Design Curious | Interior Design Podcast, Interior Design Career, Interior Design School, Coaching

Have you ever felt uncomfortable talking about money with a client—even when you know your work is worth every dollar? Maybe you’ve said yes when you wanted to say no. Maybe you’ve underpriced a project just to avoid conflict. Or maybe you’ve worked twice as hard for half the pay and wondered why running your interior design business still feels exhausting instead of empowering.In this episode, I’m joined by legendary business strategist and podcast host LuAnn Nigara. We’re having the honest conversation every creative entrepreneur needs to hear about sales, pricing, confidence, and standing fully in your value as a designer. We talk about why so many designers undervalue their work, how unclear processes lead to undercharging, and what it really means to sell your services with integrity and authority.If you’re ready to stop second-guessing your pricing, start documenting your processes, and finally step into your CEO role, this episode is for you. You'll learn how to sell your interior design services with confidence, without feeling pushy, awkward, or salesy.Featured Guest:LuAnn Nigara is a business strategist, speaker, and host of two podcasts: Window Treatments for Profit and A Well-Designed Business, the leading podcast for design professionals with nearly 9 million downloads. A seasoned entrepreneur with 40+ years in the industry and three successful businesses, LuAnn helps creative entrepreneurs lead with confidence, build systems that drive profitability, and finally get out of their own way.Through LuAnn University, she offers practical, high-impact courses taught by industry pros. And for business owners ready for deep transformation, her Chairman of the Board one-on-one coaching provides the clarity and accountability needed to lead at the highest level.What You’ll Learn in This Episode✳️ Why interior designers consistently undervalue their work—and how to shift that mindset✳️ How documented processes directly impact your pricing, confidence, and profitability✳️ The difference between employee work and CEO work in an interior design business✳️ How to respond when clients question your authority or your pricing✳️ Why selling is not a dirty word—and how to reframe it with confidence✳️ How to stand firm in your boundaries without damaging client relationships✳️ The connection between confidence, pricing strategies, and better clientsRead the Blog >>> Secrets to Effective Selling, Pricing, and CEO Mindset NEXT STEPS:🎯 Sign up for the Launch Your Business Bootcamp today and start building your business the right way.Check out our Designer's Playlist!*️ Start Your Interior Design Journey *️ From Newbie to Confident Designer *️ Switching Gears to Interior Design Grab your freebies:📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps0:00 – Introduction: Bootcamp + Guest Bio3:48 – LuAnn's Journey into the Interior Design Industry6:20 – LuAnn's Sales Background and Philosophy9:05 – Reframing Sales for Creatives14:59 – Why Luann Started Her Podcast18:32 – Coaching Designers Through Real-World Business Challenges23:10 – Challenges of Interior Designers 28:07 – Sales Strategy + When to Hold Firm33:44 – Why Documenting Your Process Changes Everything38:07 – Luann’s Programs + How Designers Can Work With Her42:05 – Employee Work vs. CEO Work

Starting your own interior design business sounds exciting… until you sit down to actually do it and wonder, Where do I even begin?Maybe you’ve dreamed about launching your business for years, but the legal setup feels overwhelming.Maybe you’ve done a few side projects, but don’t feel “official” yet.Or maybe you’re terrified of getting your first paid client, pricing your services, or setting up systems that won’t fall apart the moment you take on real work.If that sounds like you, today’s episode will feel like the permission slip—and roadmap—you’ve been waiting for. I’m answering the most common FAQs about my Launch Your Business Bootcamp, an 8-week step-by-step program designed specifically for interior designers who want to build a profitable, structured, and legitimate business from the ground up.If you’ve been dreaming about making design your full-time career—without the guesswork, trial-and-error, or expensive mistakes—this episode will show you how to officially start your business, attract clients, and finally move from “I want to be a designer” to “I run a real design business.” This is your year. And I’m here to guide you every step of the way.What You’ll Learn in This Episode✔️ Who the Launch Your Business Bootcamp is best suited for✔️ Why this program helps you avoid the most common business-killing mistakes✔️ What you’ll accomplish week-by-week inside the 8-week business launch roadmap✔️ How the program is delivered and why the format helps you take real action✔️ What makes this different from other design business courses or mentorships✔️ How to know if now is the right time to finally launch your interior design businessRead the Blog >>> Frequently Asked Questions About Launch Your Business BootcampNEXT STEPS:🎯 Sign up for the Launch Your Business Bootcamp and start the new year with clarity, structure, and a proven step-by-step roadmapCheck out our Designer's Playlist!