The McClain Method | Business Tools For Interior Designers
John McClain 97 episodes Nov 6, 2026
The McClain Method is a podcast for interior designers focused on the business side of design. Host John McClain shares strategies on pricing, marketing, branding, and client experience to help designers build profitable firms. Each episode provides actionable tools and insights for growing a design business.
Episodes
105: Why Your Interior Design Firm Looks Successful But Isn't
If your interior design business looks successful from the outside but you secretly have no idea whether all that activity is making you a decent living, this one is for you. John knows this feeling personally. The year his work was published the most was the year his business was the biggest mess on the inside. Beautiful projects, recognition, press, and behind it all, undercharging, saying yes t
104: You Can Be Ambitious and Still Want Peace: Lessons From a Sabbatical
I went to Thailand for a sabbatical half expecting a big revelation. A temple, a sunset, a bowl of noodles, and then lightning. That never happened. What happened was quieter, and it changed how I think about ambition, rest, work, and home.In this episode, I'm sharing what nearly three months in Thailand taught me, pulled from the AI journal I kept every day while I was there. The lesson that
103: How I Actually Use AI to Run My Business: 10 Real Ways with ChatGPT and Claude
AI is my assistant. It is not my brain.Everything I teach came from years of running my design firm, working with clients, pricing projects, and making plenty of mistakes along the way. AI didn’t give me any of that. What it has done is help me put that knowledge to work in ways that are faster, more organized, and a whole lot easier to manage.In this episode, I’m sharing the 10 ways I’m actually
102: What Dolly Parton Taught Me About Business and Life
What Dolly Parton Taught Me About Business and LifeWhen Dolly Parton died, I found myself thinking about just how much she had shaped the way I see business, success, reinvention, kindness, and life.In this episode, I share the lessons I learned from watching Dolly dream bigger, stand out without apologizing, reinvent herself without losing who she was, and stay kind while still being a serious bu
101: Live From Italy: How to Get Your Creativity Back When You Feel Stuck
This is a replay, and it is one of my favorites.A while back I was in Italy for Marmomac, the natural stone show in Verona, sponsored by the Italian Trade Agency. I added almost two weeks onto the trip and traveled alone through Verona, Bologna, Florence, the hillsides of Tuscany, Milan, and Lake Como.I did not bring my computer.One night in Florence, walking home from dinner past the Duomo, I hea
100: 10 Business Lessons From 100 Episodes: What Every Designer Should Steal
Episode 100 is here, and I am recording it on my iPhone from a makeshift desk in Bangkok, where I am living and running my whole business for the next four months. Three years ago I turned on a microphone with no plan and no idea if I would make it to episode 10. This one is not a highlight reel. It is 10 things that 100 episodes have taught me, and more than anything, it is a thank you.In this ep
99: How to (Profitably) Use Antiques in a Modern Interior Design Business with Debbie Mathews
Episode OverviewIn 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 lux
98: Stop Trying to Keep Everyone Happy: 5 Permission Slips You Need Today
Stop Trying to Keep Everyone Happy: 5 Permission Slips You Need TodayWhat 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
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 LifeInterior 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 t
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 d
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 bec
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 TimeMost 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
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 realistical
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-
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 epi
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
89: The Most Expensive Lie Designers Tell Themselves with Staci Davidson
The Most Expensive Lie Designers Tell ThemselvesMost 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 tha
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 bu
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 DeLoatchIf 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
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 bigg
85: The Hidden Reason Your Clients Don’t Feel Fully Taken Care Of
The Hidden Reason Your Clients Don’t Feel Fully Taken Care OfEven 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
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 r
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
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 hi
81: How to Avoid Common Interior Design Business Mistakes with Ronniesha Rivera
How to Avoid Common Interior Design Business Mistakes with Ronniesha RiveraIn 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
80: Do it Afraid: Navigating Fear and Change in Design with Katie Decker-Erickson
Do it Afraid: Navigating Fear and Change in DesignIn 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 signifi
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 SandersonIn 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 t
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 BusinessHey 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’
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 hu
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
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 CharlesIn 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 unp
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
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 ShowsIn 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
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
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 HeronIn 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 h
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 va
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 NigaraIn 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.&apos
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 visi
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 HarlingIn 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
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
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
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
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,
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 elevat
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 MitchellIn 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 st
60: New Year = New Priorities. Saying YES to What Serves YOU in 2025!
