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Hiring feels like a milestone—but what happens after you bring someone on is where the real work begins. In this episode, Michelle sits down with Erika Bonnell, Melissa Lee, and Ruth Ann Jansen for an honest conversation about what it actually looks like to grow a team inside a design firm. From hiring the wrong role to realizing leadership is a learned skill, this conversation pulls back the curtain on scaling a business in a way that's both profitable and sustainable. If you've ever thought, "I just need to hire someone and everything will feel easier," this episode will give you a much more grounded (and useful) perspective. What You'll Learn Why hiring doesn't automatically fix overwhelm The biggest misconception designers have about growing a team How to determine who you actually need to hire (hint: it's often not a junior designer) The difference between managing people vs. leading them Why more team members ≠ more profit How to think about scaling based on your desired lifestyle, not industry expectations When to hire vs. outsource vs. use contractors (1099s) What roles actually "move the needle" in a design firm Why operations hires are often the most impactful How to measure if a team member is truly contributing financially The role AI is starting to play in design firms (and hiring decisions) Why tracking time is critical—even if you charge flat fees How to avoid costly hiring mistakes Key Takeaways 1. You might be hiring the wrong role. Many designers think they need a junior designer—but what they actually need is administrative or operational support. 2. Hiring creates new problems (not just solutions). Managing people, training, and leadership all require time and energy—often more than expected. 3. Smaller teams can be more profitable. Scaling down doesn't mean failure. It can mean better margins, less stress, and more intentional growth. 4. Operations support is often the biggest game-changer. Getting procurement, invoicing, and admin off your plate frees you up to design and generate revenue. 5. Hire for values, not just skill. Skills can be taught. Cultural fit and alignment are what make team members stay and thrive. 6. Not every season requires full-time hires. Contractors, freelancers, and outsourcing can reduce risk and increase flexibility. 7. You need financial clarity before hiring. Understand how a role contributes to revenue—or how it frees you up to generate more. 8. AI is shifting how firms operate. From client communication to renderings to internal systems, AI is reducing admin load—but requires intentional implementation. 9. Time tracking is non-negotiable. Even experienced firms are surprised by how long projects actually take—and that data is critical for pricing. 10. Business first, always. You can care deeply about your team—but not at the expense of the health of your business. Notable Quotes "Hiring someone does not automatically fix the overwhelm." "Sometimes you don't actually need the role you think you need." "Smaller does not mean less profitable." "People don't follow managers. They follow leaders." "Find your zone of genius—and build around it." "Nobody will care about your business as much as you do." Practical Next Steps If you're wondering whether it's time to hire: List out everything you want off your plate Identify patterns (admin vs. design vs. operations) Decide what actually drives revenue Run the numbers before hiring Consider outsourcing before committing to full-time Final Advice from the Panel Erika Bonnell - Erika Bonnell Interiors https://erikabonnell.com/ Hire to free up revenue-generating time—and let go quickly if it's not workingt Melissa Lee - New South Home Interiors https://www.newsouthhome.com/ Align hires with your long-term vision and strengths Ruth Ann - The Dove Agency https://www.thedoveagency.com/: Scope the role clearly and track profitability from day one Closing Thought There is no one "right" way to build a team. The best business model is the one that supports your goals, your lifestyle, and your definition of success.