*️ Start Your Interior Design Journey *️ From Newbie to Confident Designer *️ Switching Gears to Interior Design Grab your freebies:📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps0:00 – Introduction and bootcamp announcement2:12 – Who Is the Bootcamp For4:16 – What Will You Learn and Accomplish5:48 – How the Course is Delivered8:15 – What If I’m Too Busy or Not Ready Yet9:10 – What Makes This Program Different10:21 – Cost, Value, and Investment Breakdown11:10 – How to Join and When It Starts

“I just want to design, but why is this so hard?” I get it! You love creating beautiful spaces, choosing finishes, and watching your vision come to life — but when it comes to running your design business, you suddenly feel lost. Pricing, contracts, permits, marketing, and systems aren’t what you signed up for. You became a designer because you love design, not because you wanted to be an entrepreneur.So many interior designers share that same fear and frustration: I love what I do, but I don’t know how to run a business.In this episode, I sit down with award-winning designer and educator Katie Malik, founder of Interior Design Deconstructed, who shares her honest journey from passion-driven creative to confident business owner. Like so many of us, Katie started her design career thinking her talent alone would be enough—until the reality of entrepreneurship hit. Through mentorship, business coaching, and intentional training, she learned how to build a sustainable practice that honors her creativity and her bottom line.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the business side of design, this conversation will remind you that you don’t have to figure it out alone. With the right guidance, systems, and support, you can transform your passion into a profitable design business. That’s exactly what I help designers do through my Launch Your Business Bootcamp—a step-by-step program designed to walk you through every stage of building a profitable interior design business — one that lets you thrive doing what you love.Featured Guest:Katie Malik is an award-winning interior designer and founder of Interior Design Deconstructed. With a Master’s in Philosophy from Cambridge University and advanced training in house whispering — a psychotherapy of space rooted in feng shui and energy alignment — Katie helps clients create homes and businesses that feel as good as they look. A triple UK Property Awards winner featured in Architectural Digest, Grand Designs, and The Times, she also mentors emerging designers to build profitable, purpose-driven studios.What You’ll Learn in This Episode✳️ How to transition into interior design from another career with confidence✳️ Why creative passion isn’t enough — and what business skills truly matter✳️ How investing in mentorship and coaching can fast-track your growth✳️ The surprising power of networking and community for designers✳️ What house whispering is and how energy and psychology connect to design✳️ Why clarity about your business goals helps you grow with easeRead the Blog >>> 5 Ways to Build a Strong Design Career FoundationNEXT STEPS:🎯 Sign up today for Launch Your Business BootcampYou’ll gain a full year inside My Design Mentor, plus an eight-week program that gives you the roadmap, coaching, and systems to build a business you're proud of.Check out our Designer's Playlist!*️ Start Your Interior Design Journey *️ From Newbie to Confident Designer *️ Switching Gears to Interior Design Grab your freebies:📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps0:00 Introduction and Guest Bio2:13 Katie’s Journey From Academia to Interior Design5:00 Transitioning from Education to Entrepreneurship7:39 House Whispering and Advanced Feng Shui11:38 Building and Scaling a Design Business 13:42 The Value of Business Coaching15:13 How to Learn From Designers Across the Globe17:18 Lessons Learned From Running a Design Business21:29 The Power of Systems and Processes22:11 Katie’s Podcast: Interior Design Deconstructed

Starting your own interior design business can feel like standing at the edge of a cliff—exciting, but also terrifying. You know you’re meant to design beautiful spaces, but when it comes to business setup, contracts, pricing, or branding, everything suddenly feels overwhelming. You may even wonder, “Can I really do this on my own?”Well, you don’t have to! The smartest and most successful designers aren’t those who do everything themselves—they’re the ones who ask for help early. That’s why I created the Launch Your Business Bootcamp—an eight-week, step-by-step coaching program designed to give you the structure, systems, and mentorship you need to fast-track your business launch and set yourself up for long-term profitability.In this episode, I walk you through what you’ll get inside the Bootcamp, how it’s designed to help you avoid common mistakes that lead to business failure, and why having mentorship and community support is the best investment in your future success. If you’ve ever wanted to build a thriving, profitable design firm but didn’t know where to start, this is the episode (and program) you don’t want to miss.What You’ll Learn in This Episode✔️ Why 20% of new businesses fail in their first year—and how to avoid becoming one of them.✔️ The importance of mentorship and community when starting your design business.✔️ What’s included in the eight-week Launch Your Business Bootcamp.✔️ How to lay the foundation for your brand identity and business purpose.✔️ The legal documentation and contracts you need to protect your design business.✔️ The systems and operations you must have in place to run profitable design projects.✔️ Why coaching investments often bring a 7x return—and how that applies to you.Read the Blog >>> Sneak Peek: Launch Your Business BootcampNEXT STEPS:Still unsure if the Bootcamp is right for you? 🎯 Join my free webinar: Learn 5 Money Moves to Start Your Interior Design Business Right - December 3rd at 12p Pacific TimeReady to launch your interior design business?🎯 Sign up now! Launch Your Business Bootcamp and get access to eight weeks of structured business coaching, plus a full year of My Design Mentor membership.Check out our Designer's Playlist!*️ Start Your Interior Design Journey *️ From Newbie to Confident Designer *️ Switching Gears to Interior Design Grab your freebies:📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps0:00 Introduction2:09 The Struggle of Starting a Business Without Help3:50 Why Mentorship and Accountability Fast-Track Your Success4:48 Inside the Eight-Week Launch Your Business Bootcamp9:34 How to Avoid the “Unprofitable Designer” Trap11:41 Why Profitability Matters From Day One13:25 Building Intentional Change for Your Design Business in 202616:21 Free Webinar: From Passion to Purpose

When you're first stepping into the interior design world, choosing a business name can feel like the defining decision of your entire future. Many designers freeze because they feel pressure to land on the “perfect” name—one that will carry them for decades. But here's the real truth most new creatives don't hear: you grow, and your business grows with you. Your brand name should have room to grow too.In this episode, I sit down with Nicole Roe, the founder and creative force of R. Nixon Interiors, a construction-savvy designer behind a fast-scaling boutique design firm. Nicole shares how she evolved from running “Nicole Roe Design” as a one-woman show to rebranding into a strong and scalable company identity… and why she will never rebrand again! We dive into the realities of choosing a brand name, the emotional and logistical hurdles of rebranding, and the importance of a name that empowers your team—not just your personal portfolio.If you’ve been questioning whether to use your name or create a standalone brand—or if you feel paralyzed by the fear of getting it wrong—this episode gives you clarity. We also explore how construction knowledge, hands-on learning, and confidence on job sites can transform your role as a designer making you a trusted partner to contractors and clients alike.Featured Guest:Nicole Roe is the founder and creative director of R. Nixon Interiors, a boutique interior design studio known for blending bold luxury with real-life functionality. With a degree in building construction from Georgia Tech and over 15 years of experience across construction and interior design, Nicole brings unmatched technical expertise to every project. She leads a growing team, operates her own receiving warehouse, and hosts the podcast Highly Affected By Her Surroundings. Nicole is passionate about empowering designers, embracing functional luxury, and pushing the boundaries of boutique residential design.What You’ll Learn in This Episode✳️ How Nicole transitioned from a personal-name brand to a scalable firm identity✳️ Signs it's time to rebrand—and how to avoid common rebranding pitfalls✳️ Advantages of having a flexible brand name✳️ How construction knowledge strengthens client trust and contractor relationships✳️ The importance of practicing design and problem-solving in your own home✳️ Team structure ideas that support growth in your interior design business✳️ Tips on stepping confidently into leadership roles in male-dominated spacesRead the Blog >>> Scale & Rebrand Your Design Business + Job-Site ConfidenceNEXT STEPS:🎯 Join the waitlist for Launch Your Business Bootcamp You’ll gain a full year inside My Design Mentor, plus an eight-week program that gives you the roadmap, coaching, and systems to build a business you're proud of.Check out our Designer's Playlist!*️ Start Your Interior Design Journey *️ From Newbie to Confident Designer *️ Switching Gears to Interior Design Grab your freebies:📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps0:00 Introduction2:26 Nicole's Journey to Becoming an Interior Designer6:49 Early Career and Initial Projects8:23 Rebranding: Nicole Roe Design to R Nixon Interiors10:33 The Challenges and Realities of Rebranding12:50 Tips for Managing Google Listings During a Rebrand14:10 Masculine vs Feminine Energy in Design + Job-Site Confidence17:09 The Value of Doing Projects at Home20:49 Team Structure and Roles Inside R Nixon Interiors23:05 Expanding Studio & Warehouse Spaces24:24 Podcast & Brand Growth Beyond Interiors27:28 Final Advice for New Designers

Starting your interior design business can feel like pure chaos. You’re excited to finally design for real clients, but behind the scenes, you’re juggling endless tasks: client emails, project notes, contracts, invoices, and oh—remembering who said what about that sofa fabric. Without systems, it’s easy to feel disorganized and unprofessional.The truth is, having solid business systems doesn’t box in your creativity—it frees it. When your client management, communication, and project processes are organized, you show up polished and confident. That consistency builds credibility and trust, allowing you to focus on what you do best—designing beautiful spaces.In this episode, I’m walking you through the four key systems that form the foundation of a professional interior design business. If you want to look polished, even if you’re brand new, this episode will show you how to set up systems that create smoother client experiences, save you time, and give you more creative space.What You’ll Learn in This Episode✔️ Why creative designers need structure—and how systems actually give you more freedom✔️  The four key systems every interior design business needs to look professional✔️  How a client management system (CRM) can simplify your communication and improve consistency✔️  The project management tools that keep tasks and timelines on track✔️  How to track your time and finances for smarter pricing and less stress✔️  Tips for organizing your communication and file systems to save hours every week✔️  Why systems make your client experience more consistent, polished, and referral-worthyRead the Blog >>> Key Systems Every Interior Designer Needs for a Pro BusinessNEXT STEPS:🎯 Join the waitlist for Launch Your Business BootcampI’ll walk you step-by-step through setting up your client management, project tracking, and communication systems—so you can handle clients with confidence and clarity.Check out our Designer's Playlist!*️ Start Your Interior Design Journey *️ From Newbie to Confident Designer *️ Switching Gears to Interior Design Grab your freebies:📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps0:00 Introduction2:10 Benefits of Having Business Systems 3:46 The Four Key Systems You Need to Set Up4:47 Client Management System (CRM)7:05 Project Management System08:45 Time Tracking System13:07 Financial Management Systems14:28 Communication and File Systems Management16:56 Wrapping Up: How Systems Protect Your Creativity19:07 Invitation: Launch Your Business Bootcamp

We’ve all been there — you start a remodel excited and full of vision, and then reality hits. A wall isn’t where you thought it was, a material is delayed, or something totally unexpected pops up once construction begins. Suddenly, your dream design feels like it’s slipping away.In this episode, I chat with the multi-passionate designer and entrepreneur Julie Stevens, whose creative journey spans interior design, product design, and entrepreneurship. Julie has designed everything from high-end interiors to patented products and even launched an award-winning cocktail brand, BeTini Spirits. What makes her story special isn’t just her creativity, but her resilience and mindset when things don’t go according to plan.