Design Biz Survival Guide

This is a special Industry Spotlight episode of Design Biz Survival Guide. This supplemental format is designed to highlight brands and partners that support designers both creatively and professionally. This is our way of sharing valuable information and resources for your business with you, our loyal listeners. Today we're speaking with interior designer and business coach Betsy Brandenburg. In this episode, Betsy shares her design business journey, what she learned along the way, and how it inspired her to develop her coaching program, Designer Sanity. We also discuss the pivotal moment when she replaced hope with real process, and Betsy shares the three simple but crucial deliverables that are the key to her signature design roadmap system, which revolutionized her business and can do the same for yours. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS Betsy shares her 30-year design journey and how running her own firm exposed the gap between knowing design and knowing how to manage projects effectively. She opens up about the painful project experience that forced her to confront disorganization, missed timelines, and damaged professional relationships. We discuss the turning point that led Betsy to replace "hope and a prayer" with a clear, repeatable process. Betsy breaks down the three core elements of her Design Roadmap System: what you're doing, when you're doing it, and how long it will take/how much it will cost. She explains how a simple roadmap can build client trust, improve contractor relationships, and reduce constant follow-up and confusion. Betsy shares how her process helped her scale from smaller jobs to high-end, multi-million-dollar projects with more confidence and control. We talk about why veteran designers often benefit the most from process refinement, delegation, and systems that allow them to reclaim their time. Betsy explains how Designer Sanity supports designers through courses, coaching, masterminds, and customized process development. NOTABLE QUOTES "I knew just hoping it would be okay was not going to work this time." "We all know if it's not on the calendar, it's not getting done, right?" "I just wish everybody knew how easy it is." "It's not a, getting organized is not an end in and of itself. We're doing this because we love design and we want to enjoy it and we want to enjoy our lives." SUPPORTING RESOURCES Designer Sanity Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designersanity/ SPONSOR LINKS Designer Sanity: https://www.designersanity.com/

Today we welcome Nicole Roe - Owner and Lead Designer at R. Nickson Interiors - a full-service residential and commercial design firm based in Central Florida. In this episode, Nicole shares her journey of growth and her love for construction and renovation. We also discuss her choice to commit to studio and warehouse space, and Nicole shares her strategy for getting her business in a financial position to support the overhead. If you're thinking about committing to a studio space, this episode is for you! SHOW HIGHLIGHTS Nicole shares how her background in construction shaped her confidence in renovation, new build, and large-scale project work. Rick and Nicole discuss the emotional and practical realities of investing in both warehouse and studio space. Nicole explains how opening her own receiving warehouse gave her team more control, efficiency, and profitability. The conversation explores the mindset shift required to support higher overhead and a more complex business model. Nicole offers insight into improving relationships with trades by leading with preparation, respect, and collaboration. They talk candidly about money mindset, pricing, cash flow, and the financial awareness needed to sustain growth. Nicole reflects on the role risk tolerance played in purchasing a commercial property for her design studio. She shares how wellness, sleep, and daily rituals have become essential to her long-term survival in the business. NOTABLE QUOTES "I was always very, very affected by the rooms I was in, the spaces I was in." "Entrepreneurship is in my blood." "It has to feel right and it also can't completely destroy your life if it doesn't work." "It is hard, it is very hard, and I think that people don't think about that going in, but I'm glad that you said that it's magical because it really is." SUPPORTING RESOURCES Nicole Roe / R. Nickson Interiors Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rnicksoninteriors R. Nickson Interiors website: https://rnicksoninteriors.com/ SPONSOR LINKS Design Manager / Design Spec: https://designspec.com/survivalguide Design Biz Retreat and the Business of Interiors UK Summit: https://designbizsurvivalguide.com/retreats-for-interior-designers/

