Damn Good Interior Designer

Join Cheryl Kees Clendenon and Liz Lapan, the dynamic duo behind the visionary and integrator balancing all the moving parts of a full service interior design firm in their no-nonsense and thought-provoking podcast, the Damn Good Designer. Each episode is full of damn good truths and real talk as they share invaluable insights on how to run and build a successful business while challenging the norms, the industry, each other and YOU. Emphasizing a business-savvy approach, Cheryl and Liz take you on a roller coaster of discovery, considering success from a different lens, breaking free from groupthink, and encouraging you to embrace your own authentic designer self. There is not much they will not say “out loud”. In this podcast, you'll find no room for conformity as they shatter the mold of one-size-fits-all business practices. Cheryl's fearless attitude showcases a refusal to follow the conventional wisdom, ask “why” repeatedly and reject what no longer makes sense in today’s world. If you're seeking a dose of inspiration, a splash of unconventional wisdom, and a refreshing perspective on the entrepreneurial world, the Damn Good Designer is your go-to podcast. Tune in and let Cheryl and Liz, along with their expert guests in the fields of designers, architects, landscapers, and other creative professionals, guide you toward building a remarkable business that defies norms and sets you on a path to unparalleled success."Get ready to challenge the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary! About the hosts: Cheryl Kees Clendenon- 2021 KBB Person of the year 2022 Design Studio winner Dallas Arts Awards 2021 Changemaker Design Hounds 200 or so years ago a child came roaring into the world feet first ready to show up and argue a cause. Just because. Her mother still maintains the story is- she was screaming-“why”- from the minute she landed wrong side up and slapped the doctor for disturbing her afternoon nap And to this day does not give “it” a rest except when she is sleeping. Which is where you will find her only between the hours of 2am and 7:30am. A belligerent non-smoker (in case you were wondering) and a frequent challenger of anything that resembles “normal” or desired by the masses, Cheryl is a natural born contrarian who talks faster than 2x speed on a podcast She gravitates towards wanting to help clients and designers who are the square pegs in a world of round holes, lose earrings impossibly frequently, fall off of platform shoes and are unapologetically saucy. Relaxing is not in the skill set. Life begins and ends with family. Her sacred words are: Why, Percipient, Whizbang and Profit. But please do not say the words: Package, Blocks, Red Flag, Overwhelm or Picked. Hives break out and it gets ugly. Liz Lapan VP of Everything, Interior Designer, Work Wife, Team Cook, Unicorns People ask, when did you KNOW you had found your ideal work wife- Cheryl will reply ” When she drew me 8 different cacti on her 3rd day because I said -find me a damn cactus” The woman who has never been through an airport without being extended an invitation to stop and play show and tell with the contents of her backpack, can single handedly plow snow with a rake and rescue her boss in a snowstorm in Arizona.–yes, I said Arizona–after sleeping all night in a tuna can of a rental car. An accomplished designer in her own right with an amazing sense of color and pattern, Liz can wear the designer hat in the morning, the project manager hat at noon and return to the office being the ultimate manager of all the things. Client’s love her, Subs respect her and the team adores the woman who gets “it” done-whatever “it” may be. RESOURCES: www.damngooddesigner.com https://www.theinteriordesignparadigm.com/ Want to be a guest? Apply here: https://forms.clickup.com/8404193/f/80f71-613517/PFK3QDSALZ30VONMTP

Season 3 Ep 55: ASKED AND ANSWERED - Why Having a Script is Losing You Leads

Liz is going solo again and giving you her expertise into the art of handling new lead calls with intention and strategy. Liz handles our discovery calls at In Detail and we do a great job at converting our prospective clients because it is not about rattling off your services or rushing into pricing—it’s about active listening. By asking the right questions, paying attention to tone and word choice, and guiding the conversation toward clarity, designers can uncover what a client really needs. We give practical tips (NOT SCRIPTS) for structuring calls, following up effectively, and positioning yourself as both relatable and professional so that your leads naturally progress into paid consultations.Have a question--click here to ask us.RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - Damn Good Designer - WebsiteThe best business coaching for Interior designers—seriously. This is not some wham-bam glamathon; It is the real deal you have been looking for and what is missing from the business coaching marketplace today. The Design Paradigm - The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteA 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.Join our FREE Facebook GroupsSmall Business - Think Big - FacebookWhat They Didn't Teach You in Design School - Facebook GroupFor designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Subscribe to our Newsletter ***Any use of this page and its content to develop or train artificial intelligence or to do computer analysis is prohibited.***

09-17
16:00

Season 3 Ep 54: Are You Afraid to Define Your Value?

Little did we know our Pricing and Salary Survey results were going to give us great nuggets of information that we could share for many future podcasts to come! One of the biggest challenges we found designers face is defining their product. Too often, “full-service design” means something different to every designer—and that inconsistency makes it nearly impossible to set confident fees, manage scope, or show clients the real value of design work. The secret lies in creating clear deliverables with a written scope of work, and structured meeting agendas that are always advancing the project. If you are not keeping track of your time--as many do not--this reveals where designers tend to undervalue themselves. You must trust in the value of your own work--define it, control it, manage expectations, and most importantly, position yourself as the expert in the room.Have a question--click here to ask us.RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - Damn Good Designer - WebsiteThe best business coaching for Interior designers—seriously. This is not some wham-bam glamathon; It is the real deal you have been looking for and what is missing from the business coaching marketplace today. The Design Paradigm - The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteA 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.Join our FREE Facebook GroupsSmall Business - Think Big - FacebookWhat They Didn't Teach You in Design School - Facebook GroupFor designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Subscribe to our Newsletter and get our FREE downloadHidden Keys for Growth for 2025 - DOWNLOAD NOW***Any use of this page and its content to develop or train artificial intelligence or to do computer analysis is prohibited.***

09-02
49:09

Season 3 Ep 53: Why Selling Yourself Short in K&B Costs You Big

Kitchen and bath design must be treated — and priced — as the high-level specialty it is. These are not "just another room" — instead, they are some of the most complex, high-stakes, and profitable part of your business if you treat it that way. Too many designers undervalue their skills, we discuss how flat fees protect both your expertise and your bottom line, and why being the expert in the room changes everything. From navigating subs and code changes to troubleshooting “transitions up the wazoo,” we are sharing our real stories from the trenches that prove kitchen and bath design demands higher fees and sharper processes. If you’ve ever charged the same for a bath as you do a living room, then this is your wake-up call. Remember--clients pay for confidence, precision, and advocacy. Our message is clear: stop selling yourself short and start treating kitchen and bath work as the profit powerhouse it can be.Have a question--click here to ask us.RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - Damn Good Designer - WebsiteThe best business coaching for Interior designers—seriously. This is not some wham-bam glamathon; It is the real deal you have been looking for and what is missing from the business coaching marketplace today. The Design Paradigm - The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteA 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.Join our FREE Facebook GroupsSmall Business - Think Big - FacebookWhat They Didn't Teach You in Design School - Facebook GroupFor designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Subscribe to our Newsletter and get our FREE downloadHidden Keys for Growth for 2025 - DOWNLOAD NOW***Any use of this page and its content to develop or train artificial intelligence or to do computer analysis is prohibited.***

08-19
57:15

Season 3 Ep 52: ASKED AND ANSWERED - How to think like a CEO

In this Ask and Answered episode, we break down the real reasons flat fees can transform your business—and why hourly billing might be keeping you small. The mindset shift designers need to make is to stop thinking like a technician and start pricing like a CEO. Flat fees protect your time, boost your authority, and create a better experience for your clients. This isn’t about guessing—it’s about building a smarter, scalable business model that reflects the transformation you deliver. If you're tired of trading hours for dollars, this episode is your call to change the game. Have a question--click here to ask us.RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - Damn Good Designer - WebsiteThe best business coaching for Interior designers—seriously. This is not some wham-bam glamathon; It is the real deal you have been looking for and what is missing from the business coaching marketplace today. The Design Paradigm - The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteA 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.Join our FREE Facebook GroupsSmall Business - Think Big - FacebookWhat They Didn't Teach You in Design School - Facebook GroupFor designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Subscribe to our Newsletter and get our FREE downloadHidden Keys for Growth for 2025 - DOWNLOAD NOW***Any use of this page and its content to develop or train artificial intelligence or to do computer analysis is prohibited.***Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm

08-05
08:29

REPLAY! How to Make Money Selling Project Management - Top Fave of 2025!

How can you be team player without giving up your own rights? Working with contractors can be a tricky relationship when they want you to stay in your lane--BUT it doesn't have to be. Creating a team approach with positioning in your marketing, the copy that you use, the verbiage that you talk about, and how you talk about it with other people, all of that is so important. We discuss how important positioning to the client about it being win-win-win and how to sell this to the client and they actually need both components of this is because we do different things and we focused on different things.Have a question--click here to ask us.RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - Damn Good Designer - WebsiteThe best business coaching for Interior designers—seriously. This is not some wham-bam glamathon; It is the real deal you have been looking for and what is missing from the business coaching marketplace today. The Design Paradigm - The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteA 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.Join our FREE Facebook GroupsSmall Business - Think Big - FacebookWhat They Didn't Teach You in Design School - Facebook GroupFor designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Subscribe to our Newsletter and get our FREE downloadHidden Keys for Growth for 2025 - DOWNLOAD NOW***Any use of this page and its content to develop or train artificial intelligence or to do computer analysis is prohibited.***

07-22
38:41

Season 3 Ep 51: ASKED AND ANSWERED - Why Every Conversation is an Opportunity

We have another asked and answered topic this week! We are talking about reframing what many designers see as “wasted” discovery calls. Just because a lead isn’t a fit for full service doesn’t mean it’s a dead end. Consider this as a chance to position your firm as a resource, build brand equity, and generate revenue—especially when you offer varied tiers of service. Start looking for smart strategies to redirect leads, educate potential clients, and how to stay visible—even when they say no. This episode is a must-listen for designers who want to create income stability and long-term opportunity in any market.Have a question--click here to ask us.RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - Damn Good Designer - WebsiteThe best business coaching for Interior designers—seriously. This is not some wham-bam glamathon; It is the real deal you have been looking for and what is missing from the business coaching marketplace today. The Design Paradigm - The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteA 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.Join our FREE Facebook GroupsSmall Business - Think Big - FacebookWhat They Didn't Teach You in Design School - Facebook GroupFor designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Subscribe to our Newsletter and get our FREE downloadHidden Keys for Growth for 2025 - DOWNLOAD NOW***Any use of this page and its content to develop or train artificial intelligence or to do computer analysis is prohibited.***

07-08
11:56

Season 2 Ep 50: How to Get Press: The secret door to getting your interior design work published with Alex Abramian

Public relations isn’t just about getting published—it’s about what you do after the feature goes live. We thrilled to welcome our special guest who we have been working with for over a year. Alex Abramian, founder of The PR Collaborative, talks with us about the evolving landscape of PR for interior designers. With years of experience as a writer and editor for major national publications, Alex shares real-world insights into what editors are looking for right now and how designers at any stage of business can get press without big budgets or agency retainers.A non-negotiable for us--high-quality photography. The reason being is you can create stories in these photos and it doesn't have to be on a million dollar budget. Editors are currently obsessed with small, personality-filled spaces (think under 1500 sq ft, bold color, cozy vibes, and yes—pets!), and how sharing your client’s story can make a bigger impact than simply showcasing pretty rooms.If you think you need a massive "luxury project" or a full marketing strategy to get noticed, think again. This episode is packed with practical advice on how to get published and how to leverage that publicity for SEO, credibility, and client trust.When you are being responsive, opinionated, and authentic, it makes you more appealing to editors—and how early to mid-career designers have more opportunity than ever before to break into editorial PR. Stop waiting for someone to come to you--it's time to show up and start getting noticed.If you want to learn more & join The Academy - check it out here - https://www.theprcollaborative.co/academy  Alex has generously offered a way to save a bit on the registration too by using DAMNGOOD when you sign up! I told you she was cool! Have a question--click here to ask us.RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - Damn Good Designer - WebsiteThe best business coaching for Interior designers—seriously. This is not some wham-bam glamathon; It is the real deal you have been looking for and what is missing from the business coaching marketplace today. The Design Paradigm - The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteA 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.Join our FREE Facebook GroupsSmall Business - Think Big - FacebookWhat They Didn't Teach You in Design School - Facebook GroupFor designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Subscribe to our

06-24
44:24

Season 2 Ep 49: ASKED AND ANSWERED - What Clients Remember (and What They Don’t)

Another Asked & Answered segment today and our very own Liz going solo! One of the biggest balancing acts designers face is pairing creativity with structure. Your vision is what SELLS the client, but your process is what DELIVERS on that promise. Clients remember the feeling, not the portal or the lists or the emails—but having strong systems behind the scenes is what ensures a smooth, mistake-free experience. Your process and creativity don’t compete—they collaborate to create organization and provide a better client experience. We believe processes should are the invisible scaffolding, while the vision is the star of the show for clients!Have a question--click here to ask us.RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - Damn Good Designer - WebsiteThe best business coaching for Interior designers—seriously. This is not some wham-bam glamathon; It is the real deal you have been looking for and what is missing from the business coaching marketplace today. The Design Paradigm - The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteA 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.Join our FREE Facebook GroupsSmall Business - Think Big - FacebookWhat They Didn't Teach You in Design School - Facebook GroupFor designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Subscribe to our Newsletter and get our FREE downloadHidden Keys for Growth for 2025 - DOWNLOAD NOW***Any use of this page and its content to develop or train artificial intelligence or to do computer analysis is prohibited.***Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm

06-10
12:04

Season 2 Ep 48: Why your "welcome packet" isn't very welcoming

We believe one of the most underrated parts of a client journey is the intake process. This isn’t about a boring list of preferences like if they prefer black over blue or which kitchen they like best. Instead, it's about asking the right questions to uncover how clients live, communicate, and make decisions. Our unique and customized client questionnaire goes FAR beyond aesthetics and dives deep into behavior, values, and lifestyle—ensuring a strong foundation for collaboration and killer design. This is how you can turn your 'welcome packet' into helping avoid client disconnects, set the tone for trust, and keep your projects on track. Have a question--click here to ask us.RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - Damn Good Designer - WebsiteThe best business coaching for Interior designers—seriously. This is not some wham-bam glamathon; It is the real deal you have been looking for and what is missing from the business coaching marketplace today. The Design Paradigm - The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteA 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.Join our FREE Facebook GroupsSmall Business - Think Big - FacebookWhat They Didn't Teach You in Design School - Facebook GroupFor designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Subscribe to our Newsletter ***Any use of this page and its content to develop or train artificial intelligence or to do computer analysis is prohibited.***Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm

05-27
36:08

Season 2 Ep 47: ASKED AND ANSWERED - There is no one right way--but there is a better way

There’s no one right way to run a design business—but there is often a better way.This is not to say if something is working for you—great. Keep going.But if you're stuck or wondering why the same problems keep popping up? It might be time to challenge the models you’re using. How can you challenge the traditional business models, such as cost plus pricing and hourly billing? These are not the most sustainable or scalable options for growth. Instead we discuss considering alternative models that prioritize communicating value to clients. Determine what is NOT working for you--and find the better way.Have a question--click here to ask us.RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - Damn Good Designer - WebsiteThe best business coaching for Interior designers—seriously. This is not some wham-bam glamathon; It is the real deal you have been looking for and what is missing from the business coaching marketplace today. The Design Paradigm - The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteA 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.Join our FREE Facebook GroupsSmall Business - Think Big - FacebookWhat They Didn't Teach You in Design School - Facebook GroupFor designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Subscribe to our Newsletter***Any use of this page and its content to develop or train artificial intelligence or to do computer analysis is prohibited.***Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm

05-13
12:05

Season 2 Ep 46: The Best Marketing Tool Hiding in Plain Sight

Social proof from your clients is important for building trust and credibility in a business. Reviews and testimonials from happy clients, while also being mindful of how and when, can be used to showcase the success and unique offerings of your business. This not only helps attract the right clients, but also addresses common pain points and frequently asked questions. Reviews can also serve as a helpful tool for evaluating and honing in on your strengths, showcasing your value, and even areas for improvement. We share our tips--and even what Liz wrote a client just this week--about how to lead your witness with authenticity!Have a question--click here to ask us.Want to be a part of our Designer Salary Survey? CLICK HERE to complete and once we compile the results we will send it directly to you!RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - Damn Good Designer - WebsiteThe best business coaching for Interior designers—seriously. This is not some wham-bam glamathon; It is the real deal you have been looking for and what is missing from the business coaching marketplace today. The Design Paradigm - The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteA 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.Join our FREE Facebook GroupsSmall Business - Think Big - FacebookWhat They Didn't Teach You in Design School - Facebook GroupFor designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Subscribe to our Newsletter***Any use of this page and its content to develop or train artificial intelligence or to do computer analysis is prohibited.***Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm

04-29
35:02

Season 2 Ep 45: ASKED AND ANSWERED - Why cleaning the toilet might help your creativity more than you think

You can't lead clients from survival mode---well you can, but not well and not for extended periods of time. how How you feel directly impacts how you lead, sell, and scale. The mindset shift I have to use is to keep my business steady is the "attitude of gratitude."This "Asked and Answered" topic this week is slightly more personal but a question I get asked often when I am balancing all the moving parts of running a business. By redirecting negative energy into gratitude and giving back to others in some way, rather than staying focused on your problems, can provide far more lasting effects than you may realize. So while we go a little woo-woo this week, it may be a good reset to think about when you may been thinking the world is falling apart.Have a question--click here to ask us.RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - Damn Good Designer - WebsiteThe best business coaching for Interior designers—seriously. This is not some wham-bam glamathon; It is the real deal you have been looking for and what is missing from the business coaching marketplace today. The Design Paradigm - The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteA 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.Join our FREE Facebook GroupsSmall Business - Think Big - FacebookWhat They Didn't Teach You in Design School - Facebook GroupFor designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Subscribe to our Newsletter and get our FREE downloadHidden Keys for Growth for 2025 - DOWNLOAD NOW***Any use of this page and its content to develop or train artificial intelligence or to do computer analysis is prohibited.***Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm

04-15
16:43

Season 2 Ep 44: ASKED AND ANSWERED - The most damaging thing you can do in your business

This week we are answering questions from our audience--first up is one of my FAVORITE hills to die on and what I consider one of the most damaging things you can do for your business.It is not a smart business practice to sell blocks of time as a designer because this is not an effective way to market and value creative brilliance. Selling based on the end product or creative vision is a better approach for setting yourself apart from competition. By selling transformational spaces and having confidence in your pricing will show your clients you know what you are doing and you are a professional.Have a question--click here to ask us.RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - Damn Good Designer - WebsiteThe best business coaching for Interior designers—seriously. This is not some wham-bam glamathon; It is the real deal you have been looking for and what is missing from the business coaching marketplace today. NOW ENROLLING The Paradigm Shift - Website - ENROLLING THROUGH APRIL 15!4 months of business & marketing mindset & sales - Fast tracking the changes you need to make NOW to set your business apart from your competition. It is a lighter version of the annual program and will be a quick start in the business mindset realm for seasoned professionals and a more manageable amount of information for newer designers. It is a wonderful opportunity for designers who need help fast and are willing to put the time into it on their own with strategic assistance along the way.  The Design Paradigm - The Interior Design Paradigm - Website - ENROLLING THROUGH APRIL 15!A 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.Join our FREE Facebook GroupsSmall Business - Think Big - FacebookWhat They Didn't Teach You in Design School - Facebook GroupFor designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Subscribe to our Newsletter and get our FREE downloadHidden Keys for Growth for 2025 - DOWNLOAD NOW***Any use of this page and its content to develop or train artificial intelligence or to do computer analysis is prohibited.***Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm

04-01
16:34

Season 2 Ep 43: The Hidden Mindset Mistakes Killing Your Team’s Momentum

Sometimes the simplest of truths is what is going to move the needle and this begins with understanding who you are and your own weaknesses. We all have them right??If you have a team, or even if you are a solopreneur, you are still consistently working with others and there are always going to be challenges of working together. However, being able to understand their strengths and weaknesses is going to make you a better business owner. It is important for you and those that you work with to be honest and admit if they are not understanding something and try different approaches in their conversations. These tough conversations are necessary for growth and success in a company.We are sharing our simple mindset mistakes that may be holding your or your team back from having a successful working relationship and being able to work effectively together. Have a question--click here to ask us.RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - Damn Good Designer - WebsiteThe best business coaching for Interior designers—seriously. This is not some wham-bam glamathon; It is the real deal you have been looking for and what is missing from the business coaching marketplace today. The Design Paradigm - The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteA 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.Join our FREE Facebook GroupsSmall Business - Think Big - FacebookWhat They Didn't Teach You in Design School - Facebook GroupFor designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Subscribe to our Newsletter and get our FREE downloadHidden Keys for Growth for 2025 - DOWNLOAD NOW***Any use of this page and its content to develop or train artificial intelligence or to do computer analysis is prohibited.***Mentioned in this episode:The Design Paradigm

03-18
53:59

Season 2 Ep 42: How to Stop Wasting Time on Marketing that doesn't Work

Your marketing dollars are important. There are many elements to successful marketing and it starts with becoming part of the DNA of your business. This week we met with Denise Grothouse, the founder and CEO of Perfect Six Marketing, a company specializing in marketing strategies for the kitchen and bath design industry. In this episode we discuss the importance of having a strong brand voice and understanding your target clientele when it comes to marketing while also optimizing your #1 marketing tool--your website. You cannot be putting all your eggs in one marketing basket--but instead diversifying and leveraging where your leads come from to ensure a stable and successful business. Read more about Denise Grothouse below:With over 20 years of experience, Denise has mastered the art of growing businesses through tailored marketing solutions. Her proprietary methods have helped clients achieve exceptional sales growth, leveraging her expertise in SEO, social media, website development, and public relations.Before founding Perfect 6 Marketing in 2015, Denise co-founded and served as Vice President of Grothouse Inc., where she grew a multimillion-dollar custom wood countertop company. Her journey began after a devastating fire destroyed her fledgling business in 2005. Armed with resilience and a $5,000 credit limit, she rebuilt from scratch, turning setbacks into success. This experience sparked her passion for helping others achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.Denise’s approach blends old-school hard work with constant innovation. She’s deeply committed to promoting Made in America brands and believes in giving every business, regardless of size, the visibility it deserves. As a columnist for Kitchen and Bath Design News since 2017, Denise shares her insights with industry professionals nationwide.Beyond marketing, Denise serves on the leadership council of the National Small Business Association and actively supports ocean conservation through Perfect 6 Marketing’s partnership with the Oceanic Society. For every new client, the company adopts a whale, underscoring her commitment to meaningful, sustainable impact.With a reputation for perseverance, creativity, and a compassionate approach, Denise continues to inspire businesses to thrive in competitive markets.Have a question--click here to ask us.RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - Damn Good Designer - WebsiteThe best business coaching for Interior designers—seriously. This is not some wham-bam glamathon; It is the real deal you have been looking for and what is missing from the business coaching marketplace today. The Design Paradigm - The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteA 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.Join our FREE Facebook GroupsSmall Business - Think Big - FacebookWhat They Didn't...

03-04
39:45

REPLAY of Season 1 Ep 10: What is the Cost of Doing Business? (Re-Release of top 5 episodes!)

Optics matter. Client's trusting you know how to manage money--matters. Understanding there is no free lunch--matters. Here is the drum roll take away. It takes money to make money. Ta da! Professional designers understand that it costs money to travel to market to learn about the products they specify ( and usually sell for a profit) -- or how important it is to pay for a good attorney in your state to develop a contract to suit your needs--or to get a CPA help to know when to become an S corp. -- Yes Virgina! it costs money to do these things. Who sold people the fairy tale this is a cheap business to get into? It is not. There are money and time costs. If it were a cake walk, everyone would do it. And by the grace of all intelligent creatures--- anyone who balks at pay to play, orders 9.99 contracts off Etsy, crowd sources tax advice---- and then has the huevos to complain about clients shopping them or not wanting to pay their 200 buck an hour fees??? Are ya kidding me with this? Have a question--click here to ask us.RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - Damn Good Designer - WebsiteThe best business coaching for Interior designers—seriously. This is not some wham-bam glamathon; It is the real deal you have been looking for and what is missing from the business coaching marketplace today. The Design Paradigm - The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteA 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.Join our FREE Facebook GroupsSmall Business - Think Big - FacebookWhat They Didn't Teach You in Design School - Facebook GroupFor designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Subscribe to our Newsletter and get our FREE downloadHidden Keys for Growth for 2025 - DOWNLOAD NOW***Any use of this page and its content to develop or train artificial intelligence or to do computer analysis is prohibited.***

02-11
45:14

REPLAY! of Season 1 Ep 14 Passion Rules, Mediocrity Sucks ( ALL TIME FAVE RERELEASED!)

I am PASSIONATE--and if you have gotten my weekly newsletter the past two weeks then you would know all those years ago in college my young professor's advice stuck. So we are re-releasing one of our most popular episodes and trying to reignite the flame in those that may feel it dwindling!Are you giving clients the yearning for more? Showing passion is one of the most important things you can do as a business to demonstrate to your clients what it is that you are bringing to the table. Passion for my work is why I get up in the morning and being excited about what the day holds---and have an eagerness to jump into it. It’s not always roses and mai tais but still--I am passionate about what we do so it keeps me going. Do not be afraid to be excited about what is happening in your business. Clients feel this energy and will gravitate to you if you embrace it authentically. We discuss the need to bring your A-game every day because you want to cultivate that enthusiasm and excitement for your clients as you begin their project. Have a question--click here to ask us.RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - Damn Good Designer - WebsiteThe best business coaching for Interior designers—seriously. This is not some wham-bam glamathon; It is the real deal you have been looking for and what is missing from the business coaching marketplace today. The Design Paradigm - The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteA 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.Join our FREE Facebook GroupsSmall Business - Think Big - FacebookWhat They Didn't Teach You in Design School - Facebook GroupFor designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Subscribe to our Newsletter and get our FREE downloadHidden Keys for Growth for 2025 - DOWNLOAD NOW***Any use of this page and its content to develop or train artificial intelligence or to do computer analysis is prohibited.***

01-21
54:17

Season 2 Ep 41: The Top 5 Marketing Musts for 2025

Happy New Year! What better way to start off the year than with my top 5 marketing strategies for small business owners grow their businesses. Marketing is a mindset and not just an activity, and it takes time and effort to see results. This is not simply a standalone entity, it is ingrained in the essence of any business. Every interaction, from the moment a potential lead first encounters your brand, contributes to your marketing efforts. To build a brand that resonates and connects, you need to define who you are and who you aim to reach intentionally and this mindset should permeate all aspects of your business.Have a question--click here to ask us.RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - Damn Good Designer - WebsiteThe best business coaching for Interior designers—seriously. This is not some wham-bam glamathon; It is the real deal you have been looking for and what is missing from the business coaching marketplace today. The Design Paradigm - The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteA 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.Join our FREE Facebook GroupsSmall Business - Think Big - FacebookWhat They Didn't Teach You in Design School - Facebook GroupFor designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Subscribe to our Newsletter and get our FREE downloadHidden Keys for Growth for 2025 - DOWNLOAD NOW***Any use of this page and its content to develop or train artificial intelligence or to do computer analysis is prohibited.***

01-07
18:37

Season 2 Ep 40: Stop Running Your Business like a Popsicle Stand

The process of procurement in a busy design firm is NO joke. You are not running popsicle stand, you are running a firm with various moving parts and you have to be able to have a way to track what is coming and going through your business. This is where checks and balances come into play to avoid costly mistakes and keep the firm running smoothly.We know discussing purchase orders can be a little bit boring but by practicing a proper purchasing process and using purchase orders can make or break your interior design business. Why? Because a purchase order ensures accuracy in tracking and forecasting, as well as plays a key role in auditing and cross-checking bills and expenses. We want to be able to have clear communication with vendors and this ensures that all the necessary details of a transaction with a vendor are documented, thus making it easier to communicate and avoid misunderstandings.Have a question--click here to ask us.RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - Damn Good Designer - WebsiteThe best business coaching for Interior designers—seriously. This is not some wham-bam glamathon; It is the real deal you have been looking for and what is missing from the business coaching marketplace today. The Design Paradigm - The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteA 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.Join our FREE Facebook GroupsSmall Business - Think Big - FacebookWhat They Didn't Teach You in Design School - Facebook GroupFor designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Subscribe to our Newsletter and get our FREE downloadHidden Keys for Growth for 2025 - DOWNLOAD NOW***Any use of this page and its content to develop or train artificial intelligence or to do computer analysis is prohibited.***

12-24
39:48

Season 2 Ep 39: Don't Blame Your Client--it's your show. Own it.

Cheryl is going solo this week while Liz takes a well-deserved little vacation. Cheryl is discussing managing client expectations and making sure you are not keeping them in the dark--you need them to trust the process! There is a level of professionalism that comes with the importance of managing clients' expectations during their project. Setting clear expectations with clients from the beginning, communicating clearly, defining project timelines, and always guiding the client through the process will manage the client's needs and manage the potential risks in the project. By creating a plan and forecasting future steps in advance this also helps to avoid surprises and disappointments and a key aspect of running a successful interior design firm. Have a question--click here to ask us.RESOURCE LINKS:Damn Good Designer - Damn Good Designer - WebsiteThe best business coaching for Interior designers—seriously. This is not some wham-bam glamathon; It is the real deal you have been looking for and what is missing from the business coaching marketplace today. The Design Paradigm - The Interior Design Paradigm - WebsiteA 12 month comprehensive and powerful business coaching program for creative entrepreneurs who are serious about running a profitable business and being the expert in the room.  It is the only coaching program to combine individual attention & accountability with live group workshops, honest video presentations and customized attention to your needs.Join our FREE Facebook GroupsSmall Business - Think Big - FacebookWhat They Didn't Teach You in Design School - Facebook GroupFor designers who need honest talk and a place to work on the business, marketing and promotion small business owners need. Subscribe to our Newsletter and get our FREE downloadHidden Keys for Growth for 2025 - DOWNLOAD NOW***Any use of this page and its content to develop or train artificial intelligence or to do computer analysis is prohibited.***

12-17
35:24

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