Designing Your Best Year: Embracing Purpose, Progress, and Peace in 2025In 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 n
59: Building a Design Showroom, Vendor Growth, & Work/Life balance with Sara Lynn Brennan (Part 2)
In Episode 59 of the Designer Within Podcast, host John McClain continues his insightful conversation with Sarah Lynn Brennan. They delve deeper into the creation and ongoing success of Sarah's design showroom, 'All Things Home,' located in North Carolina. Sarah shares the unplanned journey of opening her showroom, how strategic partnerships played a vital role in its development, a
58: The Power of Processes & The Journey to Design Success with Sara Lynn Brennan (Part 1)
In this episode of the 'Designer Within' podcast, John McClain interviews Sara Lynn Brennan, a successful interior designer who transitioned from being a middle and high school science teacher to running her own multi-million dollar design business. Sara shares her early business mistakes and emphasizes the importance of establishing structured processes and having hard conversations wit
57: How to Incorporate Curated Art Into Your Design Business With Leonardo Ledesma
In this episode of The Designer Within podcast, host John McClain chats with Leonardo Ledesma, founder of Art Seen, an art advisory and curatorial service based in Los Angeles. Leonardo shares his journey from studying architecture to creating a successful art advisory firm that caters to designers, architects, and collectors. They discuss the organic growth of Art Seen, the importance of engaging
56: 5 Proven Strategies to Enhance & Grow Your Design Business with Jennifer Stoner
In episode 56 of the Designer Within Podcast, host John McClain interviews acclaimed interior designer Jennifer Stoner. Jennifer shares her journey from practicing law to becoming a renowned designer with 24 years of experience. She discusses the importance of continuous education, networking, and building trust with clients. Jennifer also reveals her innovative use of QR codes for project managem
55: Designing Your Business Framework: Contracts, Negotiations, and Global Success with Christina Richardson
In this episode of The Designer Within Podcast, host John McClain and interior designer Christina Richardson delve into the critical aspects of contracts and negotiations crucial for a successful design business. Christina shares her unique transition from mining to design and how her diverse background empowers her practice. They explore the importance of clear contracts covering scope, price, an
54: Transform Your Design Business Sustainably & Profitably with Carter Averbeck
In this episode of 'The Designer Within' podcast, host John McClain discusses sustainable practices in interior design with Carter Averbeck of Omforme Design. Carter shares his journey to sustainability, how the industry has evolved, and practical steps for integrating eco-friendly practices into design businesses. He emphasizes transparency with clients, the growing demand from younger
53: Balancing Business and Life: 3 Big Lessons I Have Learned In The Past Year
Balancing Business and Life: Lessons Learned as an Interior DesignerSeason 2, Episode 53In this episode of 'The Designer Within' podcast, host John McClain welcomes listeners back for the second season. John discusses the importance of evaluating the profitability and time commitment of projects. He shares personal reflections on taking a summer break to recharge and cope with the loss o
52: How to Fully Craft Your Client Journey: Part 2 with Brittany Farinas
How to Fully Craft Your Client Journey: Part 2 with Brittany FarinasIn the concluding episode of Season 1, John McClain celebrates the one-year anniversary of 'The Designer Within' podcast and shares exciting plans for Season 2. John then dives into part two of his insightful interview with Brittany Farinas. Brittany emphasizes the importance of maintaining direct client communication,
51: Brand Perception, Authenticity and Strategy: Part 1 with with Brittany Farinas
In this engaging episode (Part 1 of 2) of the Designer Within Podcast, host John McClain welcomes Brittany Farinas, CEO, and Creative Director of House of One, to discuss her journey in the interior design world. Together, they delve into Brittany's early career challenges, the importance of professional branding, and key business strategies that have propelled her to success. Highlights incl
50: 7 Words To Avoid In All Business Conversations & What To Use Instead
Can the words you choose truly shape your business success? Discover the transformative power of language in our 50th milestone episode of the Designer Within Podcast. I'll unveil how the words you use can either build bridges or create barriers in your professional relationships. Learn how to replace phrases like "cheap" and "budget" with more positive alternatives such a
49: The Intersection of Luxury Design & Entrepreneurship: Jamie Gasparovic on Pricing, Clients, & Confidence
What if you could turn your passion into a thriving career? This week, I sit down with Jamie Gasparovic, the visionary founder and principal designer of Studio Gaspo, to uncover the secrets behind her meteoric rise from a marketing professional to a celebrated interior designer. Jamie takes us through her journey of launching her own firm at just 27, without traditional mentorship, and how sheer d
48: How To Combine Excellent Client Communication & Creative Risks For Ultimate Success with Sarah Wilson
Ever wondered how a background in IT could transform the world of interior design? This episode of The Designer Within Podcast with John McClain promises an engaging exploration of career transitions with our inspiring guest, Sarah Wilson, the owner and principal designer of Chansaerae Designs. Sarah’s incredible journey from the structured environment of IT to the creative realm of interior desig
47: Turning Consultations Into Sales: Ten Steps for Mastering the Interior Design Consultation
Can you imagine transforming every client consultation into a surefire sales opportunity? That's exactly what you'll learn in this episode of the Designer Within Podcast with me, John McClain. We explore the essential strategies for mastering successful consultations in sales-driven businesses, especially for creative entrepreneurs. By embracing consultations as crucial sales calls, you’
46: Creating Harmonious Homes: Ethical and Vegan Interior Design with Deborah Dimare
Imagine transforming your home into a sanctuary that not only soothes your soul but also stands as a testament to ethical living. Join me, John McClain, and pioneer Deborah Dimare as we navigate the intersection of interior design and moral responsibility, ensuring that every piece of furniture and fabric honors both your well-being and the planet's. Our lively discussion explores my journey
45: Essential Productivity Hacks For Designers That You Can Do Today From Amber De La Garza
If you have ever felt behind schedule before you even opened up your laptop or found yourself chasing the clock to get something done by a deadline. Well, you're not alone. We have ALL been there my friend, but guess what? There are solutions to your productivity problems and Amber De La Garza is the productivity expert and she's HERE on the podcast today!She has created a very detailed
44: How To Diversify Your Design Talents For Success With Christopher Todd
I love having talented and successful friends on the podcast and Christopher Todd Hall is that and so much more! Christopher not only is a successful 30 year veteran of the design industry, but also has lots of exciting ventures within his company that allow him to spread his creative talents while increasing revenue.In this fun and very enlightening convo, you will learn:* How Christopher markets
43: Burnout and Boundaries: Embracing Mindfulness in the World of Design with Lori Miller
Have you ever felt the wear and tear of burnout creeping into your life, inching its way into your creative soul? I know I have, and it's time to talk about the lifeline that boundaries are in our industry. Today's episode of the Designer Within brings in Lori Miller, an interior designer with a unique twist—her expertise in mental health counseling. We peel back the layers of how psycho
42: Live Seminar! Essential Systems & Processes from High Point Market
As I head to High Point Market Spring 2024, I thought I would play some of a seminar that I taught LIVE at the fabulous Universal Furniture Learning Center about a year and a half ago. The information STILL stands trust me. It's all about Essential Systems and Processes, what those are and how to set them up.It's actually a portion of a course that I teach within my Design Success Academ
41: Vendors & Trades: Insider Secrets Every Designer Needs To Know
Let's talk about finding specific ways to find success with our trades and vendors!Welcome to the episode my lead designer, Heather Rau. In this episode, Heather and I discuss the backbone of a design project that involves any sort of labor and materials: your trades and vendors. The delicate dance of finding both trades/vendors that align with your values, meet your company and client needs,
40: The Keys To Big Design Business Success In A Small Town With Nicole Roe
Welcome Nicole Roe of R. Nickson Interiors to this episode of The Designer Within podcast! Nicole is the founder of R. Nickson Interiors and has over 10 years of experience in the design field. With a degree in construction, Nicole has interned with a luxury developer building and spent time working for a team of construction companies heading up their business development & marketing. To say
39: How To Bring Your Past Skills Into Your Current Business
They say "you don't know what you don't know," but I'm here to flip the script and remind you that you "DO know what you DO know!" And that's a lot!It's time we take pride in our past and value our skills and accomplishments. Bettering ourselves is great, but also let's remember to take stock of what we already bring to the table!In this uplifting
38: Difficult Clients & Difficult Conversations with Valerie Darden
Welcome to an interview episode of The Designer Within with Valerie Darden.Valerie founded Brexton Cole Interiors in 2014. As the founder, Valerie named her company after her two sons Brexton and Cole. Brexton Cole Interiors have completed multiple residential and commercial design projects all over the US.Ya'll know me and I love to find out the nitty gritty of the BTS of business operations
37: 7 Pieces of Technology I Can't Work Without
Tech has become a huge part of my business success. It's actually like it's another employee in my firm! From scheduling appointments to signing agreements, technology has fully been embraced in John McClain Design, and for the better!If you have not gotten on the tech bandwagon for fear of it being too complicated, well fear no more! I'm going to share my top 7 pieces of technology
36: That Time A Client Sued Me
On this episode, well over half a year after launching this podcast, I decided to pull out my very first episode to help explain my "why." If you have not listened to this episode, it's a must listen. If you have listened to it, well, maybe it's time for a cautionary tale refresher! Either way, here's the WHY for this episode:🤔 Why did I start this podcast?🤔 Why did I star
35: Actionable Ways To Increase Your Press & Marketing TODAY
After Market... Marketing. What in the world am I talking about? Well it's actually simple! After Market Marketing is a technique I use to create more awareness around a piece of press or any marketing exposure you have received for yourself or your business.In this episode, I will discuss WHY you need to initiate a plan for After Market Marketing and 3 easy techniques you can implement right
34: The Audacity of Authenticity with Joshua Smith
Let's go deeper. Let's go beyond the fabrics, the wallcovering, and even the paycheck.On this episode of The Designer Within Podcast, Joshua Smith and I have a heartfelt conversation around so many of the events that occur in our lives: business and personal. Joshua has such an open spirit and heart and he's sharing his thoughts on how he handled the ups and downs that many of us al
33: The Personal Side Of Interior Design With Amala Raj Swenson
I'm so delighted to bring on fellow designer and friend, Amala Raj Swenson to the podcast today. Amala is the Principal Designer & Founder of Amala Raj Interiors based in San Diego, California.We cover so much in this fun and information filled episode! Here's just some of the topics we will cover:⭐ The unique way Amala blends her business and personal life⭐ How Amala's "se
32: How Many Unpaid Jobs Do You Have?
They say when you become an entrepreneur, you trade your 8 hour day for an 18 hour day, which, is kind of true in some ways. BUT.... what about all of the time that you allow to become a part of your workday? You know? Those unpaid jobs that you keep doing out of obligation to clients and friends and family..Well I would like to hit this problem head on today and figure out exactly how to eliminat
31: How Relationships Can Grow Your Business Inside & Out With Susan Hayward Interiors
In this episode, I welcome Susan Hayward and Jillian Hayward Schaible. They are are the mother and daughter design team behind the successful firm, Susan Hayward Interiors in Milton Massachusetts. In this episode, Susan and Jillian share their interesting insights on how their internal relationship has worked to build a very successful design firm with lots of repeat and long term clients. We also
30: How To Overcome The Fear of Pricing Your Services For Your Value
Hi Friends! Can I celebrate episode 30 with you for a moment?! That's 30 weeks of podcasts in your earbuds from me, & I'm so thankful that you take this journey of learning with me every week.Today's episode is another BTS episode! I'm sharing an actual PRIVATE member podcast episode that I created for my program, Design Success Academy. Here's what you will learn in
29: Don't Price Another Project Before Listening To This Episode!
And I mean that! :)In this short but powerful episode, I am sharing with you some insights that I shared during a coaching session recently with a student of mine. The student was having issues with clients trying to dictate the investment amount of projects and even my student's design fees! As you can tell, this doesn't bode well with me, but the blame is on us as business owners to ed
28: The Good, Bad, & Ugly of My 2023 & 3 Easy Steps For You To Plan Your Own Year
Ok friends, I'm being even more open and vulnerable today than ever. I'm sharing with you my own year end review and the results of that. I took a deep dive into my own 2023 and found out the good, the bad, and the ugly of this past year. I found areas that went well....and then some that did not go so well. But the beauty of a good year end review is that you learn from the past and mak
27: From the Vault: Discovering & Blending Your Authentic Self With Your Business
At this time of the year, it's important to reflect on the past year, but also to reflect on ourselves, as human beings on this planet. With that thought in mind, I'm pulling out an episode from the archives about that very subject.As entrepreneurs or anyone working in a client facing business, we often find ourselves balancing our personal and business lives, and authenticity is the ke
26: Use This Filter To Answer Every Question - Forever
I'm back with another "Take a Walk With John" episode! You all seemed to like the last one, and I felt inspired on a recent walk through my neighborhood, so out came my phone and I hit record.In this walking episode, I'm talking about when and how to say no. It's a hard thing to do sometimes, and we, as people pleasers, tend to feel we have to overexplain the reasoning beh
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