Today we welcome Rebecca Hay—interior designer turned business coach and host of the Resilient by Design Podcast. In this episode, Rebecca shares how she discovered her passion for design and entrepreneurship and how she built her Toronto-based interior design business from the ground up. We also discuss Rebecca's biggest lessons learned along the way, including the value of systems and structure, how to build an informed and empowered team, and how to manage scope creep before it derails a project. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS Rebecca's unconventional journey from acting and restaurant work to launching a luxury interior design firm in Toronto The "budget client loop" and how referral patterns can quietly cap your growth Why systems and repeatable processes reduce decision fatigue and protect your creativity How creating SOPs transforms helpers into empowered team members The difference between being busy and being intentional in your business Why hiring before you feel ready can accelerate growth How to turn scope creep into an opportunity instead of a frustration Rebecca's transition from running a seven-figure design firm to becoming a full-time business coach NOTABLE QUOTES "Structure doesn't kill creativity like I thought it did. It actually protects it." "If you're not following your process, you're following your client's process." "If your team relies on you for every decision, you don't have a team, you have helpers." "Anytime you hear yourself either in your head or out loud use the word just—don't do it." SUPPORTING RESOURCES Rebecca Hay on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccahaydesigns/ Resilient by Design Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/resilientbydesignpodcast/ Rebecca Hay Designs: https://www.rebeccahaydesigns.com/ Rebecca Hay Coaching & Programs: https://rebeccahay.com/ SPONSOR LINKS Design Manager: https://designspec.com/survivalguide Design Biz Power Course – March 25th at Seattle Design Center: https://designbizsurvivalguide.com/interior-design-workshops/

This is a special Industry Spotlight episode of Design Biz Survival Guide. This supplemental format is designed to highlight brands and partners that support designers both creatively and professionally. This is our way of sharing valuable information and resources for your business with you, our loyal listeners. Today we're speaking with brand founder Jamie Stern and the brand's Creative Director, William Oberlin. In this episode, we explore the brand's rich history, their commitment to the design community, and their innovative approach to engaging designers. Jamie and William also share a community activation that is near and dear to their hearts: Woven Resistance, a rug design exhibition and auction featuring a diverse cross-section of the design community benefiting PFLAG and the Sierra Club. This impactful program is a brilliant example of the intersection of social consciousness and creative expression. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS The origin story of Jamie Stern and Jamie's nearly 50-year career in the design industry How the brand evolved from independent representation into a national, employee-based sales network The expansion of the Jamie Stern product lines: furniture, custom wool carpet, leather, and textiles The company's long-standing commitment to being trade-only The evolution of the New York showroom into a dynamic, event-driven space for the design community The inspiration behind Woven Resistance and its focus on activism through design The collaboration with 14 designers to create one-of-a-kind rug art pieces How the online auction and in-person events are raising funds for PFLAG and the Sierra Club NOTABLE QUOTES "On my 20th birthday was my first day in sales, and I've been doing this ever since." "We now have 14 designers who have created amazing rug art." "We don't want to be controversial, but… we just want to bring that into our business." "We're very successful. We're making beautiful product, but now we want to also guide it into doing the right thing." SUPPORTING RESOURCES View the online auction and support Woven Resistance: https://www.wovenresistancebyjamiestern.com/lite-ui/?controller=home Explore the Jamie Stern brand: https://jamiesterndesign.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamiesterndesign/

Today we welcome Stephanie Hunt, Owner and Principal Designer of The Flairhunter, a multifaceted interior design studio based in Park City, Utah. In this episode, Stephanie shares her exhilarating design journey and the many lessons, growth experiences, and revelations she's encountered along the way. We discuss the importance of saying yes to new opportunities, the value of continued education, and the power of remaining nimble as a business owner. Stephanie also shares how an open mind and an extraordinary client experience opened the door to opportunities beyond residential design, including aviation, maritime, and specialty commercial and hospitality projects. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS Stephanie reflects on celebrating 25 years in business and the evolution of her design career Why saying "yes" to opportunities before you feel ready can change the trajectory of your business How continued education and real-world experience shaped Stephanie's confidence as a designer The role mentorship played in her growth—and why she now prioritizes mentoring others Expanding beyond residential design into aviation, maritime, and specialty commercial projects The importance of being nimble, flexible, and open to change as a business owner How an extraordinary client experience can lead to unexpected and exciting opportunities NOTABLE QUOTES "Sometimes it takes hearing yourself say it out loud to realize you actually do have a story." "You can shift and evolve as many times as you want—that's your right as a business owner." "It really boils down to how you make a client feel." "Say yes to new opportunities, even if you're unsure, and trust that you'll figure it out." SUPPORTING RESOURCES Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theflairhunter/ Website: https://www.theflairhunter.com/ SPONSOR LINKS Design Manager: https://designspec.com/survivalguide Design Biz Power Course – March 25th at Seattle Design Center: https://designbizsurvivalguide.com/interior-design-workshops/

