A Well-Designed Business® | Interior Design Business Podcast

Today with Rick Campos: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined by Interior Designer and fellow podcaster Rick Campos of Design Biz Survival Guide. I had the absolute honor of turning the tables on Rick and putting him in the hot seat for his 4 year anniversary episode. I am delighted to share this with you today and thank you again Rick for the tremendous honor of making me apart of this milestone. More about Rick Campos: Rick Campos is a self proclaimed “recovering interior designer” with fifteen years of experience in the design industry. Formerly Director of Business Development for a notable Orange County design firm, his daily interactions with architects, builders, vendors and clients contributes to a broad perspective of the design industry. In 2018 Rick traded in his tape measure for a microphone and launched Design Biz Survival Guide - a podcast about life and business for interior design professionals - with the intention of informing and inspiring the design community. In 2019 Rick integrated freelance consulting into the platform with an emphasis on “the business of design” exclusively for the interior design community. He has since helped numerous design entrepreneurs grow their business to new levels. The platform has since evolved to include annual business development retreats, learning opportunities, networking events, and an online community. “My mission is to be the source of information and inspiration to interior design entrepreneurs that I needed when I launched my own design business back in 2007. To promote and further develop a design community that supports and empowers fellow design professionals on their journey in life and business.” Connect with Lesley Myrick Website Instagram Facebook Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Today with Corinne Bentzen and Melanie Kaplan: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show, I’m sitting down with Corinne Bentzen and Melanie Kaplan from The Company Store. We’re talking about the importance of staying on color trends, seasonal rotations of products, how the brand stays dedicated to premium quality, and their commitment to sustainability. Pick it apart: [18:34] Melanie shares her background in design and textiles, including experience in cotton mills that laid the foundation of her expertise. [23:27] Melanie discusses how her team plays into the success of the brand. [26:30] Melanie talks about the company’s design process and valuable partnerships. [31:30] Corinne and Melanie share how seasonal rotation and constant innovation keep the brand’s designs fresh and relevant. [44:23] Corinne and Melanie talk about how they maintain their commitment to artisanal quality. Ah-Ha Moments: “We have global design partners all over the world. It’s been my experience that partnership is so much a part of the success of the brand. We have great suppliers that understand our mission. We have design people that are so talented and understand the direction and vision of The Company Store. It’s an ongoing process. We think about the lifestyle, we think about the quality it needs to represent. We never shortcut anything in this brand.” -Melanie Kaplan “We are the color authority. We have never, ever been afraid of color. In fact, we love it, and that’s a distinction of The Company Store.” -Melanie Kaplan “That is the type of support that an interior designer needs, when you’re going to recommend bedding—people are going to sleep on this. Comfort is key and critical, and it can be judged way more harshly than walking on an area rug, for example. When I think about everything that goes into your products, I know I would not want to learn all of the things, so it’s nice that designers can just go to the website and order swatches.” -LuAnn Nigara Connect with The Company Store Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Twitter More About Corinne Bentzen: Born in Geneva, Switzerland, Corinne Bentzen began her career at Procter & Gamble, where she built brand identity for premium brands before taking the leap across the pond to join Tiffany & Co. in New York. There she put her strategic thinking, strong decision making, and leadership skills to work, ultimately leading her to The Company Store where she breathed new life into the 110-year-old home goods retailer acquired by The Home Depot in 2018. Not one to shy from a challenge, Corinne most recently took over the leadership of Home Depot’s HD Home, in addition to her leadership role at The Company Store. An avid skier and cyclist, Corinne lives in Connecticut where she enjoys an active family life with her husband, two children, and their rescue dog Rosie. More about Melanie Kaplan: Following a graduate program in Textile Design and Science at Fashion Institute of Technology, Melanie Kaplan launched a career in design and development of home furnishings products that spans a range from decorative fabrics to finished consumer products, from bed ensembles to lifestyle furniture, from children’s garments to kitchen textiles. From Design Director for a decorative fabrics company, Melanie transitioned to Vice President of Product Design and Development at a bedding producer, where she first worked directly with major retailers to develop their programs. As Senior VP of Design for home furnishings at Dan River, a storied American textile company, Melanie’s ability to translate art and concept to commercially successful design led Dan River to a spot as an innovative leading supplier to the retail home furnishings market. In 2007, Melanie moved to the retail world as the Chief Creative Officer for Hanover Direct Inc., where she headed all design, product development, sourcing and image development for the company’s key brands, including The Company Store. Since The Home Depot’s acquisition of The Company Store in 2017, Melanie continues in a leadership role. As Product Development Senior Merchant, her energy, expertise and leadership continue to inspire colleagues on all sides of the global supply chain to the American home furnishings consumer. A native New Yorker, Melanie commits free time and resources to organizations committed to improving the lives of individuals, children and families affected by various hardships. What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume

Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Have you ever had a project where you felt undervalued and taken advantage of? A situation where someone else was taking credit for your work? What about mixing work and family? These factors create a spiderweb of entanglements and equal a ticking time bomb of emotions and feelings. Today's episode comes from a listener who, while highly skilled, talented, and experienced, has found herself in a situation where she has mixed family and business in a high dollar project in which she is not getting the compensation or recognition for her contributions. Listen in as I break down the situation, the challenges, and what Lu would do. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Today with Michelle Feeney: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. On this Power Talk Friday I am talking to Michelle Feeney, founder of Floral Street. Floral Street is a modern British fragrance that is both sustainable and eco-friendly. You’re probably wondering why I had Michelle on. Well despite her not being in interior design ,Michelle has provided me with a couple of aha moments that I want to bring to my listeners. She is an intelligent and accomplished business person and I can’t wait for you to hear about her experience to the top, how her fragrances make her customers feel, and how taking a break to stay at home gave her the information she needed to jump back in! Pick it apart: [1:00] Michelle and LuAnn talk about the correlation between how a floral scent should make you feel on your body, but also when you walk into a room. [13:18] Michelle talks about starting Floral Street at 53-years old. [27:18] Michelle tells us how Floral Street breaks the mold in the sustainability of the fragrances ingredients and packaging. [32:37] Tiffany talks about how to make your brand a cult brand through partnerships. LuAnn and Michelle Feeney's Ah-Ha Moments “Interior designers focus on how clients want to feel in a space. They should extend that into, not only how the products in the room contribute to the “feel,” but also how the room is scented.” -LuAnn Nigara “Many people fear how to get investments from the “big boys”with the money, but what they lack are the ideas and passion that you have.” - Michelle Feeney “It’s important to take yourself out of that everyday and look in, to see how your idea could fit into the modern world.” - Michelle Feeney “If you are an individual and you are trying to build your brand, who you associate with becomes really important. There’s strength in numbers because they can help you tell your story.” - Michelle Feeney Connect with Floral Street Website Instagram Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #32- Robin Baron- The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks With Us About PR and Brand Development #540- Robin Baron- Strategic Thinking on Brand Development

Today with Tiffany Cassidy: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined by Tiffany Cassidy, co-founder and principal designer of Lagnappe Custom Interiors. Tiffany and I discuss the fear some have about niching down your business and how Tiffany powered through her own fear. Every guest that has been on the show that has chosen a niche has said that it was the best decision they made for their business. Tiffany couldn't agree more and she has done such a wonderful job at combining her past experiences with what she’s learned from coach Tobi Fairley to niche into her luxury vacation rental design business. Please join us to learn about Tiffany’s niching journey and the versatile services that Lagnappe Custom Interiors has to offer. Pick it apart: [6:13] Tiffany starts to tell us about when she decided to niche her design firm down and how she went about it. [16:30] Tiffany explains her initial resistance in niching down. [20:15] Additional services that Lagnappe Interiors offers, also for those who want to DIY. [32:45] Tiffany tells us more about her Designer for a Day Program and Master Plan program. LuAnn and Tiffany Cassidy’s Ah-Ha moments: “Part of my resistance to niche down was wanting to keep my options open. It felt scary to limit, but learned it wasn’t limiting at all because people would come to me for help.” - Tiffany Cassidy “I encourage other designers to niche down because it frees up your mind in so many ways and helps you grow your business in a specific manner.” - Tiffany Cassidy As designers when we are doing full service projects working with project managers and contractors, when we make our project book we should ask ourselves what are all of the potential questions they could ask us.” - Tiffany Cassidy More about Tiffany Cassidy: A native of California with both a degree in chemistry and a highly creative side, Tiffany has been designing beautiful homes and commercial spaces in the U.S. Virgin Islands for her long list of clients since 2002. She marries her artistic and scientific sides together by transforming the intangible into breathtaking, cohesive and highly functional designs delivered in systematic and organized bliss. Tiffany considers it a privilege to be invited into other people’s homes to help them transform their personal spaces and her goal is to not only make your home prettier but in doing so, make your life better. Connect with Lesley Myrick Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest ebook on Vacation rental Blog What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #15- Nancy Ganzekaufer: Niche is Rich #174- Power Talk Friday: Fred Berns: Own Your “Only” Word & Tips to Discover Yours #368- Jessica Duce: VRBO Interior Design #440- Power Talk Friday: Tobi Fairley: Her Design You Coaching Program #753 Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business #372 Laura Michaels: How to Talk Budget with your Interior Design Clients #584 Lesley Myrick: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again #37 Lesley Myrick – Strategies I Used to Build My Business

Today with Leah Neaderthal: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. As you probably know, I am as extroverted as they come—a trait which I believe plays into my sales success. But extroversion isn’t necessary to be a good salesperson. In fact, my guest today, Leah Neaderthal, would say that introverts possess several qualities that make them natural sales superstars—if they know how to tap into them and use them. She’s sharing how to do just that, teaching introverts how to sell with strength and confidence. Pick it apart: [2:00] Leah shares why being an introvert is actually a sales superpower. [5:39] LuAnn and Leah discuss the importance of tapping into what your client is saying, even if they aren’t actually saying it. [7:39] Leah talks about diving deep into the value you are bringing to your clients. [18:02] Leah and LuAnn discuss the strength of saying no. [25:46] Leah points out ways that we unknowingly get clients to say no. [35:07] Leah shares two mindset shifts for selling to mid-size companies or corporate clients. LuAnn and Leah Neaderthal's Ah-Ha Moments “To all the introverts out there—I see you, I validate you, I am you. I do want to let you know that the things that make you an introvert and make you the way you are actually are your superpower when it comes to selling.” -Leah Neaderthal “The most successful salespeople are people who listen, who ask a question, stop talking, and observe. People aren’t always saying expressly in words exactly what they intend to say. By asking questions, listening, and observing, we start to uncover the nuggets that show what the pain point of our client actually is. We have to know these things to come up with the solution for them to make selling to them easy.” -LuAnn Nigara Connect with Leah Neaderthal Website LinkedIn Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #598 Judith Taylor – How an Introvert Networks in an Extroverted Industry A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Kravet is always focused on making things easier for you. With Kravet’s website, finding the exact products you need is easier than ever. You can create tailored searches that yield the exact results you need, which in turn helps you create the best experience for your clients. Visit kravet.com today to get started.

Today with Kate Lester: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show with Kate Lester Interiors, we’re taking a look at the Harman collection—a line of beautiful vintage reproduction rugs, inspired by Kate’s travels and passions. In collaboration with Jaipur Living, Kate launched the Harman collection to bring the beauty of one-of-a-kind elaborate vintage rugs to modern designs for all levels of clients. Pick it apart: [1:29] Kate shares the story of how she and Jaipur Living came together to launch the Harman collection. [7:33] Kate gives insight into what reproductive vintage pieces are and why they are desirable. [13:03] Kate discusses her vision for the collection and how it came to fruition. [18:50] Kate tells LuAnn about the Turkish roots of the collection’s name and its symbolism for the project. [24:03] Kate discusses the inspiration and design process used for the rugs. [32:38] Kate shares how her background in marketing helps her stand stronger in her business. More About Kate Lester: Kate Lester is the creative director and CEO of Kate Lester Interiors & Kate Lester HOME. With a diversely talented design team in her studio, and two retail stores in Southern California, – Kate is thrilled to be spreading her unique design vision with the masses. Her style ethos is all about creating spaces that weave classic lines, vintage finds, modern moments, and an infusion of at least “one weird thing”. Kate attended USC’s prestigious Marshall School of Business, and went on to study Design and Architecture at Otis College in Los Angeles. Her industry experience includes working for some of Hollywood’s most famous designers before launching her own firm in 2010. Thriving at the intersection of livable luxury, humor, and realism- Kate believes that the homes she designs should always be carefully crafted, thoughtfully curated, and a direct reflection of the people who inhabit them. When not designing, Kate can be found in Southern California dragging her family to flea markets, running on the beach, or hesitantly participating in a plethora of extreme sports with her extremely persuasive (and brave) husband and daughter. Connect with Jaipur Living Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #526 Jaipur Living, CEO Asha Chaudhary #757 Jaipur Living, Nitesh Chaudhary

Today with Monica Froese: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Over the last few years, more and more designers have started finding ways to build passive income streams into their businesses, through e-design options, curated shoppable lists, and more. Today, we’re talking more about this idea—how you can create digital products to help solve problems for your clients, attract new ones, and add an income stream to your business. Pick it apart: [1:28] Monica shares her journey, from corporate marketer to mom blogger to digital product aficionado. [19:15] Monica gives insight into how interior designers can use digital products to solve problems for their clients. [36:31] LuAnn and Monica discuss how to create a pillar of content to help your clients along the buyer journey, without investing all of your time into content creation. [42:48] LuAnn shares her biggest takeaway from the conversation. LuAnn and Monica Froese's Ah-Ha Moments “I am great at teaching people how to read their numbers to get better conversions. I’ve been told by my students that I make intimidating numbers seem easy. I think it comes from my lack of emotions to numbers—they are just numbers. They tell you a story and you just have to be able to read the story that they tell.” -Monica Froese “Here comes the courage—to say, ‘this is all great, but I don’t want to do this anymore. It isn’t filling my soul, it isn’t feeding my mission on the planet.’” -LuAnn Nigara Connect with Monica Froese Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest YouTube Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #701 Kristen Rivoli: New Brand, New Year: How Rebranding Can Work for Interior Designers #736 Power Talk Friday: Buildlane: Innovating Custom Furniture Creation A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started.

Today with Lesley Myrick: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. E-design has certainly grown in popularity in recent years. My guest today, Lesley Myrick has gone that route as well. But she missed the connection aspect of creating designs specifically for clients. So she forged her own service, the Design Master Plan, that offers a high-level customer experience, with everything but the procurement. Today, Lesley talks about finding the pieces of business she values the most and letting everything else go. Pick it apart: [3:56] Lesley gives an overview of the Design Master Plan and why she chose to create the service. [14:24] Lesley discusses how a conversation with a coach helped her hone in on what she valued most in her business. [20:26] LuAnn and Lesley talk about how to put an end to scope creep with Lesley’s model. [26:07] Lesley shares the value of 3D renderings. [37:18] Lesley reiterates why connection is so important in her business. LuAnn and Lesley Myrick’s Ah-Ha moments: “You are seasoned enough to explain the scope and the deliverables at the beginning with clarity—that’s key. Number 2, you have priced the job profitably so when you want to be generous you can. And number 3, you are delivering a fully executed plan in detail at the beginning.” -LuAnn “That’s why connection matters so much. I need to be able to have these honest conversations. And they’re not conversations meant to scare people off or freak them out, but we need to have enough of a connection and trust where I can say these things and it’s not met with hesitation or frustration.” -Lesley “So it’s just eliminating the middle and end phase…but the deliverable and the service and the quality of the first phase is not compromised in any way.” -LuAnn More about Lesley Myrick: Lesley Myrick is an adventurous, organized, and enthusiastic interior designer in the Atlanta, Georgia area (and she works with clients all over the US and Canada, too). Lesley is originally from Canada and has lived and worked in Toronto, Ontario; Los Angeles, California; Waco, Texas; and now Macon, Georgia. She earned an honors diploma in interior design from Sheridan College in 2005 and launched Lesley Myrick Art + Design in 2015. She works with high-achieving women who are ambitious, adaptable, and committed to personal and professional growth. Lesley helps these driven women bust out of boring homes and helps new interior designers launch kickass businesses they love. Connect with Lesley Myrick Website Instagram Facebook YouTube Podcast What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods: With Revel Woods, you’re getting premium hardwood and resilient flooring curated for your design and lifestyle needs. They are dedicated to helping you help your clients find the right flooring for their needs. You can use the industry expertise at Revel Woods to help your clients feel that wow factor. Visit www.revelwoods.com today to find out more! Other Shows Mentioned: #722 Power Talk Friday: Duke Renders: How to Incorporate 3D Renderings into Your Interior Design Business #753 Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business #372 Laura Michaels: How to Talk Budget with your Interior Design Clients #584 Lesley Myrick: Building a Business From the Ground Up, Again #37 Lesley Myrick – Strategies I Used to Build My Business

Today with Connie Vanderzand: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Today I am talking with Connie Vanderzanden, who has developed the Going Beyond Revenue Cash Handling System. This interview is not only with a professional financial coach whose superpower is money, but it’s with someone who has financially hit rock bottom herself in her previous bookkeeping business, only to rise back up and take control of her finances and her money story. Now she’s here to share how she did it and to offer additional tips, support, and hope towards our finances. If you want to change your emotions about money, feel empowered by it, and take full control of your financial situation in your business, this episode is where it’s at. Enjoy! Pick it apart: [3:57] Connie tells us about the business she used to be in and what made her open her eyes. [7:40] Connie explains how she got into her financial situation and debt that caused her to change. [13:00] We learn the tangible obstacles that may keep us from being open to a money mindset shift. [20:40] Connie tells us what steps to take if we are feeling like we want to give up on our business due to debt. [27:00] Connie gives us an overview of her Going Beyond Revenue Cash Handling System. [40:40] Connie and LuAnn give tips on when you want to hire a team LuAnn and Connie's Ah-Ha Moments “A lot of the times when I am working with people with debt, it’s acknowledging their shame and guilt around it and addressing it and forming a new relationship with it.” - Connie Vanderzanden “Debt can be used well in a business as long as we’re intentional about how we’re going to use it and how we’re going to pay it back.” - Connie Vanderzanden “There’s empowerment in a choice once you can see the black and white and see where you are spending it, to make better choices.” - Connie Vanderzanden “Your safe environment should begin with your financial person.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Connie Vanderzand: Connie Vanderzanden is on a mission to help entrepreneurs live the lifestyles they desire by learning the simple steps, structure, and discipline to create and save money. With 35 years of accounting and bookkeeping experience, a variety of industry knowledge, and her own real-life business growth journey since 2001, Connie developed the Going Beyond Revenue Cash Handling System, focusing on cash flow planning that creates profitable and sustainable businesses. Connie is a true Oregonian, born and raised in the beautiful Pacific Northwest where she spends time with her husband of 35 years and their “fur kid”. Connect with Connie Vanderzand Website Instagram LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #464- Power Talk Friday: Peter Lang: Understanding Your Finances #575- Lisa Gilmore: Finance Fridays! From 850k to 2.25 Million in One Year A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Sarah Daniele, the CEO of Mydoma Studio, is an interior designer. When she was still a practicing designer she wanted a better way to manage her projects. She wanted clear communication with her clients and her trades. She wanted all of her invoices in one place. She wanted time tracking and she wanted to be as efficient and organized as possible— so she created Mydoma Studio. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesigned business to start your trial now. Get your time and your sanity back.

Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today's question comes to us from a designer in a tough situation between a builder and a homeowner. Tune in to hear the designer's story and how I would handle the situation if I was in their shoes. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Today With Terri Taylor: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business, it’s Power Talk Friday! Today’s Power Talk Friday is sponsored by Interior Design Business Academy and specifically, Terri's The Real Deal workshop. More about The Real Deal: Get PAID What You Are Worth The industry’s premier event for serious interior designers who want to bring consistent high-profit remodeling jobs into their business Once a year Terri offers this very special training once a year that deep dives into how to run extremely profitable remodeling jobs This 3-day workshop is designed for IDBA clients but Terri is opening a few seats to the design community at large. 3 full days of training this May 4,5 & 6 Go to InteriorDesignBusinessAcademy.com to learn more Connect with Terri: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Website More about Terri Taylor: Terri has over 32 years in the interior design and construction business. She holds both residential and commercial general remodeling Arizona Contractors Licenses, and qualified for her NCIDQ certification in 1991. Terri is a professional member of ASID, IDS and NCIDQ. Her Tucson-based design studio, Taylor Design Group, was a diversified design practice working in the areas of high-end residential design and remodeling, model home merchandising, hospitality and medical and professional offices. Her studio has been the recipient of ASID Arizona South Chapter Design Excellence Awards every year since 1986 and she received the ASID National Design Excellence Award in 2000. Terri’s design work has been published in regional and national design journals, including ASID ICON and Wall St. Journal. Terri retired from her studio practice in 2015. In 2009, Ms. Taylor created Design Biz Blueprint (now Interior Design Business Academy); an education and coaching resource that provides a unique mix of design business strategies and systems, and powerful positive mindset to help interior designers create meaningful success. She’s inspired thousands of interior design entrepreneurs through her speaking engagements, seminars, on-line education and coaching. Terri connects with heart-centered designers to help grow their business strategy, accountability, and profitability all while undergoing a beautiful personal transformation. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: Episode 548 Episode 602 Episode 662 Episode 710

Today with Laura Martin Bovard: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today we’re talking with Laura Martin Bovard, founder of LMD Interiors and Divine Hustler. After realizing how easily triggered she would get from certain employee types or certain things that happen in business, Laura decided to train herself to work from soul, rather than ego, which is commonly how we approach things. I think that this episode is very relatable and after listening, you will be inspired to learn how to work more from soul too! You will hear how Laura’s life has become more light, her business more successful, and how she was able to surround herself with like-minded, positive people. Laura really is a light herself and listening to her will give you hope for any challenges you may have. Pick it apart: [:55 part 1] Laura picks apart what she means by running your business from your soul, rather than your ego. [12:55 part 1] The turning point for Laura that wasn’t necessarily just one moment. [4:15 part 2] Laura shares what she did to get into alignment with her soul. [10:13 part 2] Things Laura has done to create a happy environment in her design firm. [15:35 part 2] Laura tells us about her side hustle, Divine Hustler. LuAnn and Laura Martin Bovard’s Ah-Ha moments: “When we love ourselves deeply, we give great service and great creativity to our clients.” - Laura Martin Bovard “When you find that project or client that you identify with and that feels good in every way, you start to attract more of that to you.” - LuAnn Nigara “We find who and what aligns with us and we know that when we feel lighter.” - Laura Martin Bovard More about Laura Martin Bovard: My name is Laura Martin Bovard and I am the principal of LMB Interiors. Through my two-decades strong interior design practice, I’ve been privileged to hold space for my clients at times of transformation. Over the years I’ve witnessed the magic that happens when people realize that having a beautiful home is more than creating something visually pleasing; it’s about building a home for your people: family, friends, community; while also creating a vision for and manifesting a personalized space that nourishes your soul’s growth. I am wild about transformation. I create beauty wherever I go. I cannot not do this. My greatest joy is when I create an environment that is even better than what the client had imagined for themselves. I design in every style: Modern, Contemporary, Traditional, Spanish, Mediterranean, Craftsman, and more. I bring a warm, classic, and timeless approach to the aesthetic style that matches your heart, your community, and your space. I love to be of service, giving to others through my work and via philanthropy. When I am not designing homes and restaurants, I enjoy engaging in energy-rich life experiences, including cooking and entertaining and practicing the art of self-care with focused intention. I started LMB Interiors in 2002 when I was pregnant with my first child. The one-woman firm that began in my dining room has grown to include a team of top interior designers, all of whom are talented, dynamic, soulful, and share my values of authenticity, warmth, and a livable approach to interior design. As a group, we complement one another’s contributions to the whole with a deep appreciation for our individuality while inspiring each other to thrive in a culture of collaboration and graciousness. We conceive beautiful environments where love, family, and community flourish. At LMB Interiors, we prioritize sustainable design. For us, that means working with local artisans and contractors, as well as using eco-friendly, earth-conscious materials and practices. As the company has expanded, so has my office space. Today, we are based in the elegant, urban-chic, and historic White Building in downtown Oakland. Connect with Laura Martin Bovard LMB Interiors Website LMB Interiors Instagram LMB Interiors Facebook LMB Interiors Pinterest Divine Hustler Website Divine Hustler Instagram Divine Hustler Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: The way you handle your systems and processes makes all the difference in your business success. Time tracking, communication, product approvals—you don’t have time to get bogged down in dealing wi

Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is Window Treatment Friday, and we are debuting part 2 of our Pricing Window Treatment Series. Vita is back with some great tools that she has learned to use when pricing a window treatment to a consumer. Vita and I understand the challenges with pricing, that it isn’t cutthroat and that there are so many variables that go into a window treatment. Tune in to learn the general pricing guidelines for a designer, and also how you can uplevel your conversations with your client by knowing how to ballpark the price within minutes of the consultation. Pick It Apart: [5:59] Vita and LuAnn reflect on why you as a designer need to understand the numbers behind the formulas. [11:30] Vita breaks down what markup is and how to calculate yours. [17:36] Vita shares insight on the multiplier—an often misunderstood part of the equation. [27:50] Vita walks us through margins and the formula behind them. [38:40] LuAnn highlights how you and the window treatment professional can both come away with profit. Ah-Ha Moments with LuAnn Nigara and Vita Vygovska: “When someone in your world understands that what you sell a product affects the financial health and viability of your business, that's what creates a sustainable business.” - LuAnn Nigara “The highest chance of you getting an order is if you can ball park the customer’s investment together on that first visit.” - Vita Vygovska “You are accustomed as the designer and have the ability to know the numbers for what is “good, better, and best” and accurately come up with investment ranges on the discovery call before running in circles.” -LuAnn Nigara When you show a pictorial presentation to a client of different budgets, it’s no longer just about the money. It’s about what they like, what the room will look like and how they will feel in that room.” - Vita Vygovska More About Vita Vygovska Vita is the CEO and founder of Vitalia Inc., a nationally recognized authority on quality window treatments and soft furnishings, located in the Metro Philadelphia area of Pennsylvania. Vitalia Inc. is your workroom and your partner for custom window treatments. Their mission is to provide value to their clients and improve their lives. Vita would love to talk to you. Share your feedback, questions, problems, and challenges with her, and also your wins. You can email her at [email protected] Connect with Vita Vygovska: Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A BIG Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. product is in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet's exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at www.kravet.com. Other Shows Mentioned: #548- Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees and Budgets #741- Window Treatment Friday: Pricing Window Treatments: Understanding Margin vs. Markup #607- Sara Lynn Brennan: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines

Today with Jessica Harling: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, we’re talking about my favorite thing—sales. And I can think of nobody better to help me talk through sales than my colleague, Jessica Harling. She is walking us through the proven 7-Step Sales Process from Exciting Windows—the same process that she covers in her course at LuAnn University. You’re going to get a high-level look at every step along the way, its purpose, and how it folds into a successful sale. Pick it apart: [10:50] LuAnn and Jessica dive into the inquiry call and how it plays into the overall sale. [19:16] Jessica highlights how the preparation for the appointment lays the foundation for success. [21:01] Jessica and Lu discuss the meet and greet and home tour, and why taking control is crucial. [34:16] Jessica shares the importance of the recap and review to make sure you and the client are on the same page. [44:59] LuAnn and Jessica discuss the eyeball estimate and how to leverage the trial close to move the sale forward. LuAnn and Jessica Harling’s Ah-Ha moments: “Doing all these seven steps ahead of time, before you start to show samples, get into the design details, or even get into detailed quoting, all of these seven steps upfront are what set up the next section for success.” -Jessica Harling “That is the Achilles’ heel of an undisciplined salesperson—to get sucked into the rabbit holes and the windy roads of whatever someone wants to talk to instead of leading the conversation.” -LuAnn Nigara More about Jessica Harling: Jessica Harling is a 4th Generation Window Treatment Specialist, founder of Behind the Design, and leading expert in employee and process development for design organizations. Her specialty in recruiting, training and change management drives innovative and high-producing results while keeping your team inspired. Behind the Design offers recruiting, onsite and online training, and operations development consulting for design organization to streamline costs, increase productivity, and develop rockstar employees to take the company to the next level. Connect with Jessica Harling Website LinkedIn Facebook Twitter Behind the Design Blog What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #548 Terri Taylor: Calculating Flat Fees & Budgets A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: The way you handle your systems and processes makes all the difference in your business success. Time tracking, communication, product approvals—you don’t have time to get bogged down in dealing with looking back and checking over these aspects of your business. When you automate with Mydoma, you increase your productivity and get to focus on the parts of your business you need to be focusing on—like sales. You can get started today and save 20% off your first three months at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness

Today with Rachael Bozsik: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Today we have Rachael Bozsik, International Keynote Speaker and top elite branding coach. This is the second time we have had Rachael on and I cannot wait to share with you what she has been up to since last on the show. In addition to working with myself, Rachael has worked with many leaders in the industry including Sandra Funk, Michele Williams, and many up-and-comers. I encourage you to listen to find out how you can work with Rachael, and also how she has used her marketing strategy of the 4 P’s (positioning, press, paid speaking, and partnerships) to gain luxury clients and be seen as the “go-to” in your industry. Pick it apart: [15:45] Rachael shares with us her process when she starts a new Luxe Day client. [23:47] Rachael explains using partnerships as a “pipeline filler” rather than a public partnership. [32:00] Rachael tells us about the application and process to work with her. [43:55] Another successful example of a past client, Emily, that listeners can relate to. [1:04:00]: Information on how to work with Rachael, how she works with her clients, and pricing. More about Rachael Bozsik Rachael Bozsik is an international keynote speaker and Thought Leadership Coach for female entrepreneurs within the creative field. It is Rachael’s mission to empower entrepreneurial women to position themselves as world-class thought leaders and public figures in their niche via the press, paid speaking, and partnerships. Think – a feature in Arch Digest, mic at High Point Market, and Partnership with Loloi. Rachael’s clients include award-winning interior designers, HGTV personalities, and internationally recognized creatives. Rachael has been applauded for her work in numerous international publications as a top-tier expert in elite brand positioning in 40 national outlets including Forbes, Glamour, Business Insider etc.. Through her work as a professional speaker, she has empowered close to 100,000+ women on stages including Harvard Business School, Design Influencers Conference, (ASID) American Society of Interior Designers NYC, IIDA, Cornell, Bermuda’s SBA, SPANX HQ just to name a few. She has also had the opportunity to partner with incredible brands including Oprah’s Leadership Academy, Loreal, Sephora, Kendra Scott etc. Connect with Rachael Bozsik Website Instagram LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #2- The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy #20- Arianne Bellizaire: Could Your Hobby or Hidden Talent Be Your Marketing Platform? #137- Michele Williams: Scarlet Thread Consulting- Actionable Tips for Time Management #145- Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded Her 10-Year-Old Firm #180- PTF: Michele Williams Talks About Profit First and Why It Matters to You #190- Kathy Kuo: How Kathy Kuo Home, The Online Boutique, Can Assist Your Interior Design Firm #395- PTF: Michele Williams: Financial Health Checklist For Your Interior Design Business #520- PTF: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard Is Here! #568- Arianne Bellizaire: “A Reluctant and Accidental Leader in #BLM.” #651- Power Talk Friday: Rachael Boszik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design #683- Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience is #1 in Design #709- Jenny and Ben Slingerland of Black Ink Interiors: The Stages and Decisions to Grow Your Design Business A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Revel Woods wants you to add more profits to your projects by teaching you how to recommend and sell hardwood flooring. Revel Woods will be there for our PTF Tour this April 1st, 2022 so if you are planning to join us in HP, you will meet John Dupra, the CEO of Revelwoods. Until then, head over to revelwoods.com/pro-account.

Today with Sallie Lord: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. I have said for some time that our business is only as strong as the relationships we build. Our relationships with vendors, partners, clients, and employees all play a hand in our success. But the relationships we have with fellow business owners, fellow designers or fellow window treatment professionals, can be extremely valuable as well. My guest today, Sallie Lord, knows that other professionals don’t have to be your competition. In fact, they can be collaborative partners and help empower your business. Pick it apart: [2:48] Sallie shares the story of how she and a group of local designers created a collaborative pod that helps each other’s businesses grow. [7:37] LuAnn and Sallie discuss how crucial community relationships can be to your business. [19:36] Sallie and LuAnn talk about how to create collaborative relationships with fellow designers. [23:47] Sallie shares the way she builds the sense of collaboration within her own firm as well. [33:58] Sallie discusses the client experience GreyHunt Interiors is committed to providing. LuAnn and Sallie Lord’s Ah-Ha moments: “It is so healthy for us, for our businesses, and for our relationships. I love the opportunity for us to help one another. We all bring something to the table.” -Sallie Lord “These are your friends that you lean on, but there is also a practical level. When you have a group that you know and trust, you can actually say, “How do you manage an hourly project? How do you incentivize your project manager to work in a timely manner…” You get to ask the important questions, not just have wine and massages. You get to grow your business acumen through these other people.” -LuAnn Nigara “Is it really successful to climb to the top by yourself? Is that really the way the journey is supposed to go? That’s not the way it’s meant to be. We’re supposed to be in a community.” -Sallie Lord More about Sallie Lord: Sallie Lord is the award-winning designer and founder behind GreyHunt Interiors. A graduate of Marymount University, Sallie has worked in the interiors business for over two decades. She has amassed a loyal following of almost 75K people on her social media channels with a passion for design and an eye for up-and-coming trends. This native Virginian spends her time between her home in Northern Virginia — where her business is flourishing and her new home in Indianapolis, which she shares with her husband, and two boys. You can catch Sallie daily on her Instagram page, where she shares her latest designs, interior tips, and everything and anything that inspires her, including uplifting women in business! Connect with Sallie Lord: Website Instagram Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #484 Laurence Carr: Design Your Business Plan #291 Cheryl Luckett – From Side Hustle to Full Time Interior Design #267 Rasheeda Gray: A Pipeline With Over 20 Interior Design Projects in Under 2 Years A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet is always finding ways to make shopping easier for you. Their website allows you to quickly access all of your tools, like your account settings, price lists, current and past orders and more. Their advanced color search even lets you create the exact custom color you’re looking for, making it easier than ever to find the results you need. Visit kravet.com and use coupon code AWDB10 for 10% off your first order.

Today with Nitesh Chaudhary: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Today, we bring you a sponsored show with Jaipur Living. Jaipur is not your average hand-woven rug company. They have a long-standing commitment to empowering their artisans, ensuring ethical and fair practices, and sustainability. Their latest initiative—the Manchaha was built on a history of those commitments. The story behind these rugs will move you. To learn more, go to Jaipurliving.com/luann Pick it apart: [2:55] Nitesh shares the origins of the Manchaha collection and the way it has turned weavers into artists. [10:45] Nitesh explains the power the program has brought into the lives of the artisans. [22:05] Nitesh dives into how artisans are chosen and the process for making the Manchaha rugs. [31:40] Nitesh and LuAnn discuss the ripple effect Jaipur is having on the lives of women in India. [37:14] Nitesh explains why investing in a Manchaha rug is worth it. More About Nitesh Chaudhary: Nitesh Chaudhary is the youngest child of Chaudhary Family of Brands founder N.K. Chaudhary. As director of innovation, supply chain & innovation, Nitesh brings over seven years of cross-functional experience in strategically building start-ups and growing companies to Jaipur Living, where he works alongside sisters Asha (CEO) and Archana (COO). Nitesh has a strong passion for identifying and resolving business challenges using technology and human capital to reach business goals. Connect with Jaipur Living Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #526 Jaipur Living, CEO Asha Chaudhary

