects to different publications, from local and regional to national giants like Architectural Digest
- Find out why having an editorially-minded photographer can be a game-changer
Check out the show notes >>> Pro Tips on Getting Your Interior Design Projects Published
Featured Review:
Full of Great Information
"I am an experienced designer and I am learning lots from Rebecca’s podcast! She has great guests with valuable information for new designers but designers like myself are benefitting too. I highly recommend!" - InteriorJen
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Is it possible to run a successful business partnership with a family member?
On today's episode, you will hear the inspiring story of Susan Hayward and her daughter, Jillian, founders of the award-winning interior design firm, Susan Hayward Interiors, just outside Boston, Massachusetts. Susan, an industry veteran, transitioned from a successful photography business to pursue her true passion in interior design. Her daughter, Gillian, took a unique route from marine biology to becoming a renowned member of the American Society of Interior Designers. Together, they share their journey of building a mother-daughter design powerhouse.
Join us as Susan and Jillian open up about the dynamics of working together as a family in the design world. From understanding each other's design styles to fostering honest communication, they reveal the key elements that make their partnership not only successful but also deeply fulfilling. Learn how their different perspectives create a unique blend of tradition and modernity, enhancing the quality of their designs.
If you've ever considered venturing into a family business or are curious about the interior design industry, this episode is a goldmine of insights. Susan and Jillian share valuable advice on overcoming challenges in a male-dominated industry, offering practical tips for aspiring designers. Whether you're interested in residential or commercial design, their experiences and wisdom will empower you to turn your passion into a thriving career.
Featured Guests:
Susan Hayward is an award-winning interior designer member of the American Society of Interior Designers and International Furnishings & Design Association and kept certified by the National Association of Homebuilders.
In 2006, she started her design firm - Susan Hayward Interiors. Nearly two decades later, Susan remains motivated and excited by the opportunity to create beautiful spaces for her clients. She thinks of interior design as a giant puzzle where all the pieces need to fit together to form the perfect space.
Gillian Hayward Scheibel is a renowned member of the American Society of Interior Designers and partner of Susan Hayward Interiors. In a similar fashion to her mother, Jillian took a very unconventional path to becoming a designer. With her husband working as a helicopter pilot for the US Navy, it took a few moves and career changes before she could finally find a career that not only works for her lifestyle but one that she loves.
Now a full-time interior designer, Jillian is passionate about working with clients to help them visualize and achieve the spaces they envision with both beauty and practicality. With her unique perspective as a military spouse, she understands how important it is to truly make a home feel like a home.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Delve into practical advice and wisdom on navigating the challenges of the interior design industry
- Uncover the secrets to harmonious collaboration, different design styles, and the powerful impact of unique family dynamics on the creative process
- Discover why Interior Design is a great option for working part-time
Check out the show notes >>> A Mother-Daughter Tale of Design Business Partnership With Susan Hayward & Jillian Schaible
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Did you know that remodeling your home or personal space can be the ultimate launchpad to jumpstart your career in interior design?
In this episode, I share the wisdom gained from the recent renovation of my home, highlighting the significance of treating your home as a training ground to refine your design skills and to understand the project management part of an interior design project.
Being your client also prepares you for the challenges your future clients might face.
If you are looking for ways to jumpstart your interior design career, don't miss this opportunity to turn your home into a portfolio masterpiece. Tune in now and unlock the potential within your walls!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover the hands-on approach to interior design project management and decision-making
- Explore the practical side of design by turning your home into a personalized laboratory
- Understand the intricacies of communication with trades, managing deficiencies, and wrapping up finishing details—all on your dime before you embark on professional projects
Check out the show notes >>> The Best Way to Jumpstart Your Interior Design Career in 2024
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Listen to Related Episode:
- Episode 65: Want to Create Mindful Spaces? Learn First the Psychology of Design & Environmental Psychology
- Episode 71: Exploring Color Theory in Interior Design
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Can a seasoned interior designer veteran transition into eDesign? Is eDesign a viable starting point for someone new to the interior design scene?
In today's episode, I sit down with Amanda Foster, an interior design consultant and brand identity mentor with a knack for helping struggling businesses flip their fortunes. Having shifted from traditional design to becoming a brand identity consultant, she shares how eDesign became her creative sanctuary, allowing her to break free from the monotony of the nine-to-five grind.
She also shares the secrets to success in the design industry, emphasizing the importance of brand identity, niche targeting, authentic storytelling, and client-focused social media strategies.
If you feel like you are losing traction in your design career and business or not seeing traffic on your website, this episode will inspire you to reinvent your marketing tactics, embrace eDesign, and wow your clients.
Featured Guest:
Amanda Foster is an interior design consultant helping her veteran peers flip their struggling businesses with a marketing background. She also serves design newbies with courses to get them started online with all things eDesign for business setup, eDesign 101, and even presentation skills to master Photoshop and Canva to wow their clients.
With her background in graphic and web design, she also helps her peers create strategic graphics that attract their ideal clients. She audits social media and websites to teach them how to be better online service providers in the digital age for our interior design industry.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover the liberating world of eDesign and how it can be the perfect fit for both veterans and newcomers in the design industry
- Uncover the secrets to standing out in a crowded market and attracting your ideal clients, whether you are a seasoned pro or a budding designer
- Check your brand identity, ideal client, and messaging to determine if you have the right foundation for your design business
Check out the show notes >>> How to Reinvent Your Design Business With eDesign Service with Amanda Foster
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Color is one of the great foundations of interior design. If you understand color, then you can do great design.
However, color is a tricky topic because it is subjective and changes depending on the light source.
In today's episode, I guide you through the basics of color theory and the magic that happens when colors complement or harmonize. I explore how color shapes our emotions, influences perceptions, and adds a dynamic touch to interior design.
For a better understanding of color nuances, I suggest a hands-on approach you can try right away. Also, check out my recommended color expert's website for more resources.
And if you need help honing your color skills, which are so important as an interior designer, join My Design Mentor today.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Understand the subjective nature of colors and how they interact in different environments
- Learn actionable tips on how to develop a keen eye for color
- Dive into the color wheel at your local paint store - compare, contrast, and understand undertones
Check out the show notes >>> Exploring Color Theory in Interior Design
Resources and Links:
Maria Killam Website
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
The most-asked question of someone new to running a design business is, "How can I attract my ideal client?" or "What is the most effective approach to attract a consistent stream of new clients?"
If you don't want to miss the answers to these questions and more, tune in to today's episode.
My special guest, Kate the Socialite, a renowned marketing expert in the home industry, shares her marketing methodology that not only transformed her own business but has become a guiding principle for her clients.
Her advice on identifying the ideal client and crafting a marketing message is a game-changer too.
No matter where you are in your business, this episode will guide you toward creating a strategic marketing plan that resonates with your ideal client.
Featured Guest:
Kate is the founder of The Socialite Agency, a marketing firm specializing in helping professionals in the home industry. She is the host of The Kate Show podcast, a marketing-focused podcast that is ranked in the top 2% of all podcasts globally.
In 2021, Kate was named 20 under 40 by Window Vision Magazine. And in 2023, Kate was listed as one of the top 500 global entrepreneurs by Brainz magazine.
Socialite is a marketing agency that works exclusively with home stagers, interior designers, work rooms, and professional organizers. Clients across the world use the social agency to set up simple effective sales funnels that repeatedly bring them more of the right clients without spending hours on their marketing each month.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover the methodology that makes marketing simple, efficient, and easily repeatable
- Learn practical steps to improve your marketing strategies and enhance your design business
- Reframe your mindset on the most important thing business owner should focus on to grow a successful design business
Check out the show notes >>> The Proven Marketing Methodology to Attract Ideal Clients to Your Design Services With Kate the Socialite
Check out my latest interview on The Kate Show: How to Launch Your Interior Design Business without Feeling Clueless
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you looking for a worthy podcast to binge on during the holidays or add to your playlist in 2024?
In this episode, I am sharing a snapshot of the podcasts I am currently listening. From must-listens like "The Business of Design" with Kimberly Selden to guilt-free pleasures like "The Office Ladies," you will have a playlist that can transform your commute and make the most of your downtime during the holiday season.
But this episode isn't just about listing podcasts. It's a roadmap to enhancing your personal and professional life. Not only do I introduce podcasts that have been instrumental in my journey, but I also describe how to categorize podcasts based on how often they should be listened to. Whether you're a design enthusiast, a business owner, or someone seeking personal growth, this episode promises to be a valuable resource for curating your podcast playlist.
Don't miss out on the chance to optimize your podcast experience and kickstart 2024 with a curated collection of shows that align with your interests and aspirations.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Explore a curated selection of podcasts across various genres, from design and business to personal growth and guilty pleasures
- Gain insights into an effective strategy for organizing and prioritizing podcasts based on frequency
- Be well-equipped to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the design industry and stay ahead of trends
Check out the show notes >>> 12 Powerful Podcasts for Personal & Career Growth That You Can Listen to in 2024
Featured Review:
A great listen!
"This podcast is a nurturing space for those intrigued by interior design, offering a weekly dose of practical skills and professional insights. Rebecca is like a seasoned guide aiding you to sidestep common industry missteps, while encouraging a bold stride towards a fulfilling design career, whether as a solo venture or within a firm." - Bona and Team Capsho
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Listen to Related Episode:
- Episode 63: My Design Mentor: Career & Business Mentorship for Aspiring Interior Designers
- Episode 52: Mastering Interior Design Business: Tobi Fairley's Expert Tips for Success
- Episode 60: The 3 Must-Haves in Running a Profitable Interior Design Business With Laura Thornton
- Episode 58: Best Ways to Thrive in the Interior Design Business With Cathy Tonks
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
It is at this time of the year when many of us think about setting goals for 2024. There is much excitement and hope in the air.
But for those who struggle with maintaining focus or feel overwhelmed by the prospect of setting and achieving goals, this must be a challenging time.
In this episode, I sit down with Sierra Collins, a Full-Focus Planner coach I've worked with for several years. She shares her transformative journey from education to leadership coaching, revealing powerful insights on intentional goal-setting and growth mindset. She introduces the Full-Focus Planner, a tool that not only enhances productivity but fosters personal growth.
I also share my experiences using the planner to schedule personal and business tasks, including weekends. It is a game-changing tool that cuts through distractions and conquers my goals with purpose.
So if you want to enjoy the process of goal setting, break free from unmet goals, and make 2024 your year of unstoppable achievement, this episode is a must-listen.
Don't let another year pass without realizing your full potential. Tune in, embrace intentionality, unlock your potential, and step into a future of purposeful success!
Featured Guest:
Sierra Collins, a highly regarded leadership development coach, speaker, and trainer, leverages her extensive educational background and leadership expertise to guide individuals and organizations in reaching their highest aspirations.
As a founder of Sierra Learnership Collaborative, her unwavering commitment to lifelong learning and passion for enhancing leaders' effectiveness have cemented her as an influential figure in her field.
Sierra is a John Maxwell certified leadership coach, a full-focus planner certified pro, and a certified disc consultant. Backed by over a decade of experience in education and a master's degree in the field, she possesses a unique ability to simplify complex concepts, making them accessible to a broad audience.
Sierra's collaborative approach empowers her clients to set ambitious goals and transform them into concrete achievements. She is recognized for her dedication to helping individuals, teams, and entire organizations realize their full potential. Though she says her business grows people it is not industry-specific. Over half of her active clients today are luxury interior design firms from all over the world.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Equip yourself with the tools needed to set meaningful goals in 2024 and achieve them with intentionality
- Learn how to break down big goals into small & manageable steps and maintain focus throughout the year
- Discover Sierra's secret to overcoming health challenges and transitioning into a fulfilling career
Check out the show notes >>> The Power of Intention: How to Set and Achieve your Goals for 2024 With Sierra Collins
Resources and Links:
Aspire2Achieve Growth: Full Focus Planner Workshop
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Listen to Related Episode:
- Episode 63: My Design Mentor: Career & Business Mentorship for Aspiring Interior Designers
- Episode 41: Personality Types Test: An Interior Designer’s Tool for Improving Clients' Interaction
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Do you struggle to identify your priorities and stay focused on achieving your goals?
In this week's episode, I talk about what it means to be fully focused and its significance in achieving your career goals, especially if you are considering a path in interior design. This is a prelude to next week's interview with Sierra Collins, a seasoned full-focus planner coach, and a deep dive into the Full Focus Planner and how it can transform your professional and personal life.
I also introduce Greg McCowan's concept of Essentialism and provide practical strategies to prioritize and achieve a fulfilling career in interior design by 2024.
What are you waiting for? Tune in and seize the opportunity to reflect on what truly deserves your focus, setting intentions that will shape your path into 2024. Don't just dream of a successful design career—make it a reality by embracing the power of focus!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Reframe your mind on how to prioritize tasks, set intentional goals, and overcome the pitfalls of multitasking
- Uncover practical tips on goal setting, breaking down tasks, and utilizing a mentorship program to guide you
- Reflect on your goals, set intentions, and incorporate focused planning into your routine
Check out the show notes >>> Boost Your Interior Design Career in 2024 with the Power of Focus
Resources & Links:
- Essentialism by Greg McKeown
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Listen to Related Episode:
- Episode 63: My Design Mentor: Career & Business Mentorship for Aspiring Interior Designers
- Episode 64: The Secret of Balancing Aesthetics and Functionality in Design With Anna Popov
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Could landscape design be a game-changer for interior designers? Is there a common ground that brings the principles of both worlds together?
In this episode, I share a fun and fascinating conversation with Steve, a seasoned landscape designer with nearly 40 years of experience. He reveals the secrets behind his journey into landscape design, emphasizing how the principles align with interior design. He shares valuable insights into his creative process, from understanding clients' desires to incorporating unique elements that elevate each project.
But here's the burning question: Can interior designers seamlessly transition into landscape design? Steve believes so! He encourages aspiring & seasoned designers to explore both realms, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach to cater to clients seeking one-stop solutions.
And if you are looking for practical advice, touching on the business side of design, you will learn from Steve's hard-earned wisdom on managing finances, charging what you're worth, and treating design not just as a passion but as a business.
Tune in so you won't miss a thing!
Featured Guest:
Steve Griggs is not your average designer. He is a visionary. He transforms ordinary outdoor spaces into extraordinary masterpieces.