This is a special Industry Spotlight episode of Design Biz Survival Guide. This supplemental format is designed to highlight brands and partners that support designers both creatively and professionally. This is our way of sharing valuable information and resources for your business with you, our loyal listeners. Today we're speaking with Tammy Covington, President and CEO of High Point Market Authority. In this episode, Tammy shares the history of High Point Market and she pulls back the curtain to reveal the magic behind the industry's favorite furniture market. We also break down the role of High Point Market Authority and their contribution to the overall experience of market. Get ready to hear some surprising statistics, insider tips and strategies for navigating market, and their commitment to diversity through the launch of the Diversity Advocacy Alliance. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS The history of High Point Market and how it has evolved over 100+ years The vital role of High Point Market Authority in organizing and enhancing the Market experience Surprising stats: 180 buildings, 1,800+ exhibitors, and 75,000 attendees per Market An overview of the transportation system and concierge-level service for guests The launch and purpose of the Diversity Advocacy Alliance (DAA) Strategic partnerships, including with the NKBA, to support the "whole home" design approach Breakdown of Market attendees: 60% are designers, 40% are retailers and industry professionals Educational offerings including tours, peer-to-peer learning at The Point, and keynote presentations NOTABLE QUOTES "High Point Market is in the DNA of this area. The industry really lives here." "We want you to feel like you've received an ROI on your trip to High Point." "Designers now make up about 60% of our buyer base — and that's transformed how we shape the Market experience." "This market is built on relationships — it's about connection, storytelling, and access." SUPPORTING RESOURCES High Point Market Website High Point Market Instagram SPONSOR LINKS High Point Market  

Today we welcome Kaitlyn Wolfe, Founder and Principal Designer of her namesake design and construction studio based in Phoenix, Arizona. In this episode, Kaitlyn shares her multifaceted business model, her intention behind bringing construction services into the mix, and her approach to building a diverse team of leaders to support the brand. We also discuss her perspective on mindset and comparison, and how expanding one and limiting the other creates room for innovation, growth, and creativity. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS How Kaitlyn built a hybrid design-build firm and the importance of clearly defined processes for each The evolution of her business from solo design-build to a team of 30 with multiple divisions The mindset shift needed to scale a business and empower team leaders How she approaches the design process with construction costs in mind to manage expectations and budgets The origin of her retail concept "Shop My Warehouse" and her philosophy on curated, intentional materials Launching her own furniture and lighting line, and how travel inspires her product collections The importance of staying true to your "why" when making business decisions Why mindset is Kaitlyn's ultimate key to survival in the design business NOTABLE QUOTES "Just make it exist, and then we'll make it perfect over time." "It's like falling in love with a wedding dress you can't afford." "There's way more differences than there are similarities between a design process and a construction process." "Finding the confidence to delegate allows the business to grow and allows you to continue to be in your zone of genius." SUPPORTING RESOURCES Kaitlyn Wolfe Instagram: @kaitlynwolfe__ Kaitlyn Wolfe Website: kaitlynwolfe.com SPONSOR LINKS Design Manager Design Biz Retreat + Business of Interiors Community Summit  

