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

Imagine starting your mornings without stress—just coffee, a quick workout, maybe a quiet moment with your kids—before diving into focused work hours you set. Your calendar feels manageable because you’ve planned ahead: 🗓️ client meetings on Tuesdays and Thursdays 🎨 creative work (like mood boards or sourcing) on Wednesdays ✍️ admin or content creation from home on Mondays 🚙 Fridays off or just light work so you can hit a yoga class, run errands, or unwind.

You love what you do.

You’ve got time for family.

And you still get to pour into your creat...

Have you ever wasted hours searching for the right help for your interior design business, only to feel frustrated and stuck? What if there was an easier way to find the right people who truly understand interior design?

In this episode, I chat with Ronniesha Rivera, an interior designer and founder of Vetted By Design—a free centralized platform for interior designers to connect with highly vetted professionals without stress.

Ronniesha shares her painful story of hiring the wrong bookkeeper early in her business, which cost her thousands of do...

Is the interior design industry evolving too quickly, and are you prepared for it?

Or maybe you are questioning whether pursuing a career as an interior designer is still a wise decision in today's landscape.

In this episode, I take you through how the interior design industry has changed over the past 15 to 20 years, and what that means for you today.

From pandemic ups and downs, to social media trends, to working with AI, you'll learn how the industry has grown and where it’s...

"You have to work hard for money" or "Money doesn't grow on trees" are just a few of the money beliefs that many of us grew up with. These childhood beliefs may be quietly hindering your design business.

In this episode, I chat with expert CFO and money mindset coach Audrey Faust who explains how your early experiences with money shape your current success, often without you even realizing it.

As a creative professional, you’re trained in design, not finance. But to grow a profitable business, you need bo...

Are you stuck thinking "What if I mess up?" or "What if I don't sound like I know what I'm talking about?" when calling yourself an interior designer?

You're not alone.

Many talented people with a natural eye for design stay stuck because they're waiting for someone to give them permission to start their careers. But here's the truth: you don't need anyone's permission except your own.

In this episode, I talk about why you don’t need permission from anyone to become an in...

Are you drowning in design project chaos, juggling emails, texts, and scattered communication that's driving you crazy? You're not alone! Today's guest has been there too.

I interview Erinn V, a luxury interior designer and the founder of StyleRow, a powerful platform made to help designers like you stay organized, save time, and run your business better.

Erinn shares how she grew from decorating her apartment to designing homes for celebrities and creating a tool that solves the very problems she faced in her own business.

<...

Interior designers often get confused about whether to hire an employee or an independent contractor because the decision involves several complex factors—legal, financial, and practical—that aren't always clear at first glance.

In this episode, I break down the pros and cons of both options, including cost, commitment, legal rules, and how much control you have. I also share my real-life experience of hiring interns and contractors to full-time employees, and explain why shifting your mindset from fear to strategy is key to sustainable growth.

I also talk abou...

Interior designers have the ability to shape experiences through their work. Whether it's helping a family feel more connected at home, creating a more uplifting environment in a senior living space, or reducing stress in a healthcare setting, their contributions go beyond merely making spaces look beautiful. They play a vital role in improving people's lives.

In this inspiring episode, I chat with Blima Ehrentreu, founder and CEO of The Designers Group, who shares how interior design becomes meaningful when driven by purpose. From calming urgent care centers to uplifting senior living communities, Blima shows how thoughtful...

Is it possible to become an interior designer without going back to school?

If you're dreaming of a second career in interior design but don’t have the time or money for a two- or four-year degree, this episode is for you.

I share practical ways you can use the skills you already have to get hired in a design firm—even if you’ve never worked in interior design before.

You'll learn what small firms are really looking for, and how your background in project management, sales, customer service, client relations to creati...

Have you ever wondered if it’s too late to pursue your dream of becoming an interior designer?

In this episode, you’ll meet Alison Geise, a former dietitian and law school grad who took the scenic route to interior design and built a thriving business doing what she loves. If you’re thinking about switching careers, Alison’s story will show you it’s possible.

Alison shares how her love for decorating turned into a full-time career, even after years in completely different fields. She talks about the steps she took to learn design, how she fi...

Are you worried about getting through those tough first two years of your interior design business? Most new businesses fail in this critical period, but yours doesn't have to!

In this episode, I share practical strategies to help you become profitable more quickly. I walk you through actionable steps for building a strong network, creating an impressive portfolio even with no prior experience, creating service packages that attract first-time customers, and leveraging your connections to find your initial projects. I explain exactly how to make yourself visible in the market. Plus, I share my journey of gradually...

Wondering how some designers turn their passion for history into a thriving business?

In this episode, I sit down with Anika Schachtler, who has carved out an exciting niche restoring and redesigning historical homes from the 1800s and early 1900s in Quebec.

Anika shares her journey from design school graduate to successful business owner, revealing how she built a network of skilled craftspeople who understand historical restoration. She explains the delicate balance between preserving original features and creating functional spaces for modern living, showing how she combines antique pieces with contemporary comforts.

If...

What makes turnkey interior design services unique, and how do they differ from full-service design?

In this episode, I break down turnkey styling—the extra layer of service that transforms an empty house into a completely livable home. Learn the difference between standard full-service design (which includes mood boards, floor plans, and furnishings) and turnkey services that add those final touches clients need to simply "turn the key" and move in.

I walk you through exactly what turnkey items to include in each room—from luxurious sheets and towels to kitchen essentials, decorative accessories, and orga...

Struggling to make your interior design business stand out in a crowded market?

In this episode, I sit down with Nicole Lashae Ben, a design strategy expert who reveals how interior designers and product manufacturers can boost their brand awareness and revenue. Nicole shares her journey from watching HGTV as a middle schooler to creating Thrive in Design, a company that helps creative professionals develop powerful marketing strategies.

Nicole offers practical advice for designers looking to elevate their brand, including the importance of finding a specific niche and creating partnerships with complementary brands. She explains...

Are your designs ready for the future?

As people age, their homes should remain safe, comfortable, and stylish. But designing for aging in place requires more than just grab bars and wider doorways—it’s about creating a home that supports independence and well-being.

In this episode, I talk about how you can integrate aging-in-place principles into your interior design projects and introduce a program that allows you to become a Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS). This certification can set you apart in the design world and help you tap into a growing market of clients seek...

"I don't know where to start!" Marketing overwhelms you, with so many platforms (Instagram, Pinterest, SEO, email, ads). You struggle to create a clear strategy and wonder which efforts will bring results.

"I hate self-promotion—I don’t want to sound salesy!" You love creating beautiful spaces but dislike talking about yourself. You worry about coming across as pushy instead of naturally attracting clients.

"Technology stresses me out!" CRMs, email marketing, and automation tools sound helpful, but learning them feels overwhelming. You want simple, done-for-you solutions that don’t require becoming a tech expert.

I he...

Are you exhausted from juggling client demands, endless decisions, and late-night work sessions? You're not alone.

Burnout is a common struggle for solopreneurs and interior designers, but it doesn’t have to be your reality.

I completely understand how burnout feels; I experienced it myself early in my career. Thankfully, I've learned effective strategies to manage it. I’m happy to say I’m no longer an overwhelmed and burned-out designer. This shift has made a big difference. It improved my ability to be the best designer for my clients.

In this episode, I expl...

Are you struggling to generate consistent, high-quality leads for your interior design business?

Many designers rely on social media and word of mouth, but these methods alone may not bring in steady, high-quality leads.

In this episode, Porsche Williams, CEO of The Prototype, shares her expert strategies for building a stress-free, scalable lead generation system that nurtures relationships and drives long-term growth.

She explains the biggest mistakes designers make—like focusing too much on new leads and forgetting past clients—and reveals how to create a simple system that keeps your pipeline full.

What does luxury really mean in interior design?

Many designers say they offer a luxury service, but what makes a design truly high-end?

In this episode, I explain what it means to be a luxury interior designer and how to attract the right clients.

I also share how to communicate the value of high-end design, price your expertise confidently, and provide a white-glove experience that clients are happy to pay for.

If you are transitioning to high-end projects or just curious about what sets luxury apart, this episode will help you...

Have you ever wondered if you need a design degree or a perfect career plan to become an interior designer? Think again!

In this episode, I sit down withStef Johnson, founder ofStef Johnson Design, who shares her inspiring journey from growing up around design to running a successful interior design studio.

Stef’s path wasn’t straight—she explored event planning, worked in real estate, and even managed construction projects before finally launching her own business. Her story proves there is no one "right" way to build a fulfilling career in this creative field.

Whet...

What happens when things don’t go as planned in your design projects?

A contractor gets sick, a supplier raises prices, or a hidden problem adds unexpected costs—these surprises can cause major stress and financial loss.

Uncertainty is inevitable, but with the right preparation, you can stay in control and keep your business running smoothly.

As an interior designer, you need to be ready for the unexpected.

In this episode, I share real-life stories of unexpected challenges and how to handle them like a pro. Learn the proactive strategies I use...

Are you wondering why, despite having a beautiful website, you are not attracting your ideal clients?

As interior designers, we often prioritize the visual aspects of our websites, such as design and imagery, while overlooking important functional and strategic elements.

While a stunning website is important, if it doesn’t guide visitors toward taking action, you may be missing out on valuable inquiries and bookings.

In this episode, web design expert Cathleen Barnes shares how interior designers can turn their websites into powerful tools that attract high-end clients and increase conversions.

Sh...

"How can I show what I can do if no one gives me a chance?"

This is a question I often hear from young designers struggling to find paid internships or get clients to take a chance on them. It’s frustrating, discouraging, and can leave you feeling stuck. You know you have the passion and potential to succeed, but without experience, it feels like you’re standing at a locked door, waiting for someone to hand you the key.

Don’t worry—there are creative and practical ways to build your skills and portfolio!

In...

Fear, self-doubt, and limiting beliefs are the three major obstacles that can leave an interior designer feeling stuck, unsure of their path, and questioning how to build confidence as they begin their interior design career.

In this episode, I sit down with Diamond Drip, a business strategist and personal growth expert, who shares how understanding your unique Human Design can help you overcome fear and self-doubt.

She explains that Human Design reveals your natural strengths, decision-making style, and purpose, so you can align your passion for interior design with your true self.

Diamond...

Are you an aspiring interior designer dreaming of starting your business, but feeling overwhelmed by all the steps involved?

I've got you covered! I am here to guide you through the process of launching your interior design business in just 2 months.

In this episode, I am sharing my personal experiences and insights on the challenges of starting a business, PLUS introducing you to the ultimate solution to help you go from aspiring designer to client-ready entrepreneur in just two months with my Launch Your Business Boot Camp.

I am breaking down each week...

State laws often define the scope of practice, certification requirements, and licensing regulations for interior designers. Staying informed ensures you comply with these rules, allowing you to work legally and avoid fines or penalties.

In this episode, I have an insightful conversation with Genise Plessas, a seasoned interior designer and advocate for the profession in California. Genise delves into the challenges facing interior designers, particularly the proposed changes by IDEX that could create unnecessary barriers for both commercial and residential designers.

She shares valuable insights into the work of the California Legislative Coalition for Interior...

Have you set your goals for 2025 but worry about how to achieve them? The key to success might lie in the power of accountability.

Accountability can be the missing piece that keeps you focused, motivated, and on track as you work toward your goals for the new year. If you struggle to follow through on your interior design goals or often let yourself off the hook, this episode is for you.

I share real-life examples and proven strategies to help you clarify your priorities, boost your motivation, and stay consistent—whether you’re a new desi...

Happy New Year and welcome to 2025!

January is all about fresh starts, and many of us are setting goals to prioritize self-care and build better routines. A thoughtfully designed home gym can make all the difference—offering not just convenience but also a space that inspires consistent use and supports wellness goals.

For us interior designers, this is the perfect time to help clients align their homes with their health and wellness aspirations, making it the perfect moment to explore this growing trend.

If you’ve ever wondered how to create a home gym...

As a visionary for my company, taking time to reflect is essential. It allows me to review the events of the past year, recognize my growth, and learn from the lessons it brought. Reflecting also helps me plan with intention and shape a clear vision for the year ahead.

While I can’t control every circumstance, I can control how I approach the future, set meaningful intentions, and focus on what I want to achieve in the coming year.

In this special year-end episode, I share how to reflect on your wins, lessons, and growth fr...

"Do I need a formal degree in interior design to succeed? What steps should I follow in the design process? Should I add new services like construction management or staging? How do I diversify my offerings while staying true to my brand?"

These questions reflect a critical milestone in a designer’s career journey, helping them go from establishing their practice to running a thriving business.

In this episode, you will find answers from Michelle Norgren, the founder of Harmony Homes, a successful luxury interior design and construction firm. She shares her inspiring story highlighting ho...

Newbie interior designers often have questions as they start building their careers, balancing creativity with client satisfaction, and running a business effectively.

In this episode, I answer questions sent in by listeners over the past couple of months. Some listeners were unsure whether I had covered these topics in previous episodes, and it seems I haven't. I thought it would be a great time to answer some of those questions now. For those starting, these might be the areas you are struggling with right now.

I share my tried-and-true methods for success as an interior...

Interior designers often find managing the financial side of their business challenging because they are primarily focused on creative work rather than financial planning and analysis.

Many start their careers with a passion for aesthetics, design, and problem-solving for clients’ spaces, not necessarily for crunching numbers. This makes dealing with finances—like budgeting, pricing, and understanding profit margins—feel less intuitive and sometimes even overwhelming.

So if you are an interior designer struggling to manage the financial side of your business and wish you had a trusted advisor to guide you, this episode is for you.<...

The interior design industry is quite crowded, especially with the rise of online platforms and social media showcasing designers’ work, making the field more visible and accessible than ever.

The growth in popularity is fueled by shows on networks like HGTV, DIY resources, and the increase in design-focused social media content, which has inspired many people to pursue interior design as a career.

Having said that, how do you stand out in the crowded interior design market? How do you attract your ideal clients and build a thriving, sustainable design business?

In this ep...

Finding balance and fulfillment in a creative career has always been a constant struggle for most interior designers.

Interior designer Laura Martin Bovard has been there - and she's here to share her hard-won wisdom.

In this episode, Laura opens up about her unconventional path to design, learning on the job and building her firm LMB Interiors from the ground up, without a design degree.

She reveals how she overcame perfectionism, set boundaries with clients, and nurtured her entrepreneurial spirit - all while prioritizing self-care through her "Divine Hustler" personal growth practice.

Do you dream of becoming an interior designer, but wonder what it's really like behind the scenes?

In this episode, I pull back the curtain to give you a realistic look at the challenges of the interior design career.

While the Instagram-worthy staging and design work may look effortless, the day-to-day grind of an interior designer involves grit, problem-solving, defending decisions, and navigating invisible labor that often goes unnoticed.

I share my journey, from initial expectations to the hard-won lessons I learned over nearly 20 years in the industry.

I also talk...

Are you struggling to attract high-end clients as an interior designer?

In this episode, Hassan from MC Luxury shares the proven marketing strategies that can help you land more projects and grow your brand. From using Instagram to build a personal brand to leveraging email marketing, blogging, and PR, Hassan breaks down exactly what works—and what doesn't—for designers like you.

Hassan explains how to overcome the challenge of reaching your ideal clients, offering solutions that don’t just rely on social media.

He dives into the power of personal branding and reveal...

What qualities make a client an ideal fit for your interior design business, ensuring a smooth design process?

If you are a client looking for an interior designer, how can you be the best client throughout the interior design process?

In this episode, I break down the traits of an ideal client while walking you through the entire process—from the initial inquiry to the final reveal—highlighting how clear communication, trust, and realistic expectations lead to better outcomes for everyone involved.

Whether you are embarking on your first design project or refining your...

Are you wondering if you can succeed in an interior design career without following the traditional path? How to do it? This episode may be the answer you are looking for.

Colleen Bennett's journey into interior design was anything but traditional. She started with dreams of becoming a lawyer but accidentally landed a job as a furniture representative straight out of college. Then she designed homes for presidents and dignitaries across Latin America.

From launching her first design studio in Costa Rica to managing luxury interiors for Ralph Lauren in over 60 countries, Colleen’s story pr...

Are you worried about starting or transitioning into a creative career like interior design? You're not alone! It's normal to feel scared about the unknown.

In this episode, I address the most common fears that hold people back from switching careers and pursuing their design dreams.

From fears about your business failing, lacking experience, or managing the financial and legal side of running your practice - I have practical solutions. I share my story of starting a successful design business during a recession and provide actionable advice and resources to help you overcome these hurdles...

Are you struggling to scale your interior design business while balancing family life? Or perhaps you're considering adding commercial projects to your list of services.

In this episode, Katie Decker, a successful commercial color consultant and business coach, shares her inspiring journey and practical strategies to help you achieve sustainable growth.

Katie's path to success was anything but linear. From starting in communications to flipping houses and discovering her passion for color consulting, she navigated various challenges before finding her niche in the commercial design industry. Her story demonstrates that with the right mindset and...