Furnishings should be one of the most profitable parts of your interior design business—but for many designers, it feels like the exact opposite. In this episode, Michelle pulls back the curtain on what's really happening behind the scenes with furniture and procurement. From underpriced markups to disorganized systems and hidden time drains, she breaks down why your margins might look fine on paper… but still leave you feeling overwhelmed and underpaid. If procurement feels like it's running you instead of supporting your business, this conversation will help you rethink your pricing, your process, and your role as a designer.   What You'll Learn Why furnishings are not a transaction—but a full process The biggest mistake designers make when pricing furniture What's actually included in procurement (hint: it's a LOT more than you think) Why a 30% markup is outdated—and what to consider instead How underpricing happens gradually (even when you think you're doing it right) The hidden cost of disorganized systems and double entry Why raising your markup alone won't fix profitability How to shift from "order taker" to trusted expert The power of presenting a complete design vs. individual pieces Two common patterns designers fall into (and how to break them)   Key Takeaways 1. Procurement is a Process, Not a Line Item Sourcing, quoting, ordering, tracking, receiving, managing damages, and client communication—procurement includes far more than just buying furniture. 2. Your Markup Must Reflect Reality If you're still using cost-plus 30%, you're likely undercharging. Your pricing should account for your time, expertise, and responsibility—not just the product. 3. Disorganization is Expensive Spreadsheets, inbox tracking, and disconnected systems create inefficiencies, errors, and unnecessary labor costs. 4. You're Not a Personal Shopper Presenting one item at a time positions you as a vendor. Presenting a full design positions you as the expert. 5. Profit Comes from Structure + Pricing You can't fix a broken process with higher prices. Real profitability happens when your systems and pricing work together.   Signs Your Procurement Process Needs Work You feel constantly "on" managing orders and updates You're tracking items in your inbox, head, or spreadsheets Projects feel chaotic behind the scenes Your profit doesn't match the effort you're putting in You avoid furnishings altogether to reduce stress   Michelle's Perspective There's no single "right" pricing model—but there is a wrong one: Any structure that doesn't properly compensate you for your time, energy, and responsibility Minimum suggested markup on wholesale furnishings: 75%+ Procurement, when structured correctly, becomes a scalable and repeatable profit center   Tools & Resources Mentioned Profit Mixer – A project management and financial system designed specifically for interior designers Combines procurement tracking + financial data Eliminates double entry between systems Provides real-time visibility into project profitability 16-Step Project Management Framework Michelle's complete process from client inquiry to project completion Coaching Options VIP Intensives 90-Day Advisory Learn more at: thedesignbakehouse.com/coaching Coming Next Week Michelle shares a special panel conversation from High Point Market on: Hiring for Profit (Not Just Growth) You'll learn: What it actually costs to hire How to know if a hire supports revenue Lessons learned (the hard way) from experienced design firm owners

Construction projects often look like the most profitable work in an interior design business—but behind the scenes, they're where many designers are the most underpaid. In this episode, Michelle breaks down the hidden disconnect between what designers charge and what construction projects actually require. From the constant decision-making to the mental load that never turns off, she reveals why traditional pricing models fall short—and what needs to shift. If you've ever felt busy, overwhelmed, or undercompensated during a renovation or new build, this episode will help you understand why—and what to do about it. What You'll Learn Why construction projects feel profitable—but often aren't The hidden responsibilities designers take on during construction The difference between renovation (reactive) vs. new build (proactive) projects Where pricing structures typically break down The real cost of underpricing construction administration How "emotional pricing" quietly hurts your business Why raising your prices alone won't fix the problem What it actually means to align your pricing with your role Key Takeaways Construction projects don't just scale in size—they scale in responsibility. As the project grows, so does your mental load, decision-making, and ongoing involvement. Renovations and new builds are not the same. Renovations = reactive, unpredictable, fast decision-making New builds = proactive, structured, vision-driven You're not just designing—you're leading. During construction, you become the interpreter, problem-solver, and decision-maker for everyone involved. Flat fees often fail mid-project. What felt like a solid number at the beginning rarely reflects the true scope as the project evolves. Construction administration is not a "small add-on." It's a major, time-consuming, high-responsibility phase that deserves its own pricing structure. If your structure is broken, raising prices won't fix it. You'll just charge more for the same exhausting experience. Common Pricing Mistakes Pricing based on initial scope without accounting for project evolution Underestimating time, interruptions, and mental energy Including construction administration inside the design fee Making pricing decisions based on what feels "comfortable" Keeping fees fixed even as responsibilities expand Mindset Shift Stop asking: "What feels fair?" Start asking: "What does this role actually require of me?" Because strong pricing isn't about feelings—it's about alignment between your responsibility and your compensation. What to Do Instead Separate design and construction phases clearly Define and charge for construction administration Build structure and boundaries into your process Track your time and analyze where your effort is going Price based on responsibility—not just deliverables Final Thought Construction projects aren't just bigger—they're heavier. And when your pricing finally reflects that, everything changes: your profitability, your energy, and your life outside the business. What's Next Next week's episode dives into furnishings and decorating pricing—and where designers are leaving even more money on the table. Share the Episode Know a designer who's deep in construction projects and feeling stretched thin? Share this episode with them—it might be exactly what they need to hear. Resources Mentioned Design Revenue Audit A diagnostic deep dive into the financial structure of your design firm, including pricing, procurement, and operational profitability. 90-Day Advisory Private strategic advisory focused on restructuring the revenue side of your design business. VIP Intensive A focused strategy session designed to map out the most efficient path toward a more profitable firm. Learn more at: TheDesignBakehouse.com  