Today we welcome Edith Ponciano, founder and principal of EP Atelier, a Nevada-based hospitality interior design studio specializing in sports venues. In this episode, Edith shares her ten-year journey of honing her skills, cultivating relationships, and building the confidence to launch her own interior design business. We unpack the complex niche of sports venue design and how the tenets of hospitality design have influenced the look, feel, and function of the world's leading sports arenas. Edith also shares the value of personal brand building and how it helps establish relevance and trust with existing and future clients. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS Edith's unique path into hospitality design and the inspiration behind EP Atelier How a decade at Gensler prepared her for entrepreneurship The intersection of hospitality and sports design, from club suites to locker rooms The evolving role of stadiums as year-round entertainment destinations Why personal brand building within a firm is vital for long-term success Insight into long-term, large-scale projects like Nissan Stadium in Nashville Navigating confidentiality in high-profile design work How Edith is mentoring the next generation of hospitality designers through her course NOTABLE QUOTES "Essentially, it is hospitality design, but just on a different scale." "Everything that you do really builds your future credibility." "Success is living a life that feels meaningful at the end of the day and not just productive." "I wish someone would have told me to treat myself like a brand earlier." SUPPORTING RESOURCES EP Atelier Website: epatelier.com Instagram: @ep_atelier_design Mastering Hospitality Interior Design Course: View Course Use code PODCAST10 for 10% off SPONSOR LINKS Design Manager Design Biz Retreat + Business of Interiors Continuity Summit  

Today we welcome Raili Clasen of Raili CA Design and Brooke Wagner of Brooke Wagner Design, both full-service interior design studios based in Corona del Mar, California. In this episode, Raili and Brooke share how they became neighbors, friends, and trusted business confidants—and the support they offer each other as they both navigate the ever-changing business of design. We discuss how they overcome comparison, kick competition to the curb, and focus on paying their individual strengths forward. Raili and Brooke also share their personal perspectives on the nuances of the business of design and the three key areas in which they support each other most. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS How a shared studio space sparked an organic friendship and business alliance. The power of in-person connections versus online relationships in building trust. Why vulnerability and consistency are essential to designer friendships. Insights on overcoming comparison and avoiding the social media trap. The three biggest pain points they support each other through: clients, vendors, and employees. How their monthly "Bitching & Biting" lunches help sustain business and personal growth. Advice for finding your own "design bestie" even if you're not local. Their personal definitions of success and survival in the business of design. NOTABLE QUOTES "You can't learn this in school. You have to live it, and having someone to share it with makes all the difference." "You don't need a posse—you need one or two great confidants you can trust." "There's enough business for everyone. If they picked Raili, then she was the right fit." "We cover clients, vendors, and employees—those are our top three pain points we support each other through." SUPPORTING RESOURCES Raili CA Design Website Brooke Wagner Design Website Raili Clasen on Instagram Brooke Wagner on Instagram SPONSOR LINKS Design Manager Daniel House Club Hooker Furnishings  

Today we welcome Elliot Barratt, co-founder of Elliott James Interiors, an award-winning, globally recognized interior architecture and design studio with offices in Dubai, London, and Singapore. In this episode, Elliot shares his design journey, influences, and the leap of faith that inspired the international brand. We also discuss the complexities of international design—from culture and lifestyle to budgets and expectations. Elliot also shares tips and advice for designers considering expanding their design business across borders. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS The leap of faith that led to launching a design firm in Singapore with no existing clientele How Elliot built an international presence through strategic networking and market research The importance of hiring local experts when expanding into new global markets Elliot's systemized approach to onboarding and client communication Differences in client expectations and design processes across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe Building personalized design concepts through deep client discovery and storytelling How travel continues to shape Elliot's aesthetic and influence his design philosophy Advice for designers considering global expansion of their design business NOTABLE QUOTES "I arrived with a laptop, a flashy website, and no SEO... and we had zero uptake for six months." "Only you know how to design your way. People may support the journey, but you're the vision." "It's so important to be respectful of people's budgets, whatever level that is. You are a steward of their investment." "If your system is right, you don't have to worry about the process—you can focus on culture and creativity." SUPPORTING RESOURCES Elliot James Interiors Website Elliot James Interiors on Instagram SPONSOR LINKS Design Manager Daniel House Club Hooker Furnishings

