Trust Me I'm a Decorator

Debbie Travis and Tommy Smythe

Trust Me... I'm a Decorator! is a podcast hosted by renowned television personalities and designers Debbie Travis and Tommy Smythe. While you may know them best as decorators, they'll be covering all of their favourite things; travel, relationships, food and more with many special guests along the way.  Debbie Travis is an international television host and producer, best-selling author, sought-after public speaker, and designer of the Debbie Travis Home Collection and holds women’s retreats at her villa in Tuscany. She is also the creator and host of Debbie Travis' Painted House, Debbie Travis' Facelift, From the Ground Up, All for One and La Dolce Debbie. She has appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show, Regis and Kelly, The Today Show, The Marilyn Denis Show and has been featured everywhere from Marie Clare to People Magazine, Hello Magazine, The Telegraph and The Globe and Mail. Tommy Smythe spent almost two decades working with HGTV star Sarah Richardson on various shows and he’s a highly sought-after guest expert on national television including The Marilyn Denis Show and Breakfast Television. He recently started his own interior design firm called TOM Design Studio where he combines his love for both traditional and modern design. Off camera, he maintains an international portfolio of private residential design projects as well as an active presence in print media. read less
Society & CultureSociety & Culture

Episodes

Inside the Creative Mind of Jann Arden
Apr 8 2024
Inside the Creative Mind of Jann Arden
Debbie Travis and Tommy Smythe welcome multi-platinum, award-winning singer, songwriter, actor, author, and fellow podcaster Jann Arden to the podcast! They discuss her debut novel The Bittlemores and her creative process; Jann shares that it took her about 13 years to write the book, starting with a simple idea and gradually adding to it over time. She emphasizes the importance of storytelling and the enjoyment she finds in pursuing different creative endeavours. The conversation also touches on the editing process and the challenges of letting go of certain ideas. They touch on some themes covered in the book including teenage pregnancy, abandonment, alcoholism and animal cruelty. Jann also explains how her book also looks at making better choices regarding animal welfare and industrial farming. The hosts share funny and hateful experiences from the internet. They emphasize the need for joy, laughter, and manners in online interactions. The conversation covers various topics including poverty, the impact of COVID-19, the value of hard work, the importance of being authentic, the significance of home, and the joy of planting and nurturing. They also talk about the sacrifices and challenges of their careers and the misconception of fame. The conversation emphasizes the importance of living in the present moment and finding joy in simple things.  Topics The 13-Year Journey of 'The Bittlemores' The Challenges and Importance of the Editing Process The Joy of Storytelling: Jan Arden's Approach to Writing Awareness and Better Choices for Animal Welfare Funny and Hurtful Experiences with Online Hate Living Life to the Fullest and Exploring the World The Impact of Poverty and COVID-19 The Value of Hard Work and Authenticity The Significance of Home Finding Joy in Simple Things The Satisfaction of Planting and Nurturing Find out more about Jann Arden's The Bittlemores: https://www.jannarden.com/jann-arden-releases-new-novel-the-bittlemores/ Listen to The Jann Arden Podcast: https://www.jannardenpod.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Women Who Inspire Us
Mar 11 2024
Women Who Inspire Us
On this episode, Debbie and Tommy reflect on how important women are to society, in history, and in their lives. They touch on the traditional roles of women in society and the power of female friendship. The conversation also talks about embracing differences and striving for equality. From Frances Mayes to Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Debbie and Tommy also reflect on the changing roles of women in society, including the impact of women in politics, and the importance of supportive partnerships. They also explore the power of reversing traditional gender roles and the significance of trust and support in relationships. The conversation highlights the need to celebrate women's achievements and share success stories. They also announce another 'Ask Us Anything' episode with a live audience! Send in your questions at www.thetrustmepod.com! Topics Introduction and the Influence of Women The Importance of Coping and Support Gender Roles and Community The Power of Female Friendship Sharing Stories and Finding Inspiration The Multitudes of Women and Men The Influence of Women Throughout History The Changing Roles of Women The Influence of Women Behind the Scenes The Impact of Women in Politics Women Who Inspire Supportive Partnerships Reversing Traditional Gender Roles The Importance of Trust and Support Finding Balance in Relationships The Power of Sharing Success Stories Celebrating Women's Achievements Recording with a Live Studio Audience Recommendation: Conversations from a Long Marriage Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Real World of Design with Genevieve Gorder
