Success by Design: Mastering the Business of Interior Design (Katie Decker-Erickson, Business Coach for Interior Designers )
Explore every episode of Success by Design: Mastering the Business of Interior Design
| Pub. Date | Title | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28 Jun 2023 | 1: NeoCon 2023 Review | 00:18:35 | |
Katie and Diana discuss their experience and lessons learned at NeoCon 2023. NeoCon serves as the hub for the commercial design community, uniting its designers, architects, end-users, manufacturers, dealers, service providers, associations, educators, students and media each year in June. 📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 20 Jul 2023 | 2: Color Trends of 2024 | 00:26:23 | |
In this episode, we sit down with Susan Wadden, Director of Color Marketing at the Americas Group, to discuss the color trends of 2023. Susan shares her expertise and insights into the captivating world of color and its impact on the design industry. An exclusive announcement is unveiled: the highly anticipated 2024 color trends are set to launch next month in a completely new and reimaged way that is even more designer-friendly!
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 04 Aug 2023 | 3: Relaying your Brand as a Mom-preneur | 00:45:08 | |
In this episode, we sit down with Becca Ellison to discuss elevating your brand. Becca is a remarkable brand strategist and photographer who shares invaluable insights on crafting a compelling personal brand as a solopreneur or entrepreneur. Join us as we explore the significance of authenticity, leveraging unique strengths, and finding balance in the chaotic world of juggling parenthood and entrepreneurship. Becca’s expertise shines as she guides us through defining and refining our personal brand to attract the right audience, make a meaningful impact, and close the deal.
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 14 Aug 2023 | 4: Las Vegas Market 2023 | 00:28:07 | |
She’s back! In this episode, we reconnect with the lovely Diana Rushton once again, Project Manager and Assistant Designer at Color Works Design, as she recounts her captivating observation of the much-anticipated Las Vegas Market 2023. With Diana as our guide, we traverse the vibrant landscape of the latest interior design trends like the revival of burnt orange colors, the sumptuous allure of chocolate tones, and the tactile luxury of shag. Shag rugs and furnishings make a bold return, adding texture and comfort. Plaster art pieces also come into focus, showcasing how texture can transform spaces. Connect with Diana on Instagram. Full Show Notes Here
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 18 Aug 2023 | 5: The Architect and Designer Relationship | 00:27:37 | |
In this episode, we sit down with Wesley Rutledge, licensed Architect at Beck Design. Our conversation explores the dynamic relationship between architects and designers, emphasizing the value of a collaborative approach from the very beginning of the design process. Wes sheds light on the essential role designers play in shaping architectural outcomes, advocating for their involvement at the conceptual stages.
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 01 Sep 2023 | 6: Relationship Between Designer and General Contractor | 00:37:55 | |
In this episode, we sit down with Jason Mews, Construction Management and General Contractor at Lippert Bros., Inc., to explore the critical partnership between general contractors (GCs) and interior designers.
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 15 Sep 2023 | 7: Color Theory with Jason Bemis | 00:31:41 | |
Do you let the natural environment inform your designs? How does color affect your designs? And how can you adequately share what you do when you explain color to your clients? It’s a lot to think about. Lucky for us, my dear friend, Jason Bemis joins us on this episode to talk about nature, psychology, physiology, and color. We’re getting scientific! This is an interview not to miss if you’ve felt like inspiration has been lacking or you’re just looking for something to enliven your designs. In this episode, you will be able to:
👉 Links & Mentioned Resources
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 29 Sep 2023 | 8: Branding: The Power of a Name with Corey Fuller | 00:34:11 | |
What is the importance of branding? Whether you’re a solopreneur or part of a design firm, having a brand makes you memorable. But good branding doesn’t happen by throwing spaghetti at the wall and hoping something sticks—it’s strategic and thoughtful. My friend and branding expert, Corey Fuller, is sharing that with us on this episode! We touched on everything from naming a business to finding the perfect typography. This conversation is an incredible resource for anyone looking to brand a new business or rebrand an existing one. In this episode, you will be able to:
👉 Links & Mentioned Resources
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 13 Oct 2023 | 9: Understanding Taxes as an Entrepreneur with Kate Snelson | 00:37:01 | |