Today we're celebrating 200 episodes of Design Biz Survival Guide Podcast! Listen in as self-proclaimed "recovering interior designer," host, and founder Rick Campos recalls how it all began. Rick shares his most memorable interviews, lessons learned, and what's next for the DBSG platform. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS Rick's origin story and inspiration for launching the podcast in 2018 Early challenges and the evolution of the show's production and content Most memorable guest interviews and defining podcast moments The role of resilience and community in the entrepreneurial design journey Highlights from DBSG live events, retreats, and market panels Sneak peek into 2026 programming: UK Summit, retreats, and coaching expansion Reflections on imposter syndrome and the power of confidence Personal favorite quotes and lessons learned over 200 episodes NOTABLE QUOTES "Comparison is poison." "You simply can't survive in this business without confidence, but we're not all born with it. Some of us have to learn it." "This platform—the podcast, the coaching, the retreats, and workshops—has always been for you." "If the conversation has an impact on just one person out there, then you've done your job." SUPPORTING RESOURCES Join the RETREAT / SUMMIT interest list Catch up on past episodes Follow DBSG on Instagram SPONSOR LINKS Design Manager Daniel House Club Hooker Furnishings  

Today we welcome Ronniesha Rivera, owner of Alder & Stone Interiors — a full-service Washington-based interior design studio specializing in mountain homes for active families. In this episode, we discuss how a CAD class in high school inspired her to pursue a formal college education in design and launch her own design studio. We also explore the importance of developing an intentional business model that honors design, relationships, and family. Ronniesha is also the founder of Vetted by Design, and we talk about how a pain point in her own business journey prompted the creation of a vital resource that supports design professionals across the country. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS How early exposure to drafting and CAD set Ronniesha on the path to design Her transition from working in firms to launching her own business Rebranding from Studio 8 to Alder & Stone to reflect a refined design niche Building a business model around family, flexibility, and intentionality The financial and emotional toll of a bookkeeping mistake — and the lesson learned The creation and purpose of Vetted by Design as a trusted outsourcing resource Ronniesha's personal definition of success rooted in legacy and family support Her candid insight on resilience and learning through entrepreneurial missteps NOTABLE QUOTES "Owning an interior design business is one of the hardest things I've ever done. But I've learned that I can do hard things." "I wanted to work with people who got it — CEOs and business owners who understand the value of what we bring to the table." "Every failure is a lesson in disguise. Don't ignore it." "My idea of success is building something that allows me to step away and support my family in the future — that's the dream." SUPPORTING RESOURCES Alder & Stone Interiors Website: https://alder-and-stone.com Alder & Stone Interiors Instagram: @alderandstone_ Vetted by Design Website: https://vetted-bydesign.com Vetted by Design Instagram: @vettedbydesign SPONSOR LINKS Design Manager: https://www.designmanager.com Daniel House Club: https://danielhouse.club/pages/dbsg Hooker Furnishings: https://www.hookerfurnishings.com  

Today we welcome Gina Holz, principal of Gina Holz Designs based in Los Angeles, California. In this episode, Gina shares how an interaction with a professional interior designer as a child impacted her life and perspective on design—and how these early experiences eventually led to the launch of her own interior design business. We also explore the importance of embracing your core intention as a designer and how building the right team and cultivating a supportive work environment can unlock creative freedom. Gina offers a wealth of practical advice, including her favorite systems for improving efficiency and a game-changing approach to delegation that helped her build a truly impactful design business. This episode is full of valuable insights into running a business that feels as good as it looks. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS How a childhood hospital stay and a room makeover ignited Gina's passion for design Why early construction site experience with her father gave her a unique edge The pivotal moment she realized she had to prioritize artistry over logistics How she built a culture-first studio environment for creative and team success The "10-80-10" delegation model that transformed her time management and team collaboration Tips for working in the high-end luxury market and building trust with clients' extended networks Practical financial systems for clarity and profitability Why rest, gratitude, and creative exploration are non-negotiables in her business NOTABLE QUOTES "I was trying to be the best businesswoman I could be—but I wasn't trying to be the best artist I could be." "Gratitude is the attitude. The more mistakes you make, the better you are in this business." "$10 million companies are not built on $10 tasks." "For me, success is when you can't tell the difference between working and playing." SUPPORTING RESOURCES Gina Holz Designs on Instagram Gina Holz Designs Website SPONSOR LINKS Design Manager Daniel House Club Hooker Furnishings  

This is a special Industry Spotlight episode of Design Biz Survival Guide. This supplemental format is designed to share brands and partners that support designers both creatively and professionally. This is our way of sharing valuable information and resources for your business with you, our loyal listeners. Today we're speaking with Oana Molodoi, owner of OM Drapes Design, a full-service window treatment resource based in Orange County, California. In this episode, Oana shares the backstory of the brand, what inspires her to partner with interior design professionals, and her heartfelt approach to service. We also discuss the diverse range of window treatment solutions that OM Drapes Design offers, their approach to quality installation, and their commitment to being an extension of your design team. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS Oana's inspiring journey from Romania to launching a design-focused business in Orange County. How OM Drapes Design evolved out of a pandemic career pivot and a personal home renovation. The wide range of offerings at OM Drapes Design—from soft treatments like drapery and Roman shades to hard treatments like blinds and motorized solutions. The value of full-service solutions, including local fabrication, installation, and troubleshooting. Key advice for designers on budgeting for and specifying custom window treatments. The importance of early collaboration with window treatment experts in construction and design projects. OM Drapes Design's unique access to Sunbrella's exclusive window treatment program. How Oana's extensive network of industry professionals allows her to serve designers across the country. NOTABLE QUOTES "If you dream of it, we can do it. If you can see it in a vision, we can implement it for you." "We are here to serve. We really are here to serve them, to be their partner, their resource, and make them shine." "I'm building my business with love. We pour our heart and souls into every project, big or small." "Designers now are doing work in other areas and other states more than ever... we go with them. They trust us." SUPPORTING RESOURCES OM Drapes Design Website OM Drapes Design Instagram  

Today we welcome Cameron Sellers, Vice President of Marketing for Hooker Furnishings. In this episode we chat with a marketing pro about her long term relationship with the design and furnishings industry. Cameron pulls back the curtain to reveal how big business approaches marketing and she shares her individual and team approach to creating data driven marketing strategies. We also discuss the importance of brand voice, story telling, and identifying pain points and providing solutions to capture the attention of your target market. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS Cameron's journey from international lighting design to marketing leadership at Hooker Furnishings The role data plays in crafting effective, personalized marketing strategies How Hooker Furnishings supports interior designers with targeted experiences and tools The importance of storytelling, brand voice, and authenticity in marketing How luxury brands outside the design world influence marketing innovation Tips for small design businesses to build impactful marketing strategies without big teams A behind-the-scenes look at Hooker's new unified digital platform and product visualizer The evolving role of AI as a tool—rather than a strategy—in modern marketing NOTABLE QUOTES "We start the journey in data, we end the journey in data, but all the while in the middle is this fabulous cycle of creative." "You are an extension of our brand... and their grassroots guerilla marketing is still a real thing." "What I know now is to give myself grace, to give myself and my team a lot of gratitude as we grind through the day to day." "I want my daughter to see mommy working... and I want my son to see that there are strong women out there." SUPPORTING RESOURCES Hooker Furnishings on Instagram Hooker Furnishings Website SPONSOR LINKS Design Manager – Project management and accounting software for interior designers Daniel House Club – Procurement platform with concierge service and trade pricing Hooker Furnishings – Trusted source for residential, hospitality, and contract furnishings  