What if the reason your inquiries aren't turning into clients has nothing to do with your talent… and everything to do with what happens in between? In this episode, Michelle Lynne breaks down the exact gap most interior designers don't realize they have: the missing sales process between inquiry and signature. Through real stories from her own business, she shares how "being easy to work with" was actually costing her clients, confidence, and contracts. From over-delivering on discovery calls to second-guessing every follow-up, Michelle walks you through what it really looks like when there's no system in place—and how everything changes when there is. This episode will help you understand why clarity creates conversions, how to lead client conversations without feeling salesy, and why your sales process is not just about closing—but about protecting your business from the wrong clients. If you've ever had a "this felt like a yes… so why didn't they sign?" moment—this one is for you.   What You'll Learn in This Episode: - Why conversations that feel good in the moment don't always convert - The real reason clients "need to think about it" - How over-explaining and over-giving creates confusion (not trust) - Why "being nice" can actually cost you the sale - The difference between reacting vs. leading on client calls - How a sales process creates confidence—for both you and your client - Why clarity is the most powerful sales tool you have - How a structured process filters out the wrong clients before they ever sign - The hidden cost of letting the wrong clients into your business - Why every part of your business needs a process—especially sales   Key Takeaways: You don't need to become someone you're not to sell well. You don't need scripts that feel stiff or tactics that feel pushy. But you do need a clear, repeatable process that guides your clients from inquiry to decision. Because without it, you're not leading—you're reacting. And when you're reacting, your business becomes inconsistent, unpredictable, and harder to grow. A strong sales process doesn't just help you close the right clients. It protects you from the wrong ones. And that changes everything.   Mentioned in This Episode:   Design Revenue Audit  https://thedesignbakehouse.com/design-revenue-audit   Private Coaching  https://thedesignbakehouse.com/private-coaching   Follow Along:   Instagram  https://www.instagram.com/thedesignbakehouse/   If This Episode Resonated:   Take five minutes today and map out your current sales process.   What happens when someone inquires?   What is the next step?   And the next?   And the next?   Because this part of your business is too important to wing.  

The Client Red Flags Costing Designers Thousands (And How to Catch Them Early) Designed for the Creative Mind Podcast You can have incredible talent, a full calendar, and stunning projects—and still feel like your business is harder than it should be. In this episode of Design for the Creative Mind, we're diving into one of the most overlooked reasons interior designers struggle with profitability and burnout: saying yes to the wrong clients. Because the truth is, not every client is an opportunity. Some are a liability. And the real problem? Most designers don't realize it until they're already deep into the project. Michelle shares real client stories and hard-earned lessons from her own firm to help you recognize red flags earlier, protect your time and energy, and build a design business that actually works for you—not against you. What You'll Learn in This Episode Why being a talented designer doesn't automatically make you a profitable business owner The hidden costs of the "wrong" client (that don't show up on an invoice) How early-stage client decisions impact your entire project—and your capacity The difference between trusting your gut vs. relying on a structured sales process Why your client selection process is just as important as your pricing or marketing Key Takeaways 1. Not every client is the right client Early in your business, every project feels like a win. But as you grow, discernment becomes critical. Some clients will cost you more in time, energy, and stress than they're worth financially. 2. Misalignment shows up early—if you know where to look From budget disconnects to decision-making habits, your sales process should help you identify red flags before the contract is signed. 3. Budget vs. vision misalignment is not a sourcing problem—it's a clarity problem Trying to "make it work" for a client with champagne taste and a beer budget only creates friction, revisions, and distrust later. 4. Decision paralysis slows everything down A client who struggles to make decisions early in the process will continue that pattern throughout the project—impacting timelines, team capacity, and overall momentum. 5. Procurement needs clear boundaries When clients are involved in sourcing and purchasing, it creates confusion, delays, and lack of accountability—ultimately affecting your ability to deliver results. 6. Boundaries must be process-driven, not personality-driven Being "always available" doesn't make you a better designer—it creates unsustainable expectations. Clear communication standards should be built into your process. 7. Process creates predictability When you rely on emotion, your business feels inconsistent. When you rely on process, your business becomes stable, scalable, and easier to manage. Red Flags to Watch for During Your Sales Process Clients whose budget doesn't align with their expectations Indecisiveness or hesitation in early conversations Resistance to your guidance or expertise Desire to self-source or "price check" everything Early boundary testing (frequent texts, off-hours communication, etc.) Action Steps Review your current sales process—do you actually have one? Identify where you can better screen for client fit before signing Define clear boundaries around communication and procurement Pay attention to early behaviors—they rarely change later Start treating client selection as a core business skill Resources Mentioned Design Revenue Audit A diagnostic deep dive into the financial structure of your design firm, including pricing, procurement, and operational profitability. 90-Day Advisory Private strategic advisory focused on restructuring the revenue side of your design business. VIP Intensive A focused strategy session designed to map out the most efficient path toward a more profitable firm. Learn more at: TheDesignBakehouse.com What's Next In the next episode, we're continuing the conversation on profitability by breaking down why so many interior designers are underpricing their services—and how to start correcting it.