Wondering how entrepreneurs and people who are self-employed are taxed? Does that just make you want to curl up in a ball for the rest of the year? The thing is, if you’re paying money to the IRS, then you’re making money. That’s supposed to lessen the blow, but financial planning as a business owner can be a sensitive and overwhelming subject. Which is why I was so glad Kate Snelson agreed to share her public accounting knowledge with us. We tackled a lot in this episode! From W-9s and 1099s to LLCs, quarterly taxes, and planning for retirement. You’ll walk away feeling much more prepared for Q4 and next tax season! In this episode, you will be able to:
Full Show Notes Here
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 27 Oct 2023 | 10: How to Improve Company Culture with Josh Dykstra | 00:41:37 | |
What if I told you that you could improve your employees’ productivity by over 200%? Yes, you could actually have energized, happy, thoughtful, and super-productive employees by getting clear on just one thing! It’s something that greatly differentiates you from your competition. Your company culture. Josh Dykstra is with me today to talk about all things company culture. What it is and how it impacts your business and where to even begin. And we’re not just talking about typical office culture—Josh helped me settle a debate about building teams remotely. Whether you’re running a small firm or a large one, this episode is packed with helpful tips! In this episode, you will be able to:
Full Show Notes Here
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 10 Nov 2023 | 11: 2024 Color of the Year & Color Trends with Sherwin-Williams and PPG Paints | 00:55:47 | |
Have you ever wondered what goes into selecting the color of the year? Who picks these trends? Do these colors have any longevity to them? What are we supposed to do with the color choices as designers? And will we ever be done with gray? I am thrilled for you to hear this roundtable discussion with Susan Wadden of Sherwin-Williams and Ruthanne Hanlon of PPG Paints. These ladies dished all the secrets of the meticulous processes to select the year's color. So many variables and pieces of data are analyzed by these large, global teams before we ever hear the color trend results! Designers and consumers alike will love this colorful conversation—specifically about 2024! In this episode, you will:
Full Show Notes Here
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 24 Nov 2023 | 12: Giving Back Through Corporate Social Responsibility with Treger Strasberg | 00:42:37 | |
What exactly is corporate social responsibility? Ever heard of Humble Design? This organization furnishes and decorates up to 13 homes each week in five cities across the country. Back in 2009, Treger Strasberg created a nonprofit and established a system that helps thousands of veterans, women, children, and families stop the revolving door of homelessness. The belief is simple: individuals emerging from homelessness deserve to come home each day to a clean, friendly, and dignified home. How does the 99% success rate of Humble Design really impact a family and a community? I can’t think of a more beautiful way to celebrate the day after Thanksgiving than by realizing we are all so incredibly blessed. And the responsibility and privilege that comes with that blessing is giving back to others through corporate social responsibility. Hear all that and more in today’s conversation! In this episode, you will be able to:
Full Show Notes Here
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 08 Dec 2023 | 13: The Construction Story with Kelly Fridline | 00:43:52 | |
Wouldn’t it be nice to have a step-by-step guide to the construction process (AKA the construction story)? Once you have your contract and are well on your way (especially when working with an architect), you must understand what comes next. It’s about approaching the design process with humility and looking at this as a partnership. And if SDs, DTs, & CDs read like a bunch of alphabet soup, you really don’t want to miss this. Kelly Fridline joins me for a thorough walkthrough of the construction process.
Full Show Notes Here!
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 22 Dec 2023 | 14: Futurist Predictions for Design & Business with Rebecca Ryan | 00:46:19 | |
Our world is rapidly evolving. We’ve got AI and a whole host of other innovations coming on board and shaking things up. If we're not evolving in our business, we will be left behind. Instead of being fearful of the uncertainty that lies ahead in 2024 and beyond, what if we could hear predictions from someone who studies the future and create a game plan? As a professional futurist, Rebecca Ryan is no stranger to predictions. I’m so excited she’s joining me for this conversation where we’re going deep on questions like: What will design in public spaces look like in the future? What do design firms need to know moving into 2024? And what is this futurism-meets-design project she’s been working on with Libby Castro? This episode is a must-listen for all entrepreneurs, small business owners, design professionals—and humans.
