Are you feeling the pull to play it safe right now? In this episode of Interior Design Business, I’m encouraging you to do the opposite—to stay visible, be consistent, and shine your light.
Uncertainty is in the air, but this is exactly when your community needs you most. I’m sharing how staying steady, authentic, and present positions you as a trusted leader and the go-to designer in your community. Now is not the time to shrink—it’s the time to stand tall, lead with confidence, and keep your momentum going.
In this episode, I cover:
If you’ve been tempted to hide in the shadows, this episode will inspire you to shine brighter than ever.
Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
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Show notes are available at interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
What do you do when a client insists on a design choice that makes your skin crawl? In this episode of Interior Design Business, I’m tackling the tricky topic of working with clients who have… well, let’s just say “questionable” taste.
This isn’t about complaining—it’s about navigating tough design decisions with grace and professionalism, without compromising your brand or integrity. I’ll share personal stories, practical strategies, and essential mindset shifts that help you handle these situations with confidence.
Whether you're a new designer just finding your footing or a seasoned pro facing a sticky situation, this episode will give you a framework for standing your ground without burning bridges.
In this episode, we cover:
If you’ve ever faced a client with a mismatched design vision, this episode is a must-listen.
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Show notes are available at interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
Can you start an interior design business as a hobby while your kids are little, then step into it full-time later? In this episode of Interior Design Business, I’m unpacking why that mindset won’t get you where you want to go—and what to do instead.
I’ll share why interior design demands a professional approach from day one, what systems and tools you need in place, and how to design a business that fits your lifestyle without treating it like a side project. Plus, I’ll explain the critical mindset shift that separates hobbyists from successful business owners.
In this episode, we cover:
If you’re ready to stop dabbling and start designing a business that works for you, this episode is a must-listen.
🎯 Join our community at Interior Design Business Academy and learn how to build a business that supports your life—not the other way around.
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Show notes are available at interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
Ever had a client try to bulldoze your boundaries or hijack your design process? Whether it’s demanding your designer discount, questioning your prices, or insisting on DIY product orders that derail your timeline, standing your ground can feel uncomfortable—but it’s absolutely essential.
In this episode of Interior Design Business, we’re diving into two real coaching stories where designers were confronted by pushy clients—and how they handled it with calm, confidence, and clarity. If you’ve ever wondered how to say “no” without losing the job, this episode is for you.
You’ll learn how to:
If you’ve ever felt steamrolled, second-guessed, or just plain exhausted trying to please everyone, this episode will give you the mindset and language to take back control—without losing the client.
This isn’t just about standing up for yourself. It’s about protecting your time, your value, and the vision your clients actually hired you for.
🎯 Ready to step into your authority? Head over to interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/ and click “Book A Call.” Let’s talk about what’s next for your business.
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Show notes are available at interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
Talking about budgets with clients can feel uncomfortable—but avoiding the money conversation is costing you. If you’re bending over backward to fit unrealistic budgets or underpricing your services just to land a job, it’s time to change your approach.
In this episode of Interior Design Business, I’m diving into why most clients have no idea what their project actually costs and why it’s your job to educate them. I’ll share how to confidently lead budget conversations, stop shrinking your pricing to fit client expectations, and ensure you’re getting paid properly for your expertise.
We’ll also uncover the biggest pricing mistakes designers make, how your own “money story” might be holding you back, and the exact steps to help clients set realistic budgets—without fear, guilt, or pushback.
In this episode, we cover:
If you’re tired of pricing stress and ready to run a more profitable design business, this episode is for you!
🎯 Want expert guidance on pricing and budget conversations? Book a call with our team at Interior Design Business Academy to learn more.
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Show notes are available at interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
Are you spending countless hours on social media but still struggling to land your ideal clients? You’re not alone. Many designers fall into the trap of thinking social media is the key to getting high-paying clients—but is it really?