Why Busy Designers Still Struggle With Profitability Designed for the Creative Mind Podcast Interior design is one of the few professions where it's incredibly easy to build a business that looks successful on the outside but quietly struggles behind the scenes. Beautiful projects. High-end homes. A full calendar. And yet the numbers still feel tighter than they should. In this episode, Michelle Lynne pulls back the curtain on a common issue she sees when auditing interior design firms: businesses that have grown busy but were never intentionally structured to be profitable. If you've ever looked at your workload and wondered why the revenue doesn't reflect the level of effort going into your projects, this conversation will help you understand why. Michelle shares her own experience running a seven-figure design firm, the moment she realized revenue alone didn't equal success, and the structural issues that quietly erode profitability in many design businesses. This episode is about stepping back from the day-to-day hustle and evaluating the foundation of the business itself. In This Episode You'll learn: • Why interior design businesses often evolve into busy but poorly structured firms • The difference between revenue and true profitability • How underpricing, thin procurement margins, and unpaid project management quietly erode income • Why many designers underestimate the time required to deliver a project • The role emotional labor plays in designer burnout • The three numbers every design firm should track to understand financial performance • How improving your business structure can be more impactful than simply getting more clients Key Takeaway Busy is not a business model. A profitable design firm is built through intentional structure: pricing, procurement strategy, time awareness, and clear operational boundaries. Once the business is designed with the same level of intention as the projects themselves, the entire experience of running a design firm can change. Resources Mentioned Design Revenue Audit A diagnostic deep dive into the financial structure of your design firm, including pricing, procurement, and operational profitability. 90-Day Advisory Private strategic advisory focused on restructuring the revenue side of your design business. VIP Intensive A focused strategy session designed to map out the most efficient path toward a more profitable firm. Learn more at: TheDesignBakehouse.com Next Episode Next week's episode explores client red flags that can cost interior designers thousands of dollars before a project even begins, and how to identify those warning signs early.

Episode Description Most interior designers assume they need more clients, more marketing, or higher design fees to increase their income. But often the real issue is something much simpler. Their process. In this episode, Michelle Lynne breaks down where interior design firms quietly lose money through unstructured discovery, unlimited revisions, procurement administration, underpriced phases, and furniture margins that are far too small. These "small" decisions can easily add up to $30,000–$50,000 or more in lost revenue each year. The good news is that fixing these leaks doesn't require more clients or more work. It requires a better structured process. Michelle walks through the most common revenue leaks she sees when reviewing design firms and explains how a few strategic adjustments can dramatically improve profitability. If you've ever felt busy but underpaid, this episode will likely show you exactly why. In This Episode • Why most interior designers don't actually have a pricing problem • How unstructured discovery quietly costs designers hours of unpaid work • The real financial impact of unlimited revisions • Why procurement administration is one of the most misunderstood parts of design • The difference between furniture markup vs margin • Why a 42% furniture margin should be the minimum standard • How scope creep disguises itself as "good client service" • Why designers often underprice concept development and vendor coordination • The missing project management phase many designers forget to charge for • How small process adjustments can add $39,000+ in recovered revenue Today's Episode Covers The Hidden Revenue Inside Your Process Many designers believe growth comes from adding more projects. But often the fastest way to increase income is simply tightening the process around the work you are already doing. Michelle explains how design firms frequently absorb work unintentionally through discovery calls, revisions, and project coordination. The Furniture Margin Mistake Costing Designers Thousands One of the largest revenue leaks Michelle sees is incorrect furniture pricing. Many designers sell furnishings at cost plus 20–30%, which results in extremely small margins. In this episode, Michelle explains why profitable design firms typically maintain a minimum 42% margin (about a 75% markup) and how that margin supports procurement labor, risk, and operational infrastructure. Scope Creep Disguised as "Client Service" Interior designers naturally want their clients to feel supported. But when boundaries aren't clearly defined, designers often absorb additional work in the name of service. Michelle explains why defining phases, deliverables, meetings, and revision limits protects both the client experience and the designer's income. The Small Process Adjustments That Change Everything Michelle walks through a simple example showing how three small adjustments can dramatically improve revenue: • Paid strategic planning phase • Structured revision cycles • Procurement or project management fees Together, those changes alone can add nearly $40,000 in revenue annually without adding more clients. Links Mentioned in This Episode Design Revenue Audit Find the $50K hiding inside your process: https://thedesignbakehouse.com/design-revenue-audit Lead Lab https://thedesignbakehouse.com/lead-lab Private Coaching https://thedesignbakehouse.com/private-coaching Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thedesignbakehouse/ About the Host Michelle Lynne is the founder of ML Interiors Group and The Design Bakehouse, where she helps interior designers build profitable, sustainable businesses. Through her design firm and coaching programs, Michelle works with designers across the U.S. and internationally to refine pricing, process, and business structure. Her work has been featured in Forbes, Martha Stewart, Southern Living, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, Modern Luxury, Luxe Interiors + Design, Dallas Morning News, and This Old House. Subscribe & Review If you enjoyed this episode, make sure you're subscribed to Designed for the Creative Mind so you never miss a conversation about the business side of interior design. And if this episode helped you rethink your pricing, process, or profitability, leaving a quick review helps other designers discover the show.

