The McClain Method | Business Tools For Interior Designers
Welcome to The McClain Method — the go-to podcast for interior designers who want to grow a profitable, polished, and well-run design business.I’m your host, John McClain—award-winning interior designer, business mentor, author, and branding strategist. If you want to learn how to:• price your interior design services• attract high-value clients• streamline your design process• improve your client experience• elevate your brand and visibility• run your design firm with confidence…you’re in the right place.This podcast isn’t about pillows and paint swatches.Here, we focus on the business of interior design—marketing, pricing, branding, sales, systems, visibility, mindset, and e...
99: How to (Profitably) Use Antiques in a Modern Interior Design Business with Debbie Mathews
Episode Overview
In this episode of The McClain Method Podcast, John McClain sits down with Debbie Mathews LeRoy, owner and principal designer of Debbie Mathews Antiques and Designs in Nashville, to talk about antiques, sourcing, retail, and profitability inside a modern interior design business.
Debbie shares why antiques are becoming relevant again, how she blends her antique showroom with her luxury design studio, and what designers need to know before sourcing antique furniture for clients. This conversation is practical, grounded, and especially helpful for designers who love the idea of antiques but are...
98: Stop Trying to Keep Everyone Happy: 5 Permission Slips You Need Today
Stop Trying to Keep Everyone Happy: 5 Permission Slips You Need Today
What happens when you speak honestly, hold a boundary, or make a decision that is right for you, and someone else does not like it?
In this episode, John shares the story behind a recent one-star podcast review and the reminder that followed: not every criticism is an instruction, not every misunderstanding requires a rewrite, and not every disappointed person deserves a vote in your next decision.
This episode is about learning to listen thoughtfully without abandoning yourself.
...
97: The Science of How Interior Design Affects Behavior, Wellbeing, and Daily Life with Eryn Oruncak
The Science of How Interior Design Affects Behavior, Wellbeing, and Daily Life
Interior designers know when a room feels right. But what is actually happening beneath the surface?
In this episode of The McClain Method Podcast, John McClain sits down with Eryn Oruncak, founder of Elan Design, to talk about neuroaesthetics and the science behind how thoughtfully designed spaces affect the way people think, feel, and function.
Eryn explains why great design goes deeper than visual style. A room can support clarity, comfort, productivity, and a sense of belonging. It can...
96: Confessions from a Trade Show: Designing for the Way People Actually Live
After attending Milan Design Week and then heading straight to High Point Market, I found myself sitting with a lot of thoughts about our industry, our clients, and what actually matters when it comes to design.
This episode is a very honest reflection on the contrast between those two experiences and the bigger lesson I walked away with.
I talk about:
Why designing for real life matters more than designing for attention The difference between exclusive design and approachable design What Milan taught me about industry pressure and expectations Why practical, livable interiors are not les...95: Why Interior Designers Need to Understand Construction to Grow Their Business with Renee Biery
Most designers are comfortable talking about design.
Very few are comfortable talking about what happens after.
In this episode, I sit down with Renee Biery to unpack what actually happens when a project moves into construction.
We talk about the gap most designers have, why contractors operate the way they do, and how your role shifts in this phase whether you realize it or not.
This is not about becoming a contractor.
It is about understanding the process well enough to lead it.
SHOW NOTES (CLEAN + NATURAL)<...
94: How To Set Up Your AI Once So It Actually Works Every Time
Episode 94: Set Up Your AI Once So It Actually Works Every Time
Most designers are using AI.
But they’re barely scratching the surface.
And it’s costing them time every week.
In this episode, I break down what I saw at Design Edge and why most designers feel like AI isn’t working for them.
This isn’t about tools.
It’s about setting it up the right way so it actually helps your business.
What You’ll Learn
Why AI feels generic...93: AI Is Changing Interior Design. Here’s How to Stay Irreplaceable
AI is everywhere right now, and for many interior designers, it brings a quiet but very real fear. Not fear of learning something new. Not fear of using new tools. But fear of becoming irrelevant.
In this episode, McClain shares highlights from a recent presentation designed to help designers better understand how artificial intelligence is changing the industry. He explains what AI can realistically support in your business, what it will never replace, and why the human side of design is becoming even more valuable.
You will hear practical examples of how AI can help...
92: Your Next Hire Doesn't Need Benefits: How Interior Designers Can Build an AI Team
If AI hasn’t worked for you yet, it’s probably not the tool.
It’s not the prompts.
It’s not that you’re behind.
And it’s not that AI “doesn’t work for designers.”
It’s an organization problem.
In this episode, John breaks down why most interior designers are using AI like a junk drawer and how shifting from “tool” thinking to “team” thinking completely changed how he runs his business.
After running bi-coastal offices and feeling stretched thin, he realized AI wasn’t about better prompts. It was about b...
91: What Holds Interior Designers Back: Sourcing Fear, Pricing Pushback, and Building Better Systems with Heather McManus
Interior design can feel isolating, and sourcing can feel risky, especially when clients shop online and question your pricing. In this episode, John McClain sits down with interior designer Heather McManus to talk about what actually holds designers back, how collaboration can change the game, and why transparent systems are the key to better sourcing, better margins, and less burnout.
In this episode, we cover
Why fear of mistakes keeps designers small, especially with sourcing and procurementWhat to say when a client finds the same item online for lessHow Designers Collaborative started and why...90: The Fear of Losing Clients When You Speak Your Values
This episode is a little different. In a time that feels heavy, confusing, and deeply human, John speaks honestly about the fear many business owners carry when it comes to speaking their values.
This conversation is not about shouting online or debating politics. It’s about alignment. It’s about understanding why neutrality still communicates something, why your business is never separate from you, and how to live inside your values without performing or burning everything down.
Using a simple what, why, how framework, John shares three grounded actions you can take this week to brin...
89: The Most Expensive Lie Designers Tell Themselves with Staci Davidson
The Most Expensive Lie Designers Tell Themselves
Most designers don’t struggle because of their creativity.
They struggle because they believe a lie:
“I’m a designer. I shouldn’t have to deal with the backend of my business.”
In this episode of The McClain Method Podcast, John McClain sits down with Staci Davidson, founder of Everything But Design, to talk about the systems designers avoid—and why that avoidance quietly costs them time, money, and control.
From bookkeeping and procurement to processes, delegation, and profitability, this convers...
88: 5 Hard Truths That Changed My Design Business in 2025 (And What You Need to Know Before Next Year)
88: 5 Hard Truths That Changed My Design Business in 2025 (And What You Need to Know Before Next Year)
SHOW NOTES:
In this episode of The McClain Method Podcast, John McClain asks: are you running a beautiful design business that feels chaotic behind the scenes? This year-end reflection episode is for interior designers who are ready to work smarter, not harder.
In this episode, I'm sharing 5 business lessons that transformed my interior design business in 2025 and the practical strategies you can implement right now to build a more profitable, sustainable design firm.
<...87: Be the Unicorn in the Room: Visibility, Partnerships & Mindful Success with Antonio DeLoatch
EPISODE 87 — Be the Unicorn in the Room: Visibility, Partnerships & Mindful Success with Antonio DeLoatch
If you're an interior designer craving more visibility, confidence, and high-quality clients, this episode is your new playbook.
I’m joined by NYC-based designer and mindfulness advocate Antonio DeLoatch - a man who has mastered becoming the unicorn in the room. Together, we unpack what it really takes to stand out in a crowded design industry, elevate your brand presence, and build a business rooted in clarity and intention.
We talk High Point Market strategy, story...
86: Three Reasons Designers Stay Stuck (And How to Break Through In 2026)
Three Reasons Designers Stay Stuck (And How to Break Through In 2026)
If you’ve been feeling stuck in your design business — stuck at the same income level, stuck recreating your processes every time a new client reaches out, stuck second-guessing your pricing, or stuck behind a brand that doesn’t reflect your true talent — this episode is the shift you needed.
Today, John breaks down the three biggest reasons designers don’t grow (even when they’re working hard!) and teaches the mindset, strategy, and structure shifts he coaches inside The McClain Method. If you want...
85: The Hidden Reason Your Clients Don’t Feel Fully Taken Care Of
The Hidden Reason Your Clients Don’t Feel Fully Taken Care Of
Even the most talented designers can unintentionally miss the small-but-critical details that shape how clients feel throughout (and especially at the end of) a project. And let’s be honest: clients remember the final 10% more than the first 90%.
In today’s episode, we’re diving into the quiet gap in most design businesses — the part that turns even the most beautiful projects into stressful, confusing experiences for clients.
We’ll talk about install-day chaos, missing FF&E clarity, post-project confusion, a...
84: Before You Scale: Why I Chose Alignment Over Expansion
What if the version of success you’ve been chasing… isn’t actually yours?
In this episode, John McClain gets personal about what happened when his business grew beyond what his soul was ready for — and why he made the decision to choose alignment over expansion.
From running two design offices across the country to finding peace and purpose in a smaller, more intentional business, John shares the real lessons behind sustainable success.
If you’ve ever felt pressure to “go big” before you were ready, this episode will remind you that the most successful busi...
83: 5 Proven Strategies to Build a Successful Interior Design Brand with Alena Capra
In this episode of The McClain Method Podcast, I’m joined by nationally recognized designer, TV personality, and NKBA Person of the Year Alena Capra — a powerhouse in the world of interior design and brand partnerships.
We’re pulling back the curtain on what it really takes to build a thriving design brand from the ground up — one that’s respected, recognizable, and rooted in authenticity.
Alena and I dive into:
🌟 How to find your niche and use it to stand out in a crowded design industry🤝 The secret to la...82: How To Use ChatGPT To Write Your Instagram Captions (The Right Way)
If your Instagram captions or newsletters sound like a bad Hallmark card… I hate to break it to you, but I know AI wrote them.
And so does your audience. 👀
Here’s the deal: AI isn’t the problem. It’s actually a powerful tool — but if you’re handing it the mic and posting whatever it spits out, your content is going to sound robotic, generic, and totally forgettable. And luxury clients? They don’t hire forgettable.
In this episode of The McClain Method, I’m giving you the tough love (and the strategy) on:<...
81: How to Avoid Common Interior Design Business Mistakes with Ronniesha Rivera
How to Avoid Common Interior Design Business Mistakes with Ronniesha Rivera
In this episode of the McClain Method Podcast, host John McClain discusses overcoming difficulties in the interior design business with guest Ronniesha Rivera, founder of Vetted By Design.
They talk about the importance of dealing with hardships, the challenges of finding good help, outsourcing effectively, and maintaining long-term profitability. They also delve into the specifics of hiring bookkeepers, accountants, and the crucial role of contracts.
Ronniesha shares her insights on delegating, managing contractor relations, and the essential role of...
80: Do it Afraid: Navigating Fear and Change in Design with Katie Decker-Erickson
Do it Afraid: Navigating Fear and Change in Design
In this episode of the McClain Method Podcast, host John McClain speaks with Katie Derek Erickson, founder of Success by Design.
They discuss the importance of grit, perspective, and intuitive decision-making in business. Katie shares her journey from flipping houses to leading a multimillion-dollar commercial design firm and emphasizes the significance of sustainable design. The episode also touches on overcoming fear, the power of celebrating small wins, and the impact of having a defined 'why' in business.
14:18 Celebrating Success and Finding Joy
...79: Clutter-Free Life: How Clearing Your Space Can Transform Your Mindset with Helen Sanderson
Episode 79: Clutter-Free Life – Transform Your Space, Transform Your Mindset with Helen Sanderson
In today’s episode of The McClain Method Podcast, we’re diving into the powerful connection between your home environment and mental wellness. I’m joined by Helen Sanderson, the UK’s leading expert on the psychology of clutter and the author of The Secret Life of Clutter.
Helen is here to show us how to clear the physical clutter in our spaces—and how doing so can lead to a clearer, more intentional mindset.
Helen, known as "The Clutt...
78: How Instagram’s Search Engine Update Can Help You Get Found and Grow Your Business
Episode 78: How Instagram’s Search Engine Update Can Help You Get Found and Grow Your Business
Hey y’all, welcome back to The McClain Method Podcast! Today, I’m bringing you some amazing information from my YouTube channel and adapting it for the podcast. If you haven’t subscribed to my YouTube yet, check out https://www.youtube.com/@mcclainjohn for more content with visuals!
In today’s episode, we’re diving into a game-changing shift happening on Instagram: it’s becoming a search engine. Instagram isn’...
77: How to Sell Without Feeling Salesy: The Steve Jobs Strategy for Designers + Creatives
What do interior designers, creatives, and wellness founders have in common? Most of them hate selling—but still need to do it daily.
In this episode, John sits down with Christopher Francis, engineer-turned-entrepreneur and founder of Home Plunge, the world’s first cold plunge designed for your home bathtub.
Drawing inspiration from Steve Jobs and his own experience bridging product design with human connection, Christopher shares how to sell without being pushy, pitchy, or fake.
Inside this conversation:
✔ How to guide clients who “don’t know what they want”
✔ The art of showing—not...
76: You’re Not Lazy—You’re Exhausted: Rethinking Productivity and Self-Worth with Katie McDonald
76: You’re Not Lazy—You’re Exhausted: Rethinking Productivity and Self-Worth
📝 Episode Description / Show Notes:
What if the real problem isn’t your motivation, your to-do list, or your morning routine?
What if you’re not lazy—you’re exhausted?
In this powerful conversation, John McClain sits down with wellness expert and founder of bnourished, Katie McDonald, to challenge everything we’ve been taught about productivity, hustle culture, and tying our worth to output.
👂 In this episode:
How self-care became another task on your list—and what...75: How to Grow Your Business Using Your Own Story with Jude Charles
75: How to Grow Your Business Using Your Own Story with Jude Charles
In a world of AI-generated content and generic captions, how do you make your brand actually stand out? In this powerful episode, John is joined once again by storytelling expert and filmmaker Jude Charles for a heartfelt, thought-provoking conversation about what truly connects clients to your brand: your story.
Together, they unpack:
Why your voice is the one thing AI can’t replicateThe 3 Rules of Authentic Storytelling every creative entrepreneur should knowHow to uncover your lived experiences, values, an...74: Brand-New Instagram Changes for 2025: Why Your Posts Aren’t Getting Seen (and What to Do Now)
Episode Summary:
If your Instagram posts feel like they’re disappearing into the void lately—you’re not imagining it. In this episode, I’m breaking down the just-revealed 2025 changes to Instagram’s algorithm and content strategy, based on a brand-new interview with Instagram Head Adam Mosseri on the Build Your Tribe podcast with Brock Johnson.
From why hashtags aren’t helping anymore, to why Reels still matter (but only if you do this), to how Lives have lost their edge—this is your updated playbook. I’ll also share the one thing Mosseri didn’t say out l...
73: How Breegan Jane Built a Bold Design Brand—and Landed 13 HGTV Shows
🎙️ Episode 73 — How Breegan Jane Built a Bold Design Brand—and Landed 13 HGTV Shows
In This Episode:
If you’re an interior designer dreaming of being on television, this episode is your roadmap. John McClain sits down with HGTV star, product designer, author, and branding powerhouse Breegan Jane for an unfiltered conversation about what it really takes to get noticed by TV networks—and how building a bold, authentic brand is the key to long-term success.
Breegan shares how she:
Built a strong design brand that attracted casting directors (before having an agent!)Landed...72: Luxury Clients Aren’t Booking You—Because You Look Budget
🎙️ Luxury Clients Aren’t Booking You—Because You Look Budget
📌 Episode Summary:
You say you want luxury clients… but does your brand actually look the part?
In this bold and necessary solo episode, John McClain pulls back the curtain on why so many talented interior designers are struggling to attract high-end projects. Spoiler: it’s not your portfolio—it’s your presentation.
From outdated websites and inconsistent posting to visuals that send mixed messages, John dives into the top self-sabotaging mistakes designers make and how to fix them. If you’re r...
71: Want a Product License? Here Are 3 Specific Strategies from Meredith Heron
71: Want a Product License? Here Are 3 Specific Strategies from Meredith Heron
In this episode of the McClain Method Podcast, host John McClain speaks with Canadian design powerhouse Meredith Heron. They discuss the importance of dealing with decision-makers, aligning values in business relationships, diversifying ventures, and staying true to passion and creativity.
Meredith shares insights from her journey from working at Home Depot to becoming a TV host and launching a bespoke rug collection. Meredith emphasizes the significance of storytelling, authenticity, and bespoke designing in interior design. Learn about her approach to building lasting c...
70: You’ve Got the Talent—So Why Aren’t You Profitable Yet? Part 2 with LuAnn Nigara
In episode 70 of The McClain Method Podcast, host John McClain continues his insightful conversation with Luann Nigara, a leading figure in the interior design industry.
They delve into key aspects of running a successful design business, including mindset, pricing, and branding strategies. Luann shares her journey, emphasizes the importance of being unapologetically yourself, and discusses the value of professional guidance.
They also address common industry challenges such as client objections and effective communication. Listen in for practical advice and strategies to elevate your design business to new heights.
00:00 Introduction to The McClain Method Po...
69: Get Out of Your Own Way: Lessons from LuAnn Nigara
The McClain Method Podcast Episode 69: Get Out of Your Own Way: Lessons from LuAnn Nigara
In this episode of The McClain Method Podcast, host John McClain welcomes LuAnn Nigara, a pioneer in the interior design business world. They discuss LuAnn's journey from helping her husband start Window Works to becoming a celebrated media personality with her podcast 'A Well-Designed Business.'
LuAnn shares how she identified the need for business education among designers, her strategies for launching and monetizing her podcast, and the vital role of having a business plan. She also touches o...
68: Branding, Boldness & Brilliance: The McClain Method Podcast Debut Episode!
🎙️ Episode 68 is here, y’all!
Say hello to the very first episode of the newly rebranded McClain Method Podcast — and let me just say… she’s bold, she’s brilliant, and she’s ready to take center stage. 💁♂️✨
In this kickoff episode, I’m pulling back the velvet curtain on why I rebranded the podcast, what The McClain Method really means, and how YOU can stop playing small and start building the visible, profitable, soul-aligned business you actually want.
We’re talking: 💫 Why your “backstage” (aka systems, messaging, and brand foundation) matters just as much as you...
67: How to Create a Dream Team and Streamline Your Design Processes with Jessica Harling
67: How to Create a Dream Team and Streamline Your Design Processes with Jessica Harling
In episode 67 of The Designer Within Podcast, host John McClain sits down with Jessica Harling, founder of Behind the Design, to discuss the essentials of building a successful design team. They explore strategies for defining core values, setting realistic goals, and hiring the right talent.
Jessica shares her expertise on the importance of a solid onboarding process, managing company culture, and establishing effective processes. The episode highlights actionable tips for new design business owners looking to grow their company and maximize t...
66: LIVE FROM KBIS! The Future of Luxury Baths: Tech Advances & Entrepreneurial Lessons with BainUltra
66: LIVE FROM KBIS! The Future of Luxury Baths: Tech Advances & Entrepreneurial Lessons with BainUltra.