With decades of experience and a discerning eye for detail, Steve has become New York's premier landscape designer - elevating homes, luxury communities, and urban spaces to new heights. His acolytes extend beyond his design progress. He is a two-time recipient of the IMC 5000 Award, a testament to the rapid growth and impact of his business. His journey is a testament to his passion and dedication. He started with a wheelbarrow, working tirelessly to build his business from the ground up.
Today, he is the go-to expert for landscape design, swimming pools, and outdoor entertaining spaces. One of these remarkable qualities is his approach to design. He doesn't impose cookie-cutter designs, instead, he collaborates closely with clients to understand their unique vision. His work extends beyond traditional landscapes to reinventing and renovating urban spaces as well as designing luxury homes and communities.
As a best-selling author of Straight Dirt New York City's premier designer tells it like it is, Steve shares insider secrets on working effectively with landscape designers and contractors. His no-nonsense approach ensures clients get results that go beyond their expectations.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover how landscape design aligns with interior design principles
- Learn business wisdom to turn your passion into a thriving design firm
- Assess your readiness to include landscape design services in your current offerings
Check out the show notes >>> From Outdoors to Indoors: The Intersection of Landscape and Interior Design With Steve Griggs
Resources & Links:
- Straight Dirt: New York's Landscape Designer Tells It Like It Is
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
"How does the living space impact my client's daily life and mental health?" Interior Designers must ask this question before designing spaces for their clients.
In today's episode, I talk about the psychology of design and environmental psychology, and its profound impact on interior design. As I unravel Maslow's hierarchy of needs, I explore how shelter is a fundamental need that transcends into homes that foster safety, love, self-esteem, and self-actualization.
I also share a challenging year of living through a home renovation that affected my psyche and mental health.
So this episode doesn't just uncover the challenges; it serves as a guide, offering resources, including TED talks and a recommended textbook, to aid in understanding the psychology of design and environmental psychology.
Whether you are a seasoned designer or just starting in the creative field, awareness of the psychology of the environment is crucial to creating mindful spaces for your clients.
Don't forget to check out the show notes for valuable resources and together let's start transforming spaces with purpose, beauty, and inspiration!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Gain valuable insights into how the spaces you create impact you and your client's mental health, productivity, and overall well-being
- Learn practical solutions and resources for navigating the complex intersection of design and psychology
- Be empowered to create purposeful, inspiring spaces that support your client's mental health and well-being
Check out the show notes >>> Want to Create Mindful Spaces? Learn First the Psychology of Design & Environmental Psychology
Resources & Links:
Textbook & Articles
- Maslow’s Hierarchy Of Needs
- Environmental Psychology for Design
- Environmental Psychology: Building with feeling
- Psychology of Space: How Interiors Impact our Behavior?
Videos
- The Psychology of Design with Sally Augustin, PhD
- Psychology in Architectural Design
TED Talks
- Places and Spaces and the Behavior They Create | Damaris Hollingsworth
- Architecture and the Science of the Senses | Stefan Behling
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Function plays a critical role in the creative field, where aesthetics should complement comfort and usability. Understanding your client's needs and habits to create spaces that support their purpose and lifestyles will set you apart and earn you acclaim and success.
No one knows this better than today's guest, Anna Popov, who is not easily influenced by the crowd or by trends but instead prioritizes creating functional spaces that resonate with the occupants.
She is just a wealth of knowledge, someone I greatly admire.
Whether you are an aspiring designer or you've been running your design firm for a few years already, you are going to learn from Anna the secret behind designing spaces that not only look beautiful but also serve their purpose flawlessly.
Featured Guest:
Anna Popov, the founder and creative force behind Interiors by Popov is a true original. Having resided and worked in some of the most diverse and design-centric global cities, she is guided by quintessential European practices of design and craftsmanship to create spaces that are beautiful, functional, and tailored to the precise needs of her client’s lifestyles.
Recognized as one of the leading designers in Seattle by Architectural Digest, Anna brings her extraordinary visual vocabulary, point of view, and technical savoir-faire to her work. She is passionate about sharing her deep knowledge and rarefied aesthetic to craft transformational spatial experiences.
Prior to founding Interiors by Popov in 2016, Anna led numerous high-profile high-rise, institutional and commercial projects for a prominent casework manufacturer, and worked as a lead designer for a bespoke artisanal collective in Toronto. Through the experience of being immersed in every element of the process from concept to completion, Anna has gained a holistic understanding of design—a skill that has proven essential to the success of her practice.
Anna Popov received a degree in business and marketing from The Academic College of Tel-Aviv, and a subsequent degree in interior architecture and building systems from RCC Institute of Technology in Toronto.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover a unique and organic approach to design that prioritizes functionality
- Learn the importance of maintaining high standards in design, the value of accountability, and the need to create spaces that support and elevate the well-being of the occupants
- Recognize the importance of both aesthetics and function when designing spaces for your clients
Check out the show notes >>> The Secret of Balancing Aesthetics and Functionality in Design With Anna Popov
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Looking for mentorship to help you launch your interior design career or start your design business?
Look no further!
In today's episode, I am giving you an inside look at My Design Mentor program, a 12-module mentorship program that will guide you from being a non-designer to a successful designer.
The My Design Mentor program covers topics like employee vs. entrepreneur decisions, managing finances and mindset, honing practical design skills, understanding client psychology, dealing with professional ethics, working with trades, specializing in niches, perfecting kitchen and bath design, specifying custom details, and mastering essential business practices.
It offers more than just content; it also provides a supportive community where you can seek guidance and connect with peers.
If you are an aspiring designer, fresh to the field, or looking to switch paths, don't miss out on this episode that opens the door to an enriching mentorship program and the potential to kickstart a rewarding career in interior design.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Explore the My Design Mentor program and gain an understanding of its 12-module mentorship
- Learn the benefits of joining the My Design Mentor program
- Assess whether the 12-module mentorship can help you move forward in your design career and business
Check out the show notes >>> My Design Mentor: Career & Business Mentorship for Aspiring Interior Designers
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
What does it take to become an award-winning interior designer featured in Boston's top publications? What steps are needed to easily transition from commercial to residential design services? How can you leverage your education and experience to start your design firm? My special guest, Justine Sterling, will tell you.
I had a great time talking with Justine, an industry veteran with over three decades of expertise, about her journey from Cape Town, South Africa, to Boston and all of the exciting adventures she had in between.
She has a myriad of experiences working with larger firms that played a crucial role in shaping her success. She has a lot of wisdom and insights, emphasizing the immense value of working in larger design firms to broaden your horizons and gain a multifaceted understanding of the design industry.
If you want to follow in her footsteps, today's episode will show you how to get started.
Featured Guest:
Justine Sterling is an award-winning full-service Interior Designer who believes that the key to a well-designed (and loved) home starts with taking you on a journey through self-discovery.
Whether you’re working with Justine on a full home furnishings and renovation project or a new construction home or meeting with her one-on-one for invaluable design expertise, her Discovering Home process allows her to intimately understand the design elements that will bring surprise and delight to your home.
Justine Sterling Design’s aesthetic is clean, layered, approachable, modern yet cozy, and filled with texture. Justine Sterling's Design projects have been featured in many publications such as New England Home magazine, North Shore Home, Modern Luxury Interiors Boston, The Boston Globe, and Boston Home magazine.
Located just north of Boston, Justine is an award-winning interior designer who has built a portfolio of residential construction and furnishings projects since 2008, varying from urban condominiums to renovation and new construction home endeavors. She has a newfound love for tennis and pilates and resides just north of Boston with her husband, son, and daughter.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Explore the pivotal role of large design firms in shaping your design career
- Find out how to smoothly transition from commercial to residential design services
- Overcome self-doubt and find the motivation to start your own design firm
Check out the show notes >>> Expert’s Insights to Building a Successful Interior Design Career With Justine Sterling
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Listen to Related Episode:
- Episode 13: Getting the Most Out of Your High Point Market
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
What kind of experience do you give your clients?
Building on our last episode's discussion on charging your interior design skills, I explore the crucial flip side—the luxury experience that should accompany a premium or luxury price.
Charging a premium or a luxury price requires you to deliver a premium or a luxury product and service. After all, Interior Design is a luxury service.
Today, on the podcast, I talk about elevating the experience for your clients as you increase your rates. It's about providing more than just a design. It's about presenting a lifestyle, a worry-free journey for your clients, where every detail is thoughtfully crafted. But how can you master this delicate balance of charging more while offering more?
If you are curious to elevate your client experience and secure your place in the top tier of designers, this episode is for you.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Explore proven ways to elevate your client experience from thoughtful gifts to using cutting-edge technology
- Assess whether your processes are clear and repeatable so your clients receive a polished, premium product
- Examine how you are raising your delivery and your level of client experience
Check out the show notes >>> How to Create a Premium Client Experience for Your Interior Design Clients
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Listen to Related Episode:
- Episode 59: How To Charge Your Interior Design Skills With Confidence
- Episode 16: How Outsourcing Client Intake Helps Interior Designers Convert and Retain Clients with Porsche Williams
- Episode 32: Top Secrets and Winning Mindset Behind a Wildly Successful Business Owner with Andrea Liebross
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you struggling with running your interior design business successfully?
Imagine having the confidence to handle any project and know exactly what steps to take.
Today, I'm chatting with Laura Thornton, a renowned interior designer & podcast host, on the three fundamental pillars (and I say, a must-have!) that propelled her to run and elevate her Interior Design business. Tune in to hear her advice and tips for becoming confident, consistent, and profitable in every project you undertake.
She is also giving away a free Welcome Guide template. Be sure to grab it to kickstart your marketing efforts and set yourself apart from your competitors.
What are you waiting for? Don't miss out on this treasure trove of insights!
Featured Guest:
Laura Thornton is the Founder and Creative Director of Thornton Design. Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients.
Drawing from her expansive experience in creative captivating interiors and managing a thriving design business, she's now opening the floodgates to knowledge for fellow interior designers via her insightful podcast called The Business of Beautiful Spaces.
Driven by Laura's fervent passion to educate and inspire, her podcast is more than just a sharing platform. It's a catalyst for growth and success in the design industry, hoping to embolden her fellow designers aiding them in their quest to increase confidence and accelerate success. Her podcast therefore serves as a treasure trove of insights curated to help burgeoning designers thrive in their respective businesses. It's about making the journey of design less daunting and more rewarding.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover the three fundamental pillars (a must-have) to thrive in the interior design industry
- Learn how to infuse confidence, consistency, and profitability into every project
- Use the Welcome Guide template to get your marketing efforts off to a great start
Check out the show notes >>> The 3 Must-Haves in Running a Profitable Interior Design Business With Laura Thornton
Click to get Laura's Free "Welcome Guide" Template
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
How do you get paid for your interior design fees? How do you charge clients for your design projects?
Getting paid as an interior designer, whether you are a solopreneur or working for a design firm, is a hot topic at the conventions and markets, as well as within the interior design business coaching classes and courses.
The struggles of pricing your creative work and determining your value are real, and they often deter interior designers from fully embracing this fulfilling career.
In today's episode, I explore various charging strategies, emphasizing the importance of understanding your worth and how tracking every minute of your creative process can be a game-changer in managing projects efficiently and setting the right fees.
If you are looking for actionable strategies and empowering mindsets to help you confidently charge what you are worth and thrive in the world of interior design, this episode is for you.
You deserve not just a career, but a prosperous and fulfilling journey as an interior designer. Tune in, embrace your value, and let's elevate the design industry together! Don't settle for less; your creativity is worth more than you think. Take charge of your interior design destiny now!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover different charging strategies used by successful interior designers
- Understand the significance of recognizing and valuing your expertise and creative time as an interior designer
- Assess whether you estimate, track, and optimize your fees for your design projects effectively
Check out the show notes >>> How To Charge Your Interior Design Skills With Confidence
Related Readings:
- Forbes Home: How Much Does An Interior Designer Cost?
- US Bureau of Labor Statistics - National Estimates for Interior Designers
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Listen to Related Episode:
- Episode 30: Choosing Between 2-Year and 4-Year? What to Look For in an Interior Design Degree With Jill Hornbeck
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you struggling to grow your interior design business? Are you looking for ways to be more profitable while keeping your clients satisfied?
If this is you, you will love my conversation with one of my colleagues in the Sacramento area. Cathy Tonks's career path from bridal consultant to thriving interior designer is a testament to resilience, eagerness to learn new things, and creativity.
She shares the secrets to a thriving interior design business, from finding your niche to joining a designer buying group and forming essential partnerships.
Join us today as we guide you towards embracing collaboration, mentorship, and continuous learning, empowering you to create remarkable spaces and a thriving interior design business.
Featured Guest:
Cathy’s love for design, color, fabrics, and texture stems from her first career of 16 years in the bridal industry. To her surprise, when she and her husband launched a construction company, a whole new world opened up for her and she decided to return to school to obtain a degree in Interior Design.
In 2005, she opened her firm Designs With You in Mind INC, specializing in design-build projects. Kitchens and baths were her passion and she was able to use her experience in the construction industry to her advantage.
In 2009, Cathy partnered with a designer buying group that has access to a showroom with premiere materials and extended resources. The group, made up of other interior designers, has given Cathy the opportunity to mentor members and encourage them to grow their businesses and be profitable.
Cathy’s superpower is managing her team to help her create spaces that bring out the best in her clients. She has a passion for creating spaces that reflect who they are and the way they live. She is grateful for the gifts that have been given to her that allow her to have that vision.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover ways to pivot and grow your interior design business
- Learn how to leverage designer buying groups and develop a profitable business model
- Take the first step towards growth by seeking mentorship or joining a design group, and embracing collaboration
Check out the show notes >>> Best Ways to Thrive in the Interior Design Business With Cathy Tonks
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Is traditional schooling required to become an interior designer? This is a question I am often asked, and I asked it of my guest as well.
Today, I am answering that question with clarity and inspiration, along with the other frequently asked questions I get from my listeners.
And if you've ever pondered the difference between an interior designer and a decorator, I also delve into the nuances that differentiate the two roles. Explore the unique strengths of each role and find out which one aligns with your strengths and ambitions.
Whether you're fresh out of high school or embarking on a second career and are troubled by questions about the Interior Design Career, this episode is a guide to making informed choices that lead you toward success.
Your dream career is within reach, and it's time to take the first step.
If you have questions left unanswered, feel free to send them to me, either on Instagram or email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com. I'd love to hear from you.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover how age and life experiences can influence your educational choices in today's digital age
- Learn the importance of business insurance, even with an LLC, and safeguard your assets as an interior design entrepreneur
- Gain clarity on the roles of an interior designer and a decorator
Check out the show notes >>> 5 FAQs About the Interior Design Career
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Listen to Related Episode:
Episode 30: Choosing Between 2-Year and 4-Year? What to Look For in an Interior Design Degree With Jill Hornbeck
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Do you have a passion for design but are stuck or feel trapped in your current job?
In today's episode, I chat with my dear friend DeAnna Mackensen, a retired interior designer in Northern California. She shares her creative journey that started with her innate love for creativity and making things.
She also shares her experience of learning from others and how it has shaped her career as an interior designer. She emphasizes the value of gaining knowledge and skills from different sources, whether it be through formal education or personal interactions.
She also raised one common misconception about interior design and the importance of being compensated for the work of an interior designer.
Deanna's story is a testament to the fact that it's never too late to follow your passion and embark on a creative career. She didn't start off as an interior designer but found her true calling later in life.
If you are looking for career inspiration, tune in and get inspired and motivated to pursue your creative career.
Featured Guest:
DeAnna Mackensen has been serving satisfied clients in her residential design business since graduating from California State University, Chico, in 2009 with a BA in interior design. She is now retired from interior design.
With a love of textiles and artwork, she's pivoted into creating her own things and selling them on her Etsy shop. She began sewing at an early age and this skill helped her with her abstract design and fabrication of many different elements. She has a knack for customizing and personalizing her designs for her clients and think outside of the box.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Recognize the value of recognizing interior design as a professional career
- Learn to embrace your unique path and use your previous experiences to your advantage
- Identify your strengths and learn how to delegate/outsource tasks that are not within your expertise
Check out the show notes >>> DeAnna Mackensen's Interior Designer's Journey
NEXT STEPS:
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
ONE YEAR ON THE PODCAST?! Can you even believe it?
A year ago, we launched this podcast - Design Curious - and it is a whole year of incredible adventure. From figuring out how to even do podcasts to writing the episodes and interviewing people, it has all been an enjoyable process for me. I love doing it!
In this special episode, I talk about the journey from the first three episodes to now, Episode 55. Join me as I share my key takeaways from the past year, the exciting direction of the podcast, and the amazing people I've had the privilege to interview.
As we move forward, we promise to keep delivering episodes that cater to your curiosity, ensuring there's something for everyone. Plus, we're excited to hear from you! Your feedback is essential in shaping the future of Design Curious. So, don't hesitate to reach out, share your thoughts, and stay tuned for a special Q&A episode where we'll address your questions.
Thank you for an incredible year of support. Let's continue this amazing journey together as we explore the career of interior design!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover the MINDSET that sustained me, and adapt it to your own endeavors
- Learn how you can shape the future of Design Curious podcast
- Look back on a year of inspiration & empowerment, and celebrate with us
Check out the show notes >>> Celebrating a Year of Design Curious: Takeaways and Future Vision
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Listen to Related Episode:
Episode 53: Perfectionism: Its Impact on Interior Design Practices & How to Rise Above It
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
In the world of Interior Designer websites, where a single picture can resonate with a thousand words, is copy truly essential? Or is it only a waste of resources?
Yes, your photos should speak volumes. They should speak for themselves. So the question is, do you still need words on your website? Can the pictures alone grab people's attention in just a few minutes?
Today on the podcast, I chat with Masha, an Interior Design Copywriter. She shares the common mistakes interior designers make when writing copy for their websites, and how she writes website copy that connects and sells.
Want to understand why copywriting matters for your interior design business? Listen in as we chat about website messaging (and lead magnets & email too!). We even discuss AI, such as ChatGPT, which proves the importance of a copywriter despite advances in artificial intelligence.
Featured Guest:
Masha Koyen is the Messaging Strategist and Copywriter behind Content Vertical. With over 20 years of professional writing experience, she is your word ninja, specializing in data-driven strategic copy that instantly engages your audience. She's the copywriter behind some kickass websites in the interior design industry.
Her signature REVEAL method, which blends research insights with brand elevation, ensures that your web copy speaks directly to your clients' innermost desires.
Drawing from 14 years of marketing expertise with global giants KPMG and Deloitte, Masha launched Content Vertical in 2019, carving a niche in website copywriting. Her journey was driven by a desire for more family time, making Masha not only a master of words but also of work-life balance.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Understand the power of storytelling in interior design copywriting
- Assess your existing website copy for mistakes and make the necessary adjustments
- Use the REVEAL Framework in crafting your compelling website copy
Check out the show notes >>> How to Write Your Interior Designer’s Website Copy With Masha Koyen
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Interior Designers are typically perfectionists. For every design project, they spend countless hours tweaking and refining to produce the best design. Although they strive for perfection, they still feel unsatisfied. As a result, they become exhausted and frustrated, questioning whether their work will ever be good enough.
If this is you, then it's time to break free from the cycle of perfectionism and discover a new path to growth and fulfillment in your craft.
Join me in this episode as I explore the impact of perfectionism on our interior design practices. Together, let's learn how to cultivate a more flexible mindset, embrace imperfections, and thrive in our creative journey.
Tune in on this empowering episode.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Embrace your imperfections and use client feedback to improve your skill
- Break the cycle of perfectionism and cultivate a positive mindset toward a healthier, more balanced approach
- Uncover how your perfectionist tendencies influence your interior design dynamics so you can turn them into a driving force, not a hindrance
Check out the show notes >>> Perfectionism: Its Impact on Interior Design Practices & How to Rise Above It
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
-
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
-
Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
-
3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Listen to Related Episode:
- Episode 41: Personality Types Test: An Interior Designer’s Tool for Improving Clients' Interaction
- Episode 43: The Design World: Exploring the Intersection of Production Design and Interior Design with James Bartol
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you feeling frustrated and overwhelmed by the lack of success in your creative endeavors despite your best efforts?
You may be pouring countless hours into perfecting your designs but struggling to attract clients or generate sales. Maybe you're trying to navigate the complexities of running a business, but finding it difficult to make strategic decisions or manage finances effectively.
The pain of not seeing your hard work translate into entrepreneurial success can be incredibly disheartening, and I hear you.
In today's episode, I sit down with Tobi Fairley and talk about the importance of design skills and business knowledge for success in the interior design industry. We dive deep into how to navigate a career in interior design, the benefits of lifelong learning, and the rewards of taking well-analyzed risks.
Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation!
Featured Guest:
Toby Fairley is an innovation igniter, a thought architect, and one of the leading voices on reimagining what it means to run a successful creative business in an equitable and sustainable way.
As the host of the Design You Podcast, Toby delivers a life-altering inspiration for creative entrepreneurs mixed with tactical business advice, and unfiltered aha moments on topics most business gurus won't dare to cover.
She has been featured in many publications. When Toby is not running her high-end residential interior design firm, leading her online membership community for ambitious creative professionals Design You, or recording an episode for her top-rated podcast, you can find her working on her upcoming book, Thinking Deep Thoughts, about how to change the world painting or curled up with a few good books and spending time with her family and two pups.
Toby lives in Arkansas with her attorney husband and her teenage daughter who has just gone to college.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
-
Explore the appeal of taking well-calculated risks and setting the pace in your field of expertise
-
See the impact of continuous learning and structured education in attaining professional growth
-
Realize the importance of having a strong foundation in both design skills and business knowledge for lasting success
Check out the show notes >>> Mastering Interior Design Business: Tobi Fairley's Expert Tips for Success
Links Mentioned:
- Toby's Online Course Incubator
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
-
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
-
Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
-
3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Did you know that wallpaper is still way in? Are you open to using wallpaper in your design projects?
In today’s episode, I have a fascinating conversation with Selena Lewis, a professional interior designer known for her eclectic style. We dive into her journey in the design world, how she started her business, her unique design style, and her expertise in incorporating playful wallpapers, rich textures, and bold patterns into her projects.
She reveals how she found her niche in wallpaper, a design element often overlooked or underutilized, and discusses the importance of educating clients about the transformative power of wallpaper in creating truly exceptional spaces.
We also discuss an important pain point that many designers face: how to get paid for your calling. So, don't miss out on this inspiring episode as Selena Lewis brings her expertise and passion for wallpaper to the forefront, encouraging aspiring and established designers alike to embrace their own unique design paths.
Featured Guest:
Selena Lewis is a professional Interior Designer based in Atlanta, Georgia, who prides herself on her thriving business that is built on client testimonials. Her outstanding work has recently been recognized in Atlanta’s My Home Improvement Magazine as a Top 10 Rising Star In The Home Improvement Industry.
Her design style is eclectic, with a penchant for incorporating playful wallpapers, rich textures, and bold patterns to elevate spaces. She is skilled in blending different styles to create unique and personalized interiors for her clients.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
-
Discover 5 ways to differentiate yourself as an interior designer in a competitive market
-
The importance of visualization and hands-on interaction with clients
-
Use the 10 tips on getting started in Interior Design without returning to school
Check out the show notes >>> A Designer's Passion: from Wallpaper to Running a Full-Service Interior Design Firm With Selena Lewis
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
-
Take the QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
-
Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
-
3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Does your website leave a strong online impression and attract those premium clients you've been dreaming of?
To build a website that continues to bring new & premium clients, you need to take a strategic approach.
In today's episode, we delve into the key elements that can make or break your interior design website. Our special guest, Robyn White of RDW Design Studio, shares her expertise and insights on how to optimize your website to attract premium clients. She emphasizes the importance of consistent branding, and the use of a clear call to action (CTA) to guide visitors towards the primary goal of your website. She also highlights common mistakes to avoid when designing a website.
So, if you are an interior designer looking to optimize your website, don't miss this treasure trove of invaluable insights and practical tips for creating a strategic and effective website that stands out in the competitive interior design industry.
What are you waiting for? Listen now!
Featured Guest:
Robyn White is the owner and founder of RDW Design Studio, a boutique website design studio located in Cape Cod. She offers a refined website design experience for clients who value quality and want a strategic, sophisticated, and simple website design so they can book more premium clients.
Robin specializes in helping interior designers, architects, builders, and stagers elevate their websites so that it reflects the high-quality work they provide and so their business has the online home it deserves.
Through her impactful and strategic website design, she positions her clients as the premium choice by making the right first impression online. She helps her busy clients go from overwhelmed to overjoyed with their websites by taking care of all the techie stuff without the techie duck through her supportive streamlined and stress-free design process.
Robin designs websites that are not just beautiful, but allow her clients to show up online with confidence and attract their ideal clients.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Answer the 6 questions you should ask yourself before updating your website
- Assess your existing website for blunders and make the necessary adjustments
- Design your website with the 5 must-have pages to attract premium clients
Check out the show notes >>> Key Elements for Your Interior Design Website That Attract Premium Clients With Robyn White
Links Mentioned:
- Instant Website Upgrade: https://rdwdesignstudio.com/website-upgrade/
- Design Curious Podcast Show Notes: rwarddesign.com/podcast
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
-
QUIZ!!Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
-
Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
-
3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Listen to Related Episode:
Ep49: Which Interior Designer Path Should You Take? Answer My 6-Question Quiz to Find It Out
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Hey, curious creatives! I've got something exciting to share with you all. I created a fun quiz to help you find out what type of interior designer you should be. It's quick and easy, with just six simple questions, and you'll gain valuable insights into your personal style, design preferences, and the type of environments that fuel your creative fire. The quiz will ultimately lead you to your design niche.
I've also discussed the four conclusions or result answers - Residential, Commercial, Hospitality, or Spatial Experience Design, shedding light on the different roles, approaches, and challenges each one presents.
Interior Design is so diverse, but there's something for everyone in this creative field! And if you're multi-faceted like me, try the quiz a few times and see how your answers lead to different outcomes.
So, whether you've just discovered your passion for interior design or are looking to refine your skills and explore new horizons, tune in, take the quiz, and let me help you on your journey to becoming an interior design pro!
Lastly, share your quiz results with me on Instagram at @rwarddesign. I can't wait to see what kind of Interior Design you should be doing! Let's stay creative and enjoy the remaining interviews in our summer series together!
Click here to take the quiz!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover the 4 conclusions/results I reached for this quiz & analyze each role and type
- Determine what kind of interior design suits your unique strengths and interests
- Learn about spatial experience design and its connection to retail, museums, and set/production design
Check out the show notes >>> Which Interior Designer Path Should You Take? Answer My 6-Question Quiz to Find It Out
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
-
Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
-
3 Things I Wish I had known when I started my career
-
Find Out What Type of Interior Designer You Should Be!
Join the Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon or DesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Listen to Related Episode:
34\ Hospitality Design: 5 Key Considerations for Aspiring Designers with Jessica Marshall
43\ The Design World: Exploring the Intersection of Production Design and Interior Design with James Bartol
46\ From Doubt to Success: Overcoming Challenges in Interior Design and Architecture with Robert Ancill
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at @rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Click here.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week..
Are you an interior designer who is struggling to keep track of your finances? Many interior designers find bookkeeping to be a daunting task. It can be time-consuming, challenging, and even stressful. If you're one of those designers, you're not alone. That's why I invited LoriAnn to discuss the importance of hiring a bookkeeper for your interior design business.
As a virtual bookkeeper and fractional CFO who specializes in working with interior designers, she knows firsthand the challenges that designers face when it comes to finances. She talks about the importance of hiring a bookkeeper to keep track of your income and expenses, prepare financial reports, and file taxes; and how this can alleviate stress and bring peace of mind to creative professionals. She shares her expertise on the differences between tax accountants and bookkeepers, highlighting the value of having a bookkeeper throughout the year, not just at tax time.
So whether you're ready to hire your first bookkeeper or you prefer doing it yourself, I encourage you to listen to this episode and learn why hiring a bookkeeper is so crucial for interior designers and how to find the right one for your business.
Featured Guest:
LoriAnn Kuntz is a virtual bookkeeper and fractional CFO for creative entrepreneurs. She is the owner of LoriAnn Kuntz Virtual Bookkeeping, a boutique creative bookkeeping firm that specializes in Done-for-You monthly bookkeeping, fractional CFO services, and helping people get off the ground and how to keep track of their finances.
Her goal is to bridge the gap between traditional accountants and business owners. With 35-plus monthly DFY (Done-for-You) bookkeeping clients in the industry, she has the insight and experience to help you uplevel your business while removing the stress and burden of managing your finances. Whether you're just starting out or you've been in business for years, her mission is to help creatives feel peace about their finances, while growing their profit and confidence.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
-
Identify the 5 reasons why people are anxious about their finances and understand the importance of tailoring financial advice individually
-
Discover the #1 challenge faced by interior designers in business
-
Compare her top 3 bookkeeping software recommendations and find out why you should DIY your books using spreadsheets first
Check out the show notes >>> From Chaos to Cash Flow: The Transformative Power of Hiring a Bookkeeper for Your Design Business With LoriAnn Kuntz
Links Mentioned:
- DIY Bookkeeping Templates: https://www.loriannkuntz.com/shop
- The software I use for my finances: https://www.studiodesigner.com/
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
-
Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
-
3 Things I Wish I had known when I started my career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here.
Enroll in Business of Design with Kimberly Seldon or DesignYou with Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at @rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Click here.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you struggling to drive traffic to your interior design website? Are you looking for ways to improve your business's online presence?
If so, why not consider Pinterest as a powerful search engine and marketing tool for your business?
In this episode, I explore the world of Pinterest with Pinterest marketing expert, Vanessa Cooper. She shares her expertise in leveraging Pinterest SEO and incorporating local keywords to reach your target audience effectively. She also provides helpful tips on using Canva to create amazing pins that can bring traffic even years later.
Tune in to unleash your creativity, tap into the immense potential of Pinterest, and transform your design business with the ultimate tool for visual inspiration and client attraction.
Featured Guest:
Vanessa Cooper is a Pinterest marketing expert and content creator providing Pinterest marketing, copywriting, and graphic design services to small and large business owners.
She is a wife, mother, and crazy plant lady described as a fruit loop in a bowl of Cheerios. Locally recognized as one of the best social media marketing agencies, she uses her Pinterest marketing skills, creative thinking, and powerful words to capture the attention of your target audience and grow your business.
If you want your business to thrive on Pinterest with stellar Pinterest marketing management or an entertaining yet informative blog filled with capturing content that keeps your audience wanting more, then Vanessa is the right person to help your business thrive.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover how Pinterest can be used as a powerful search engine to attract clients and skyrocket your design business
- Learn how to optimize your Pins with captivating images, creative text overlays, and engaging content that resonates with your ideal clients
- Evaluate your existing pins to determine what works best for your business
Check out the show notes >>> The Power of Pinterest: How to Boost Traffic to Your Interior Design Business With Vanessa Cooper
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
-
Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
-
3 Things I Wish I had known when I started my career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should havehere.
Enroll in Business of Design with Kimberly Seldon or DesignYou with Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at @rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Click here.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Have you ever dreamt of a career in design or architecture but been told not to pursue it? Well, you are in for a treat!
Join me today as I sit down with my special guest Robert Ansell, CEO of TNI Design. Robert takes us through his incredible path from being told not to pursue architecture to creating restaurant design and concept development to starting an agency & expanding his services to include interior design and architectural projects. Along the way, he encountered doubts and obstacles, but his unwavering persistence and passion for design propelled him forward.
Robert also shares the exciting and innovative projects he is currently working on, including an eco-village and a groundbreaking venture to design livable spaces on Mars. He also talks about the upcoming trends in the restaurant industry, from interactive ghost kitchens to the integration of robotic technology, and explores the use of sustainable materials in architecture and interior design.
So, tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with valuable insights and advice.
Featured Guest:
Robert Ancill is the CEO of TNI Design, an architectural design agency that specializes in restaurants, hotels, luxury, and eco homes.
With over 25 years of experience, Robert has designed over 89 new brands and 800 restaurants or cafes opening or remodels for clients in 24 countries. Some of his notable projects include designing multiple high-profile restaurants and hotel brands as well as providing interior design services to several businesses in the hospitality industry.
When he is not busy working, Robert enjoys photography as a hobby. His work has been featured in several magazines & websites and on his website, Introspective Lense.
In 2020, Robert authored a book called post-COVID-19 Reboot, a forecasting guide to opening restaurants, bars, and hospitality businesses after the quarantine period was lifted in 2021.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover how embracing creative opportunities, learning through internships, and thinking outside the box can lead to a fulfilling and successful career in the design industry
- Understand the importance of client interfaces and adapting to new technologies for the growth of your interior design business
- Learn some sustainable and eco-friendly materials you can use on your next project
Check out the show notes >>> From Doubt to Success: Overcoming Challenges in Interior Design and Architecture with Robert Ancill
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
-
Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
-
3 Things I Wish I had known when I started my career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should havehere.
Enroll in Business of Design with Kimberly Seldon or DesignYou with Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at @rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Click here.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com (https://rwarddesign.com/) to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Do you want a polished and professional interior design portfolio but don’t know where to start?
A portfolio is critical to your interior design career since it showcases your skills and experience. A well-crafted portfolio can help you land your dream job or project, but creating one can be daunting.
In this episode, I share tips and tricks that will help you create a portfolio that impresses potential clients and employers. I also explain why it is necessary to create one for your interior design career.
So, if you are unsure what you should include in your portfolio and how to make it look best and stand out, this episode is for you. Listen to this episode so you can start creating your portfolio today!
And, if you need help reviewing & polishing your portfolio, join My Design Mentor.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover the 4 ways to build a portfolio that will make your work stand out
- Use the portfolio-building tip so you can start creating your portfolio right away
- Learn how the My Design Mentor program can help you polish your portfolio
Check out the show notes >>> 4 Smart Ways to Build an Interior Design Portfolio That Stands Out
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
-
Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
-
3 Things I Wish I had known when I started my career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Enroll in Business of Design with Kimberly Seldon or DesignYou with Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at @rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Click here.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com (https://rwarddesign.com/) to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Every interior designer, whatever stage it may be, faces several problems and challenges - from promoting oneself to selling ideas to finding the right clients and managing their budgets & expectations, and so much more. No doubt, interior design is challenging!
Whether you are just starting your career in interior design and lack confidence or are faced with a roadblock as an established designer, you need to hear the story of my special guest today.
In this episode, I sit down with Nina Parvaresh, a highly successful interior designer specializing in high-end residential projects. She generously shares insights, practical advice, and insider tips to help both up-and-coming designers and established ones thrive in this field.
Nina's fearless approach to learning and experimenting, how she picked herself up after all her struggles and moved past them, and of course, her unique design process are all inspiring.
So tune in, learn her secrets, and get ready to conquer your design challenges!
Featured Guest:
Nina Parvaresh was born and raised in a charming town an hour away from Paris. She studied Architecture at the École d’Architecture de Paris-Malaquais in the distinguished Les Beaux-Arts site in Paris.
Her approach to work is holistic. The boundaries between the divisions of the field, from lighting to structural design to FF&E, inspired her to build something that could carry the project through, fully and completely, without jeopardizing or compromising on the thread that ties the whole characteristic narrative of the project together. In her curiosity, she explored so many fields that she was not specialized in, learning how to become an interior designer and a lighting designer. She even learned a lot about things she disliked, including plumbing and automation systems, which still causes her anxiety.
She has incredible projects all over the world (think Middle East, Dubai, Europe).
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
-
Discover the key ingredients that will make you and your projects stand out
-
Gain insights into building and maintaining strong relationships with contractors, artisans, and suppliers
-
Learn effective strategies for managing client expectations and delivering exceptional client experiences
Check out the show notes >>> Career & Business Secrets of a Successful High-End Residential Interior Designer With Nina Parvaresh
Special Offer exclusive to Design Curious listeners only!!!
Get FREE ACCESS to Ericka Saurit's The Brand Storytelling Masterclass- a step-by-step masterclass to get you to craft unforgettable brand narratives in just a few short hours.
Get Free Access in 3 easy steps:
Step 1: Listen to Episode 38: How Storytelling & Brand Marketing Will Level Up Your Interior Design Career With Ericka Saurit
Step 2: Leave Design Curious podcast a Star Rating and Review on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser (if you're not an Apple user)
Step 3: Take a screenshot of your review and email it to podcast@rwarddesign.com OR post it to Instagram and tag me @rwarddesign
This offer is good for June only...
Connect With Me:
- Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- Instagram: @rwarddesign
- Website: rwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you curious about what production design is?
Are you wondering if an interior designer can be a production designer?
Well, in this episode, I interview James Bartol, a New York City-based production designer working primarily in the film and television industry. He shares his journey of becoming a production designer and how his craft crossover with the principles of interior design. He also tells about the responsibilities, challenges, and creative decisions that go into shaping the visual identity of a film or TV show.
Join us on this episode as we explore the captivating world of production design and delve into its intriguing connection with interior design. Whether you are a film enthusiast, an interior designer, or simply curious about the magic behind the scenes, this episode will provide a unique perspective on the artistry that shapes our visual world.
And if you are wondering if production design is worth pursuing, this episode is for you.
Featured Guest:
James Bartol is a New York City-based production designer working primarily in the film and television industry. He received his BFA in Film & TV production at NYU Tisch School of the Arts.
James' production design credits include a variety of Feature and Short films that have screened at festivals worldwide. His client base ranges from film to print and includes Levi’s, Nordstrom, Estée Lauder, TruTV, Investigation Discovery, and MTV.
Most recently, James has been sharing his experience with the next generation of filmmakers as an adjunct professor teaching production design classes at Montclair State University.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Examine the similarities and differences between a production design and an interior design
- Identify the biggest challenge of a production designer and its solution
- Assess whether production design is the right career for you
Check out the show notes >>> The Design World: Exploring the Intersection of Production Design and Interior Design with James Bartol
Special Offer exclusive to Design Curious listeners only!!!
Get FREE ACCESS to Ericka Saurit's The Brand Storytelling Masterclass- a step-by-step masterclass to get you to craft unforgettable brand narratives in just a few short hours.
Get Free Access in 3 easy steps:
Step 1: Listen to Episode 38: How Storytelling & Brand Marketing Will Level Up Your Interior Design Career With Ericka Saurit
Step 2: Leave Design Curious podcast a Star Rating and Review on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser (if you're not an Apple user)
Step 3: Take a screenshot of your review and email it to podcast@rwarddesign.com OR post it to Instagram and tag me @rwarddesign
This offer is good for the month of June only...
Connect With Me:
- Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- Instagram: @rwarddesign
- Website: rwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Did you know it doesn't take much to live an eco-friendly lifestyle? It all starts with consumer awareness. And who better to educate consumers than interior designers?
After working for years in various design firms and realizing how much waste the interior design industry generates, Leah Connolly, my special guest in this episode, started her own firm advocating for sustainable interior design.
Join us as we discuss how she started and her challenges when sourcing sustainably-focused brands. Leah also shares tips for finding non-toxic products for large surfaces that ensure a healthier living environment.
If you are an environmentally conscious interior designer, or if you considering a niche in sustainable interior design, tune in as we explore the exciting possibilities in sustainable interior design.
Featured Guest:
As an extrovert, Leah Connolly loves talking with clients and learning what they value most. After graduating from UC Davis, she worked for a few Sacramento interior designers. She is an award-winning interior designer, LEED Green Associate, and a Certified Interior Designer.
As the climate changes, she's looked closely at the design industry and the waste and chemicals it creates. Witnessing firsthand waste and harmful chemicals generated, she took a stand. Leah founded Studio Connolly in 2020 with a mission to lessen the environmental impact of design. Her priority is to partner with sustainably-focused brands to reduce waste at home and recycle as much as possible.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
-
Explore innovative sustainable interior design practices to transform your client's space
-
Discover the value of hands-on experience in business development
-
Find out why sustainable design is the future of interior design
Check out the show notes >>> The Future of Interior Design: Sustainable and Responsible Solutions With Leah Connolly
Special Offer exclusive to Design Curious listeners only!!!
Get FREE ACCESS to Ericka Saurit's The Brand Storytelling Masterclass- a step-by-step masterclass to get you to craft unforgettable brand narratives in just a few short hours.
Get Free Access in 3 easy steps:
Step 1: Listen to Episode 38: How Storytelling & Brand Marketing Will Level Up Your Interior Design Career With Ericka Saurit
Step 2: Leave Design Curious podcast a Star Rating and Review on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser (if you're not an Apple user)
Step 3: Take a screenshot of your review and email it to podcast@rwarddesign.com OR post it to Instagram and tag me @rwarddesign
This offer is good for the month of June only...
Connect With Me:
- Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- Instagram: @rwarddesign
- Website: rwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Do you need help communicating with your interior design clients? Do you want to interact with your potential clients more effectively and close a project?
I got you! In today's episode, I discuss the different personality types and their impact on effective communication.
Knowing your clients' different personality types will help you better understand how they communicate. Plus, you can customize your approach to each person to get to know them better and build stronger relationships.
Join me for today's episode to learn more about personality types and how understanding them impacts your interior design career or business.
Why you've got to check out today's episode:
- Assess how understanding personality types can benefit your interior design projects
- Find out how to understand yourself and others better by taking 4 personality tests (plus 2 bonus fun tests)
- Discover 6 ways to make people like you and 5 ways to persuade them through your presentation
Check out the show notes >>> Personality Types Test: An Interior Designer’s Tool for Improving Clients' Interaction
Get to know Our Team based on our personality types.
Links Mentioned:
- The Myers-Briggs Test
- Enneagram Test
- The DiSC Assessment
- Four Temperaments Test
Books Mentioned:
- The Road Back to You
- How to Win Friends & Influence People
BONUS TESTS: Hogwarts House and Which Friends Character Are You?
Special Offer exclusive to Design Curious listeners only!!!
Get FREE ACCESS to Ericka Saurit's The Brand Storytelling Masterclass- a step-by-step masterclass to get you to craft unforgettable brand narratives in just a few short hours.
Get Free Access in 3 easy steps:
Step 1: Listen to Episode 38: How Storytelling & Brand Marketing Will Level Up Your Interior Design Career With Ericka Saurit
Step 2: Leave Design Curious podcast a Star Rating and Review on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser (if you're not an Apple user)
Step 3: Take a screenshot of your review and email it to podcast@rwarddesign.com OR post it to Instagram and tag me @rwarddesign
This offer is good for the month of June only...
Connect With Me:
- Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- Instagram: @rwarddesign
- Website: rwarddesign.com
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Do you get excited about something that gets you out of bed in the morning? That’s the case for my guest this week, Alexis Peters, who had an exciting journey from acting and production design to interior and virtual interior design.
What made her get into interior design? That voice in her head has been bugging her since she was a child. After years of putting it under the rug, she finally decided to do something about it.
From designing her own apartment to helping her mother redesign her home virtually, she found her magic and turned to make mistakes into a career by providing stylish and affordable interior design for all.
So if you’re ready to help others live better through design while making money and feeling fulfilled simultaneously, listen to this episode. Alexis can help you find your voice as a designer and craft your signature offer.
Featured Guest:
Alexis Peters is a Nashville-based interior designer with an exciting journey from acting and feature film production design to running her successful Virtual Design business.
Combining her passion for film and design, Alexis has learned to create stunning spaces on a budget, making her services accessible to many clients. With certifications in interior design, home staging, KonMari organization, and even Pilates, she brings a well-rounded approach to her designs.
If you're looking for expert advice on creating your signature offer, building a solid portfolio, and gaining exposure in the design industry, Alexis's unique perspective and experience make her an ideal source of inspiration and guidance.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Examine Alexis’ Virtual Design Process and create your signature offer
- Build a solid interior design portfolio from scratch without any experience
- Discover the 3 Advantages of Virtual Design over Interior Design
Check out the show notes >>> How an Actress Turned Interior Designer Built Her Signature Virtual Design Offer with Alexis Peters
Links Mentioned:
Marie Forleo’s B-School: https://www.marieforleo.com/bschool
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I started my career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Check out the best books every interior designer should havehere.
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you wondering whether you should charge for your initial design consultation or not?
Are you tired of giving away your time and knowledge for free during consultations?
In this week’s episode, I have the solution to help you monetize your consultations and showcase your professionalism. How? With paid consultation fees!
I discuss how to charge for consultations so you can demonstrate your expertise and value as an interior designer. As a result, you will increase your income and attract higher-paying clients who value your skills and abilities.
Since charging for initial consultations is controversial in the interior design industry, I'd love to hear your thoughts about it. And if you disagree with me and you have some great points, you'd like to bring up, reach out to me and let me know what you think. So we can talk there because I love hearing all sides of this story.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Examine the controversy surrounding charging for initial consultations in the interior design community
- Identify the 3 reasons why you should charge for your initial consultation
- Discover ways to deliver more value to your interior design clients
Check out the show notes >>> 3 Reasons Why You Should Charge for Initial Interior Design Consultations & Highlight Your Expertise
Links Mentioned:
- Style Quiz
- Remodel Survival Guide
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I Had Known When I Started My Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Listen to Related Episode:
Episode 16: How Outsourcing Client Intake Helps Interior Designers Convert and Retain Clients with Porsche Williams
Check out the best books every interior designer should have here
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Interested in interior design but wondering what else you can do? Guess what? There is so much more to interior design! A world of exciting opportunities awaits you.
This week's guest, Ericka Saurit, is a former interior designer turned brand marketer. We are fortunate to have her share her motivational story with us. Remember Bethany from Episode 18? It was an inspiring move to get into coaching. Ericka's journey is just as empowering too.
Interior Design isn't just about one-on-one projects. There's a whole world of possibilities to explore.
Listen to Ericka's episode about branding, messaging, and marketing to level up your interior design career or business.
It's incredible how interior design opens doors to new passions and opportunities. So take advantage of this chance to broaden your horizons.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover how to find success in marketing during tough economic times through the art of storytelling
- Map out your brand marketing using Ericka’s E3 Strategy
- Outline the parts of the marketing funnel and understand the importance of working with a brand strategist
Featured Guest:
Ericka Saurit has been a designer and marketer in the home industry for 23 years and has worked with GE, P&G, Beijing Olympics 2008, and Shanghai Natural History Museum throughout her career. By using strategy, storytelling, and insight, she helps her clients transform their brands.
After completing her marketing and business strategy studies at the University of California, Berkeley, Ericka began working in brand marketing for the design industry in 2011. She has also earned certifications in brand storytelling from IDEO and brand strategy and social media marketing, which she pursued after her career in design education.
Her extensive experience as a global brand marketing leader includes developing digital products and brand strategies for Airbnb in San Francisco. In addition, she's involved in designing immersive brand experiences for companies like Tag Heuer and Estée Lauder. Also, she has created award-winning messaging and engagement strategies for prominent home lifestyle brands across the United States, Europe, and Asia.
Connect with Ericka Saurit:
- Website: sauritcreative.com
- Instagram: @sauritcreativ
Check out the show notes >>> How Storytelling & Brand Marketing Will Level Up Your Interior Design Career With Ericka Saurit
Links Mentioned:
Ericka's Brand Audit: sauritcreative.com/brandaudit
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I Had Known When I Started My Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon orDesignYouwith Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Listen to Related Episode:
Episode 18: The Embrace of Change: How An Interior Designer Pivots to Become a Podcast & Messaging Coach with Bethany Wrede Peterson
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Do you need help keeping your interior design clients satisfied?
I'm here to help you!
Today, I'm sharing my 7-step process to help you navigate your client's pain points and ensure they feel informed and invested. This proactive approach ensures a successful outcome every time!
You see, when it comes to design, managing expectations is crucial. And one of the best ways to do this is by making sure everyone involved understands what will happen every step of the way. That way, you can avoid disappointments or frustrations later down the line!
So listen to this week's episode and gain access to the tools needed for managing your client’s expectations like a pro.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Examine the 7-step interior design process and its highs and lows from start to finish
- Compare the different perspectives of designers and clients in each phase
- Define your role as an interior designer and discover the benefits of having happier clients
Featured Review:
Accessible and generalizable “This show is so easy to understand. The content is clear and empowering. It’s accessible for those curious about design and how it works but also has practical insight for daily life. Solid skills and mindset that can be applied to other arenas as well.” - KayOrca -
Check out the show notes >>> The Pain Points of Interior Design Projects and How to Overcome Them
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I Had Known When I Started My Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics.
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question.
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you an overwhelmed and struggling interior designer? You’re not alone. If you find yourself stuck and feeling like you’re a failure, this episode is for you as Kimberley Seldon shares how she overcame hurdles as a budding interior designer and managed to balance her work and life.
How did she do it? Through her friend’s recommendation, she sought help and found a powerful solution that changed her life and revolutionized the entire interior design industry.
Even with resistance at first, she transformed her life and business and is now helping influence designers worldwide to have more successful companies and satisfying lives.
So listen to this week’s episode because you’re in for a treat as she shares ways to transform your life and business so you can finally say, “Yes. I have it all.”
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Overcome common hurdles faced by budding interior designers as they kick-start their careers
- Learn how implementing structured systems and procedures contributes to a balanced work-life dynamic
- Discover the power of honest and straightforward communication strategies in building a solid client base
Featured Guest:
Kimberley Seldon is a force to be reckoned with in the design world, with an impressive resume that spans interior design, television, and magazines. She founded the Kimberley Seldon Design Group and contributed to the Toronto and Los Angeles design scenes. Having hosted three shows for HGTV Canada and served as the decorating editor of Style At Home magazine for 18 years, Kimberley's expertise in design is undeniable. With her online educational platform, Business of Design, she empowers designers to establish effective systems and procedures, leading them to a more balanced and fulfilling work-life balance.
Check out the show notes >>> How Business Coaching Can Help You Transform Your Life and Interior Design Business
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I Had Known When I Started My Career
Listen to Related Episode:
- Episode 31 - Want to Elevate Your Interior Design Business? The Power of Coaching for Success
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Enroll inBusiness of Design with Kimberly Seldon today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics.
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question.
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
What does it take to be the CEO of your own interior design business?
In this episode, I explore what the CEO mindset entails, why it matters, and how it can drive your interior design business to new heights.
I also share what it is like to be one – and it’s way more than doing design work and establishing processes, procedures, and structure. There are other traits a business owner must possess to grow a business and lead effectively.
As a designer, I encourage you to adopt a CEO mindset and be accountable for your business. Because to achieve success, a plan, goals, and processes must be implemented.
This week's episode allows you to embrace the CEO mindset and implement strategies to help you build a successful business. These skills will help you be a better leader, delegate tasks effectively, and trust your team to ensure a positive work environment.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Define what a CEO is and discover why you need a CEO Mindset
- Identify the different ways you can delegate in your business
- Learn about the 4 CEO Mindset Tips you can use to succeed in your interior design business
Check out the show notes >>> The CEO Mindset: How It Drives Success in Your Interior Design Business
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I Had Known When I Started My Career
Listen to Related Episode:
- Episode 23: The Roadmap to Becoming an Interior Designer
- Episode 01: Interior Design: An Introduction & the 3 Paths You Can Take To Get There
- Episode 32: Top Secrets and Winning Mindset Behind a Wildly Successful Business Owner with Andrea Liebross
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics.
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question.
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Have you ever wondered how some hospitality designers make it big in the industry?
In this episode, we dive into the exciting world of hospitality design and explore how new interior designers can get started in this field. Our guest expert, Jessica Marshall, shares her unique journey to becoming a successful hospitality designer.
Jessica gives her perspective on interior design and discusses the different avenues she took to get to where she is today. She shares insights into the unique challenges and opportunities of designing for boutique hotels, restaurants, and other hospitality spaces.
Whether you're just starting out in your interior design career or looking to expand your skills in the hospitality sector, this episode will give you the knowledge and inspiration you need to succeed.
Take advantage of this exciting opportunity to learn from a successful hospitality designer!
Featured Guest:
Jessica Marshall is the only Interior Designer focused on the hospitality industry in the Sacramento area. Her experience spans over 20 years in both the UK and the US. In addition, she is the only Interior Designer elected as a member of the California Restaurant Association's Board of Directors.
After earning a degree in Interior Design at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising, she decided to focus on hospitality. She interned at HBA before moving to an LA company to work in purchasing and project management for luxury hotels. She worked on projects such as the Ojai Valley Inn and Spa.
From Intern to Interior Designer to Design Director, she has designed and managed interior projects for Marriott, Hilton, and IHG.
Her desire to work internationally led her to live in England for eight years. She worked in restaurants and bars all over the UK for years, developing front-of-house and back-of-house interiors.
Jessica lives in California and started Brass Rose to help boutique business owners. Brass Rose creates a customized experience through service and atmosphere.
Why you've got to check out today's episode:
- Understand the 5 key considerations before committing to hospitality design
- Discover the 2 challenging aspects of hospitality design
- Consider her 3 recommendations for hospitality designers starting or curious about the industry
Check out the show notes >>> Hospitality Design: 5 Key Considerations for Aspiring Designers with Jessica Marshall
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I Had Known When I Started My Career
Listen to Related Episode: Episode 05: The Do’s and Don’ts of Interior Design Internships
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics.
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question.
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
"Oh, how long have you been doing this? It seems like you just graduated high school or something", is a common remarkI used to get from people when I first started as an interior designer and in the early years of my design company. It is not that you can't be a great designer right out of the gate. However, this remark could affect what you feel and believe about yourself.
"I don't know if I would pay myself this much money to get this because..." Sounds familiar? If you find yourself either in this situation, most likely you have limiting beliefs that could potentially hurt your career or business.
In this episode, I'm talking about four limiting beliefs that you might encounter as a newbie in interior design or when starting your own business. You will learn how to identify them and work through them so you can prevent these beliefs from limiting you and can navigate the design industry smoothly and successfully.
So, if you are looking for help with managing your limiting beliefs, much more with recognizing them, you'll want to listen closely.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Identify the limiting beliefs that are keeping you from pursuing your passion
- Develop ways to combat your limiting beliefs and empower yourself
- Change your mindset around your beliefs and reach your highest potential
Check out the show notes >>> 4 Limiting Beliefs Holding You Back From Pursuing Your Interior Design Career or Business
Featured Review:
Such a natural! “Our office began listening to Rebeca together, and we just love her knowledge and gift as a mentor.” - Lhkint
Listen to Related Episode:
- Episode 17: 23 Best Books Every Interior Designer Should Have for Business & Personal Growth
- Episode 11: Is Imposter Syndrome Holding Back Your Interior Design Career? The Best Way to Deal With It
- Episode 28: Designing Your Success: Finding the Right Niche in Your Interior Design Career with Yvonne Harty
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- NEW!! Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I Had Known When I Started My Career
Join the Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Enroll in Business of Design with Kimberly Seldon or DesignYou with Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics.
DM me on Instagram at @rwarddesign if you have a burning question.
Leave me a rating and review! Click here.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
What does it take to start a business?
Don’t worry! We’ll spill the beans. Because this week, you’ll learn from Andrea Liebross - a coach, speaker, podcast host, and soon-to-be published author, who built not just one, not two, but three – yes – three businesses, all while raising two kids. It’s an impressive feat because all three of her businesses are thriving.
Want to know how she successfully built her businesses? Through the help of her secret sauce! And that's only two elements. Andrea shares them all in our conversation. So, if you want to level up personally and professionally, and start building your interior design business, this episode is for you.
Featured Guest:
As a coach, speaker, podcast host, and soon-to-be published author, Andrea Liebross, helps bold, ambitious women make confident, clear decisions to achieve what they want every time and not just add more to their list of things to do.
Her clients become the ‘I've Got This’ kind of women by creating their own custom secret sauce for success in both life and business. This sauce has two ingredients; the right mindset and solid systems.
She shows them how to shift from believing what they want is impossible, complex, and daunting to possible by simplifying and making things doable and fun, even the systems, and adding a bit of confidence.
Her signature process leads them to find success on their terms and, ultimately, joy and freedom in life and business.
After graduating from Dartmouth College and marrying the guy that lived down the hall, she and her husband settled in Indianapolis.
Over the last few decades, she has started three successful businesses and ultimately became a certified business and life coach, all while raising two kids, now ages 21 and 18, and several giant puppies.
Connect with Andrea Liebross:
- Website: andrealiebross.com
- Instagram: @andrea.liebross.coaching
- Podcast & Quizzes: andrealiebross.com/links
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Differentiate between mentors, coaches, and counselors and assess what you need
- Recognize the three elements that make a successful person
- Discover how to overcome your first hurdle of starting your own business without falling into mindset traps in 4 steps
Check out the show notes >>> Top Secrets and Winning Mindset Behind a Wildly Successful Business Owner with Andrea Liebross
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- NEW!! Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I Had Known When I Started My Career
Join the Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Enroll in Business of Design with Kimberly Seldon or DesignYou with Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics.
DM me on Instagram at @rwarddesign if you have a burning question.
Leave me a rating and review! Click here.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Have you ever felt hesitant to ask for help? You’re not alone; I used to hesitate to ask for help too. But I realized that there is power in asking for help.
Imagine how wonderful it would be to no longer worry about having all the answers or wondering if asking for advice will be viewed negatively. You can eliminate these doubts and worries with the help of a coach, who can give you tailored advice based on expertise and past success from other clients. As a result, there will be more interesting conversations that can lead to more effective solutions than if done alone.
Coaching is an effective way to gain insight and guidance on personal and professional goals. You can unlock your potential by exploring yourself deeper. When you work with a coach, you will be challenged in your thinking, pushed to take actionable steps toward reaching success, and provided with an encouraging support system.
Take advantage of today's episode about the power of coaching and access both the programs I am part of, as well as my own programs, to start unlocking your potential today!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Identify the value and power of coaching
- Learn from my experiences with different coaching programs
- Examine the misconceptions about life coaching and discover what they help you with
Check out the show notes >>> Want to Elevate Your Interior Design Business? The Power of Coaching for Success
Links Mentioned:
- Blogging Your Way
- Business of Design with Kimberly Seldon
- DesignYou with Tobi Fairley
- Find Your Voice with Bethany Wrede Peterson
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- NEW!! Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I Had Known When I Started My Career
Join the Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Enroll in Business of Design with Kimberly Seldon or DesignYou with Tobi Fairley today to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics.
DM me on Instagram at @rwarddesign if you have a burning question.
Leave me a rating and review! Click here.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Can't decide between a four-year and a two-year interior design degree?
It is important to remember that both degree programs have advantages and disadvantages, so consider your personal goals and circumstances before choosing between them.
And who better to discuss this than Jill Hornbeck? Her advice will help you decide based on your unique needs and aspirations.
Explore your options with Jill as she shares her Interior Design, Marketing, and Teaching expertise to help you determine which degree is best for you.
Featured Guest:
Jill Hornbeck has always dreamed of becoming an architect but found working with colors and furniture more interesting than designing homes and buildings. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Interior Design from UC Davis and an MBA in Marketing from Cal State East Bay. In 1992, she founded Everett Interiors in Livermore and has taught at Las Positas College since 2001.
After UC Davis, she worked at an interior design firm doing model homes and residential design. She then worked for a homebuilding company as a marketing coordinator in the sales office doing graphics and public relations. Along with teaching at LPC and running her own interior design business, she's also a mom of three.
Her advice to potential students is "to get the experience right away. There is a lot of awareness about this industry thanks to HGTV and you need to show that you understand it's more than just putting samples on a board. The products in Interior Design are more complex than people realize. So, having experience with products and clients will help you build confidence in your design skills and your ability to communicate with the many people you will encounter."
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Identify the skills you need to develop while getting experience as an interior designer
- Discover the 3 steps you can take to prepare for your dream job
- Examine the number one question: Which degree program should you take and why?
Check out the show notes >>> Choosing Between 2-Year and 4-Year? What to Look For in an Interior Design Degree
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- NEW!! Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I Had Known When I Started My Career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Join Business of Design or DesignYou to scale your interior design business!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics.
DM me on Instagram at @rwarddesign if you have a burning question.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Do you want to learn about the technical side of design and make an interior design space plan for your client's project?
Everyone can enjoy an interior designer's expertise in organizing and utilizing home space. But, if you're unfamiliar with Interior Design Space Planning, you may feel daunted by the task!
It is important to assess space and apply design principles that reflect your client's style and lifestyle. So here are some tips to help you create a space plan that makes your client's home look beautiful AND functional!
Don’t wait any longer – find out more by listening to this episode. Let me brush the surface and share a few tips so you can get started today.
This requires practice and experience, so I recommend that you do it before you take on your first client. Use this opportunity to space plan your home and run different scenarios.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn about what Interior Design Space Planning is, its importance, and the 4 steps you can take to get started
- Create your first interior design space plan with the 9 tips for designing efficient spaces
- Analyze the different space planning software options available to you and choose the ones best suited to your needs
Check out the show notes >>> 4 Steps to Create an Interior Design Space Plan For Your Project
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- NEW!! Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I started my career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Listen to Related Episode:
- Episode 28: Designing Your Success: Finding the Right Niche in Your Interior Design Career with Yvonne Harty
- Episode 17: 23 Best Books Every Interior Designer Should Have for Business & Personal Growth
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Click here.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
On the surface, the world of aircraft & aviation seems light years away from the creativity and aesthetics of interior design, but today's guest, who dared to explore beyond the surface and pursued a long-hidden passion found a connection. It was that connection that made her thrive in her second career as an Interior Designer.
Join me in this week’s episode as Yvonne Harty, a NorCal Award-winning Luxury Interior Designer shares her journey of leaving her 20-year career in aviation, enrolling in a design school, overcoming challenges, discovering her niche in kitchen and bath design, and finding a renewed sense of fulfillment in her second career.
Featured Guest:
Yvonne Harty started Harty Interiors three years ago designing personalized and functional spaces in the greater Sacramento area.
Originally from Germany, where she began a beloved 20-year career in aviation, Yvonne’s passion for Interior Design was ignited when she decided to build her own home.
After moving to the US about 11 years ago, she had to start looking for a new career. While she continued her aviation career in the Sacramento area, she decided it was time to explore her talents by enrolling in a formal design school.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Find out the main challenge a new interior designer face so you can avoid it
- Learn the benefits of having a coach in your interior design career or business
- Discover how staying on your lane attracts the type of clients or projects you want to work with
Check out the show notes >>> Designing Your Success: Finding the Right Niche in Your Interior Design Career
NEXT STEPS
Grab your freebies:
- NEW!! Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I started my career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.comto learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Is picking an interior design niche challenging for you? Don’t worry; I find it challenging, too. Why? Because there are a lot of options to choose from and a lot of factors to consider.
Like this one: Do you have to be passionate about it? Because if you don't have the passion for it, why bother going into it, right? Why spend time, energy, and effort on something that does not satisfy you?
To some, it wasn't even necessary. You can start your interior design career without it. Even me! I’ve always thought of myself as a generalist and was surprised to find out that I have a niche, too, now that I think about it.
This episode may be challenging but don’t worry. I’ve got you covered. Will share with you the pros and cons of having a niche, my niche-related realization, as well as different niches you can try out.
Also, thank you, Sophia, for listening in from Hungary. I love hearing all the feedback and seeing people worldwide listen in and discover if Interior Design is the career for them. Keep them coming!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn how to rethink your interior design niche
- Discover the different niche areas and interior design projects you can do
- Find out the 3 steps you can take after choosing a niche
Check out the show notes >>> Can’t Decide on Your Specialty? The Different Interior Design Niche Markets You Can Choose From
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebie:
- NEW!! Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I started my career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
What makes a great interior designer? Is it solely based on creativity? Or skills?
In part two of my conversation with Lindsay Kjellberg of LHK Interiors, she shares two essential skills a successful interior designer must have and her own experiences, including her mistakes and what she learned from them.
Whether you have kids or not, having these skills will help you set your interior design career for success. Go listen to hear all her great advice!
About the Guest:
In 2004, Lindsay Harker Kjellberg founded LHK Interiors as the Principal Designer. Based in Modesto, California, they specialize in custom residential design with extensive experience in kitchen and bathroom remodeling. Their goal is to build long-term relationships with their customers. Whether it is for entertaining friends and family or conducting business, they are dedicated to creating a spectacular space for each client while striving for a “worry-free” design. By walking their clients through New Builds, Remodels, Staging, and Decorating, every project is unique and exciting from conception to execution.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover what Lindsay wishes she had known when she started her interior design career.
- Learn the 3 benefits of knowing how to run a business.
- Find out how to vet your A-Team
Check out the show notes >>> How to Get the Best of Both Worlds of Career and Parenthood Through Interior Design With Lindsay Kjellberg Part 2
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebie:
- NEW!! Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I started my career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Listen to Related Episode:
Episode 24: How to Get the Best of Both Worlds of Career and Parenthood Through Interior Design With Lindsay Kjellberg Part 1
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/design-curious-interior-design-podcast-interior-design/id1639838828
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com (https://rwarddesign.com/) to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you interested in interior design but don't have the time to attend school full-time?
You don't have to worry - there are several masterclasses and courses you can take to jumpstart your interior design career! Best of all, these classes do not require you to be on campus. Learning from home will make this exciting journey more convenient for you.
We are also celebrating this week. Why? Along with Galentine's Day and Valentine's Day, it's my birthday on the 15th! So to celebrate my birthday, I'm giving you a list of courses you can take. It's all here, so you no longer have to scour multiple websites to find which course works best for you. Your path toward success begins right here!
Listen now to my latest episode and celebrate my birthday with me to get access to the amazing gifts I've prepared just for YOU today!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Know the 5 courses you can take to start an interior design career
- Find out the 7 Principles of Design
- Discover the 3 reasons why taking a CAD class is essential to becoming a designer
Check out the show notes >>> 5 Courses You Must Take To Kickstart Your Interior Design Career
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- NEW!! Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I started my career
Listen to Related Episodes:
- Episode 1: Interior Design: An Introduction & the 3 Paths You Can Take To Get There
- Episode 23: The Roadmap to Becoming an Interior Designer
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/design-curious-interior-design-podcast-interior-design/id1639838828
Visit my website atrwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Are you an interior designer juggling your career or business and family life?
It's no secret that being a parent and having a career or owning a business can be overwhelming. But it doesn't have to be this way!
In today's episode, Lindsay, my special guest, wants to show you how having both is possible with the right strategies in place. She will help you navigate work-life balance with practical tips on how to handle your projects and clients, as well as how to get your kids involved in your business.
So listen and learn from Lindsay how to be a master of parenting and running an interior design career or business at the same time!
Featured Guest:
In 2004, Lindsay Harker Kjellberg founded LHK Interiors as the Principal Designer. Based in Modesto, California, they specialize in custom residential design with extensive experience in kitchen and bathroom remodeling. Their goal is to build long-term relationships with their customers. Whether it is for entertaining friends and family or conducting business, they are dedicated to creating a spectacular space for each client while striving for a “worry-free” design. By walking their clients through New Builds, Remodels, Staging, and Decorating, every project is unique and exciting from conception to execution.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover how to set boundaries with clients instead of being at their beck and call
- Find out what is essential to scaling your interior design business
- Learn why making hard choices is the key to work-life balance and two (2) surprising yet sweet rewards of being a working mom
Check out the show notes >>> How to Get the Best of Both Worlds of Career and Parenthood Through Interior Design With Lindsay Kjellberg Part 1
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
- NEW!! Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
- 3 Things I Wish I had known when I started my career
Join the Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Listen to Related Episode:
Episode 05: The Do’s and Don’ts of Interior Design Internships
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at @rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Click here.
Visit my website at rwarddesign.com to learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
When does a career in interior design begin? Is it when you enroll in classes or get hired as an intern?
Well, your interior design journey starts way earlier than that. It is when you decide it is the career you want.
Then, what are your next steps after deciding you are interested in interior design?
In this episode, I share the roadmap I created to help you plan for your dream career in interior design. It’s a free resource to help you take the next steps in your journey to interior design.
With this roadmap, you won't need to worry about gaps in knowledge or skills you will need to succeed.
Check this episode out to learn about the roadmap to becoming an interior designer so you can begin to move toward a fulfilling future today!
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Find out the steps you need to take to be a successful interior designer
- Discover why it’s necessary to apply for an internship with an interior designer
- Learn more about the 7 junior designer roles and responsibilities
Check out the show notes >>> The Roadmap to Becoming an Interior Designer
NEXT STEPS:
Grab your freebies:
NEW!! Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design
3 Things I Wish I had known when I started my career
Join theDesign Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!
Listen to Related Episode:
Ep05: The Do’s and Don’ts of Interior Design Internships
Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com if you have suggested topics
DM me on Instagram at@rwarddesign if you have a burning question
Leave me a rating and review! Clickhere.
Visit my website atrwarddesign.comto learn more about my services
Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...
Is it possible to learn and grow as an interior designer, even if you've been in the field for a while? Absolutely! Ellen Walker, today's special guest, is a testament to this.
She has been an inspiration to watch as she shares her expertise and journey to becoming an award-winning interior designer. It's helpful to hear how everybody achieves success since everyone's story is different.
It's been a long and challenging journey for her. From having her interior design dream dismissed as a legitimate career to starting her own company as a side hustle, she's now a principal interior designer getting awards for her contributions.
So here's Ellen's story of struggle and success to inspire you and help you decide if interior design is the right career path for you.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Find out her practical advice for up-and-coming interior designers
- Discover the 6 reasons why she struggled in the confidence area as an interior designer and the one thing that helped her fix it
- Learn what up-and-coming interior designers need to know about having a career as an interior designer
Check out the show notes >>> The Secret Sauce to Becoming an Award-Winning Full-Service Interior Designer with Ellen Walker
Featured Guest:
Ellen Walker from Red Deer County in Alberta Canada is the Principal Interior Designer of Ellen Walker Design Group. She loves to travel and draws inspiration from nature, art, architecture, beautiful fabrics, and furniture wherever she happens to be. Interior design, however, encompasses more than a visual aesthetic. Great design is characterized by functionality, timeless style, and a positive emotional connection with those who use the space.
She is an industry leader in incorporating the psychology of design into her projects and solves people's design problems. She has access to design, psychology, and environment experts, allowing her to deeply understand what people need in their spaces to live better.
Throughout the years, she's worked on renovations ranging from one room to a full house. In addition, she's worked on new builds that vary from small to large projects in residential and commercial spaces. She's obsessed with creating and remodeling spaces of all stories.
Connect with Me:
- Website: rwarddesign.com
- Email Add: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- IG: @rwarddesign
Thanks for listening. If you love this episode, please leave a rating and a review. This helps me reach other curious creatives like you. If you have a topic request or would like to contact me, email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com
Ever wonder why interior designers pick between residential and commercial design?
In today's episode, I give you the inside scoop on what it's like to be a residential interior designer. Based on my experience, I outline the pros and cons of working with clients one-on-one.
The concept of home and nurturing connects with me deeply and personally, which helps me be passionate about residential interior design and want to help other people have homes they love.
If you need help deciding between residential and commercial interior design, listen to this episode to help you decide which interior design career suits you best.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Understand the pros and cons of residential interior design
- Learn the 3 reasons why a residential interior design resonates with me so much
- Discover the essential parts of working with residential design clients
Check out the show notes >>> Why I Chose Residential Interior Design Over Commercial: The Pros and Cons
Connect With Me:
- Website: rwarddesign.com
- Email Add: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- IG: @rwarddesign
Thanks for listening. If you love this episode, please leave a rating and a review. This helps me reach other curious creatives like you. If you have a topic request or would like to contact me, email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com
Did you know that your own personal experiences can help you niche down and speak authentically to the interior design market you serve? It’s all about really understanding their needs and who better understands them is one of their own.
Today's special guest, Kricia Palmer, is a doctor turned interior designer and life coach who left clinical medicine to pursue her Interior Design degree. Through her business, House Calls for Physicians, she now helps other busy women physicians create inspiring, mindful homes, so they can kick back, relax, and enjoy life's moments in them.
She also has a course where she teaches women physicians how to be designers and design their homes for themselves. So if you want to learn how to niche down & serve your tribe, grow, and pivot your interior design business to work for you, check out her episode.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Find out ways you can turn Facebook community membership into your course launchpad
- Discover how her internship helped her build her own interior design business
- Learn three (3) tips on how to switch careers with ease
Check out the show notes >>> Do You Have a Passion for Interior Design but Scared to Make the Switch? How to Take the Leap with Kricia Palmer
Featured Guest:
Kricia Palmer is a physician, interior designer, and certified life coach. By creating intentionally designed spaces, she helps busy women physicians make coming home the most enjoyable part of their day. She left pediatric allergy and immunology after practicing for several years to pursue her creative passion by becoming an interior designer. With all the knowledge and experience she gained as a physician, she is now empowering women doctors to put themselves first. Additionally, she is creating a more mindful work environment for them.
She has also discovered how many other physicians crave creative outlets in the past few years. As part of her signature course, Design Academy, she not only offers 1:1 design services, but she teaches interior design as well. Through her business, House Calls for Physicians, Kricia has become known as the interior designer for women physicians and has created magazine-worthy spaces that offer inspiration from busy lives for clients across the country. Besides creating drawings and fabric samples, she enjoys spending time with her family, working at F45, dancing, reading, and experimenting with acrylics.
Connect With Me:
- Website: rwarddesign.com
- Email Add: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- IG: @rwarddesign
Thanks for listening. If you love this episode, please leave a rating and a review. This helps me reach other curious creatives like you. If you have a topic request or would like to contact me, email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com
Do you want to start 2023 right?
I know you do, and I want you to win the new year. That's why, in this episode, I'm sharing my planning process. It's the same process I took to accomplish all six goals I had written down for my interior design business for 2022. But that didn’t happen by accident.
If you want to learn what goals are worth setting for your interior design career or business, how to achieve them, and simply to get inspired to start your 2023 right, this is a must-listen.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover how to plan for your short and long-term goals
- Find out why people might shy away from making goals and what to do instead
- Learn about making S.M.A.R.T. and S.M.A.R.T.E.R. goals
Check out the show notes >>> Ready to Take on the New Year? How to Turn Your Dreams and Goals into Reality This 2023
Looking for accountability on your goals? Send them here >>> podcast@rwarddesign.com
Connect With Me:
- Website: rwarddesign.com
- Email Add: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- IG: @rwarddesign
Thanks for listening. If you love this episode, please leave a rating and a review. This helps me reach other curious creatives like you. If you have a topic request or would like to contact me, email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com
Have you been thinking of pivoting but are still unsure? Perhaps, you want to start a podcast? Well, you'll find this episode helpful if you need help like I was. Why? Because my podcast coach is here to share her inspiring interior design journey with us.
Instead of getting a degree, Bethany began her interior design career as an intern. What gave her the confidence to do this? Her learning-by-doing approach to her interior design career. It was based on the belief that disciplines are all-encompassing.
The result? Since she didn't let what she lacked stop her from becoming an interior designer, she started her own business and podcasts geared toward helping others in the field.
The interior design field can also be a stepping stone into another career. So if you need some inspiration on when and how to pivot your interior design, this one is for you.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn the advantages of having the same life experiences as your target market
- Find out how to get into interior design without a degree and the career paths you can take after working as an interior designer
- Discover the 4 questions you need to ask to craft your brand message
Check out the show notes >>> The Embrace of Change: How An Interior Designer Pivots to Become a Podcast & Messaging Coach with Bethany Wrede Peterson
Featured Guest:
Bethany Wrede Peterson is an interior designer turned podcast and messaging coach. Her goal is to help interior designers and personal brands find their voice to become profitable, lead with confidence, and cultivate a sense of purpose. She began her design and self-development podcast, Arrived, in 2019 to help single men find their voice at home and in their relationships.
Following the first pandemic lockdown that temporarily shattered the interior design industry in 2020, Bethany received multiple requests to help other peers launch podcasts. Her podcast and coaching needed a narrative more closely aligned with her own story.
Her online course and membership community, Find Your Voice, helps creatives discover their ‘Why’, find their voice, and launch their podcast in eight weeks. Her voice and work have appeared in The Guardian, Wallpaper | Architectural Digest, onlinecoursetalks.com, LuAnn Nigera's Well-Designed Business, I Am CEO, Subkit, and Minnesota AM 950 Radio, with her podcast Arrived and Arrive Daily streamed in 25 countries.
Connect With Me:
- Website: rwarddesign.com
- Email Add: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- IG: @rwarddesign
Thanks for listening. If you love this episode, please leave a rating and a review. This helps me reach other curious creatives like you. If you have a topic request or would like to contact me, send me an email at podcast@rwarddesign.com
Need help deciding what to put on your Christmas wish list?
Since fourth grade, I have always enjoyed learning and reading. The hope of understanding, growing, transforming, and changing is essential and inspiring. So it's great to see others embrace that growth mindset as well.
In today's episode, I share 23 books you should check to know more about interior design as a career and a business. These books are great for your holiday wish list, as they are a must-read if you are starting out in interior design or building a business around it.
Is there a book you'd recommend that I should read? Feel free to send them my way. Reading new books is one of my favorite things to do, and I would love to add that to my list.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Find out how audiobooks can help you get into the habit of reading
- Learn about the 23 books I recommend for interior design, business, money mindset, and personal development.
- Find out why reading is better than searching online for information
Check out the show notes >>> 23 Best Books Every Interior Designer Should Have for Business & Personal Growth
**Holiday Season Offer:
Three ways to get a 30-minute one-on-call with me to ask me questions about starting a career in interior design or launching your own business**
- Sign up for My Design Mentor >>> https://rwarddesign.com/my-design-mentor/
- Purchase the Business Starter Kit within My Design Mentor
- Refer a friend to My Design Mentor and get the bonus when they sign up
Connect With Me:
- Website: rwarddesign.com
- Email Add: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- IG: @rwarddesign
Thanks for listening. If you love this episode, please leave a rating and a review. This helps me reach other curious creatives like you. If you have a topic request or would like to contact me, email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com
Have you ever felt like you're all alone on your interior design journey? It's like there need to be more hours in the day to accomplish everything, yet you feel tempted to take on everybody as a client even though it's not a good fit.
If you have difficulties saying no, want to focus on serving the right clients, and want more freedom and control over the little time you have, this is where support people come into play.
When you start a business, saying 'no' to things can be challenging. Having someone help you carve out what's ideal is crucial since saying 'no' to some things allows you to say 'yes' to what's right.
In today's episode, I bring in Porsche Williams, a natural at being a support person. Her team handles all my client intake calls and does my client gifting, which has been so helpful for my business.
If you are looking for ways to outsource as you're getting your business started or enhancing your customer service, this episode is for you.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Find out how to know if your client is a good fit
- Learn the four (4) reasons why you should outsource your client intake
- Discover why it’s important to include gifting as part of your business model
Check out the show notes >>> How Outsourcing Client Intake Helps Interior Designers Convert and Retain Clients with Porsche Williams
Holiday Season Offer:Get the chance to win a 30-minute bonus one-on-one call with me! Click here >>> rwarddesign.com/my-design-mentor/
FREE Resource:Check out the book Who Not How by Dan Sullivan. Click here >>> whonothow.com/
Thanks for listening. If you love this episode, please leave a rating and a review. This helps me reach other curious creatives like you. If you have a topic request or would like to contact me, send me an email at podcast@rwarddesign.com
Are you planning to launch your interior design business?
Starting a business can be an overwhelming process, but don't worry - I have a list of action items (a part of the business starter checklist from My Design Mentor) that’ll help you get started, as well as some helpful tips on the tasks you'll need to complete to make your business dreams a reality.
This is the business starter kit I wish I had when I was starting, and it’s all ready to help you with starting your own. Well, you're one step closer to creating your very own business! So what are you waiting for? Listen to this episode to glimpse how easy it can be to set up your own business.
Also, enroll in My Design Mentor and choose the optional upgrade to access The Business Starter Kit for the complete checklist on how to start a business.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn what is in My Design Mentor Business Starter Kit
- Discover the importance of separating your business from personal
- Find out the pros and cons of using your name as your business name
Check out the show notes >>> An Experts' Startup Checklist to Effectively Launch Your Interior Design Business
Get the Interior Designers' business starter checklist to get your business going. Sign up for the Design Mentor >>> rwarddesign.com/my-design-mentor/
Resource:
- Check out the book Profit First: Transform Your Business from a Cash-Eating Monster to a Money-Making Machine by Mike Michalowicz >>> mikemichalowicz.com/profit-first/
Connect With Me:
- Website: rwarddesign.com
- Email Add: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- IG: @rwarddesign
Thanks for listening. If you love this episode, please leave a rating and a review. This helps me reach other curious creatives like you. If you have a topic request or would like to contact me, email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com
How do interior designers create beautiful and functional rooms? This week's guest, Martha Lowry, approaches interior design using mathematics! For some people like Martha, the design and math parts of her brain are intertwined.
But despite successful careers in mathematics, computing, cooking, and teaching, why did she transition into interior design? Why could not she get past the desire to go into interior design? What made her stay in interior design, doing it for 29 years now?
If you are considering a change of career to interior design, this episode is a must-listen. What do you need to know before you make the switch? Would it be worth your time and money? All these and more in today's episode.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn about the challenges you'll face as an interior designer
- Know the four questions you should ask yourself before you leap into interior design
- Discover who else should be a part of your team other than tradespeople
Check show notes >>> Considering a Career Change? How to Transition to an Interior Design Career With Martha Lowry
Black Friday and Holiday Season Offer:Sign up for My Design Mentor today and get access to our amazing bonuses! Click here >>> rwarddesign.com/my-design-mentor
Connect With Me:Website: rwarddesign.com
Email Add: podcast@rwarddesign.com
IG: @rwarddesign
Thanks for listening. If you love this episode, please leave a rating and a review. This helps me reach other curious creatives like you. If you have a topic request or would like to contact me, email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com
Do you like the smell of new furniture?
Does it give you happy feelings whenever you're around them?
Wouldn't it be nice to hang out with other designers after exploring showrooms?
If you are an Interior Designer, whether you work for a firm, are self-employed, or are a student, it is important to attend furniture markets like High Point Market. This market is the largest in America, occurring twice a year in North Carolina. It took me about 15 years to get to High Point Market, but I see myself going every couple of years.
Las Vegas does its markets in winter and summer, High Point does theirs in spring and fall, while the Dallas market is in January, which is known for its lighting shows.
While attending all of them is unnecessary because things don't change that much and it can add up too because you're paying for flights, hotels, and food, I find myself going to one of these markets about once a year or whenever I have a specific vendor I'm after.
So if you're on the fence about going to these markets, if you are curious about the activities and events that take place there, or if you want to know tips and tricks for making the most of your experience at the market, this episode is for you.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn from my own High Point Market experience
- Discover the 7 reasons why you must go to the High Point Market
- Know ways you can prepare for High Point Market
Check show notes >>> Getting the Most Out of Your High Point Market Visit
Black Friday and Holiday Season Offer:
Sign up for My Design Mentor today and get access to our amazing bonuses! Click here >>> rwarddesign.com/my-design-mentor
Connect With Me:
Website: rwarddesign.com
Email Add: podcast@rwarddesign.com
IG: @rwarddesign
Have you ever listened to a podcast and thought, "Hey, I feel the same way, too! I could do that"? That's how Jodie Carter felt when she first heard Kimberley Seldon on the Business of Design podcast. An amazing designer with a ton of knowledge to share, she has partnered with the Business of Design coaching program to help others start their own interior design businesses.
If you're like her, who loves learning by doing, think about where you could be in the next 5 or 10 years. What if you could manifest your dreams into reality? It's definitely possible, and Jodie is living proof of that. She has an amazing approach to her business and believes in abundance and getting what she wants.
So what are you waiting for? Listen to learn more about Jodie's career journey in interior design and how having a "can-do" attitude gave her an edge over other designers.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover how to turn your passion into a successful career in interior design
- Find out how to start your interior design career backward through learning by doing
- Learn the 7 ways you can avoid experiencing extreme highs and lows when starting your interior design business
Check out the show notes >>> Why Attitude and Will Are All You Need To Be A Successful Interior Designer
Black Friday and Holiday Season Offer:
Sign up for My Design Mentor today to win a 30-minute bonus one-on-one call with me! This will give you the chance to ask all of your questions about starting out in your career. Lock in your rate now before prices increase in January.
My Design Mentor:rwarddesign.com/my-design-mentor/
FREE Resource:
Business of Design Podcast >>> businessofdesign.com/podcast/
Connect With Me:Website: rwarddesign.com
Email Add: podcast@rwarddesign.com
IG: @rwarddesign
Would you believe me if I tell you I still struggle with imposter syndrome? Despite graduating, getting my license, starting my own interior design business, and getting clients, it still affects my confidence. Honestly, it’s a mindset issue that requires ongoing management.
I wish it only happens in the beginning, you know? Like a right of passage, but no. It crops up at different points in my career as an interior designer. Good thing there are ways to help manage it.