WHY YOUR MARKETING DISAPPEARS WHEN YOU GET BUSY There's a lot of advice out there about getting more leads and increasing your visibility. But almost nobody talks about what happens after real life gets busy. If your marketing disappears during install weeks, deadlines, or full client schedules, you're not alone. Most interior designers rely on motivation and inspiration to stay visible, and that approach almost always leads to inconsistency. In this episode, Michelle Lynne shares how she markets her own design firm even during busy seasons. Instead of relying on inspiration, she uses a simple monthly planning system that keeps her business visible even when her schedule is full. You'll hear how marketing at ML Interiors Group is planned a month in advance, how blog content, Pinterest, and social media work together, and why pre-scheduling content removes the daily pressure to come up with something to post. Michelle also explains how the same system powers Lead Lab PLUS, where designers get access to the exact marketing plans used inside ML Interiors Group. If your marketing disappears every time life gets busy, this episode will help you build a system that keeps working anyway. IN THIS EPISODE YOU'LL LEARN - Why motivation is a terrible marketing strategy - The real reason marketing becomes inconsistent - How creative professionals accidentally make marketing too complicated - How to plan a full month of marketing at one time - Why blog content should anchor your marketing plan - How Pinterest and social media support long-form content - How pre-scheduling removes daily marketing pressure - What stable marketing actually looks like in a real design firm RESOURCES MENTIONED   Done-For-You Monthly Marketing Content (MARCH 2026):  https://thedesignbakehouse.com/product-details-416363/product/march-marketing-2026 The Design Bakehouse Shoppe (for future content and other cool things): https://thedesignbakehouse.com/bakehouse-products Lead Lab https://thedesignbakehouse.com/lead-lab Private Coaching & Mentorship https://thedesignbakehouse.com/private-coaching Sidemark Marketing Platform https://mysidemark.com   CONNECT WITH MICHELLE LYNNE The Design Bakehouse https://www.thedesignbakehouse.com ML Interiors Group https://www.mlinteriorsgroup.com Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thedesignbakehouse/   Podcast Designed for the Creative Mind   IF YOU ENJOYED THIS EPISODE If this episode helped you think differently about marketing, be sure to subscribe and share it with another interior designer who wants more consistent leads without more daily marketing pressure.

You worked hard to get the lead. You posted. You showed up. You marketed consistently. And now your phone is ringing. So why aren't more of those inquiries turning into paying clients? In this episode, we're talking about the part nobody glamorizes in the interior design business: what happens after the inquiry. Because getting leads is not the win. Converting them is. If you're booking discovery calls but hearing: "We're going to think about it." "We're talking to a few designers." "Can you send over pricing?" Then this episode is for you. Inside, I'm breaking down: Why inquiries are not the same as income The biggest mistakes designers make on consultation calls How free brainstorming sessions are quietly killing your conversions Why lack of structure creates hesitation What a professional intake and consult process actually looks like How to confidently close without sounding pushy Marketing gets them in the door. Process gets them to sign. If you want to build a repeatable client pipeline instead of constantly chasing the next lead, start here. To tighten your marketing and conversion process, explore: Lead Lab Essentials: https://thedesignbakehouse.com/lead-lab-essentials Lead Lab PLUS: https://thedesignbakehouse.com/lead-lab-plus Stop asking how to get more leads. Start asking what you're doing once they call.   __________________ RESOURCES: MARKETING MEMBERSHIP - Join our hands-on visibility program, no contract, only $59/month or our new PLUS level for done-for-you marketing for $179/month. https://thedesignbakehouse.com/lead-lab Stay in touch with Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedesignbakehouse/ SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. All-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. https://mysidemark.com/ Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad Get clarity on your next best step today!  https://thedesignbakehouse.com/review-planning-guide Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me!   

If you're constantly getting inquiries that sound like this… "How much do you charge?" "Can you give me a ballpark?" "What do you charge per room?" You're not alone. And no, it doesn't automatically mean your leads are cheap. In this episode, we're getting real about why price shopping leads keep showing up in your inbox, and the uncomfortable truth most designers don't want to admit: If your leads are price shopping, your marketing is teaching them to. Because when your messaging is vague, your process isn't clear, and your content only shows the finished product, clients don't understand what they're actually hiring you for. So they default to the only thing they can compare: price. In this episode, I'm breaking down: Why clients ask about pricing so early (and why it's not personal) The biggest marketing mistakes that attract price-first inquiries How to educate potential clients through your marketing without sounding snobby or defensive What to change on your website, Instagram, and inquiry process so your leads come in pre-qualified How to position yourself as the expert so pricing becomes part of the conversation, not the first question If you want better leads, higher-end clients, and inquiries that sound like "we want to hire you," instead of "what's your hourly rate?" this episode is your wake-up call. Because the goal isn't to convince people you're worth it. The goal is to market in a way that makes the right clients already know you are. Ready to fix your marketing? Check out Lead Lab Essentials and Lead Lab PLUS (linked below) to get the structure, strategy, and support you need to stop winging your marketing and start attracting clients who are ready to book.   RESOURCES: MARKETING MEMBERSHIP - Join our hands-on visibility program, no contract, only $59/month or our new PLUS level for done-for-you marketing for $179/month. https://thedesignbakehouse.com/lead-lab Stay in touch with Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedesignbakehouse/ SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. All-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. https://mysidemark.com/ Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad Get clarity on your next best step today!  https://thedesignbakehouse.com/review-planning-guide Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me!   

In today's episode, I'm sitting down with interior designer, creative instigator, and community builder Rhobin DelaCruz. Rhobin has worked with brands like GQ, TED, and MTV, but what really stands out is how intentionally he approaches both design and business. From the way he talks about community to how he shows up at High Point Market, everything he does is rooted in purpose, clarity, and connection. This conversation covers a lot of ground—from career pivots to nonprofit work—and it's one of those episodes that reminds you how powerful design can really be. In this episode, we talk about: How the Design Besties were formed and how a simple group chat turned into a mission-driven nonprofit Why transforming teachers' lounges became the heart of the Design Besties' work and the unexpected emotional impact of their first project How thoughtful, well-designed spaces can support wellness, leadership, and community within schools What it means to be named a High Point Style Spotter and how Rhobin approaches that role Rhobin's unconventional path from advertising and MTV into interior design The reality of gatekeeping in the design industry and how community has shifted in recent years Why investing in business coaching and showing up at market with intention changed the trajectory of his career I loved this conversation because Rhobin is so honest about both the challenges and the wins. His story is a reminder that careers don't have to be linear, community really does matter, and when you lead with intention, the opportunities tend to follow. I hope this episode leaves you feeling inspired to take up space, connect more deeply, and build something meaningful in your own work.   RESOURCES:   INTERIOR DESIGN BUSINESS BAKERY - Our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://thedesignbakehouse.com/interior-design-business-bakery   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. All-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. https://mysidemark.com/   MARKETING MEMBERSHIP - Join our hands on visibility program, no contract, only $59/month or our new PLUS level for done-for-you marketing for $179/month. https://thedesignbakehouse.com/lead-lab   Stay in touch with Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedesignbakehouse/   Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad    Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact

In this episode of Designed for the Creative Mind, Michelle sits down with home staging coach Marianne Cherico to explore how staging can become a powerful extension of an interior design business. With decades of experience in real estate and staging, Marianne shares practical strategies for building relationships with real estate agents, shifting mindset, and positioning staging as an investment rather than a luxury.   You'll learn how designers can diversify income streams, stand out in a competitive market, and communicate value in a way that attracts long-term clients and referrals. Whether you're new to staging or looking to refine your approach, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and real-world experience.   Marianne's freebie is 3 Steps to Fully Book Consults with Agent Referrals -https://coachingbymarianne.com/3-steps-to-book/     RESOURCES:   INTERIOR DESIGN BUSINESS BAKERY - Our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://thedesignbakehouse.com/interior-design-business-bakery   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. All-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. https://mysidemark.com/   MARKETING MEMBERSHIP - Join our hands on marketing & visibility program, no contract, only $59/month. https://thedesignbakehouse.com/lead-lab   Stay in touch with Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedesignbakehouse/   Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad    Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact

In this episode of Designed for the Creative Mind, I'm sitting down with Natalie Froom, founder and principal designer of Studio 180 Design. Natalie and I go way back—she came through the Interior Design Business Bakery shortly after the pandemic, back when she lovingly calls herself a "baby designer." Fast forward to now, and she's running a growing studio with a team, a refined process, and big plans for the future. This conversation is one of those full-circle moments I absolutely love. We talk about how Natalie's background in psychology and nutrition led her to interior design, how wellness and environment are deeply connected, and how her business (and confidence) evolved over time. If you're a designer who's still figuring out your niche, your process, or your next level—this one is for you.  In This Episode, We Talk About: How Natalie's background in psychology, nutrition, and wellness naturally led her into interior design The connection between mental, physical, and environmental wellbeing (and why it matters in design) Finding your niche by doing the work—and letting your projects guide you Why Natalie focuses on busy, high-level professionals who want a true turnkey experience The importance of process over "just talent" when growing a design business How collaboration (not competition) elevates design and the industry as a whole Balancing beauty with practicality—creating homes that are both elevated and livable Why Natalie believes personality matters more than a rigid design "style" Growing from a solo designer into a team-based, scalable business Looking ahead: international growth, team expansion, and better work-life balance Natalie's journey is such a powerful reminder that you don't have to have everything figured out on day one. Your niche can evolve. Your process can be refined. Your vision can grow bigger than you ever imagined. What matters most is building a solid foundation, staying open to learning, and allowing yourself to grow into the designer—and business owner—you're meant to be. If you've ever felt like you were "behind," unsure of your style, or still finding your footing, I really think this episode will resonate with you. Watching Natalie step into her confidence, refine her process, and build a business that truly supports her life is exactly why I do this work. This conversation is proof that when you focus on process, collaboration, and intention, growth follows—both creatively and professionally. If this episode sparked something for you, I'd love for you to reflect on where you are in your own journey and what your next evolution might look like.   Fix the Leaks: The Hidden Places Your Business Is Quietly Losing Time & Money https://www.addevent.com/event/qjrn64tbm77l   How to Price Your Design Services with Confidence https://thedesignbakehouse.com/pricing-workshop     More about Natalie:  Design is Natalie's lifelong passion, where crafting exquisite interiors is an art of precision. Beyond aesthetics, her journey has honed top-tier communication, mediation, and organizational skills.   Multitasking is second nature, orchestrating projects with intricate moving parts. Exceeding expectations is the norm, achieved with a proficient, trustworthy team.   This commitment to excellence is why Studio 180 Design has proudly earned multiple Houzz awards for exceptional client experience. This is the essence of Studio 180 Design - where meticulous details converge to craft exceptional   RESOURCES:   INTERIOR DESIGN BUSINESS BAKERY - Our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://thedesignbakehouse.com/interior-design-business-bakery   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. All-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. https://mysidemark.com/   MARKETING MEMBERSHIP - Join our hands on marketing & visibility program, no contract, only $59/month. https://thedesignbakehouse.com/lead-lab   Stay in touch with Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedesignbakehouse/   Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad    Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact  

In today's episode of Designed for the Creative Mind, I'm sitting down with Shelby Fowler Moss to talk about something that makes a lot of designers nervous: paid ads. Shelby is a paid ad strategist and sales expert who's helped businesses generate tens of millions of dollars through advertising, and she brings a refreshingly honest, no-fluff perspective to this conversation. If you've ever felt like paid ads are risky, confusing, or something only "big businesses" can afford, this episode is for you. Shelby and I break down what actually makes ads work, why so many business owners get burned by agencies, and how designers can think about ads in a smarter, more sustainable way—without gambling their money or chasing vanity metrics. We dig into what success with paid ads really looks like, why understanding the lifetime value of a client is critical before you ever spend a dollar, and how ads should be viewed as a long-term investment rather than a quick win. Shelby also shares why most agencies fail to clearly define success, how business owners can protect themselves, and what designers need to know even if they plan to outsource their ads. One of my favorite parts of this conversation is Shelby's concept of "digital billboards" for local businesses. We talk specifically about how interior designers can use simple Meta ads on Facebook and Instagram to stay top of mind in the right zip codes, instead of wasting money on traditional local advertising that often ends up in the trash. If you've ever advertised in a neighborhood magazine and wondered if anyone actually saw it, this will hit home. Shelby also walks us through her "attract, demonstrate, sell" framework and explains why showing your work, your process, and your personality builds far more trust than simply saying you're the best. We talk about creative fatigue, why video matters, and how designers can position themselves as the go-to expert in their market without needing massive budgets or complicated funnels. This episode is a must-listen if you want to understand paid ads without the hype, learn how to think like an investor instead of a gambler, and explore smarter ways to grow your visibility and client base as a creative business owner. If paid advertising has been on your radar but felt overwhelming or intimidating, Shelby brings so much clarity to what actually matters—and what doesn't.   Shelby Fowler-Moss is a paid ads strategist and sales expert who's helped her clients generate tens of millions of dollars from paid advertising. After running one of the top boutique ad agencies for 7 years, she now teaches entrepreneurs how to think like investors, using ads to build real leverage, not chaos. Her teaching style is straight-talking, high-energy, and rooted in what actually works in today's market, no fluff, no theory, just strategy that scales.   Fix the Leaks: The Hidden Places Your Business Is Quietly Losing Time & Money https://www.addevent.com/event/qjrn64tbm77l   How to Price Your Design Services with Confidence https://thedesignbakehouse.com/pricing-workshop     RESOURCES: Fix the Leaks: The Hidden Places Your Business Is Quietly Losing Time & Money https://www.addevent.com/event/qjrn64tbm77l   How to Price Your Design Services with Confidence https://thedesignbakehouse.com/pricing-workshop   INTERIOR DESIGN BUSINESS BAKERY - Our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://thedesignbakehouse.com/interior-design-business-bakery   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. All-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. https://mysidemark.com/   MARKETING MEMBERSHIP - Join our hands on marketing & visibility program, no contract, only $59/month. https://thedesignbakehouse.com/lead-lab   Stay in touch with Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedesignbakehouse/   Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad    Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact  

  Building a design business doesn't happen by accident. In this episode, Melissa Fields shares what it really looked like behind the scenes — undercharging, no process, imposter syndrome, and learning the hard way that being busy doesn't equal being profitable. From $100 consults to hiring her first employee and stepping fully into the CEO role, this conversation is honest, grounding, and incredibly encouraging for any designer in the "figuring it out" phase. IN THIS EPISODE: How Melissa transitioned from a 20-year military career into interior design Why she started in home staging — and how she knew it wasn't the right fit The reality of building a portfolio when you don't have clients or capital How imposter syndrome shows up through undercharging and overworking Why "being busy" doesn't always mean being profitable The importance of developing a clear process and pricing structure What finally pushed Melissa to invest in business coaching How confidence grows when your skills, systems, and self-trust align This conversation is for designers who know they're talented but feel stuck — overwhelmed, underpaid, and unsure of how to turn their passion into a sustainable business. Melissa's story is such a powerful reminder that confidence doesn't come before action — it's built through it. If you've ever questioned your worth, your pricing, or whether you "belong" in this industry, this episode will meet you right where you are.   Melissa Fields is the CEO and Principal Designer of Shades of Gray Design Studio, a boutique interior design firm in San Antonio, Texas. After a 20-year career as an officer in the United States Air Force, Melissa followed her passion for design and built a thriving studio known for its elevated client experience, meticulous attention to detail, and deeply personalized approach to whole-home transformations.   Today, Melissa specializes in designing modern, livable, luxury spaces for established homeowners and empty-nesters who want to invest in high-quality, long-term design. Her unique combination of leadership, discipline, and creativity has allowed her to scale her business intentionally while maintaining a high-end, service-driven process.   Melissa is passionate about empowering other designers—whether they're just starting out or well established—to embrace their strengths, trust their creative instincts, and build businesses that reflect their own values. She believes great design changes how people live, and that a strong, well-run design business is just as important as a beautiful final reveal.   Fix the Leaks: The Hidden Places Your Business Is Quietly Losing Time & Money https://www.addevent.com/event/qjrn64tbm77l   How to Price Your Design Services with Confidence https://thedesignbakehouse.com/pricing-workshop   RESOURCES:   INTERIOR DESIGN BUSINESS BAKERY - Our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://thedesignbakehouse.com/interior-design-business-bakery   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. All-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. https://mysidemark.com/   MARKETING MEMBERSHIP - Join our hands on marketing & visibility program, no contract, only $59/month. https://thedesignbakehouse.com/lead-lab   Stay in touch with Michelle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedesignbakehouse/   Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad    Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact