Advertise on podcast: 100 Lunches

In this episode of 100 Lunches, Stephanie sits down with interior and cabinetry designer, entrepreneur, baker, and Creative Blueprints podcast host Mitzi Avila to talk about the many creative paths that have shaped her life and career. Mitzi shares how growing up with a photographer father in Mexico sparked her curiosity and creativity from an early age, and how her career evolved from industrial design and the automotive industry to commercial design, interiors, cabinetry, branding, and eventually Austin's design community. She also shares why understanding the person behind a project is just as important as creating a beautiful space. The conversation explores the story behind Mitzi's podcast, Creative Blueprints, and what she's learned from sitting down with architects, builders, and designers inside the spaces they've created. From discovering that it's never too late to pursue a new path to thinking differently about what it means to design someone's final home, Mitzi shares some of the conversations that have changed her own perspective on design. It's a conversation about curiosity, creativity, community, and giving yourself permission to pursue more than one thing you love. Mitzi's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mitziavila.designer/?hl=en Creative Blueprints Podcast: https://mitziaviladesigner.com/the-podcast Cabinet Couture: https://www.instagram.com/cabinetcoutureatx/?hl=en Etch Design Group: https://etchinteriordesign.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/etchdesigngroup/

In this episode of 100 Lunches, Stephanie sits down with Kasey Fagan, Associate Broker with SERHANT, mom of two, former Montessori teacher and social worker, and an accomplished real estate professional with more than $100 million in career sales. Kasey shares the unexpected path that led her from psychology, education, and social work into real estate—and why, to her, those careers have more in common than you might think. At the heart of each is a desire to understand people, advocate for them, and show up during important and sometimes vulnerable moments in their lives. The conversation also gets personal as Kasey talks about motherhood, creating a peaceful childhood for her kids, the Montessori principles she incorporates at home, and a childhood experience as a competitive swimmer that helped shape the way she approaches fear and challenges today. Stephanie and Kasey also talk about the emotional side of buying and selling a home, the importance of having a trusted real estate professional in your corner, and why the right decision isn't always as simple as whether the market is "good" or "bad." It's a thoughtful conversation about home, motherhood, relationships, courage, and building a career—and life—that reflects what matters most to you. Kasey's website: https://www.kaseyfagan.com/ Kasey's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kf_real_estate/ Etch Design Group: https://etchinteriordesign.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/etchdesigngroup/

What does a fine arts degree, a stint as the "real-life Elaine" at J. Peterman, and eight years designing outdoor retail stores have to do with building seven-figure custom homes in Austin? For Stacey McCoy Woodson, founder of SMW Design Build, the answer is everything. In this episode, Stacey sits down with Stephanie and co-host Jenifer Holroyd to trace her unlikely path into construction. She grew up in a real-life Brady Bunch family in rural Indiana, studied fine arts, then spent years in fashion and retail before discovering she had a gift for store design and build-outs. After realizing she was already running the job sites herself, she launched her own firm and never looked back. Stacey shares what she loves about custom home building, why trust and showing up every single day matter more than anything in this industry, and how her eye for detail sets her work apart. A warm, honest conversation about following your heart, letting your career evolve in unexpected ways, and doing what you say you're going to do. Website: https://www.smwdesignbuild.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smwdesignbuild LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceymwoodson Etch Design Group: https://etchinteriordesign.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/etchdesigngroup/

In this episode of 100 Lunches, Stephanie sits down with Danielle Hayden, founder and CEO of Kickstart Accounting, to talk about what it really means to step into the CEO role as a business owner. Danielle shares her unexpected path from working in a hair salon to leading a nationwide accounting and CFO advisory firm with 45 team members. Together, they discuss the mindset shifts entrepreneurs need to make in order to grow sustainably, why so many business owners avoid their numbers, and how understanding your finances creates confidence and freedom. Danielle also opens up about balancing ambition with family life, building a virtual company culture long before remote work became common, and creating systems that support both profit and purpose. This conversation is packed with practical insight for entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone looking to grow a stronger business with intention. Website: ⁠kickstartaccountinginc.com⁠ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kickstartaccounting/ Etch Design Group: https://etchinteriordesign.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/etchdesigngroup/