In this episode of Interior Design Business, I’m diving into the reality of social media marketing for interior designers. I’ll break down why your ideal clients aren’t scrolling Instagram for their next designer, the biggest social media misconceptions, and the real strategy that will bring you high-quality clients—referral partnerships.
We’ll discuss the importance of building relationships with architects, contractors, realtors, and even unexpected connections like hairdressers and personal trainers to get high-value referrals. Plus, I’ll share practical ways to connect with the right people, position yourself as the go-to designer, and stop wasting time on strategies that don’t work.
In this episode, we cover:
If you’re tired of posting endlessly without results and ready to focus on what actually works, this episode is for you!
🎯 Want to take your marketing to the next level? Book a call with our team at Interior Design Business Academy and discover strategies tailored to your success!
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Show notes are available at interiordesignbusinessacademy.com
Feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone. Many designers struggle with juggling multiple projects, endless to-do lists, and the constant pressure to keep up. But here’s the truth: overwhelm isn’t just about having too much to do—it’s about not having the right systems in place.
In this episode of Interior Design Business, I break down how to identify the root cause of overwhelm, strategies to regain control, and the importance of intentional time management to build a profitable, stress-free business. I’ll show you how to move from chaos to clarity so you can focus on what truly matters—your creativity, your clients, and your success.
In this episode, we cover:
🧠 Why overwhelm happens and how to stop it in its tracks
⏳ The power of time intentioning—how to plan your schedule so tasks don’t take over your life
✅ Chunking down big projects—how to break tasks into manageable steps to avoid stress
🚀 How getting organized leads to a more profitable and scalable business
💡 Why overcoming overwhelm is key to hiring and managing a design assistant effectively
If you’re ready to ditch the overwhelm and build a business that supports your lifestyle, this episode is for you!
🎯 Need help streamlining your design business? Book a call with our expert coaches today: interiordesignbusinessacademy.com
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📌 Show notes are available at interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
Do you feel like clients are taking over your design process? Struggling with pricing conversations and setting boundaries? In this episode of Interior Design Business, I'm diving into the key strategy that keeps you in control—making clear, confident offers.
I’ll reveal why many designers get stuck in undercharging and scope creep, and how to position yourself as a design professional (not a personal shopper). You’ll learn how to separate your design fees from purchasing, create irresistible offers, and ensure you’re always paid fairly. Plus, I’ll share the mindset shift that will transform how clients see your value—and why they’ll say “yes” to your proposals without hesitation.
In this episode, we cover:
If you want to confidently price your services and take control of your design projects, this episode is a must-listen!
🎯 Need help structuring and scaling your interior design business? Book a FREE Strategy Session call for expert guidance!
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📌 Show notes are available at interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
Scaling your interior design business isn’t just about getting bigger—it’s about making it better. Many designers assume that growth means adding more clients, a larger team, and more revenue, but true scaling is about creating a business that supports your desired lifestyle.
In this episode of Interior Design Business, we’re diving into how to scale your business strategically, whether you want to stay small and profitable, build a national brand, or set up a business that runs without you.
I’ll walk you through the key signs that it’s time to scale, the biggest mistakes designers make when expanding, and how to create a system that ensures profitability without burnout. Plus, I’ll share how to shift from the hustle mentality to a structured, sustainable approach that allows you to take control of your time, clients, and income.
In this episode, we cover:
📈 The real meaning of scaling—why bigger isn’t always better
⚖️ How to build a business that aligns with your goals and lifestyle
🏗️ Different scaling strategies: staying boutique, expanding nationally, or preparing to sell
💡 The biggest mistake designers make when scaling—and how to avoid it
🔑 The mindset shift from hustle to structured leadership
If you’re feeling overwhelmed with clients, constantly putting out fires, and wondering how to build a business that works for you, this episode is for you.
🎯 Join the Scale for Profit Workshop! Learn how to structure your business for financial success. Sign up here!