Feb 26 2024
The Real World of Design with Genevieve Gorder
This week, Tommy and Debbie are actually talking about design & decorating in honour of a special guest! Genevieve Gorder is one of America’s favorite interior designers for years. She is the founder and director of the Genevieve Gorder brand, a television host, designer, producer, a home product designer, contributing author, and global ambassador for home and human rights. Gorder has appeared and been featured in several dozen lifestyle shows around the world. Currently, you can find Genevieve on Netflix, HGTV, Bravo, TLC, Amazon, numerous talk shows, and now on Crackle TV with her new show At Home with Genevieve. A two time Emmy nominee and regular design host at the White House, Genevieve has built multiple lifestyle collections for home. From rugs and textiles to wallpaper, jewelry and a full line of furniture and decor. Off Air and internet, Genevieve designs and consults for a diverse group of clients and companies. While she has guided many hotels, restaurants, cruise lines, towns and private clients towards their design dreams, her latest project will open in 2025 as a Six Senses hotel in Mexico. She travels the world with Oxfam as a Sister on the Planet ambassador, using her influence to fight global poverty, hunger and injustice with a particular focus on home and empowering women and girls. Gorder’s work has been featured in numerous publications nationally and internationally. Currently you can find her on the cover and featured in the NYT best seller “In the Company of Women”. Genevieve resides with her husband and furniture designer Christian Dunbar and daughter Bebelle in Manhattan.  Debbie, Tommy & Genevieve discuss their early collaborations and the impact they had on viewers and future designers. They also reflect on the success of shows like Changing Rooms and Trading Spaces, which revolutionized the design industry. The conversation explores the democratization of design and the joy of teaching and communicating design to a wide audience. Genevieve and Debbie share their passion for creativity and the importance of finding inspiration in everyday life. They also discuss the challenges and rewards of the renovation process and the joy of creating spaces that bring happiness to people's lives. They touch on the realities of television production, filming challenges, finding drama in home renovations, and appreciating the realness of the process. Topics covered: Introduction and Admiration Early Collaborations and TV Shows Passion for Design from Childhood Impact on Viewers and Future Designers The Success of Changing Rooms and Trading Spaces The Rise of Reality TV and Design Shows Early TV Experiences and Real World Diplomacy and Creativity Translating Design and Joyful Approach Teaching and Communicating Design Design as a Calling and Teaching Process Democratization of Design and DIY Breaking Barriers and Changing the Industry Taking Ownership and Creating Collections Finding Inspiration and Learning from Italy Passion for Design and Teaching Balancing Creativity and Teaching Sharing the Renovation Process The Cost of Renovations Creating Destinations The Realities of Television Filming Challenges Finding Drama in Home Renovations Appreciating the Realness Continuing the Conversation Find more information about Genevieve's collections: Jewelry: https://monyajewelry.com/pages/genevieve-gorder Rugs: https://buymymagiccarpet.com/pages/genevieve-gorder-collection Wallpaper: https://tempaper.com/collections/genevieve-gorder?gad_source=1 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tunnel of Love
Feb 12 2024
Tunnel of Love
Debbie and Tommy discuss their experiences and feelings about Valentine's Day. They share childhood memories, embarrassing moments, and romantic gestures. Debbie talks about falling in love with Hans. Tommy talks about that time he walked into a hotel room to find something he wished he didn't...and reminds us not to go back to our exes. Outside of unfortunate Valentine's Day experiences, they also discuss how to keep romance alive and their plans for Valentine's Day. Finally, Debbie shares her chocolate mousse recipe from her latest book, Joy. Debbie's chocolate mousse recipe ingredients: 4 cups of whipping cream or heavy cream, 3 cups of chopped dark chocolate, a little over one pound. Icing powder Edible flowers or fresh mint. Directions: Pour the cream into a large bowl and whip with a whisk or electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Place the chocolate in a microwave safe bowl and microwave for 30 second intervals, stirring after each until all the pieces have melted and the mixture is hot and smooth. Alternatively, you can place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl and set it over a pot of boiling water and stir regularly until melted and smooth. While the chocolate is still melted, quickly fold in the whipped cream using a spatula, mixing gently and gradually until the mousse is fluffy and soft. Using a piping bag or Ziploc bag with a little hole in the corner, pipe the mousse into individual serving dishes and refrigerate for at least three hours until the mousse is chilled and the texture firm. When ready to serve, dust each portion with a little icing sugar and decorate with a little flour or some mint. Feel free to add the Debbie Travis touch; Grand Marnier. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Alice Hart-Davis and The Tweakment Guide
Jan 29 2024
Alice Hart-Davis and The Tweakment Guide
In this episode, veteran beauty journalist Alice Hart-Davis joins Tommy & Debbie to discuss the world of beauty myths versus beauty truths. They explore the concept of 'tweakments,' which are non-surgical cosmetic procedures that can enhance one's appearance. Alice emphasizes the importance of finding the right practitioners and being thoughtful and careful when considering these procedures. They also discuss the mental health issues associated with the beauty industry and the balance between natural aging and cosmetic enhancements. The conversation concludes with a focus on hand treatments and addressing concerns about lip fillers. In this conversation, Alice Hart-Davis discusses various aspects of tweakments, including lip fillers, facial proportions, and the importance of skilled practitioners. She explains the impact of aging on lips and the potential benefits and risks of lip filler treatments. Alice also discusses the role of skincare in preparing for tweakments and shares tips for managing jaw clenching. She explores natural remedies for lip plumping and highlights the acceptance of non-surgical procedures. Additionally, Alice shares her worst tweakment experiences and discusses the potential of microneedling for hair growth. Alice has 25 years’ experience researching – and trying out - skincare and cosmetic treatments, so she knows what really works. She’s the creator of The Tweakments Guide, a content platform providing trusted, independent information about non-surgical procedures like fillers and lasers. Alice launched the site in 2019 to help people find out about what cosmetic tweakments involve, to help them choose the right products to treat whatever is bothering them, and to find the best practitioners to give them the results they're looking for. She writes for many national newspapers and magazines in the UK, and shares the latest treatments that she’s hearing about and trying on Instagram and her website. Alice also hosts consumer events where people can meet top practitioners and explore the latest tweakments technology, and attends aesthetic conferences around the world to stay up to speed in this fast-evolving area.  Follow Alice on Instagram: @alicehartdavis and @thetweakmentsguide Read about how an MRI scan showed 30ml of filler in her face, four years after her last treatment: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-12191489/AI-generated-image-shows-ALICE-HART-DAVIS-look-naturally.html Topics: Introduction and Background Understanding Tweakments The Tweakment's Guide Navigating the Beauty Industry Choosing the Right Practitioner Exploring Mental Health Issues Finding the Balance with Tweakments The Importance of Hand Treatments Preventative Treatments and Aging Addressing Concerns about Lips Lip Fillers and Facial Proportions The Importance of Skilled Practitioners Individualized Lip Filler Treatment The Effect of Aging on Lips The Philtrum and Lip Lift Surgery Lip Flip and Lip Lift Procedures The Importance of Smiling The Role of Skincare in Tweakments Wrinkle Relaxing Toxins for Jaw Pain Managing Jaw Clenching Natural Remedies for Lip Plumping Acceptance of Non-Surgical Procedures Facelifts and Non-Surgical Enhancements The Effects of Aging on the Face Alice's Worst Tweakment Experiences Hair Thinning and Hair Loss Microneedling for Hair Growth Exploring Hair Loss Treatments Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