Today we welcome Mae Reedy – founder, principal designer, and general contractor of Mae Reedy Build + Design based in Plano, Texas. In this episode, we discuss overcoming fear, the power of saying yes, and how Mae leverages innovation to stay resilient in an ever-changing economy. Mae shares her thoughtful approach to scaling her business, growing a purpose-driven team, and the custom systems she's developed to manage workflow, empower her team, and maintain momentum. Her journey from Etsy entrepreneur to seven-figure design-build powerhouse is full of insights, grit, and inspiration. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS Mae shares how she scaled her business from her dining room table to a 12-person, seven-figure firm. Her strategic response to shifts in the housing market, including the pivot toward additions and aging-in-place renovations. How Mae used economic forecasts and industry resources to stay ahead of market challenges. The role of personal and professional mentorship in her growth, including the influence of her CFO husband and industry associations like NARI. Her unique STAR method (Schedule it, Tackle it, Analyze it, Repeat it) to maintain creative and operational momentum. The importance of developing systems for delegation, consistency, and long-term scalability. Why Mae approaches her business like it's always ready to be sold – even if she never plans to. A deeply personal story of resilience and perspective that defines her secret to survival in business and life. NOTABLE QUOTES "To be able to scale, it's not about volume, it's about control." "Everything can't live in my head — that's kind of a mess." "If I don't keep my books right… all of this wonderful opportunity could pass me by." "The weight of the world is not mine alone." SUPPORTING RESOURCES Mae Reedy Build + Design Website Mae Reedy on Instagram NARI (National Association of the Remodeling Industry) SPONSOR LINKS Design Manager Daniel House Club Hooker Furnishings

Today we welcome Brad Leavitt, President and owner of AFT Construction based in Scottsdale, Arizona. Brad is known for his collaborative design-build approach and his commitment to the designer + builder partnership. In this episode, we discuss Brad's unintentional entrepreneurial journey, lessons in effective collaboration, and his perspective on scaling a business and cultivating a team of resourceful and empowered leaders. We also dive into Brad's dedication to giving back through his podcast, public speaking, and his dynamic industry event, the Contractor Coalition Summit. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS How an early career reprimand from a seasoned designer reshaped Brad's appreciation for design and collaboration. The pivotal moment that forced Brad into entrepreneurship—and what he learned from launching AFT Construction. The importance of empowering your team and leading by fostering problem-solving and ownership. Why communication and humility are essential to resolving complex project challenges. How AFT Construction defines success in the high-end luxury residential market. The value of long-term partnerships and designer-builder synergy in complex, multi-year projects. How Brad leverages his podcast and public speaking to build community and share knowledge. The origin and impact of the Contractor Coalition Summit—and why he created a safe space for builders to learn and grow. NOTABLE QUOTES "The really great leaders are able to see people not as they are, but who they can become." "It's not about who's right, it's about getting it right." "Personal branding is permanent job security." "People that do hard things have an easy life. People that do easy things have a hard life." SUPPORTING RESOURCES AFT Construction Website AFT Construction on Instagram The Brad Leavitt Podcast Contractor Coalition Summit (inferred from content – please verify) SPONSOR LINKS Design Manager Daniel House Club Hooker Furnishings  

Today we welcome Laura Williams, Founder and Principal Designer of Living Oak, a boutique design firm based in Austin, TX. In this episode, Laura shares the story behind her recent rebrand from ATX Interior Design to Living Oak and how this strategic shift allowed her business to grow beyond the local market. We discuss the power of community and networking in building a thriving design business, and Laura pulls back the curtain on the realities of running a hybrid business model that includes design services, retail, and e-commerce. From her marketing roots to her multi-faceted business model, Laura gives us a candid look at the wins, challenges, and lessons learned along the way. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS How Laura's marketing background set the stage for a successful design business The decision to rebrand from ATX Interior Design to Living Oak and how it impacted growth Why community, networking, and industry events like Design Camp are crucial to learning the business side of design Navigating imposter syndrome and building confidence without a formal design education Behind the scenes of launching and operating a brick-and-mortar retail shop How Laura balances her retail space with e-commerce and what it takes to make both profitable Lessons in hiring, team-building, and planning for sustainable growth The importance of staying present as a parent while running a fast-paced business NOTABLE QUOTES "Anybody can be good at my job. I just work really hard." "I wish I dreamed a little bigger in the beginning versus once I was already a quarter mile down the road." "Hiring the right people is the secret sauce… I could not do anything that I'm doing right now without them." "There is so much overhead. And that's a little bit scary… But I have faith in the momentum we've created." SUPPORTING RESOURCES https://www.instagram.com/livingoakinteriordesign https://www.livingoak.com/ SPONSOR LINKS Design Manager – Project management and accounting software for interior designers. Daniel House Club – Membership-based sourcing and procurement platform for designers. Hooker Furnishings – Furnishings, lighting, and decor for residential and hospitality design.

This special Industry Spotlight episode of Design Biz Survival Guide features filmmaker and brand storyteller Jude Charles. Jude returns to the podcast for a deep dive into the strategy behind his signature process called Dramatic Demonstration, a method of crafting impactful video docu-series that highlight the heart and humanity behind creative businesses. Jude shares how personal storytelling can build trust, attract ideal clients, and establish a lasting legacy in the design industry. Through examples from collaborations with Rick Campos, Jen Davidson, Brad Leavitt, and others, Jude illustrates how showcasing lived experiences, emotion, and lessons learned can elevate your brand in powerful and unexpected ways. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS Jude breaks down his three-part storytelling process: Road Mapping, Dramatic Demonstration, and Dramatic Leverage. How a personal cycling story became the emotional anchor of Rick Campos' docu-series. The transformational impact of telling human-first stories that attract ideal clients—and gently repel the wrong ones. Jen Davidson's evolution from flight attendant to interior designer and how her unique background became her brand's strength. Why Brad Leavitt's six-month docu-series project reveals the leader behind the builder—and the power of team culture. Insights into how designers can prepare to work with Jude, what to expect in the 90-day process, and how to make the most of your investment. Examples of how clients are creatively leveraging their docu-series across marketing channels. Why capturing a "timeless feeling" on film is more valuable than date-stamped content. NOTABLE QUOTES "Your story becomes proof of what's possible for someone else." "People forget what you said, but they never forget how you made them feel." "You are living your legacy now—docu-series help you document it." "It's not just about attracting the right clients. It's also about repelling the wrong ones." SUPPORTING RESOURCES Jude Charles Website Jude Charles on Instagram Storytelling for Interior Designers – Free Resource Rick Campos Docu-Series Jen Davidson 1st Docu-Series – YouTube Channel BTS of Jen Davidson's 2nd Docu-Series – Instagram Reel Brad Leavitt's Docu-Series Trailer – Instagram Reel BTS of Brad's Docu-Series – Instagram Reel  

Today we welcome Jen Davidson — Owner & Principal Designer of Interiors by Jen Davidson, a full-service interior design studio based in Chicago, Illinois. In this episode, we discuss the evolution of Jen's creative career and how her former career as a flight attendant has uniquely shaped the way she leads her team, connects with her clients, and manages her design projects. Jen shares how she leverages structure, adaptability, and emotional intelligence to run a streamlined and meaningful business. We also dive into her storytelling-driven design process and how turning vulnerability into a strength has helped her design homes that are not just beautiful but deeply personal. SHOW HIGHLIGHTS Jen's unconventional journey from flight attendant to interior designer, and how she conquered her fear of flying to change careers. The transferable skills from aviation to design — leadership, structure, and client care. Building a team using a hybrid model and how it supports efficiency and collaboration. The importance of hospitality in design and how Jen creates a client experience rooted in empathy and proactivity. How her work with storytelling strategist Jude Charles reshaped her design process and inspired deeper client connections. The "road mapping" method she uses to uncover her clients' stories and design with long-term legacy in mind. Why vulnerability and trust are essential elements of her client relationships. Jen's personal definition of success: forward motion, and how it guides her through life and business. NOTABLE QUOTES "We're not just designing — we're helping write their story, their legacy." "You don't have to wait until it's perfect. Just start." "Even when I was scared, forward motion was the thing that kept me going." "Clients are looking to us to give them that peace of mind — we're their calm in the turbulence." SUPPORTING RESOURCES Interiors by Jen Davidson Website Interiors by Jen Davidson on Instagram Jude Charles – Storytelling Strategist SPONSOR LINKS Design Manager Hooker Furnishings Daniel House Club