You have a talent, creative one, and you need to share it with your clients. So be confident about that because I know you can do it. Listen to this week’s episode to learn how to deal with imposter syndrome and increase your confidence.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Know what imposter syndrome is and how it affects your confidence factor
- Identify the areas of your interior design career where imposter syndrome tends to show up
- Get effective tips for overcoming imposter syndrome before it breaks your confidence
Check out the show notes >>> Is Imposter Syndrome Holding Back Your Interior Design Career? The Best Way to Deal With It
FREE Resource:Episode 03: Scared to Start a Career in Interior Design? The Right Mindset That Can Help You Overcome Fear
Check out these books and podcasts about dealing with Imposter Syndrome
- You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life by Jen Cincero
- The Gifts of Imperfection: Let Go of Who You Think You're Supposed to Be and Embrace Who You Are by Brene Brown
- Steps to Overcome Imposter Syndrome >>> drshannonirvine.com/what-do-you-believe-success-secret-4-with-dr-shannon-irvine/
- What do you believe?: Success Secret #4 with Dr. Shannon Irvine >>> chalene.com/podcasts/overcome-imposter-syndrome/
Connect With Me:
Website: rwarddesign.com
Email Add: contact@rwarddesign.com
IG: @rwarddesign
Are you a generalist interior designer who takes on anyone and everyone as a client? Do you get distracted by the latest interior design trends you tend to bounce around a lot? Is it always a matter of taking any job opportunity you can get, even if it isn't sustainable?
I get it. I fell for those traps too when I started. And the problem with being a generalist is you don’t honor what you’re good at. You often get distracted instead of focusing on what you do best. It’s okay to an extent to serve everybody only if you want to experience certain clients or certain projects to find out if it’s something you really want to get into or not. But after you weed them out, what do you do next?
Join me in this week’s episode as I discuss with Liz Toombs how she got into a unique niche based on her college experience, and share how she uses her niche to market and connect with people all over the country.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Find out why being a specialist works way better in any business compared to being a generalist
- Learn how to start a business during a recession or a pandemic without investors or loans
- Get valuable tips you can use if you are starting out on your own, with a small business, or just getting into the interior design career
Check out the show notes >>> The Art of Marrying Your Passion & Talent for Interior Design To Sell to a Niche Market With Confidence
FREE Resource:
- What Liz requires all her interns to read: Great on the Job Book by Jodi Glickman >>> greatonthejob.com/jodi-glickman
- The Design Curious Podcast episode Liz requires her interns to listen to >>> rwarddesign.com/episodes/the-dos-and-donts-of-interior-design-internships/
- Check out Liz's podcast about all things Greek housing, decorating, and beyond Sorority Chat >>> podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sorority-chat/id1623657154
- Learn the art of interior decorating for sororities: Interior Decorating 101: Sorority Edition >>> id101-sororityedition.teachable.com/
- Curious about how Liz and I met? Check this out >>> tobifairley.com/
Connect With Me:
- Website: rwarddesign.com
- Email Add: contact@rwarddesign.com
- IG: @rwarddesign
When I started my interior design career, I was clueless about some things. It was a bit overwhelming. To give you at least an overview of what you are getting yourself into, I share some information with you.
Whether you are applying or interning for a job in an interior design firm, want to start your own design business, or grow your firm into a larger company, this episode is for you.
Listen to understand the different teams and roles needed to operate an interior design business. I also share the many hats an interior designer solopreneur needs to wear. And if you are growing your firm into a larger company, these are the areas you can expand to and hire.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover what you're signing up for as an interior design solopreneur
- Find out what you need to hire first when starting an interior design business
- Understand the team structures and roles critical to building a design firm
Check out the show notes >>> Anatomy of an Interior Design Firm: Team Structure and Roles To Keep In Mind
Want to jumpstart your interior design career? Enroll in My Design Mentor >>> https://rwarddesign.com/my-design-mentor/
FREE Resource:
- Get direction and confidence boost to start your interior design career with these top three things I wish I had known when I started
Connect With Me:
- Website: rwarddesign.com
- Email Add: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- IG: @rwarddesign
Do you have a full-time career and want to launch your interior design business? Is it possible to make it happen even though you work 40 hours weekly? Perhaps you always wanted to be an interior designer but took a different career path for some reason.
Don't worry. My guest Andrea and I got you! Because in today's episode, she'll share how she juggled a full-time trading career with a side hustle in interior design. Not only that, but she also successfully transitioned into interior design as her second career during the pandemic.
How did she do it? Listen and learn from Andrea so you can finally pursue a career you love and are good at.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover how to start a side hustle while working a 40-hour workweek
- Learn how to use a blank sheet of paper to map out your day/week
- Find out the 3 easy steps to cope with being overwhelmed and having information overload
Check out the show notes >>> From Side Hustle to Full-Time Career: How to Start a Second Career as an Interior Designer with Andrea Reordan
Free Resource:
- Get the book - Don't Keep Your Day Job by Cathey Heller >>> www.dontkeepyourdayjob.com/book
- Listen to the podcast - Don't Keep Your Day Job by Cathey Heller
Connect With Me:
- Website: rwarddesign.com
- Email Add: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- IG: @rwarddesign
Do you have a design degree? How about an experience in graphic design, design studies, or interior architecture? Are you trying to pursue a career in interior design but not sure which expertise to pick?
Apart from one-to-one full-service design, there are a lot of other design careers out there, whether you're working for someone else or running your own business. It is not cut and dry because some options are obvious, while others may come as a surprise.
That is why in this episode, I share options you can check out to help you discover which design career is right for you.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Explore the different niches and specialties associated with residential design
- Find out the three reasons why interior designers branch out into creating their own products and furniture
- Discover five ways you can share your design expertise with the world
Check out the show notes >>> Getting Into Interior Design? 13 Careers Available for You
FREE Resource:
Get direction and confidence boost to start your interior design career with these top three things I wish I had known when I started.
Connect With Me:
- Website: rwarddesign.com
- Email Add: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- IG: @rwarddesign
Have you ever sketched a plan for your dream home? Do you give home styling advice to your friends? Perhaps you simply enjoy designing beautiful spaces. Whatever your creative passion is, you can turn it into a sustainable career and business in interior design.
The journey of our special guest, Tracy Dyck of S3 Interior Design, proves this. Her first kick at interior design started at about seven years old - from designing her first bedroom to creating spaces for her Barbies. Years later, she made her home sustainable using straw bales for the exterior walls.
Though her journey is full of twists and turns, it eventually led her back to interior design and building her business. It shows how we all developed and changed over time. It shows how it is possible to start thinking and going in one direction, but as you grow and learn, you can pivot and go in another that is still authentic.
If you are considering or have decided to follow your passion into a career as an interior designer, listen to this episode and learn Tracy's best practices and processes.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Discover Tracy’s 3-step process to prepare for a career in interior design
- Find out what made her decide against interior design right out of high school and what made her change her mind
- Learn the two prerequisites you should learn as an interior designer
Check out the show notes >>> How to Prepare: Turning Creative Passion to Sustainable Interior Design Career & Business With Tracy Dyck
FREE Resource:
Get direction and confidence boost to start your interior design career with these top three things I wish I had known when I started.
Connect With Me
- Website: rwarddesign.com
- Email Add: podcast@rwarddesign.com
- IG: @rwarddesign
In the interior design industry, internships are common. In fact, my design firm receives many requests for them. But why is an interior designing internship necessary? How does an intern approach it? What to expect from it? What should an intern do and not do to have a successful internship?
Today, I share the do’s and don’ts of an interior design internship and provide alternatives you can try to help jumpstart your interior design career. If you are looking for an internship, about to begin one, or currently working as an intern and want to maximize your experience, this episode is a must-listen.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode
- Learn how to succeed in your interior designing internship
- Watch out for the things you shouldn’t do as an intern
- Discover alternatives to interior designing internships
Check out the show notes >>> The Do’s and Don’ts of Interior Design Internships
Want to jumpstart your interior design career? Enroll in My Design Mentor
Connect With Me:
Website. rwarddesign.com
Email Add. contact@rwarddesign.com
IG. @rwarddesign
Is it possible to have a family and be a professional simultaneously? How do you succeed in interior design if you lack both the degree and experience? What is the ideal approach when couples run the same company?
Fueled by the desire to be more available for her kids, my guest Suzanne tried different careers, including real estate and staging, but realized she prefers working with people who want to stay in their homes instead of preparing them for the market.
Her company may have started slow and it may have taken her a long route to find success in her interior design career but 15 years and 5 employees later, they now have a business with a great team that’s transforming people's homes.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode
- Find out the 4 things you should know as an interior designer when you are just starting out
- Learn the 2 most challenging parts of her career and how she overcomes them
- Discover the alternative paths she took to launch her interior design career
Check out the show notes >>> How to Be a Successful Interior Designer Without the Degree and Experience With Suzanne Manlove
FREE Resource:
- Get direction and confidence boost to start your interior design career with these top three things I wish I had known when I started.
Connect With Me:
Website: rwarddesign.com
Email Add: podcast@rwarddesign.com
IG: @rwarddesign
What is fear? It's the single-most crippling feeling and thought that will leave you stuck at your unsatisfying job for far too long, keeping you from starting your passion today.
The thing is, fear when facing a career change is often brought up because you, like most people, are resistant to change.
I get it. Change is hard, but it's usually good.
So, if you're thinking about or already decided on changing your career or goals to be an interior designer, and are now facing an overwhelming and paralyzing fear you are making the wrong choice, this episode is for you.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn how to differentiate between circumstances you can control and those you cannot
- Find ways to start being intentional with your thoughts
- Discover the secret to never having to work a day in your life
Read the full show notes here
Join the Design Curious Podcast Launch Giveaway in 3 easy steps:
Step 1: Subscribe to Design Curious on Apple Podcasts or Follow on your favorite podcast platform
Step 2: Leave a Star Rating and Review on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser (if you're not an Apple user)
Step 3: Fill up this form to make your entry count >>> https://bit.ly/designcuriouslaunchgiveaway
Note: To validate your entry, post the screenshot of the action you did in Items #1 and #2 as a comment on the giveaway post.
Entries are accepted until Friday, 9/16/22 at 9 PM PST. The winners will be drawn at random on Saturday, 9/17/22 at 7 PM PST. Winners will be notified through email.
Free Resources:
- Learn more about the Thought Model Framework here
- Learn how to create thoughts that will serve your future here
- Get direction and confidence boost to start your interior design career with these top three things I wish I had known when I started.
Connect With Me:
Website: rwarddesign.com
Email Add: podcast@rwarddesign.com
IG: @rwarddesign
How does one start a career in interior design? Is it really required to have drawing skills to make it in this space? Do you really need to go to interior design school for it?
If these questions have been bugging you, don't worry. Because our guest for this episode shares her interior design journey that began only when she was already two years into college.
Would you believe it if I told you she couldn't draw, yet she enrolled in interior design? It's all because of one class that made her realize you can create wonders using a straight line.
So let’s explore Kelly Tivey's path into interior design as she talks about the five steps she took to be a successful interior designer.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn the different ways to keep learning outside of corporate training even after you have achieved success in interior design
- Discover two paths you can take if you don’t want to start your own interior design business
- Find out the four groups of people you should surround yourself with to get support in your career
Read the full show notes here
Join the Design Curious Podcast Launch Giveaway in 3 easy steps:
Step 1: Subscribe to Design Curious on Apple Podcasts or Follow on your favorite podcast platform
Step 2: Leave a Star Rating and Review on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser (if you're not an Apple user)
Step 3: Fill up this form to make your entry count >>> https://bit.ly/designcuriouslaunchgiveaway
Note: To validate your entry, post the screenshot of the action you did in Items #1 and #2 as a comment on the giveaway post.
Entries are accepted until Friday, 9/16/22 at 9 PM PST. The winners will be drawn at random on Saturday, 9/17/22 at 7 PM PST. Winners will be notified through email.
Free Resources:
- Get direction and confidence boost to start your interior design career with these top three things I wish I had known when I started.
Connect With Me:
Website: rwarddesign.com
Email Add: podcast@rwarddesign.com
IG: @rwarddesign
Did you know that Interior Designers are not the same as Interior Decorators, even though they’re being used interchangeably?
Did you know that by making your home the best it can be for your needs and tastes, you can go out into the world and be the best version of yourself? This is how you can improve people's lives through interior design.
In the first episode of Design Curious Podcast, discover why your surroundings matter and how beauty, intention, significance, and symmetry all work together to create an inviting, purposeful, and inspiring space.
Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:
- Learn what interior design is and what interior designers do
- Find out the difference between an interior designer and a decorator
- Discover three different paths you can take to get into interior design
Read the full show notes here
Join the Design Curious Podcast Launch Giveaway in 3 easy steps:
Step 1: Subscribe to Design Curious on Apple Podcasts or Follow on your favorite podcast platform
Step 2: Leave a Star Rating and Review on Apple Podcasts or Podchaser (if you're not an Apple user)
Step 3: Fill up this form to make your entry count >>> https://bit.ly/designcuriouslaunchgiveaway
Note: To validate your entry, post the screenshot of the action you did in Items #1 and #2 as a comment on the giveaway post.
Entries are accepted until Friday, 9/16/22 at 9 PM PST. The winners will be drawn at random on Saturday, 9/17/22 at 7 PM PST. Winners will be notified through email.
Free Resources:
- Get direction and confidence boost to start your interior design career with these top three things I wish I had known when I started.
- Need some motivation? Read Start With Why by Simon Sinek https://simonsinek.com/books/start-with-why/
Connect With Me:
Website: rwarddesign.com
Email Add: podcast@rwarddesign.com
IG: @rwarddesign
Hi! I am Rebecca Ward, your Interior Design Mentor & welcome to Design Curious Podcast. This show is for the curious creatives who want to learn what it takes to become an interior designer.
Whether you are curious about a career in interior design (maybe you are trying to decide your college major!) or you are stuck in a job and desire to make a career change (the one you love), this show is an excellent resource for weighing your options.
Each week, you will learn about schooling & internships and understand whether a four-year degree is necessary to become an interior designer or at what point you call yourself an interior designer. You will learn the practical skills every designer needs to develop regardless of whether you want to work for yourself or someone else. You will be encouraged and empowered to overcome your fears of change, failure, and money.
With my 20 years in the interior design industry (CEO and principal designer of Rebecca Ward designs), I will help you on the RIGHT WAY to get started once you decide to become an interior designer.
Everyone loves a good origin story. With my interview episodes with incredibly talented designers, you will get an inside scoop on how they launched their careers. Listening to them, you will discover more than one path to being a successful designer.
Subscribe now and discover if interior design is the career for you!
P.S. I would be SO thankful if you took a quick minute to share this podcast with another design curious creative and leave me a written review for the show over on Apple Podcast! It’s the number one way you can thank me, and hearing from you fills my heart with so much joy!
Connect with Me!
Website: rwarddesign.com
Email: contact@rwarddesign.com
Instagram: @rwarddesign
Pinterest: @rwarddesign