👉 Links & Mentioned Resources 📲Connect with Rebecca:
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 05 Jan 2024 | 15: The Benefits of Starting a Business with Mark Bernheimer | 00:43:05 | |
If you had the chance to shape what your days, weeks, months, and life looked like—would you go for it? Becoming an entrepreneur is perfect for when you want to do something differently, do it better, and just be who you are! It gives you such freedom. But, truth be told… it isn’t the perfect fit for everyone. Mark Bernheimer, one of my journalism mentors, joins me in this conversation. In this episode, you will:
📲 Connect with Mark: Twitter/X
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 19 Jan 2024 | 16: Intro to Interior Design Entrepreneurship with Michelle Lynne Pant | 00:33:25 | |
Have you found yourself wondering how to start an interior design business? Curious about what qualities and skills you need to be successful? The truth is—there are some really fun things about entrepreneurship… and there are some less than glamorous things you should know about. Fellow interior designer, business owner, and coach Michelle Lynne Pant joins me for this episode. Whether you’re a designer currently working as an employee at a firm or you’re working in Corporate America dreaming of a career change—you won’t want to miss this conversation! This installment of our Creating a Design Business Series gives you incredible insights on not only what it’s like to be a designer, but also what to expect when starting your own design firm. You’ll walk away with the clarity you need to know whether you want to enter the world of interior design entrepreneurship—or not. In this episode, you will:
👉 Mentioned Resources Women vs Women vs Men by Barbara Streisand Designed For the Creative Mind Podcast 📲Connect with Michelle: 🖥️ This episode is brought to you by DBM Consulting.
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 02 Feb 2024 | 17: The Legal Side of Running a Design Firm with David Adler | 00:38:09 | |
How do you build a portfolio when you don't own the intellectual property rights? What questions should you ask an attorney before working together? What do you really need to know—legally speaking—about starting and running a business? I'm thrilled to have David Adler in today's episode, part of our Creating a Design Business Series, for this conversation about legalities. No matter if you want to start a business or grow your design firm, there are things you need to do to protect yourself legally. It's impossible to keep up with the changing legal landscape while running a successful firm, so getting an attorney involved early in your business more than pays for itself. Stick around for a great conversation and take note of the big legal issues on the horizon in our industry. In this episode, you will:
👉 Mentioned Resources American Society of Interior Design 📲Connect with David: 🖥️ This episode is brought to you by DBM Consulting.
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 09 Feb 2024 | Bonus: Vegas Market Recap—Biggest Trends 2024 with Diana Rushton | 00:36:08 | |
Wondering what happened at the 2024 Las Vegas Market? As a designer, it’s important to stay on top of the shifts in trends—it makes your designs relevant, brings them up-to-date, keeps you current, and moves you forward even beyond that. Our very own Diana Rushton went to market and shares the details of the design trends she discovered. If you haven’t felt particularly creative recently, this conversation is sure to spark something for you! Tune in to find out what we can expect to see in design textures and colors in 2024 and which design styles are in—and out. Make sure you stay to the end to hear tips for your next trip to market and to find out if this week’s Colorful Question is yours! In this episode, you will:
Full Show Note Here! 📲Connect with Diana:
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 16 Feb 2024 | 18: Color Consulting, Forecasting, & Trends with Nello Marelli | 00:36:41 | |
When it comes to color and textile trends, Europe typically is ahead of the U.S. market—but what if you could finally walk alongside European designers? What if you had access to the same trend forecaster and color consultant they do? Well, join me in welcoming Nello Marelli to the show! Nello is a color consultant and trend forecaster. In today’s episode, we’re talking about the importance of color in design, how to create harmonious environments using color, and the significance of trends. And as an added bonus, we’ve partnered with Nello on an exclusive design resource to help you stand out from the competition. Press play and make sure you stay til the end to see if today’s Colorful Question is yours! In this episode, you will:
👉 Mentioned Resources Mini Nel Colore - color only
LinkedIn
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 01 Mar 2024 | 19: How to Hire a CPA for Your Design Firm with Kate Snelson | 00:41:56 | |
How are you supposed to know which CPA to hire? Or when to hire them? Can you ask them questions before becoming a client? What qualifies as a business expense? Which expenses do business owners commonly miss? And do you really want your CPA to ask you potentially awkward questions? Don’t you already have enough on your plate with starting a design business? In this episode, you will:
👉 Links & Mentioned Resources How to Hire a CPA as an interior designer IRS Common Deductions 📲 Connect with Kate: Booking link (mention the podcast in intake form) This episode provides general tax information only and is not professional advice. Laws change and vary by location; always consult a tax professional. The host and guests' opinions are their own and not official guidance. We're not liable for any actions taken based on this content.
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 15 Mar 2024 | 20: Business Insurance Basics for Designers with Stephen Wisocky | 00:39:21 | |
Insurance should grow alongside your business—it’s not a set it and forget it situation! So let’s talk about the insurance needs of interior designers. What insurance must you have as soon as you open your design firm? How do your insurance needs change as your firm grows? And what rates can you expect to pay? Stephen Wisocky (the exclusive Insurance Partner of the Interior Design Society), joins me for this conversation—perfect whether your design business is new or has grown in recent years! Stay til the end of the episode to hear about the wildest liability claim Stephen’s ever seen and to see if the Colorful Question is yours! In this episode, you will:
👉 Mentioned Resources
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 29 Mar 2024 | 21: Target Audience Personas & Marketing with Bill Gelgota | 00:43:44 | |
The target persona in your marketing is maybe the most critical piece of your business foundations. It’s just like the old adage says, if you’re speaking to everyone, you’re speaking to no one. But how are you supposed to determine your target market when you’re just starting your design business? How do you discover their wants and needs? And how does a SWOT analysis come into the mix? We are answering all this and more in today's episode with my guest, Bill Gelgota. Stick around for the rapid fire “but, Bill” questions and to see if this week’s Colorful Question is yours! In this episode, you will be able to:
👉 Mentioned Resources The Studio
This episode is brought to you by Nello Marelli - Nel Colore Color Trend Book
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 12 Apr 2024 | 22: Interior Designers Pricing & Project Estimation with Michelle Lynne Pant | 00:55:27 | |
A business series wouldn’t be complete without talking about pricing for interior designers. Pricing and project estimation can be such a touchy and intimidating topic, but it doesn’t need to be! How can designers turn what they love into a profitable business quickly? How do you make the jump from hourly to value-based (or flat-fee) pricing? Michelle Lynne Pant is here to answer all these questions and more in one of our rawest conversations yet! You’re going to want to take notes with this one—and make sure to stick around for The Coaching Corner at the end of the conversation!
👉 Links & Mentioned Resources 📲 Connect with Michelle:
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 26 Apr 2024 | 23: Brand Identity & Design for Interior Designers with Corey Fuller | 00:40:27 | |
Your brand identity captures everything about your design firm. From the fonts and color palette you use to the intangible pieces like brand voice—it all works together to draw in your ideal clients. But where do you begin creating a brand identity? Do you need to hire a professional brand strategist? And how can you tell it’s time for a rebrand? Get your Notes app out because Corey Fuller is back and ready to talk branding for interior designers! Be sure to stay for The Coaching Corner at the end of the conversation! Now, let’s listen to the conversation. In this episode, you will:
👉 Links & Mentioned Resources Interactive Guide: Branding Blueprint The Importance of Branding for Interior Designers with Corey Fuller How to Improve Company Culture with Josh Dykstra Target Audience Personas and Marketing with Bill Gelgota Interior Designers Pricing and Project Estimation with Michelle Lynne Pant 📲Connect with Corey: Instagram
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 10 May 2024 | 24: How to Close Sales Using Body Language with Nancy Ganzekaufer | 00:49:39 | |
One of the most critical aspects of business is the sale—and your body language could be killing your close rate. An interior designer’s nonverbal communication to clients must exude calm and confidence from the very beginning. But how exactly can you do that? Nancy Ganzekaufer is a body language trainer who specializes in marketing and sales strategies specifically for interior designers! In today’s episode, Nancy walks us through exactly what we should be saying and doing throughout the sales process. Don’t miss today’s Coaching Corner at the end of the show! Grab your pen and notebook and press play on this in-depth conversation about the who and how of sales!
Giving Back Through Corporate Social Responsibility episode The Legal Side of Interior Design episode
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 24 May 2024 | 25: Networking Tips for Interior Designers with LuAnn Nigara | 00:38:31 | |
Networking as an interior designer can be intimidating—but it doesn’t have to be. Not if you’re armed with the perfect questions to ask, a plan of action, and all the rest of the advice LuAnn Nigara shares with us in this insightful and inspiring conversation! Hear from one of the most connected women in the industry just how to navigate in-person and virtual networking events so you get the most out of the experience and foster lifelong relationships. Be sure to stick around for the Coaching Corner. Alright, grab your notebook and press play! In this episode, you will be able to:
👉 Mentioned Resources 📲Connect with LuAnn:
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 07 Jun 2024 | 26: 2024 Interior Design Trends with Diana Rushton | 00:31:28 | |
We’re here to tell you the next big interior design trend to look for in 2024! Our very own Diana Rushton recently visited the High Point Market and is here to tell all. From how to merge sustainability and trends to updating a space designed with a previous decor trend to all that’s new in color, lighting, and textures—Di’s got you covered! Make sure you stick around for the Coaching Corner where we discuss navigating trends with design clients. Get your pen and notebook and let’s get this show started! In this episode, you will be able to:
👉 Mentioned Resources 📲Connect with Diana: Instagram
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 21 Jun 2024 | 27: Scale Your Interior Design Business Using Systems w/ Rebecca Hay | 00:45:36 | |
Systems and processes are likely not the first things that come to mind when you think of scaling your design business growth. It’s much more appealing to dream of luxurious Tuesday mornings spent sipping coffee and being creative. But—those “boring” systems and processes are the real movers and shakers that get you more time, more money, more happiness, and the business of your dreams! And that is exactly what Rebecca Hay is here to discuss with me today. Press play and get ready to hear everything from what business looks like without structure to the epic benefits of having those business systems and processes in place! And be sure to stick around for a key takeaway in today’s Coaching Corner. In this episode, you will be able to:
Katie's appearance on Resilient by Design with Rebecca Hay These Parents Are Shelling Out to Have Someone Else Pack Their Kids for Camp (WSJ) Connect with Rebecca Hay Designer’s Room
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 05 Jul 2024 | 28: Marketing Strategies for Interior Designers [Roundtable] | 00:45:37 | |
Digital marketing strategies like SEO and social media are critical to the success of an interior design firm. But which platform should you be on, what metrics should you monitor, and how can you stand out in a crowded industry? As you’ll hear in today’s roundtable discussion with Aaron and Kari, people are longing for connection and your digital footprint allows you to provide that in a very meaningful and authentic way. And all of this effort equals conversions and clients—when done correctly! Grab your favorite beverage, get comfy, and stay tuned to find out how much of your budget you should be spending on marketing in today’s Colorful Question. In this episode, you will be able to:
👉 Links & Mentioned Resources The Studio
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 19 Jul 2024 | 29: Grow Your Interior Design Business Using Collaborations & AI with Jenny Cano | 00:25:58 | |
Your design business will grow faster, go further, and be more successful when you embrace 2 things: collaborations and technology. You may not want to admit it, but AI is here to stay! It can even have a positive impact on your firm—if you let it. And that’s just one collaboration you can engage in! There’s also the opportunity to join professional organizations which can keep you inspired, get you out of creative burnout, or provide educational resources. If you're curious about how collaboration and technology can benefit your business, you will not want to miss this episode with Jenny Cano! Stick around for the Coaching Corner where I’m sharing my own insecurities around collaboration and competition. Enjoy the conversation! In this episode, you will be able to:
👉 Mentioned Resources 📲Connect with Jenny:
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 27 Jun 2023 | Welcome to Success by Design: Mastering the business of Interior Design | 00:01:09 | |
Welcome to Success by Design, Mastering the business of Interior Design. Learn from my mistakes, as this is your masterclass on getting where you want to be. Whether that is elevating in your current interior design firm, starting your own firm, or moving your existing firm up on the ladder of success and profitability, this podcast is your ultimate resource. 📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 02 Aug 2024 | 30: 2024 Las Vegas Summer Market with Diana Rushton | 00:25:08 | |
It’s Las Vegas Summer Market recap time! Our favorite visual merchandiser, Diana Rushton, is here to tell all. From textures and color palettes to furniture and lighting—we’re talking all about what’s trending. Is gray gone for good? How about Farmhouse style? And when it comes to choosing which market you go to for your design firm, how do you make the best decision? All that and more is heading your way when you press play! Oh, and don’t miss this week’s Coaching Corner where I reveal how I’ve found trends valuable. In this episode, you will be able to:
👉 Mentioned Resources This episode is brought to you by Nello Marelli - Nel Colore Color Trend Book
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 16 Aug 2024 | 31: How to Make Money as an Interior Designer with Laura Thornton | 00:45:43 | |
Whether your design firm is new or not, it’s high time you learn how to make money and run a profitable business! No more free consultations. No more asking for permission to raise your rates. And certainly no more burying your head in the sand and not looking at your numbers. Award-winning designer and fellow podcaster, Laura Thornton joins me for this conversation! She’s sharing about time tracking, money management, offer pricing, intuition, and SO much more in this episode. You’re gonna need at least one notebook for this one. Be sure to stay for this week’s Coaching Corner! In this episode, you will be able to:
👉 Mentioned Resources Related Episodes: 📲Connect with Laura:
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 30 Aug 2024 | 32: Art, Design, & Affordability [Roundtable] | 00:52:38 | |
For art to not remain an afterthought with interior and commercial designs, we must incorporate art into the conversation early. As designers, we have a unique ability to propel up-and-coming artists forward while also inspiring more clients to bring incredible pieces of art into their spaces. But art isn’t just an important cornerstone to design, it also greatly impacts our nervous systems. For this in-depth roundtable conversation, I have Mandy Theis and Dr. Stacey Denise joining me! You’ll hear the artist’s perspective, the designer’s perspective, and a physician’s perspective. And stay til the end for the Coaching Corner! In this episode, you will be able to:
👉 Mentioned Resources 📲 Connect with Dr. Stacey Denise: 📲 Connect with Mandy Theis:
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 13 Sep 2024 | 33: How to Build & Design a Company Culture with Josh Dykstra | 00:31:55 | |
Even if you are a company of 1, it’s critical to think about the company culture you want to build! Which includes way more than just values and beliefs you post to your About page. But maybe you have questions like… how do you design a company culture? And how do you actually put it into action? Welcome Josh Dykstra back to the podcast! He’s diving into all things company culture—how it directly impacts your ROI, the exact steps to take to create your guidelines, and even how to involve contractors. Be sure to stay for this week’s Coaching Corner where I share my journey with company culture! In this episode, you will be able to:
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 27 Sep 2024 | 34: How to Scale Your Interior Design Business to 7-Figures | 00:24:49 | |
Finances, in general, are a scary thing. Finances in your business, well, they can be even scarier. So how do you get over that? And what are the key skills and habits that business owners need in order to break through and reach that magical 7-figure number? Whether you run a 6-figure interior design firm and are wanting to get those magical 7-figures or are just thinking about launching your own firm and are petrified—you will not want to miss this conversation as we tackle those very questions! If you are running a six-figure design business but can't crack the nut on 7-figures… stick around for the Coaching Corner as I share how we shattered the 6-figure ceiling and accelerated to multiple 7-figures! In this episode, you will be able to:
👉 Mentioned Resources
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 11 Oct 2024 | 35: Creative Burnout & Inspiration with Jennifer Bertrand | 00:34:03 | |
Creative burnout hits even the best of us. And Jennifer Bertrand (that’s right, of HGTV’s ‘Design Star’) is here to share her story with us from not-the-right-fit clients to sources of inspiration to how she’s been able to sustain her current level of creativity—Jennifer’s baring it all! Tune in, and don’t miss today’s Coaching Corner. Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at https://www.colorworks.coach/podcast-library/b/creative-burnout-and-inspiration-for-interior-designers
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 30 Oct 2024 | 36: Fall ‘24 High Point Market Trends with Diana Rushton | 00:29:34 | |
‘Tis the season for the Fall High Point Market of 2024! We know you’re here for the tips, tricks, trends, and everything we learn at market every time we go. And this time is no different—except we’re switching things up a bit! Di normally goes to market and gives us a recap on what’s trending in lighting, furniture, and textures. This time? Katie’s in the guest chair, sharing what she’s learned and experienced. And there’s still a Coaching Corner, so don’t miss those nuggets! Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at https://www.colorworks.coach/podcast-library/b/fall-2024-high-point-market-trends Connect with Di:
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 08 Nov 2024 | 37: The Future of Interior Design in 2025 [The Table] | 00:41:15 | |
Leaders in the interior design industry join me to discuss trends and predictions about the future—specifically 2025! You’ll hear from LuAnn Nigara, Rick Campos, and Dr. Jennifer Chukwujekwe. They’re sharing what 2024 was like for their businesses, what they’re evaluating as we wrap up the year, how they’re strategically approaching 2025, and how AI factors into all of this. You don’t want to miss this insightful and uplifting conversation! Stay for the Coaching Corner to continue that AI conversation. Let’s get started! Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at: Connect with LuAnn: Connect with Rick: Connect with Dr. Jennifer:
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 22 Nov 2024 | 38: 2025 Colors of the Year & Color Trends [Roundtable] | 00:40:07 | |
Welcome to one of our most anticipated conversations—the 2025 Color of the Year! Join color marketing experts from PPG, Sherwin-Williams, and Benjamin Moore as they reveal their picks, what inspired the selections, what they’re noticing with design trends in general, and what’s coming down the pike in the next couple of years as America starts to take the lead. (Yep, I just said it.) To say this is an exciting episode is an extreme understatement. Let’s get straight to it—and stick around for the Coaching Corner! Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at Connect with:
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 06 Dec 2024 | 39: How to Sustainably Grow a Design Firm with Jeanne Collins | 00:37:04 | |
As an interior designer, there are a few business decisions that will critically impact your growth. Scaling your business to your lifestyle is an artform. It takes dedication, discipline, and determination. And Jeanne Collins knows this journey all too well! She joins us today to share how to know when it’s time to hire a coach or contractor, key marketing strategies that helped scale her business, and how becoming a female business owner made her a better mom. Enjoy this conversation and make sure you stick around for the Coaching Corner! Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at Connect with Jeanne:
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 20 Dec 2024 | 40: Thought Habits for Business Growth with Amy Kemp | 00:46:03 | |
Whether or not you’ve heard of thought habits, you’re most certainly familiar with the impact your self-talk has on your habits. But you may be surprised to hear just how impactful those thoughts of yours are on your business growth—or—lack thereof. Habit Finder Coach, Amy Kemp, is here to discuss this topic! Amy shares examples to bring these enlightening concepts to life, as well as exercises you can test out ASAP to regain your time and energy. In this episode, we get into so much including scheduling guilt-free playtime, shocking statistics, boundaries for goal setting, and the business epiphany Amy had while her son was in the hospital. You especially won’t want to miss this week’s Coaching Corner! Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 03 Jan 2025 | 41: Mindset Shifts to Scale Your Business Beyond 6-Figures with Laura Thornton | 00:48:12 | |
The mental gymnastics it takes to start a business is just… different from the mindset shifts it takes to scale a business to 6-figures and beyond. (Mindset plays a huge role in both personal and professional growth!) I’m thrilled to have Laura Thornton back on the podcast for this conversation. We’re discussing the mindset shifts that are imperative when looking to scale your design business. Laura shares insights about growing a team, advice about being courageous and growing your confidence, and the raw truth of what it really takes to take your business to that next level—whatever that looks like for you! Enjoy the conversation and make sure you stick around for the Coaching Corner! 📲Connect with Laura:
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 17 Jan 2025 | 42: Technology & Automation for Interior Design with Danny Marsh | 00:37:23 | |
Unless you’re a drafter, most of us in the interior design world loathe technology. But it’s a necessary part of the job when it comes to running a business. So… how can tech support the design process and in scaling a business? My tech go-to, Danny Marsh, joins us for this episode! Danny shares technology challenges unique to interior designers, emerging tech trends, how certain software can actually hinder business growth, and a bit about his tech firm that’s just for interior designers. You’re especially going to want to stick around for this week’s Coaching Corner—featuring a very special guest! Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at 📲Connect with Danny:
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 31 Jan 2025 | 43: 3 Steps to Building a Lasting Business Legacy | 00:14:34 | |
In this solo episode, we're honing in on what it takes to build a business legacy. That may sound like nailing jello to a wall, but there are specific, actionable steps you can take to make this happen! This isn’t just about scaling your firm or making a name for yourself. This is about creating something that lasts well beyond your time in the industry. It’s about shifting focus from those short-term wins—and instead planning for an impact that resonates, endures, and even gives back to the community. This episode is crafted especially for interior designers ready to elevate their business, create meaningful impact, and set the groundwork for a lasting legacy. Be sure to stay for the bonus insight in this week’s Coaching Corner! Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at https://www.colorworks.coach/podcast-library/b/build-a-sustainable-business-legacy 📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 14 Feb 2025 | 44: Finances & Marketing for Interior Designers in 2025 [The Table] | 00:41:11 | |
As interior designers, we love being creative and bringing a client’s vision to life. Financials, budgets, and marketing strategies? Not so much. But our firms simply don’t exist without these key elements of business. Between the neverending natural disasters, dramatic economic shakeup, and mounting questions of what to focus on to grow the business—it’s feeling pretty intense for all of us. So… let’s talk about it! In this Q1 episode of The Table series, LuAnn Nigara, Rick Campos, and Dr. Jennifer Chukwujekwe are back for a refreshingly genuine conversation about financial and marketing changes they’re making in 2025 after seeing what their 2024 reviews revealed. Hear brilliant untapped marketing strategies, the one place you should never not invest in, the importance of actively nurturing a community, and how to know what to do next to scale your business. All that and more in this week’s Coaching Corner—let’s begin! Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at https://successbydesign.coach/podcast/b/Finances-budgeting-and-marketing-for-interior-designers Connect with LuAnn: Connect with Rick: Connect with Dr. Jennifer:
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 28 Feb 2025 | 45: Digital Marketing Strategy for Interior Designers with Jason Lockhart | 00:43:13 | |
For most interior designers, marketing is throwing noodles at the wall and seeing what sticks. A little Instagram here, a little TikTok there, and maybe some paid ads for good measure. But deep down, you know that’s not a great way to run a business, increase visibility, or build brand awareness—let alone get paying clients! Wouldn’t it be great if someone who understood your industry could tell you exactly which marketing strategies you needed? Meet Jason Lockhart! He’s an architect and digital marketing strategist who understands the interior design industry. He joins me today to discuss the best marketing channels for designers, the importance of understanding your most ideal client, website SEO best practices, and mistakes to avoid with paid ads. There is so much practical advice packed into this conversation! And even more nuggets in this week’s Coaching Corner. Let’s dive in! Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at https://successbydesign.coach/podcast/b/digital-marketing-strategy-for-interior-designers
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 07 Mar 2025 | Strategy Session: Magnetic Marketing - Proven Strategies to Attract Dream Clients in 2025 | 00:07:59 | |
In this Success by Design Strategy Session, we’re diving into the marketing strategies you need to attract your ideal clients and scale your business in 2025. If marketing feels overwhelming, don’t worry—this episode breaks it into actionable steps that feel authentic and effective. Grab a notebook and your favorite coffee—this episode is packed with insights to help you position your business for success. Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at https://successbydesign.coach/podcast/b/Proven-Strategies-to-Attract-Dream-Clients Want to Go Deeper? Book a 1:1 strategy session with Katie to customize your marketing approach and build a business that works for you in 2025. 📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 14 Mar 2025 | 46: The Only Woman on the Construction Site with Renée Biery | 00:44:12 | |
You’ve likely seen this scenario play out—a homeowner has an idea for their remodel, the GC calls it stupid, and while he has a point, the homeowner’s feelings are hurt and no one’s offered a viable solution. That is precisely where we come in. As interior designers, we are uniquely able to translate our clients’ ideas to the construction crew who can bring it to life. But there’s even more that’s at play when you’re a female designer on the construction site. Renée Biery joins me for a conversation about navigating being the only woman on a construction site. She’s a construction expert who regularly shares her knowledge with interior designers. In today’s episode, Renée shares misconceptions around managing construction projects, the best approach to earn respect on a job site as a woman, and how client retention rates are impacted by project management. As always, there’s even more in the Coaching Corner for you! Grab all the links and resources mentioned in this episode at https://successbydesign.coach/podcast/b/only-girl-on-the-construction-site 📲 Connect with Renée:
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 21 Mar 2025 | Strategy Session: How Interior Designers Can Execute, Scale & Boost Profits | 00:07:24 | |
In this Strategy Session, we break down essential project management strategies to help interior The #1 mistake designers make that leads to project chaos—and how to avoid it. Ready to streamline your projects, increase efficiency, and maximize profits? Don’t miss this power-packed episode—your future self (and clients) will thank you. Pro Tip: Adding project management services can significantly boost your firm’s profitability and client satisfaction. Start with small steps and refine your process as you gain experience. See full show notes and resources mentioned in this episode at https://successbydesign.coach/podcast/b/how-interior-designers-can-execute-scale-and-boost-profits Want a Plug-and-Play Workflow? Let’s build a custom project management system for your firm. Book a 1:1 strategy session with Katie to create a workflow that streamlines your projects and maximizes your revenue. 📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||
| 28 Mar 2025 | 47: Thrive During Economic Slowdowns- Proven Strategies & Mindset Shifts with Rebecca Hay | 00:43:26 | |
Feeling the squeeze of a market slowdown? You’re not alone. Interior designers everywhere are navigating shifting client expectations, tighter budgets, and the need to be more strategic than ever. We’re joined by celebrated designer Rebecca Hay to explore exactly how to stay profitable and resilient—even when times get tough. She’s sharing her smartest strategies for weathering economic shifts, keeping clients engaged, and ensuring your business doesn’t just survive but thrives in 2025. If you’re wondering where to invest, where to scale back, and how to make 2025 a year of smart, sustainable growth, this episode is for you. Don't miss out on these essential insights! See the full show notes here https://successbydesign.coach/podcast/b/thrive-during-economic-slowdowns Related Episode Smart Hiring Strategies for Interior Designers Ready to Scale on Resilient by Design Connect with Rebecca Hay
📲 Connect with Katie: This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Leah Bryant Co. | |||