In this episode of 100 Lunches, Cassy (Etch Design Group's Design Director) shares the story behind her path into interior design, from a childhood shaped by travel, creativity, and a family connection to architecture to building a long career in the design world. She reflects on growing up in Maryland, Guatemala, and North Carolina, the influence of her dad building her first home, and the early creative interests that pointed her toward design. Cassy also talks about design school, her first long-term role in the industry, and how joining Etch gave her the chance to lead projects more fully and lean into a bolder design style. Along the way, she opens up about collaboration, color, creativity outside of work, and the importance of trusting your gut when finding your path. Etch Design Group: https://etchinteriordesign.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/etchdesigngroup/

In this episode of 100 Lunches, Jessica and Stephanie sit down with Etch Design Group’s Senior Design Director, Jenifer Houlroyd, to talk about her journey from growing up in Austin to building a career in interior design. Jenifer shares how her father’s work in architecture and lighting design shaped her early interest in the field, what it was like raising animals through FFA, and how her college years at Texas State helped confirm that design was the right path for her. She also reflects on an unexpected detour into sales, the pivotal moment that brought her to Etch, and the parts of design she loves most, especially space planning, problem-solving, and helping others think through challenges. The conversation also explores her interest in the build side of projects, the role of travel in inspiring creativity, and the values of honesty, transparency, and consistency that guide her work. Etch Design Group: https://etchinteriordesign.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/etchdesigngroup/

In this episode of 100 Lunches, Stephanie and guest co-host Jenifer Houlroyd sit down with Nelson Rockwood, founder of Nelson Rockwood Homes, to talk about the experiences that shaped both his life and his approach to building. Nelson shares stories from his childhood in New Orleans, his family’s move to Texas, and the early freedom his parents gave him to explore, build, and learn by doing. He reflects on formative chapters in Spain and college, where language, creativity, and hands-on problem-solving became lasting parts of his identity. The conversation also dives into the growth of his company, the key people who helped shape it, and the values that guide his work today, especially mentorship, respect, and genuinely caring for clients, team members, and trade partners. Along the way, Nelson offers a thoughtful look at leadership, craftsmanship, and what it means to build not just remarkable homes, but strong relationships too. Nelson Rockwood Homes: https://www.nelsonrockwood.com/ Email: [email protected] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nelsonrockwoodhomes Etch Design Group: https://etchinteriordesign.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/etchdesigngroup/

In this episode of 100 Lunches, host Stephanie Lindsey welcomes Laura Stein, a seasoned designer and founder of LSI Workshop. Laura shares her journey from being an artsy child in Toronto to discovering her passion for interior design after a winding career path that included advertising and publishing. She discusses her educational background, including her time at McGill University and the New England School of Art and Design, and how her experiences led her to establish her own design firm. After years of success, Laura realized she was no longer fulfilled by her work and decided to pivot towards mentoring aspiring interior designers through LSI Workshop, focusing on helping them build sustainable and creative businesses. Laura emphasizes the importance of listening to one's inner voice when considering career changes and shares valuable insights on leveling up design work, enhancing client experiences, and effective branding. She reflects on the challenges of transitioning from a traditional design firm to an online mentoring business, highlighting the learning curve associated with digital marketing and social media. The conversation concludes with Laura's advice for those looking to find their passion and the significance of planning and self-reflection in making significant career shifts. LSI Workshop: https://lsiworkshop.com/ LSI Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lsi_workshop/ Etch Design Group: https://etchinteriordesign.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/etchdesigngroup/

In this conversation, Chris Wells, the Director of Sales at Travis Club Austin, shares his journey from growing up in Tucson, Arizona, to becoming a key player in luxury real estate. He discusses his experiences in the Philippines, his passion for golf, and the exciting development of Travis Club, a new community on Lake Travis. Chris elaborates on the lifestyle and community aspects of Travis Club, the target demographics, the home building process, and the architectural vision for the community. He emphasizes the importance of community engagement and the future developments that are set to enhance the Travis Club experience. Travis Club: https://travisclubaustin.com/ Travis Club Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travisclubaustin/ Travis Club LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/travis-club-austin/ Etch Design Group: https://etchinteriordesign.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/etchdesigngroup/

In this conversation, Zoie Young discusses the importance of understanding client needs and the role of empathy in building strong client relationships. She shares personal experiences that highlight the significance of personalization in service and the necessity of meeting clients where they are in their decision-making process. Etch Design Group: https://etchinteriordesign.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/etchdesigngroup/

In this episode, Stephanie sits down with Paul Kovacs, Associate Creative Director at Simon Myers, to explore his journey from hockey-obsessed kid to long-time designer working across branding, 3D experience design, and emerging technologies. Paul shares how human-centered design shaped his philosophy and how his work has evolved from temporary retail displays to large-scale experiential and branding projects for major home-improvement and building brands. Simon-Myers: http://simon-myers.com/ The Drill Down: https://simon-myers.com/the-drill-down/ Paul's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-kovacs-37a5a832/ Paul's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulkovy/ Etch Design Group: https://etchinteriordesign.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/etchdesigngroup/

In this engaging conversation, Madeline Pocta, the marketing director at Bumble Bee Blinds, shares her unique journey from growing up in Johannesburg to her unexpected transition from a pre-med track to a career in marketing. She discusses the founding of Bumble Bee Blinds, the importance of community engagement in Austin, and the collaborative nature of the window coverings industry. Madeline also reflects on her proudest moments and shares a light-hearted food memory, emphasizing the joy of connecting with others through shared experiences. Bumble Bee Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumblebeeblinds.austin/ Bumble Bee Website: https://www.bumblebeeblinds.com/austin/ Madeline Pocta: [email protected] Etch Design Group: https://etchinteriordesign.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/etchdesigngroup/

In this episode of 100 Lunches, Jessica Nelson and Stephanie Lindsey host Allen Griswold and Ashlie Greene, a father-daughter duo who run the Benson Company in Austin, Texas. They share their personal journeys, the importance of family in business, and the values that drive their success. The conversation touches on their backgrounds, the significance of maintaining the company name, their commitment to customer service, and the balance between work and family life. Allen reflects on mentorship and giving back to the community, while Ashlie discusses her experiences with influential women and the challenges of motherhood alongside business ownership. The episode concludes with heartfelt food memories and family traditions. Benson Website: https://bensoncarpetandfloors.com/ Allen: [email protected] Etch Design Group: https://etchinteriordesign.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/etchdesigngroup/

In this episode of 100 Lunches, host Stephanie Lindsey interviews Caroline Broderick, a reporter at homes.com, who shares her unique journey through journalism. Caroline discusses her early life in Chicagoland, her passion for writing, and how her family's restaurant background influenced her career. She reflects on her educational path, her experiences in journalism, and the importance of storytelling in her work. Caroline also delves into current trends in the housing market, offers advice for aspiring journalists, and shares personal anecdotes about food and family. https://www.homes.com/ https://www.homes.com/news/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-broderick-a82193161/ Etch Design Group: https://etchinteriordesign.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/etchdesigngroup/

In this episode of 100 Lunches, Sharyn Bernard shares her unique journey from a globally influenced childhood to her career in journalism. She discusses her early life, the impact of travel on her curiosity, her college experiences, and how COVID reshaped her career. Sharyn also offers valuable life lessons, insights into industry trends, and memorable dining experiences that have shaped her perspective on life and work. Sharyn: [email protected] Floor Covering Weekly: www.floorcoveringweekly.com Floor Covering Weekly FB: https://www.facebook.com/floorcoveringweekly Etch Design Group: https://etchinteriordesign.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/etchdesigngroup/