In this special live edition of the Designer Within Podcast recorded from the floor of KBIS 2025 in Las Vegas, host John McClain welcomes Jean-Michel LeBeau and Kim Frechette from Bain Ultra. Together, they discuss the fearless entrepreneurial spirit and innovation driving Bain Ultra’s focus on wellness through luxury bath products.
Learn about the importance of storytelling in design, the future of the luxury bath industry, and actionable tips for integrating wellness into your design projects.
Whether you're a ho...
65: SEO for Designers: How to Gain 1000 New Website Visitors Fast with Barb Davids
Welcome to Episode 65 of The McClain Method Podcast, where host John McClain explores the intersection of creativity and intentional design in home and life.
This episode features special guest Barb Davids, a digital marketing and SEO expert from Compass Digital Strategy, who breaks down SEO in an easily understandable format for interior designers and other creatives. Barb discusses the importance of blogging for SEO, optimizing website images, the role of Google Business Profile, and basic tips for boosting website ranking.
Here is a rundown of what you will learn in this action packed episode:
U...
64: How Photorealistic Renderings Can Serve Luxury Clients & Increase Your Revenue - with Mina Duque
In this episode of The Designer Within Podcast, host John McClain chats with Mina Duque from Duke Renders about the significant impact photorealistic renderings can have on an interior design business.
They delve into Mina's journey from handling her design business to heading client success at Duke Renders and discuss the external support and benefits that outsourcing renderings can bring to designers.
They cover how renderings can speed up project approvals, enhance client presentations, and even act as a powerful marketing tool. Mina highlights the importance of delegating to the right people and setting clear ex...
63: Live From Italy! How to Unlock Your TRUE Creative Potential & Unchain Your Past
In episode 63 of The Designer Within Podcast, recorded LIVE as he walks the streets of ever-inspiring Italy, host John McClain shares his transformative experiences from a trade show in Verona to the picturesque streets of Florence, and finally, the bustling city of Milan on a solo soul finding trip through Italy.
John reflects on much-needed inspiration and offers insights on refueling creativity, maintaining originality, and setting realistic expectations in the business world. Key lessons include the importance of stepping out of routine to find inspiration, standing firm on pricing and deliverables, and balancing creative...
62: Mastering PR, Branding, & Marketing in the Design Industry With Jocelyn Hutt
In episode 62 of The Designer Within Podcast, hosted by John McClain, we delve into the world of brand collaborations and PR strategies. John chats with Jocelyn Hutt, a seasoned marketing and PR expert, about effective brand partnerships, storytelling in design projects, and the importance of both regional and national PR.
Jocelyn shares invaluable tips for designers and creatives on how to elevate their projects and visibility, emphasizing the importance of high-quality photography, detailed product shots, and the power of in-person connections.
Whether you're a design professional aiming to grow your business or someone interested in be...
61: How to Create A True Client-Centric Design with Michael Mitchell
The Designer Within Podcast Episode 61: How to Create A True Client-Centric Design with Michael Mitchell
In this episode of the Designer Within podcast, host John McClain discusses the art of creating client-centric designs with Michael Mitchell. They explore Michael's approach to blending diverse styles, his extensive sourcing trips, and the importance of understanding clients' unique stories.
Michael shares insights on managing client expectations, the power of intentional mix-and-match decor, and the value of transparency in the design process. The episode also highlights Michael's philanthropic efforts and his philosophy of giving back to the c...
60: New Year = New Priorities. Saying YES to What Serves YOU in 2025!
Designing Your Best Year: Embracing Purpose, Progress, and Peace in 2025
In this episode of the Designer Within Podcast, host John McClain explores the crucial difference between being busy and being productive. He introduces the concept of aligning tasks with one's goals through a decision filter focusing on purpose, progress, and peace.
John explains the revamped podcast format, which will now cater to interior designers, homeowners, and general listeners, offering insights for improving both personal and professional lives.
The episode emphasizes the importance of intentionality, self-care, and thoughtfully selecting commitments that tr...