New Year; New Habits
Jan 15 2024
New Year; New Habits
For the first episode of 2024, Debbie Travis & Tommy Smythe welcome back their friend and Nutritional Therapist Jacky Brown. A long-time friend to Debbie, Jacky is a graduate of the London College of Naturopathic Medicine, a qualified Nutritional Therapist, Dip CNM, and registered with BANT (British Association of Nutritional Therapists) CNHC.  Jacky shares her insights on healthy eating and dispels common misconceptions. The conversation covers the Mediterranean diet, the importance of eating plants, the benefits of beans and lentils, navigating conflicting information and trusted sources, the importance of fermented foods, and making things at home like kombucha and kefir. Jackie emphasizes the need for a varied and balanced diet and provides practical tips for incorporating healthy habits into daily life. Then, they share their New Year's resolutions and commitments to improving their health. They emphasize the importance of creating healthy habits, being mindful, and tracking progress. They also discuss the significance of movement, exercise, and improving sleep. They encourage trying new recipes and foods and emphasize the importance of enjoying food without suffering.  In this episode, Debbie and Jacky reference the following resources: https://drwilliamli.com/  https://zoe.com/ Find Jacky Brown's Kombucha recipe: https://www.thetrustmepod.com/new-year-new-habits/ Making Kombucha is a trial-and-error process and with experience you can increase or decrease the sugar and the flavourings. For inspiration read ‘The Art of Fermentation’ by Sandor Katz or Fermenting Food, Step by Step by Adam Elabd. www.jackybnutrition.com Instagram @jackybrownnutrition Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Puppy Love: A Case For Pets
Nov 27 2023
Puppy Love: A Case For Pets
On this episode, Debbie and Tommy discuss how pets can impact our lives. They talk about the joy and companionship that pets bring, exploring the mental and physical health benefits of owning a pet. The conversation also covers the importance of choosing the right pet for your lifestyle and the responsibilities that come with pet ownership. They discuss the deep connection between humans and pets and the role of pets in therapy and emotional support. The episode concludes with a discussion on the emotional impact of losing a pet. In this conversation, Tommy and Debbie discuss their deep connection with animals and the unique bond they share. They also explore the importance of becoming activists for animal rights and the shocking realities of puppy mills. In this episode, Debbie mentioned a website where you can research dog food: https://www.allaboutdogfood.co.uk/. Don't forget to share your pet tips @TheTrustMePod on instagram or leave us a voicenote at TheTrustMePod.Com. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Listener Reviews 03:00 The Impact of Pets on Our Lives 09:00 The Benefits of Owning a Pet 16:00 Choosing the Right Pet 23:00 The Connection Between Humans and Pets 30:00 Responsible Pet Ownership 35:00 Pets and Children 40:00 The Emotional Impact of Losing a Pet 36:09 The Unique Connection with Animals 37:17 Becoming an Activist 38:40 The Importance of Keeping Busy 39:06 Saying Goodbye 40:02 Closing Remarks Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Paying It Forward with Rachael Ray
Oct 16 2023
Paying It Forward with Rachael Ray
This episode was recorded before the October 7th attacks which have weighed heavy on our hearts. During this conversation with celebrity chef and television personality Rachael Ray, she reminds us how important it is to keep those suffering, "in our hearts, on our lips, and in our minds. We hope the episode inspires you to give back in whatever way you can, even if it's simply a conversation at the dinner table. Late this summer, Debbie and Rachael Ray were part of a fundraiser for Ukraine. Debbie invited her to come on the podcast with Tommy to shine the light on some wonderful humanitarian work she's been doing. Tommy and Debbie cover a variety of other topics with Rachael, from her soon-to-launch podcast to her dogs and building her dream home. Find out more about the Wear Hope Help Ukraine Jewelry Collection made in Italy, designed and crafted with love by Rachael Ray and DelBrenna Jewelry with 55% of proceeds going directly to Ukrainianians. In this episode, Rachael also mentions that you can donate to Ukrainians directly via UNBROKEN. Over the years, Rachael Ray has published nearly thirty cookbooks, has been a resident chef on The Food Network, and a host for programs like 30 Minute Meals, Inside Dish, $40 a Day,Tasty Travels, and The Rachael Ray Show. After 17 seasons, her final episode aired back in May (2023) and she's been busy launching her production company, Free Food Studios. She promises more details will be coming soon. Find out more about Rachael Ray on her website: https://rachaelray.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Marilyn Denis: Canada's Daytime Queen