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📌 Show notes are available at interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
Are you struggling to hold firm on your pricing? Do unexpected price increases from subcontractors leave you covering the difference? In this episode of Interior Design Business, we dive into the importance of setting and enforcing money boundaries in your design business.
I’ll share a real-life story of a designer who faced a difficult pricing dilemma, why maintaining firm financial boundaries is crucial, and how to confidently communicate with clients and subcontractors. Plus, I’ll reveal the mindset shift that can help you move from scarcity thinking to an abundant, profitable business.
In this episode, we cover:
💰 Why honoring your quotes is non-negotiable
📋 How to set clear pricing expectations with subcontractors
🚫 The dangers of absorbing costs to "be nice"
✅ How an abundant money mindset can transform your business
If you’re ready to take control of your pricing and stop second-guessing your worth, this episode is for you!
🎯 Want to develop a luxury money mindset that benefits both you and your high-end clients? Schedule a call with one of our trained coaches at interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
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📌 Show notes available at interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
Do you dread talking about budgets with your clients? Avoiding the money conversation can lead to major headaches—scope creep, underpricing, and lost profits. In this episode of Interior Design Business, I’m breaking down how to confidently discuss budgets and ensure you’re getting paid what you’re worth.
I’ll share why clients hesitate to talk about money, how to set realistic financial expectations, and my Phase One Exploratory Agreement strategy that ensures clarity before any design work begins. Plus, I’ll reveal common pricing mistakes that leave designers underpaid and overworked—and how to avoid them.
In this episode, we cover:
If you’re ready to take control of your pricing conversations and build a more profitable design business, this episode is for you!
🎯 Join the Remodeling Profit Playbook on February 27-28! Learn how to price your projects the right way. Sign up here.
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Show notes are available at interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
Are you setting yourself up for long-term success in your design business? In this episode of Interior Design Business, we’re tackling the most common pricing mistakes that keep designers stuck in underpaid projects and how to fix them.
Learn how to charge what you’re worth, avoid budget pitfalls, and create a profitable business model that attracts ideal clients. From avoiding the “cheap client trap” to setting clear financial expectations upfront, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to boost your profitability and confidence.
In this episode, I cover:
✔️ Why discounting your services leads to long-term financial struggles
✔️ How to shift your money mindset and attract high-value clients
✔️ The dangers of “hoping” for referrals and why you need a strategy
✔️ The importance of clear budgets and agreements before taking on projects
✔️ A proven system to ensure profitable design and remodeling projects
If you’re ready to build a profitable design business and stop undercharging, tune in now!
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Show notes are available at interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
Are your remodeling projects costing you more than they should? In this episode of Interior Design Business, we uncover the five biggest mistakes designers make during remodels—and how to avoid them.
Learn how to take charge of your projects, prevent costly budget overruns, and ensure you're getting paid what you're worth. From setting clear agreements to managing client expectations, this episode is packed with strategies to help you stay in control and profitable.
In this episode, I cover:
✔️ Why designers lose control of remodeling projects—and how to fix it
✔️ How to prevent contractors from overshadowing your role
✔️ The importance of setting realistic budgets and agreements
✔️ Strategies to secure your furniture budget and avoid costly overruns
✔️ The key steps to leading remodeling projects with confidence and profitability
If you’re ready to increase your profits and take control of your remodeling projects, tune in now!
I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy or Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy!
Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
Are your remodeling projects feeling more chaotic than rewarding? In this episode of Interior Design Business, we’re tackling the crucial topic of boundaries and how they can transform your design projects into profitable, stress-free ventures.
Learn how to create clear agreements, set expectations, and protect your time while delivering exceptional results for your clients. Whether it’s managing client decisions, keeping contractors aligned, or addressing ghosting behaviors, this episode has strategies to help you take control and thrive in your design business.
In this episode, I cover:
If you’re ready to establish control and take your remodeling projects to the next level, tune in now!
I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy or Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy!
Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
Have you ever wondered how to make remodeling projects not only fun but also highly profitable?
In this episode of Interior Design Business, I’m sharing my hard-earned insights into how designers can lead remodeling jobs, avoid common pitfalls, and maximize their earnings.
From creating clear contracts and setting boundaries to confidently owning your role as the leader of a project, I’ll walk you through the strategies you need to turn remodeling projects into a rewarding and lucrative part of your business.
In this episode, I cover:
If remodeling projects feel overwhelming or unprofitable, this episode will equip you with the tools and mindset to change that!
🎯 Ready to streamline and profit from your design projects? Visit Interior Design Business Academy to learn about our workshops and coaching programs designed to help you thrive.
I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy or Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy!
Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
Do you dread talking about money with your clients?
In this episode of Interior Design Business, I’m diving into the challenges designers face when they avoid money conversations—and how it can hurt your business, projects, and client relationships.
I’ll share why skipping the budget talk early on leads to mismatched expectations, wasted time, and lost profitability. Plus, you’ll learn practical strategies to confidently discuss costs and set clear boundaries with clients, ensuring smoother projects and better outcomes for everyone involved.
In this episode, we cover:
If you’ve ever struggled with discussing money, this episode is packed with insights and actionable tips to help you approach these conversations with confidence and ease.
🎯 Ready to elevate your business? Visit Interior Design Business Academy to explore resources and coaching designed to help you succeed.
I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy or Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy!
Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
Have you ever dreamed of seeing your work featured in a national design magazine?
In this episode of Interior Design Business, I sit down with Erin Shakoor of Shakoor Interiors to discuss her incredible journey to being featured in the summer 2024 issue of House Beautiful.
Erin shares the behind-the-scenes story of her three-year renovation project that earned an eight-page spread, including how she managed client expectations, overcame contractor challenges, and strategically positioned her work for publication. From pricing an $85,000 design fee with confidence to mastering the art of professional styling and photography, Erin’s story is a must-listen for any designer aiming to take their business to the next level.
In this episode, we cover:
If you’ve ever wanted to elevate your design business and gain recognition for your work, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration!
Ready to take your business to the next level? Visit Interior Design Business Academy for resources and coaching designed to help you succeed.
I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy or Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy!
Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
Are you ready to start your design business but unsure where to begin? In this episode of Interior Design Business, I’m sharing the ultimate guide to building a successful design business from the ground up.
I’ll walk you through the essential steps—from setting up your legal framework and building your team to creating vendor relationships and crafting a clear marketing plan. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your business, this episode is packed with actionable advice and a checklist to keep you on track.
In this episode, I cover:
Starting a design business is an exciting journey, and with the right tools and mindset, you can create a thriving, profitable business that reflects your unique talents.
Ready to take the first step? Visit Interior Design Business Academy to explore resources and coaching designed to help you succeed.
I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy or Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy!
Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
Talking about money with clients can feel intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be!
In this episode of Interior Design Business, I’m joined by Head Mindset Coach Valerie Priester to discuss how to navigate money conversations with confidence and clarity.
We’ll uncover the hidden fears and money stories that hold designers back, and share practical strategies for discussing budgets, fees, and project costs without feeling salesy or pushy. From setting expectations upfront to using proven systems for presenting fees, you’ll learn how to transform these conversations into opportunities for building trust and winning clients.
In this episode, we cover:
Ready to elevate your mindset and skills? Visit Interior Design Business Academy and book a call to explore how we can help you master the art of money conversations.
I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy or Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy!
Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
Does the idea of networking make you cringe?
In this episode of Interior Design Business, I’m breaking down why networking doesn’t have to feel awkward or forced. In fact, you’re probably already networking naturally—without even realizing it!
I’ll share how to shift your mindset about networking and reframe it as an organic, relationship-building activity rather than a pushy, sales-driven chore. You’ll learn practical strategies to connect authentically with others in everyday situations, craft a powerful elevator pitch, and draw clients and referral partners to you effortlessly.
In this episode, I cover:
If networking has ever felt intimidating, this episode will show you how to make it natural, effective, and even enjoyable!
🎯 Ready to grow your business? Visit Interior Design Business Academy to book a call and explore how we can help you succeed.
I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy or Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy!
Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
In this episode of Interior Design Business, I’m sharing innovative ways to scale your design business and increase profitability through strategic partnerships. Partnering with other designers, contractors, or vendors can open the door to high-profile, big-budget projects you wouldn’t tackle on your own—all while keeping your business independent and financially secure.
I’ll discuss real-world examples of successful partnerships, from design-build collaborations with architects and contractors to forming teams for larger projects like model homes or multifamily housing. You’ll also learn how to leverage stocking dealer accounts with other designers to maximize margins and streamline purchasing.
In this episode, I cover:
Ready to scale smarter? Visit Interior Design Business Academy to book a call and explore how we can help you grow your business sustainably.
I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy or Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy!
Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
Are you wondering if now is the right time to hire for your design business?
In this episode of Interior Design Business, I’m diving into the key indicators that it’s time to bring on help and how hiring can transform your business. 🚀
From spotting the signs that you’re ready for extra support to understanding the financial impact of delegation, I’ll show you how hiring strategically can free up your time, improve client satisfaction, and drive profitability. Whether you’re overwhelmed with admin tasks or feel stuck in the DIY mindset, this episode will give you the clarity you need to make the leap.
In this episode, I cover:
If you’re ready to stop feeling overworked and start scaling your business with confidence, this episode is for you!
I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy or Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy!
Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
Do you feel like you can’t afford to hire help for your design business?
In this episode of Interior Design Business, I’m flipping that belief on its head and showing you why you actually can’t afford NOT to hire someone to help you.
I’ll break down how just one extra billed hour can pay for several hours of administrative support each week, freeing up your time to focus on income-generating activities like designing and marketing. You’ll learn how the DIY approach is costing you more than you realize—your time, energy, and even client satisfaction.
Plus, I’ll share actionable strategies for tracking your time, identifying where you’re losing productivity, and scaling your business with a small but impactful team.
In this episode, I cover:
If you’re ready to stop spinning your wheels and start scaling your business, this episode is for you. Let’s turn your time into money and take your design business to the next level!
Ready to SCALE? Check out my workshop, SCALE! Your Design Business: https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com/scale-your-design-business/
I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy or Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy!
Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
In this episode of the Interior Design Business podcast, we’re diving into the challenges of staying in control during remodeling projects. When clients bring contractors into the mix too early, things can quickly get complicated. We’ll explore a real-life case where a designer lost control of a kitchen remodel after the client and contractor made changes without the designer’s input, leading to budget cuts and project issues.
Learn essential strategies to avoid these pitfalls, such as finalizing project details before introducing contractors, developing a clear scope of work, and ensuring contracts are signed and funded before any contractor-client interactions. We also discuss how to communicate the impact of design changes, from increased costs to potential liability issues, and the importance of maintaining control over the project from start to finish.
Topics covered in this episode include:
If you’ve ever felt sidelined during a remodeling job, this episode is for you. Take back control and ensure a smooth project flow!
I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy or Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy!
Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.
In this episode of the Interior Design Business podcast, I’m sharing how design fees can streamline your workflow, increase profitability, and create a smoother process from start to finish. I dive into why setting up clear budget agreements and scopes of work upfront can eliminate wasted time and unpredictable income, making it easier to plan your day, manage your time, and focus on what matters most.
Through design fees, you’ll gain control over your schedule, minimize last-minute client changes, and present the entire project as a cohesive concept. This approach keeps you in charge, ensures clients understand the full scope, and allows you to get paid upfront—all while delivering a superior experience.
In this episode, I cover:
If you’re ready to streamline your design process, increase profitability, and gain control over your projects, this episode is for you!
I would love to connect on Facebook: facebook.com/InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy or Instagram: instagram.com/interiordesignbusinessacademy!
Show notes are available at https://interiordesignbusinessacademy.com.