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by design challenges or wondered how to stay calm and creative in the middle of chaos, this episode will help you reframe those tough moments. You’ll learn how to approach setbacks as opportunities, balance multiple creative passions, and design spaces that are truly functional, personalized, and full of purpose.Featured Guest:Julie Stevens is a designer, inventor, and entrepreneur who’s built a career around merging beauty with function. From creating custom furniture and consumer products to launching her award-winning cocktail brand, BeTini Spirits, she continues to inspire with her creativity and innovation. Her latest passion project, River Sound, is a historic theater-turned-music venue designed to nurture creativity in her Colorado community. Recognized by JP Morgan Chase as one of the 100 Women to Know in America, Julie embodies what it means to lead with imagination and purpose.What You’ll Learn in This Episode✳️ How to develop a mindset that thrives through design challenges✳️ Why creativity thrives when you combine beauty with function✳️ How to turn design roadblocks into fresh opportunities✳️ The key to balancing multiple creative passions without burning out✳️ Why listening deeply to your clients transforms your designs✳️ How dual-purpose design can make spaces more functional and beautiful✳️ The mindset shift that helps you grow through every project (not just survive it)Read the Blog >>> Turning Remodel Problems Into Design OpportunitiesNEXT STEPS:🎯 Join the waitlist for Launch Your Business BootcampCheck out our Designer's Playlist!*️ Start Your Interior Design Journey *️ From Newbie to Confident Designer *️ Switching Gears to Interior Design Grab your freebies:📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps0:00 Introduction & Guest Bio1:48 Julie’s Creative Beginnings and Early Influences2:49 Transition Into Interior Design and Product Design3:48 Inspiration and Design Process7:31 Designing Dual-Purpose Furniture Pieces10:18 Balancing Multiple Design Projects13:39 Challenges Faced During COVID and Lessons Learned15:19 The Right Mindset for Unexpected Remodeling Challenges17:30 Advice for New Designers Entering the Industry19:27 Eco-Conscious Design and Her Upcoming Creative Projects

Does the business side of design intimidate you? Many creatives dream of launching their own interior design business but freeze when it comes to legal paperwork, contracts, licenses, or financial planning. It feels complicated—almost like a foreign language that wasn’t covered in design school.The truth is, understanding the legal and financial setup isn’t as scary as it sounds. When you have a clear checklist and guidance, you can turn your creative passion into a legitimate business that clients trust.In this episode, I’m breaking down the non-negotiable legal and financial must-haves to help you build your business on a solid foundation. From your EIN and business license to contracts and bookkeeping systems, you’ll have a clear checklist for setting up your design business legally and professionally—so you can stop second-guessing yourself and finally take confident action.What You’ll Learn in This Episode✔️ The essential legal steps for launching your interior design business✔️ How to apply for an EIN and why it protects your privacy✔️ Choosing the right business structure: LLC, S-Corp, or Sole Proprietor✔️ The importance of licenses, permits, and business insurance✔️ Why contracts are non-negotiable for every client relationship✔️ Setting up business banking and payment systems for clean finances✔️ How to shift your mindset from hobbyist to confident CEORead the Blog >>> Essential Steps to Set Up Your Design Business LegallyNEXT STEPS:🎯 Join the waitlist for Launch Your Business BootcampCheck out our Designer's Playlist!*️ Start Your Interior Design Journey *️ From Newbie to Confident Designer *️ Switching Gears to Interior Design Grab your freebies:📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps0:00 Introduction1:34 How Rebecca Bootstrapped Her Business Setup5:26 Benefits of Setting up a Business Legally7:55 How to Get Your Ein9:51 How to Choose Your Business Structure11:02 Required Licenses and Permits12:09 The Importance of Having Business Insurance14:38 Why Contracts Are Your Business Backbone16:54 Business Banking and Financial Setup18:15 Bookkeeping and Hiring Help22:40 Mindset Shift: Viewing the Business as a Profitable Entity

Starting an interior design business is exciting—but if you’re like most designers, the legal side of things can feel overwhelming. Should you stay a sole proprietor, form an LLC, or register as an S Corp? What does any of that even mean for your taxes, liability, or peace of mind?In this episode, I sit down with Jonathan Feniak, attorney and co-founder of LLCAttorney.com, to talk about how to choose and form the right business entity for your interior design business. Jonathan breaks down the legal side of starting and running a design firm, explaining how to protect yourself with the proper business structure and why liability protection and insurance are essential for every designer. He also walks us through the natural progression many creatives take, from sole proprietorship to forming an LLC or S Corp, and how to know when it’s time to make that shift.Whether you’re just starting your design journey and ready to set up your business the right way, or you’re an established designer questioning whether your current setup still fits, this episode will help you get clear and confident. You’ll walk away knowing exactly how to protect your assets, stay legally compliant, and make smarter financial decisions for your interior design business.Featured GuestJonathan Feniak is the lead attorney behind LLCAttorney.com, a company dedicated to making quality legal guidance accessible to small business owners. Specializing in LLC formation, business compliance, and asset protection, Jonathan helps entrepreneurs create strong legal foundations that empower their businesses to thrive. With decades of experience across finance, operations, and law, he combines real-world business insight with expert legal advice to simplify complex legal decisions for creatives and entrepreneurs.What You’ll Learn in This Episode✳️ The difference between a sole proprietorship, LLC, and S Corp—and how each affects your taxes and liability✳️ Why insurance often matters more than your business entity when you’re just starting out✳️ How to know when it’s time to switch from a sole proprietor to an LLC or S Corp✳️ Why forming an LLC can make your design business look more professional and credible✳️ The most common mistakes designers make when setting up their businesses legally✳️ Simple steps to stay compliant and protect your personal assets✳️ How to avoid piercing the corporate veil and losing your liability protectionRead the Blog >>> >>> LLC or S Corp? How to Choose the Right Business Entity for Your Interior Design BusinessNEXT STEPS:🎯 Join the waitlist for Launch Your Business BootcampCheck out our Designer's Playlist!*️ Start Your Interior Design Journey *️ From Newbie to Confident Designer *️ Switching Gears to Interior Design Grab your freebies:📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Jonathan Feniak and His Background06:35 The Typical Path of Interior Designers: From Hobby to Sole Proprietor07:40 How to Evaluate Your Risk Before Forming a Business Entity10:45 When Insurance Is More Important Than an LLC12:50 What an LLC Really Is and How It Protects You16:56 Understanding S Corp Tax Classification and When It Makes Sense21:00 Why Most Designers Should Start With an LLC Instead of a Corporation24:00 Using DBAs (Doing Business As) For Multiple Design Brands25:20 How to Sign Contracts Properly to Protect Yourself Legally26:00 The Importance of Separating Business and Personal Finances28:30 Keeping Records and Exercising Business Judgment to Stay Compliant30:00 Why Having a Lawyer-Drafted Contract Is Essential as You Grow

Have you ever felt like your website or Instagram bio just isn’t landing with your dream clients? Here’s the hard truth: your message isn’t clear!Confused messaging is the #1 reason your dream clients scroll right past your site.You might have a stunning portfolio, a well-defined niche, and years of experience—but if your words don’t communicate your value simply and clearly, potential clients won’t stay long enough to notice.Your message needs to be clear and concise so people feel confident investing in you. It should build trust by showing you understand them, build confidence by highlighting the benefits of hiring you, and build action by inspiring them to reach out, book a call, or start a project.In this episode, I’m sharing the secret to clear, benefit-focused messaging that makes your dream clients stop scrolling and say, “That’s exactly who I need.” You’ll learn my simple three-part messaging framework that helps you speak directly to who you serve, how you help, and the results they can expect.What You’ll Learn in This Episode✔️ Why confusing messaging repels potential clients—and how to fix it✔️ My 3-part client-centered messaging framework✔️ The difference between generic vs. benefit-focused messaging (with examples)✔️ How to write bios, website copy, and Instagram captions that attract your dream clients✔️ Tips for keeping your messaging consistent across all platforms✔️ How to evolve and refine your message as your business grows✔️ Practical ways to get feedback on your messaging (even if you don’t have clients yet)Read the Blog >>> >>> How to Write Clear Messaging That Attracts Your Dream ClientsNEXT STEPS:🎯 Join the waitlist for Launch Your Business BootcampCheck out our Designer's Playlist!*️ Start Your Interior Design Journey*️ From Newbie to Confident Designer *️ Switching Gears to Interior Design Grab your freebies:📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview01:13 Why Clear Messaging Matters02:36 Examples of Generic vs. Client-Centered Messaging03:18 The Three-Part Messaging Framework: Who, How, and Results05:48 Refining Your Messaging With AI Tools & Feedback08:28 Messaging Makeovers and Consistency09:19 Where to Use Your New Messaging: Website, Bio, Social Media, Business Cards11:52 This Week’s Challenge (Rewrite Your Instagram or Website Bio)