Sep 18 2023
Marilyn Denis: Canada's Daytime Queen
This week's guest is a beloved friend to Tommy and Debbie, and a beloved face and voice in Canadian broadcasting; Marilyn Denis! Together, they look back on their favourite memories of The Marilyn Denis Show, recount Marilyn's romance with Jim, and so much more. In 2023, Marilyn announced she would bid adieu as host of the popular Canadian Screen Award-winning series THE MARILYN DENIS SHOW, following 13 incredible seasons and a 34-year career of daily daytime television. Throughout her years on television, Canada’s Queen of Daytime always placed her fans at the centre of it all, as she provided a unique blend of entertainment and topical lifestyle information, from fashion, food and fitness, to viewers across the country weekday mornings.  Formerly co-host of Roger & Marilyn, the veteran radio broadcaster now hosts Marilyn Denis and Jamar, weekday mornings on Toronto’s #1-ranked radio station CHUM 104.5. A dominating presence in Toronto radio and Canadian television, Marilyn’s quick wit, connection with her audience, and charm have made her a much-beloved figure in her 30+ year history at CHUM FM and a favourite among viewers nationwide.  Marilyn continues to bring her iconic entertainment and lifestyle interviews to listeners on MARILYN DENIS DOES A PODCAST which is available on the iHeartRadio app and everywhere podcasts are found.  A definite trailblazer, Edmonton-born Marilyn became the first female DJ at KRPL in Moscow, Idaho. She then moved to Calgary where she held various radio and television positions including programmer, music director, and traffic reporter.  Marilyn has always balanced her dynamic radio career with her candid television presence. She first began her career in television by reporting on sports, weather, and entertainment at CFCN-TV (CTV Calgary) and working as a freelance reporter for TSN. Marilyn also shared hosting duties on Bravo!'s Gemini Award-winning concert series LIVE AT THE REHEARSAL HALL and was host of the popular daily show CITYLINE for nearly 20 years.  A triple Gemini Award-winner (including back-to-back Viewers Choice Awards), Marilyn received The Rosalie Award, honouring Canadian women who have paved the way for others in radio broadcasting in 2006. Marilyn is the recipient of the Allan Waters Broadcast Lifetime Achievement Award, which was awarded at the 2017 Canadian Music and Broadcast Industry Awards, and she is listed as one of Canada’s Most Powerful Women: Top 100 by WXN. In May of 2017, Marilyn was selected as the University of Idaho’s (where Marilyn studied broadcasting) 2017 Commencement Speaker and Honorary Degree recipient.  Listen to Marilyn's podcast HERE. Follow Marilyn Denis on Instagram @MarilynDenis.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sophie Donelson: Uncommon Kitchens
Aug 21 2023
Sophie Donelson: Uncommon Kitchens
This week's guest is Tommy's friend Sophie Donelson, a design journalist and sought-after speaker, moderator, and consultant. She previously served as editor-in-chief of House Beautiful and is a favorite (and repeat) speaker for the annual Future of Home Conference, and is an advisor to high-profile brands such as Ann Sacks, Vrbo, and Business of Home. She makes regular guest appearances as a design expert on Good Morning America, Today, and Open House.  As a speaker, author, and strategist, Sophie delivers insights to industry professionals and design lovers about how our homes can shape our lives for the better. Her new book, Uncommon Kitchens (Abrams, Summer 2023) remains in the home/design bestseller list after debuting at #1. The book expresses not just Sophie's take on kitchens, but her ethos that decoration and design are best used as tools for living, not for show — that homes are for living in, not looking at. Sophie is inspiring a new generation of design lovers to embrace color and happiness at home. Sophie has held top editor posts at Elle Decor, Martha Stewart’s Blueprint, and Hampton Cottages & Gardens magazines, and has contributed as an author and expert to the New York Times, New York magazine, the Wall Street Journal, and the Globe & Mail. Her national broadcast appearances include the TODAY Show, Good Morning America, and Open House. Sophie lives in Montreal with her two young sons. Find her on Instagram @sophiedow Get Sophie's Book Uncommon Kitchens. Find out more about Sophie Donelson on her website. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices