Hello and welcome back to another episode of the Design for the Creative Mind podcast! I'm your host, Michelle Lind, and today I'm thrilled to have Jessica Harling with me. Jessica is a passionate ringleader and dynamic problem solver, known for her work with Behind the Design.   We dive into the concept of personal branding, discussing the phrases Jessica uses to summarize her personal brand. Have you considered the phrases that describe you in a heartbeat? It's an interesting perspective that we explore.   The podcast takes a fun turn as we recount how Michelle and Jessica first met at Luann Live in Orlando. Despite a rescheduled podcast interview, their chance encounter was a delightful surprise, emphasizing the small, interconnected nature of the interior design world.   Jessica introduces her company, Behind the Design, which focuses on building dream teams in three key ways: finding top talent, providing training for comfort in roles, and developing processes for long-term success. The discussion delves into recruiting beyond designers, encompassing various roles within the interior design business, from admin positions to project managers.   Jessica shares her journey into the industry, stemming from her family's window covering business in Chicago. As a fourth-generation member, she was involved in operations and developed a passion for paving the path behind her, ensuring others wouldn't face the same struggles.   The conversation turns to the generational gap in the design industry, where Jessica noticed a divide between traditional knowledge and modern tools. This realization fueled her mission to bridge the gap, leading her to consult and eventually establish Behind the Design.   We explore the direct impact of Jessica's work, emphasizing the importance of bringing fresh perspectives into the industry. The discussion touches on the value of diverse skill sets and the need to innovate by incorporating different viewpoints.   We discuss the challenges faced by business owners in the interior design industry, focusing on finding, training, and retaining talent. Jessica's insights shed light on the holistic approach she takes, addressing both people and processes to drive business growth. Join us for this engaging episode as we explore the world of interior design, talent acquisition, and business growth with Jessica Harling from Behind the Design. Thank you for tuning in to the Design for the Creative Mind podcast! Connect with Jessica:  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BehindtheDesign/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gobehindthedesign/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/behindthedesign Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text BESTIE to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates.   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode I talk with Nikki Roush. She is the CEO of SalesMaven  and she has the unique ability to transform the misunderstood process of selling  with 25 plus years of selling experience. Entrepreneurs and small business owners now hire Nikki to show them how to sell successfully and authentically.  Nikki has written three books. They're all available on Amazon, and she has a podcast called Sales Maven.  Nikki shares her origin story and explains how she ventured into teaching people the art of selling. We talk about the stereotypes surrounding sales, especially for women, and the challenges individuals face when it comes to doing sales.  She shares her strategies for engaging conversations on social media, including how to talk with people rather than at them, and the simplicity behind developing genuine relationships on platforms like Instagram. In this episode we also dive into what steps should be included in a proven sales process and Nikki shares her process, "The Selling Staircase," revealing the steps to qualify, quote, and close high-end clients. Get your pen and paper ready as she emphasizes the importance of a multi-conversation sales approach and the art of redirecting thoughts.   Connect with Nikki: Grab a free gift for being a loyal podcast listener here: https://yoursalesmaven.com/mastering/   Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yoursalesmaven Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/your_sales_maven/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolerausch/   Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text BESTIE to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates.   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode I talk with Jeffrey Madoff, a multi-talented creative with a diverse career spanning fashion design, film production, producing, and teaching. Madoff has worked with prestigious clients like Ralph Lauren, Tiffany, Victoria's Secret, and more. He's also an adjunct professor at Parsons School of Design and an Amazon best-selling author of "Creative Careers, Making a Living with Your Ideas." Madoff is the author of Creative Careers: Making a Living with Your Ideas. His book dispels the myth that artists can’t be good business people and good business people can’t be creative. He breaks down other myths about creativity so that readers can overcome obstacles and reach their full potential. Drawing on Jeff’s decades of experience and the experience of over 50 industry experts, Creative Careers takes you down a practical path that will lead to success in any field. Madoff shares insights into his background, including growing up in Akron, Ohio, and his early experiences working in his parents' retail stores. Despite a broad education in philosophy and psychology, he found these disciplines foundational to his creative endeavors. In this conversation  into the intersection of creativity and business acumen. Madoff emphasizes the importance of breaking free from binary thinking, where creativity and business are perceived as mutually exclusive. He believes that everything one does informs everything else, emphasizing the interconnectedness of experiences. We explore the idea that creativity is not limited to specific fields but is a common thread across diverse pursuits. They discuss the importance of asking the right questions, understanding budgets, and grasping various aspects of business in creative professions.   Connect with Jeffrey:  Website:  ACreativeCareer.com,  MadoffProductions.com LinkedIn: in/B-Jeffrey-Madoff Instagram @ACreativecareer   Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text BESTIE to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates.   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode I talk  with Masha Koyen, a messaging strategist and website copywriter for interior designers about the importance of strategic copy and messaging in the visually-driven world of interior design. Masha talks about the need for designers to blend their visuals on their websites  with great copy that connects to their audience and tells them a story. Your website has to work double duty, and copy is the bridge that connects your brand with the audience. In the interior design industry it can be challenging to stand out, but your personal story is what sets you apart. Being authentic, telling your journey, and revealing the genuine you make the audience more likely to remember and connect with your brand. We also dive into how to weave your story into your website copy, and Masha dives deeper into her process for how she helps clients create website copy that tells their brand story, speaks to their audience, and helps them get those potential clients to take the next step and engage with their brand.  Thank you for listening to this episode! I hope it inspires you to be more authentic, share your story, and hire a copywriter for your website if you need help!    Meet our guest Masha Koyen:  Masha Koyen is a seasoned messaging strategist and copywriter, bringing over 14 years of corporate marketing experience to the table. She's worked with big guns like Deloitte, KPMG, Open Text, and Pearson before launching her own boutique copywriting agency, Content Vertical. Today, Masha specializes in messaging strategy and website copywriting for the interior design industry. Her secret sauce? A data-driven approach using her signature REVEAL framework. She dives deep into the audience's psyche, creating engaging narratives that resonate with their core needs and desires. With Masha, you're not just getting words on a page - you're getting a strategic narrative that captures attention and doesn't let go. Expect powerful, engaging web copy that not only tells a story, but drives action.   Connect with Masha:  Website: https://www.contentvertical.com/ Grab a free mini messaging audit here: https://www.contentvertical.com/miniaudit/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/masha.copywriter/   Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text BESTIE to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates.   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode I talk to Jamie Van Cuyk, the owner and lead strategist of Growing Your Team. She helps women, small business owners become confident leaders who hire correctly every single time. It's a big promise, but Jamie backs it up and shares with us in this episode the keys to getting it right.  In our conversation Jamie shares with us the 4 things to look out for in your business to know that it is time to hire, and we chat about common pitfalls you should avoid when trying to hire in your interior design business. We also dive into what to look for in your ideal candidate, how to ask the right questions in an interview, and how critical the onboarding process is to your new hire’s success and your business success.  As a business owner, hiring is one of the most important things you will do in your business and when you don’t get it right, it can be such a source of stress and losing time, money, and energy. This is not something that you should take lightly and it will always be important to continue to hone your skills when it comes to hiring or outsourcing it.  Thank you for tuning into this episode, I hope I encouraged you to take the hiring process seriously and you learned valuable tools to help you build your dream interior design business team   Meet our guest Jamie: Jamie Van Cuyk, the owner and lead strategist of Growing Your Team, helps women small business owners become confident leaders who hire right every single time. Drawing from over 15 years of leadership experience, Jamie teaches her clients how to master the art of hiring. By learning the dynamics of each company and their specific needs, she helps them find their perfect-fit, long-lasting team members and avoid the hiring and firing cycle. On a personal side, Jamie lives in St Petersburg, FL, with her husband and two daughters, is a hobby winemaker, loves to travel, and enjoys exercise that takes her feet off the ground, including rock climbing and aerial dance.   Connect with Jamie here:  WEBSITE: Growing Your Team https://growingyourteam.com/ CONTACT INFO: jamie@growingyourteam.com Facebook -https://www.facebook.com/GrowingYourTeam Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/growingyourteam/ LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamievancuyk/   Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text BESTIE to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates.   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode I am thrilled to introduce you to Katie Decker Erickson, a powerhouse in the world of interior design and business.  Katie  has not only earned her MBA but has spent nearly two decades building a multi-million dollar interior design firm that operates in over 20 states and she is sharing with us what things have been the most helpful for her as she has built her business.  In our conversation, Katie  shares her fearless approach to starting her design business. She emphasizes the importance of not succumbing to the fear of perfection and how overthinking can lead to analysis paralysis. Drawing from her own experience, Katie  highlights the value of taking action, even if it means starting with just a cardboard box and a few fan decks (which is exactly what she did starting out).  We delve into the challenges of striving for perfection and the wisdom behind the 80/20 rule—acknowledging that achieving 80% success is often enough to call it a win. Katie's perspective on starting before you feel ready is a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and a lesson for anyone hesitating to take the first step. On your journey as a business owner it is important that you learn to embrace imperfection and how a "Done is better than perfect" attitude is key for being able to get things done in business. It’s  important to learn through action, tweaking, and iterating along the way. Everyone starts somewhere, and the key is to get started. We touch on the significance of building a strong team, with Katie crediting her team for the exponential growth of her firm. And talk about how important team, processes and systems are to being a CEO that is not needed in the daily ins and outs of your business. Thank you for tuning into this episode, I hope I encouraged you to take action, build your team and systems and that you are inspired by listening to Katie’s journey and know that it is possible for you with the right mindset and support!    Meet our guest Katie Decker-Erickson: Katie began her career in commercial color consulting as a part-time passion project in 2007. Today, her company, Color Works has grown into a multi-million dollar commercial design company, currently operating in over 20 states nationwide, with a fully remote team of more than a dozen individuals. Katie is known for her business acumen (having grown 1500% in a single year), passion for teaching others (with 18 years teaching undergraduate courses), devotion to her two young daughters, and commitment to women/s empowerment both personally and professionally.    Connect with Katie here:  Website:  https://colorworks.coach  LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/deckerkatie/ IG:  https://www.instagram.com/colorworks.coach/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/colorworkscoaching  Youtube: https://youtube.com/@ColorfulConversations   Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text BESTIE to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates.   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode I’m diving into a topic that's close to my heart - leadership. Whether you're leading a team or going solo, leadership is the key to unlocking freedom in your interior design business, and how you are as a leader is crucial to your team and business success.  I share my journey, starting from managing tables in a restaurant at 23 to running my own interior design business. Leadership became essential when I realized I couldn't do it all alone.I had to learn the delicate balance of setting high standards for your team while recognizing and celebrating milestones along the way. It's not just about the destination; the journey matters too. Whether you have one team member or ten, treat them as collaborators. It's not about hierarchy; it's about working together towards a common goal. Leading a team requires clear communication, accountability and understanding that everyone thinks differently. Be open to learning from your team while teaching them, creating a reciprocal environment where iron sharpens iron. Being a leader isn't about being perfect; it's about inspiring greatness in those around you. As an entrepreneur, you already have greatness within you. Step into that role and share it with others. Thank you for tuning into this episode, I hope I encouraged you to step fully into the leader you need to be for your team and that you’ve got some great tips to take with you and start implementing right away.    Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text UPDATES to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates. SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode, we dive into the heart of client education, specifically in the context of project financials and client sourcing.  We've all seen those design forums filled with pricing struggles and client shopping stories. Today, let's break down the myth and find a solution. The truth of the matter is—clients aren't jerks; they're often just uninformed. Time to shift your perspective from frustration to education. Once you learn how to weave client education into your conversations and even into your contracts, you will find that your clients will respect how you run your business and will be less likely to “shop you” or ask for discounts.  Educate your clients on the behind-the-scenes work. There is so much more that goes into designing a room than they know, they don’t understand what it takes to pull a design together but you do, it’s your job to communicate that and the value that you bring.  You're not just creating spaces; you're crafting experiences, you are turning houses into homes. You have to believe in the value that you bring to the project beyond a dollar per hour. Your skills and creativity are unparalleled – don't undersell them.  Take a moment after this episode and list out the intricate steps involved in designing a single room. Recognize the value in your process—it's a journey, not just a result. Remember, you're not just designing spaces; you're curating an environment. Embrace the process, communicate your value, and watch how smooth your client experience will be. .  Thank you for tuning into this episode, I hope I encouraged you to be more bold in your client education and the value you bring to the project.    To register for the Rolling In The Dough workshop referenced in this episode visit: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/workshop   Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text UPDATES to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates. SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode I’m introducing you to Debbie DeCleva, the leader of the dream team at Ogallala Comfort, a luxury bedding company with a mission to lift people out of poverty and save the Monarch butterfly, and we are diving into the fascinating connection between butterflies and a good night's sleep. Debbie shares her family's second-generation involvement in the business, and the role of milkweed in enhancing the sleeping experience. You’ll also hear how milkweed is connected to the Monarch butterfly and how Ogallala is using it to make an impact in underprivileged communities and save the Monarch butterfly.  We talk about the importance of not just designing a beautiful bed and bedroom space, but how a great design also means a great night's sleep and how the bedding you choose can elevate your clients sleep experience tremendously. You’ll also learn what sets Ogallala’s bedding apart and what things to look for when you are sourcing bedding for your clients.  Debbie and the team at Ogallala love to work with designers to customize bedding solutions for their clients unique needs and to make sure their bedding looks and feels luxurious, and they are known for their fairly quick turnaround times in order to accommodate designers and their project deadlines and customizations.  Thank you for tuning into this episode! I hope that through listening to Debbie’s story you’ll learn the importance of quality bedding and design and a good night's sleep, but also how you can run your business and make an impact in the community.    Meet our guest Debbie Dekleva:  Debbie Dekleva is the CEO and Milkweed Maverick of Monarch Flyway, the longest running milkweed business in history. Second generation milkweed entrepreneur, she worked as an apprentice under her visionary and patent attorney father, learning about milkweed, its uses, the monarch butterfly, biodiversity and how to work with nature rather than against it. Debbie works with rural communities to implement UNTAMED AG utilizing the renewable, natural resource of milkweed and other native plants already growing in their area. You can learn more about Debbie and her work here: www.monarchflyway.com Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text UPDATES to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates. SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode I’m introducing you to Sarah Lyon, a full-time freelance writer for publications such as Architectural Digest, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, Washington Post, and more. We're thrilled to have her here to share her insights and experiences. We delve into Sarah's journey into the world of freelance interiors writing and how her passion for writing and journalism led her down this path, even without a dedicated journalism major at her liberal arts college. Sarah's background as an editor for her student newspaper laid the foundation for her career, honing her technical skills and ethics involved in journalism. After graduating, she moved to New York City and embarked on an exciting career in the world of print magazines. We learn from Sarah how she transitioned into freelancing while working her full-time job and how she was able to balance the unknown of going full time in her business, with the practical things she wanted to make sure she had in place when she finally took the leap. Her transition was gradual and cautious, which allowed her to make an informed decision about going full-time as a freelance writer.   You will learn about how to pitch your projects effectively to publications. Sarah recommends introducing yourself, providing context about your projects, sharing your background, and creating a compelling story around your work. She emphasizes the importance of following up on pitches but advises doing so strategically. Remember, it's all about building a professional relationship with editors. Thank you for tuning in to this episode. We hope you found Sarah's journey and advice inspiring. If you enjoyed this podcast, don't forget to subscribe and leave us a review.    Meet our guest Sarah Lyon:  Sarah Lyon is a Washington DC native, living in New York City. As a freelancer, she frequently covers pieces pertaining to interior design, travel, and other lifestyle topics. Her pieces have appeared in outlets including apartment therapy, Architectural Digest, MyDomaine, The Washington Post, the New York Times, and more. When she isn’t writing, Sarah works with designers to help them style spaces for Photoshoots (and can’t help stop rearranging and redecorating her own apartment, either!) Sarah’s own spaces have appeared on Apartment Therapy, The Everygirl, Houzz, and Washingtonian.com Her DuPont Circle apartment was featured in both the spring 2019 print edition of Small Space Decorating and the January 2019 print edition of Washingtonian Magazine.    Connect with Sarah On IG here: https://www.instagram.com/sarahlyon9/   Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text UPDATES to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates. SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode, I am taking you on a journey through some challenging times in my business this year, and shedding some light on how to face unexpected situations and overcome fear. From a contractor mishap to personal health issues and team betrayals, I am sharing valuable insights that can help you navigate tough seasons in your business.   How you deal with these disappointments is a key indicator to your long term success in business. Having mental fortitude is key. When the unexpected happens, it elicits fear. Our first response may be to run away and hide and say “forget it”.  It's okay to feel overwhelmed, stressed, or even want to escape but it’s important to honor your feelings and emotions during these tough times. And it’s okay to rest and take some time to process your emotions if that is what is needed.    To move through these times you must look back at the excuses you made for yourself or others during difficult situations and take ownership of your role. Acknowledge the reality of the situation and get real about if it is as dire as it initially seems. Realize that the actions of others, such as team members or contractors, are not a reflection of you but rather their own choices.   You can learn from my experience that betrayal and challenging moments in business are rarely about you personally and people often make decisions based on their own self-interest or needs. Don't take it personally; it's about them. Remember that everyone makes mistakes and bad decisions. You can allow yourself to give grace to others, as you would want for yourself.   This podcast episode serves as a reminder that mental fortitude is crucial in business, and how you choose to react to adversity can greatly impact your long-term success. Embrace your emotions, face reality, and keep moving forward with a focus on your business and your well-being.   Thank you for tuning in to this episode. I hope you found value in knowing you are not alone and that this episode helps you navigate hard times in your business a little better. If you enjoyed this podcast, don't forget to subscribe and leave us a review.  Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text UPDATES to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates. SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode I am coming to you live again (for part 2) from the Las Vegas Market and I am interviewing Interior Design Business Bakery alum Heather Vercellino and her husband Joe about how impactful being in The Bakery has been for not just Heather’s interior design business, but how it has trickled into every part of their life.    Sometimes having the talent isn’t enough, you also have to get the tools, and that is just what the bakery is designed to give you. Joe and Heather emphasize the importance of having a coach and getting the right support when building a business.. When you show up, do the work, and have the right tools, it gives you the confidence needed to be successful.    The ripple effect from joining the bakery has impacted their personal lives, Heather’s business, and Joe was able to apply those same business principles and have courage to start his own business that now has affected and impacted over a million of our youth through the Lionheart organization,  where Joe speaks on stages and leads an amazing collaborative effort to give our youth a strong sense of self worth and combat many of the challenges our youth face today.    Listening to their story of how one choice- to join The Interior Design Business Bakery has rippled through from Heather and her being able to build a profitable and sustainable design business, to igniting her husband Joe and giving him the confidence to pursue his passions, and how them leading their family and businesses with purpose and passion and with ease, is truly inspiring.    We are so grateful to have them as members of The Bakery family, and being there to model to others what is possible when you invest in yourself, believe in your dreams and get the right support.    Thank you for listening, and if you enjoy the show, please don’t forget to rate and review it!    Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text UPDATES to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates. SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode I am coming to you live from the Las Vegas Market and I am interviewing two of my friends and former students Ivan Piniero and Heather Vercellino, of the Interior Design Business Bakery. They both now have thriving businesses from two very different backgrounds and you will get to hear each of them tell their stories of their individual journey to get where they are now from the first days of their business.   In this episode you will get to hear where they each started, why they joined The Bakery, and the mindset around what it takes to go all in and create the interior design business you desire.  You’ll learn how Ivan got his first clients ever for his design business while still juggling his corporate job and what you can learn and implement from that, as well as why Heather is so grateful that she went all in and joined The Interior Design Business Bakery and how building her business the right way allowed her to be able to live a life and be there for her family while maintaining a thriving business.  The thing that brings them together is their love for design and their experience in The Interior Design Business Bakery which is both powerful in helping you build the foundations of your business, AND bringing people together with a powerful community that we will share for years to come which you’ll see is crucial for long term success in this business.  Thank you for listening, and if you enjoy the show, please don’t forget to rate and review it!    Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text UPDATES to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates. SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode Michelle dives into what it actually takes to start your Interior Design business whether you are just starting out or have been in business for a few years.    Building the foundation of your business the right way is essential to your business success. In this episode Michelle breaks down the checklist that you can use to make sure you have all the business essentials covered, and talks about how important it is to invest in yourself and your business as well as getting used to being comfortable getting uncomfortable.    Thank you for listening, and if you enjoy the show, please don’t forget to rate and review it!  Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery     Text UPDATES to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates.   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/    Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad    Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode of the podcast, Michelle breaks down all of the worst advice that she ever received when she was building her business, and goes into what you should do and how you should be thinking instead.    Understanding who to take advice from as a baby designer, and getting plugged in to a community of like minded business owners is a key element to your growth and development in your business.    Tune in to find out what advice Michelle would never take and you shouldn't either, while growing your interior design business.    Thank you for listening, and if you enjoy the show, please don’t forget to rate and review it!  Podcast Website and Resources:   Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery     Text UPDATES to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates.   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/    Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad    Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production

In this episode of the podcast, we discuss the recipe for building a successful interior design business. A big part of that is going to be finding the right mentor and making sure that you get the support you need to help grow your business.   We outline the key ingredients for growing an interior design business, especially if you're in the early stages: Identifying your ideal clientStrong marketing and sales strategyThe Importance of good pricing strategiesConsidering procurement processesThe 4 phases of interior design projects .   These ingredients are essential to your business running smoothly and to get you out of trading your time for dollars. Don't underestimate the value of creating repeatable processes to ensure business continuity even when you're not present and how this is key to building a sustainable and profitable business.  Thank you for listening, and if you enjoyed the show, please rate and review!    Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text UPDATES to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates. SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business.   Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact A Podcast Launch Bestie production

Welcome back to the Design for the Creative Mind podcast, where we discuss the journey from being a novice "baby designer" to becoming a successful "big girl business owner." In this episode, we'll explore the transformation and key elements that can help you achieve your design business goals. A "baby designer" is where most of us start our journey in the interior design industry. Transitioning from a baby designer to a big girl business owner involves various elements. Success is subjective and defined differently by each individual.   In this episode, we've explored the journey from being a baby designer to becoming a big girl business owner in the interior design industry. Success is defined individually, but it often involves creating efficient processes, marketing effectively, maintaining consistency, making tough decisions, and adopting a CEO mindset. Stay tuned for more insights and advice on achieving your design business goals in future episodes.   Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text UPDATES to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates. SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact A Podcast Launch Bestie production

Welcome back! I took a short break from the podcast in order to re-evaluate and strategize a strong way forward, and now I’m back!  If you’re a small business owner in the design industry that wants to get over the 6-figure hump, take home a nice profit and find your passion about work again, you’re in the right place. In this episode, I’ll go through my story from corporate, to a puddle of tears on the floor, through to building a smoothly running design firm and discovering the need for guidance and support for other moms that want to build their own design firm.    It would be very much appreciated if you would leave a rating and review wherever you listen to podcasts. It really helps to keep the show relevant, and I would love to come back to see some of your kind words. Enjoy your summer, and take some breathing time for yourself too!   Michelle Lynne began her interior design career after spending more than two decades working in Corporate America. She began in the home staging arena and has since built a successful, award-winning, full-service interior design firm, employing talented designers and serving clients across the country.   In the summer of 2018, Michelle began focusing on a big gap she saw missing in the interior design industry: teaching interior designers how to run the business of an interior design business. She now engages in private coaching and leads an in-depth, 12-month group coaching program, both options focus on teaching designers profitable processes, systems, strategies, and mindset needed to run a streamlined, profitable interior design firm.   Her motto is simple: we rise by lifting others.   Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery    Text UPDATES to 855-784-8299 for all our DFCM updates.   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business.   Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact A Podcast Launch Bestie production

Hey, y’all. It’s just me for a quick solo episode letting you know that I am practicing what I preach about slowing down to speed up. Join me for this short episode to hear about our upcoming plans to make this podcast bigger and better when we return!   It would be very much appreciated if you would leave a rating and review wherever you listen to podcasts. It really helps to keep the show relevant, and I would love to come back to see some of your kind words. Enjoy your summer, and take some breathing time for yourself too!   Michelle Lynne began her interior design career after spending more than two decades working in Corporate America. She began in the home staging arena and has since built a successful, award-winning, full-service interior design firm, employing talented designers and serving clients across the country.   In the summer of 2018, Michelle began focusing on a big gap she saw missing in the interior design industry: teaching interior designers how to run the business of an interior design business. She now engages in private coaching and leads an in-depth, 12-month group coaching program, both options focus on teaching designers profitable processes, systems, strategies, and mindset needed to run a streamlined, profitable interior design firm.   Her motto is simple: we rise by lifting others.   Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery    Text UPDATES to 214-380-1969 for all our DFCM updates.   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business.   Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad    Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact    Podcast edited and managed by Haili Murch LLC.   If you are interested in starting a podcast or you are currently a podcaster needing help managing or relaunching your podcast, you may email Haili Murch at hello@hailimurch.com or you can click here to book a call: https://calendly.com/hailimurch/podcast-discovery-call

My next guest has a lot of experience in turning obstacles into opportunities. Ginger Curtis is the owner and founder of Urbanology Designs, an author, speaker, and serial entrepreneur. She is an expert in modern luxury design and passionate about all things beautiful. After surviving cancer, she began Urbanology Designs in 2015 to inspire and help others elevate their homes' beauty, comfort, and function.   In this episode, Ginger shares some of the obstacles that created opportunities for growth in her life, how she delegates and elevates within her business, and why it's our job to educate our clients about the impact our environments have on our well-being.   Mentioned in this episode: Neuroaesthetics Blinkist App: https://www.blinkist.com/  Wooden by Coach John Wooden Ginger’s Book, Beauty By Design   Check out Urbanology Designs: https://www.urbanologydesigns.com and on IG: https://www.instagram.com/urbanologydesigns/    Learn more about Urban Fire House and Urbanology Cottage at https://www.urbanologyproperties.com/properties  Fire House IG: https://www.instagram.com/urbanfirehouse/  Cottage IG: https://www.instagram.com/theurbanologycottage/    Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery    Text UPDATES to 214-380-1969 for all our DFCM updates.   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business.   Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad    Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact    Podcast edited and managed by Haili Murch LLC.   If you are interested in starting a podcast or you are currently a podcaster needing help managing or relaunching your podcast, you may email Haili Murch at hello@hailimurch.com or you can click here to book a call: https://calendly.com/hailimurch/podcast-discovery-call