Every interior designer faces this challenge: how do you create a home that looks stunning but also functions seamlessly for daily life? Too often, projects lean too heavily on aesthetics, leaving clients frustrated with inefficient layouts and cluttered spaces. The truth is, beauty without function doesn’t last.In this episode, I sit down with Whitney English, designer, entrepreneur, and author of Organize First, Decorate Second. Whitney explains why organizing before decorating is the secret to balancing form and function in your client projects. She shares practical decluttering tips, efficient layout strategies, and creative problem-solving tools that will transform how you approach your design process.If you want to design spaces that are not only beautiful but also livable, this conversation will give you fresh insights to apply right away. 🎧 Tune in now!Featured GuestWhitney English is an interior designer, entrepreneur, and author of Organize First, Decorate Second. She has bootstrapped two businesses to seven figures, earned a degree in interior design, and studied management at Parsons in New York City. Her work has been featured in O Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and on The Today Show. Beyond her professional achievements, Whitney is passionate about helping others live beautifully through gratitude, creativity, and intentional design.What You’ll Learn in This Episode✳️ Why organizing first sets the foundation for decorating success✳️ How clutter tells the “story” of a home and impacts your design process✳️ Practical decluttering strategies that save time and reduce client stress✳️ How to balance creativity and function in client projects✳️ Why efficient layouts make homes easier to maintain long-term✳️ The role of storytelling in both design and organization✳️ Lessons from Whitney’s journey as a creative entrepreneur and designerRead the Blog >>> Balancing Form and Function in Interior DesignNEXT STEPS:🎯 Join the waitlist for Launch Your Business BootcampCheck out our Designer's Playlist!*️ Start Your Interior Design Journey List*️ From Newbie to Confident Designer List*️ Switching Gears to Interior Design ListGrab your freebies:📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps00:00 Introduction and Guest Bio02:17 Whitney’s Early Passion for Design and Her First Floor Plan08:33 From Architecture Dreams to a Career in Design and Business11:57 Building a Wholesale Business16:16 The Concept of "Organize First, Decorate Second"20:28 Why Organizing First Leads to More Functional Spaces24:27 A Behind-The-Scenes Story of Efficiency and Creativity in Action28:05 Whitney’s Advice for Aspiring Design Professionals

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” statementRead the Blog >>> How to Identify Your Design NicheNEXT STEPS:🎯 Join the waitlist for Launch Your Business BootcampCheck out our Designer's Playlist!*️ Start Your Interior Design Journey List*️ From Newbie to Confident Designer List*️ Switching Gears to Interior Design ListGrab your freebies:📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps00:00 Introduction: From Dreaming to Designing Series01:20 Why Defining Your Niche Is the First Step to Standing Out02:12 Common Myth About Niching04:46 Generalist vs. Specialist05:15 Define Your Niche Step 1: What Lights You up as a Designer07:02 Define Your Niche Step 2: Strengths and Unique Background08:38 Define Your Niche Step 3: Identifying Gaps and Opportunities in the Market10:15 Crafting Your Niche Statement: The “I Help” Statement Formula10:52 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 GuestMarcy 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 growthRead the Blog >>> >>> Smart Way to Transition From Residential to Commercial DesignNEXT STEPS:🎯 Join the My 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 CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps0:00 Introduction2:32 Marcy’s Journey From Residential to Commercial Design6:41 Starting Her Own Design Firm and the Lessons Learned in Business Operations9:07 Why Every Designer Must Know Their Numbers and Margins12:27 The Power of Mentorship and Entrepreneurial Peer Groups13:50 Transitioning From Cad to Revit and Why Designers Must Adapt16:46 Designer Bank: Online Training Modules for Designers22:59 How to Navigate Commercial Design Projects30:20 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 intentionRead the Blog >>> >>> Sneak Peek Inside the 2-Day Sacramento Thrive RetreatNEXT 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 CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps 0:00 Introduction02:30  Why Personal and Business Growth Is Non-Negotiable06:50  How Much Time Designers Lose to Distractions (And How Retreats Reclaim It)09:40  The Struggle to Honor Personal Time and Why Non-Negotiables Matter14:15  Day 1 Preview: DISC, Working Genius, the Language for Success19:40  What Breakout Sessions and Roundtable Discussions Look Like22:00  Day 2 Preview: Goal Setting, Productivity Hacks, and Preparing for 202628:50  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 CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps0:00 Introduction2:19 How Michael Discovered His Passion for Woodworking3:47 Transitioning From Cabinetry to Custom Furniture6:15 Designing and Prototyping Unique Furniture Pieces8:56 Working With Interior Designers vs. Direct Clients10:01 The Process of Creating a Custom Furniture Piece for Designers12:16 The Story Behind the Wine Crate Dining Table17:52 Building a Barn Door With a Built-in TV for a Smart Home20:56 How to Connect With Brinkley Furniture21:28 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 changeRead the Blog >>> 3 Proven Keys to Your Designer Business BreakthroughRelated 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 breakthroughGrab your freebies:📌 Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design🎨 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps01:25 Why You Need to Step Out of Your Daily Routine for Breakthroughs03:38 The Power of New Environments and Nature07:49 The Power of Proximity and Who You Spend Time With08:50 Networking and Building Connections11:43 The Value of Retreats and Working on Your Business16:55 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 pitfallsCheck out the show notes >>> Mistakes, Difficult Clients & Lessons Learned in Running a Design BizNEXT STEPS:🎯 Join the My 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 CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps:0:00 Introduction02:04 Bre's Early Beginnings & How She Got Into Design06:09 Scaling and Shaping the Business09:49 Defining Her Signature Style12:58 Future Dreams: Lifestyle Brand Possibilities14:09 Impact of the LA Fires and Community Involvement17:28 Using Social Media to Grow a Design Business21:58 Mistakes, Difficult Clients & Lessons Learned31:16 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 lineCheck out the show notes >>> Normalizing Imposter Syndrome in Interior Design NEXT STEPS:🎯 Join the My 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 CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps: 0:00 Introduction02:13 Common Thoughts and Limiting Beliefs in New Designers6:49 Age, Comparison, and the Myth of Being "Behind"08:29 Understanding Imposter Syndrome11:00 Building Community and Support Network as a Solution15:19 Tools for Combatting Imposter Syndrome16:45 Navigating Nonlinear Progress19:45 Action Steps for Overcoming Imposter Syndrome21:44 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 clarityCheck out the show notes >>> Build a Thriving Interior Design Business Without a Design DegreeRelated Episode:✨ Episode 132: Stress-Free Framework to Attract Clients to Your Design Business With Ben RutledgeNEXT STEPS:🎯 Join the My 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 CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.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 & Michelle Lynne's Bio01:44 Michelle’s Unconventional Journey into Design05:07 Transition From Home Staging to Interior Design07:05 The Struggles of Building a Design Business08:56 Introduction to the Design Business Bakery14:17 The Story Behind the “Bakery” Branding16:19 Authentic Branding and Lessons Learned20:16 Inside ML Interiors Group & Studio Works Co-Op26:22 Sidemark: Software for Designers29:29 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 loveCheck out the show notes >>> Mindset Shift Series #3: Step Into Your Power as a Creative Business OwnerRelated Episodes:✨ Episode 146: How to Build Your Dream Design Team Without the Headache With Ronniesha RiveraNEXT STEPS:🎯 Join the My 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 CareerConnect With Me:📧 Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com🔆 Instagram: @rwarddesign 🌎 Website at rwarddesign.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: Mindset Shift from Creative to CEO03:05 Why Creatives Resist the CEO Role05:48 4 Core CEO Mindsets to Adopt12:31 Practical Shifts for Stepping Into the CEO Role15:11 Final Reminders16:33 Challenge for the Week