Today with Claudia Ricciardone: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Claudia Ricciardone, founder of Claudia Josephine Design. Claudia and I discuss those stubborn pain points that we face in starting a business. Coming from a psychology background, Claudia teaches us that pain is what actually causes us to grow in that it forces us to find a solution. Listen in as Claudia shares her own solutions as she navigated turning her hobby into a business. I don’t know about you, but when a psychologist offers business advice, I am going to listen. Pick it apart: [6:10] Claudia begins her discussion about some of the pain points she experienced while starting her interior design business. [16:44] Claudia tells us how she transitioned from hobby to business. [23:40] Claudia needed a team and she tells us who she knew she needed to hire first. [33:15] Advice on making an investment for your business. [51:00] LuAnn and Claudia discuss having those, sometimes hard, discussions about money with potential clients. LuAnn and Claudia Ricciardone’s Ah-Ha moments: “When there is a pain point, ask yourself what quality you need to develop to move past that pain point.”- Claudia Ricciardone “In addition to the content I provide for my promotional offerings, you just never know who you are going to meet that could be a colleague that you can learn from, and they learn from you, and improve your business.” - LuAnn Nigara. “Hire the best photographer you can afford. Hiring a great photographer is what got me published in my first magazine, LUX Lifestyle Magazine.” - Claudia Ricciardone. “Wherever you are in the business, you can see your goals clearly, but you can still have fear. The difference is taking the plunge or not. If you are running a business there is no getting around making an investment.” - LuAnn Nigara “When the student is ready the teacher will come. The right guides will come.” - Claudia Ricciardone More about Claudia Ricciardone: Claudia Ricciardone is a luxury residential interior designer based in Charlotte, North Carolina. Claudia provides full-service interior design services with a focus on sustainable and eco-friendly furnishings and décor through the company she founded, Claudia Josephine Design. Claudia is a certified GREEN Accredited Professional (AP), member of the Sustainable Furnishings Council (SFC), and Maria Killam Certified True Colour Expert. She served as the interior design columnist at LUX Lifestyle Magazine, where her work was published and distributed internationally. Claudia’s designs were also recently featured in Southpark Magazine. Connect with Claudia Ricciardone: Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: #50- Veronica Solomon: Powerful Marketing For Your Interior Design Firm- Website to Fan Engagement on Facebook #58- Maria Killam: Color- When You Can Own It As An Expertise, You Can Charge Higher Fees #752- PTF- Kelsey Kurtis: Connection-Based Branding For Success

Today with Liz Beaman Delman: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. I love today’s conversation because we are diving a little into the art world. How many of us designers have intimidation or lack of knowledge into having that conversation with our clients to incorporate fine art into their project? I see you in the back with your hand raised. Well we're in luck because today we are chatting with Liz Beaman Delman, founder of Above the Sofa, an art advisory firm. Liz aims to bring confidence to designers to have those “artsy” conversations with their clients and to incorporate fine art into their projects. You know that we love anything that will help a designer be more profitable. Enjoy! Pick it apart: [1:36] Liz explains her reasoning behind wanting to empower designers to bring more fine art into their projects. [8:48] Liz tells us the process in which she works with the designer, whether they have some experience working with the art world or have zero experience. [33:05] More business benefits for designers who open their clients’ eyes to fine art. [37:30] Liz’s experience working with showhouses and that process. More About Liz Beaman Delman: Liz Beaman Delman is a twenty-year veteran of the art world and is a foremost expert in American Art. Liz honed her expertise during two decades as a Specialist at Sotheby’s and Christie’s, where she was a Senior Vice President and ran the American Art department. Art is in Liz’s DNA. Her paternal grandfather was an abstract artist and the Andrew W. Mellon Professor of Art at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh. Her maternal grandparents began collecting then avant-garde Contemporary Art in the 1970s and continued to do so until their passing. Inspired by the creativity of her grandfather’s work and the beautiful way in which her grandparents chose to live with their collection, Liz began to pursue a career in the arts beginning in high school. Twenty-five years later Liz still cites their influence as the guiding principle behind her work. In addition to founding Above the Sofa, Liz runs an art advisory firm, Beaman Delman Fine Arts, focused on secondary market sales and all aspects of art advisory and collection management. Liz splits her time between New York and Los Angeles and has held volunteer leadership roles in both cities. She has been on the board of the Archives of American Art, a member of the Director’s Council at the Guggenheim, a member of the Director’s Circle at the Hammer Museum in Los Angeles, and three affinity groups at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art including the Collector’s Committee. Liz is a graduate of Vanderbilt University and a native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Connect with Liz Beaman Delman Above the Sofa Website Above the Sofa Instagram BD Fine Arts Website BD Fine Arts Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #413- Leslie Price: Evolution of a Career in Interior Design A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Revel Woods wants you to add more profits to your projects by teaching you how to recommend and sell hardwood flooring. Revel Woods will be there for our PTF Tour this April 1st, 2022 so if you are planning to join us in HP, you will meet John Dupra, the CEO of Revelwoods. Until then, head over to revelwoods.com/pro-account.

Today on A Well-Designed Business: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business®! Managing our businesses over the last 2 years of the pandemic has been hard. It has been especially hard on those of you who own and manage bigger businesses. This revenue growth is absolutely something to be grateful for, but it has also been extremely challenging. So today I am talking to you about The Power Talk Friday Tour next month at High Point Market. If your business finished last year with gross revenues between 2 million and 5 million or between 5 million and 10 million, this PTF Tour is for you. I know you need to be in a room with other leaders, other CEO’s who are going through what you are going through. Listen to today's show for all the details and I hope to see you there. Save your seat here! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Today's Show Sponsored by the "Interior Design Standard." Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today's sponsored show, Sandra Funk is here to share insight on growing not just a luxury design firm - but a thriving luxury design firm. She'll share everything from the why, to the how, and everything in between. I am thrilled that Sandra will also be sharing the latest news about her business program, the "Interior Design Standard". I know it will be the best investment for your business. Enroll here: https://interiordesignstandard.com/luann Registration opens March 23rd! Designers who have implemented the Standard in their businesses: “A rising tide will raise all ships - and man, is Sandra bringing in the tide! The Interior Design Standard is incredible. I feel so lucky to have stumbled into Sandra’s circle of light. To say it is ‘exactly what I needed’ is the understatement of the year!” - Jenn O'Brien, Jenn O'Brien Interiors "The Standard is EXACTLY what I've been looking for. Sandra "speaks my language" - she's relatable, quick and to the point, yet thorough enough for me to understand. I’ve been in other programs. This is the best one.” - Taylor Johnson, Taylor Johnson Interiors Share this with someone who deserves joy and efficiency in their business just as much as you do. It’s time for our entire industry to rise together. What We Talked About: Furniture Lighting & Decor Article Other Episodes Mentioned: EPISODE 660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard” EPISODE 585: Sandra Funk: Helping Designers Improve Their Business Systems EPISODE 520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! EPISODE 145: Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Re-Branded her 10 Year old Firm EPISODE 02: The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy

Today with Kelsey Kurtis: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday and we’re talking-branding! This is for everyone. Kelsey Kurtis, author of The Connection Method and professional lifestyle branding photographer, shares her principles to create an impactful brand through the power of connection. Pick it apart: [16:17] Kelsey shares with us the steps from her book that she encourages people to take when defining their brand. [23:00] Kelsey and LuAnn discuss the importance of having three non-negotiables when having those hard discussions. [26:20] Kelsey tells us about everyone’s favorite chapter in The Connection Method. [39:00] We learn the three steps of Kelsey’s branding and marketing cycle. [49:27] Kelsey shares the three value elements for a balanced social media and marketing plan. More About Kelsey Kurtis: Kelsey is a branding educator, lifestyle branding photographer, author, energetic speaker, and unapologetic cheerleader for leaders in business. She is the author of The Connection Method® and creator of Connection-Based Branding. Kelsey has over ten years of experience as a professional photographer and working with business owners and leaders. She is passionate about educating and equipping leaders with the tools they need to genuinely connect with both themselves and their audience in order to stand confidently in who they are and what they offer. Connect with Kelsey Kurtis Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Link to buy The Connection Method (paperback) Link to buy The Connection Method (hardback) What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned #125- Nicole Heymer: How To Brand Your Business. Yes, again! Do not miss this one!!! #248- Marina Umali: How Feng Shui and Interior Design Meet #651- Power Talk Friday: Rachael Bozsik: Gaining Credibility in Interior Design #26 Kae Whitaker Branding Your Business, Finally I Understand It!

Today with Sandra Vlock Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today I have the pleasure of talking with Sandra Vlock, founder of Studio Vlock. Sandra worked as an architect in her own firm for 30 years before shifting into, what she likes to refer to as, functional fine art. If that’s not impressive, wait until you see her illuminating, evocative sculptures. Let this episode serve as an inspiration for you to make that big move to change your life and success, like Sandra did. Pick it apart: [1:30] Sandra begins by explaining her concept of “functional art.” [6:05] Sandra tells us some of the ways that she leveraged being an architect into working as an artist. [12:00] Sandra and LuAnn discuss transferable skills and how important asking questions is. [25:00] Sandra explains how luxury can be defined as a creative experience and how she executes that. [45:50] Sandra ends with some great advice that she learned from owning her architecture firm and beginning a new business. LuAnn and Sandra Vlock’s Ah-Ha moments: “It’s not just finding opportunities for more pieces, it’s understanding what your skill set may be that could increase the scope of the work.” - Sandra Vlock “On our show, we have discussed the standpoint of the Erika Ward transferable skills many times and in many different ways. Your past impacts what you're doing, just how you're expressing how your 30+ year career as an architect is impacting the way you create functional art.” - LuAnn Nigara “Clients are craving a unique experience that can be shared.” - Sandra Vlock “I guess people like what I do artistically, but I think it’s because I am willing to be such an avid listener to every detail and it shows up in the work that I produce.” - Sandra Vlock More about Sandra Vlock: As an architect of contemporary architectural design, who is now working as an artist, Sandra Vlock's focus is to engage people in a shared experience; capturing an authentic sense of place, context and narrative. Vlock views the integration of fine art and architectural elements as a natural evolution of that vision; one that enables Vlock to design evocative steel sculptures that inspire memorable experiences and create unique environments for social gathering, quiet reflection, and visual delight. Find out more about her work by visiting STUDIO VLOCK. Connect with Sandra Vlock: Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A BIG THANK YOU to today's sponsor: I want to thank Kravet Inc for sponsoring the podcast. If you have not visited Kravet.com yet to check out their complete line of fabric, wallpaper, trim, rugs, furniture, lighting and accessories, Please do it today. While you are there, set up your trade account. No minimum purchases, one uyard one sofa one rug. Go to kravet.com today. Other Shows Mentioned: #6- Identifying Your Transferable Skills With Erika Ward. #2- The Importance of Systems for a Profitable Interior Design Business With Sandra Funk Levy. #145- Sandra Funk of House of Funk: Why and How She Rebranded her 10 Year Old Firm. #278- Master Business Skills 1st, Interior Design Skills 2nd. #520- Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! #660- Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes.

Today with Erin Harding: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Social media marketing is a valuable tool for interior designers. Pinterest in particular is an excellent platform to leverage the beautiful visuals of your business in order to grow your audience and expand your reach. We’ve heard about the organic side of Pinterest from Simple Pin Media before. Today, Erin Harding of Simple Pin joins us to dive into the paid advertising side. Pick it apart: 1:50 Erin shares why Pinterest is so valuable to interior designers 11:54 Erin talks about the nitty-gritty of how to prepare for a paid ad campaign 28:18 Erin dives into how to make your ad successful with strong photos 34:25 Erin shares why now is the best time to dive into paid Pinterest campaigns 39:10 Erin covers what Simple Pin offers and how you can work with them 1:50 Erin shares why Pinterest is so valuable to interior designers 11:54 Erin talks about the nitty-gritty of how to prepare for a paid ad campaign 28:18 Erin dives into how to make your ad successful with strong photos 34:25 Erin shares why now is the best time to dive into paid Pinterest campaigns 39:10 Erin covers what Simple Pin offers and how you can work with them More About Erin Harding: Erin Harding is the Director of Promoted Pins Management at Simple Pin Media. In her five years with Simple Pin, she has worked with a variety of businesses and brands, helping them to grow their business on Pinterest, both organically and paid. Erin believes in the power of Pinterest and hopes that through her teachings, others will as well. Connect with Erin Harding Website Pinterest Instagram Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Revel Woods: Your source for premium hardwood and resilient flooring. Using the Revel Woods selector tool, you’ll be able to find curated suggestions for your project catered to your client’s home. When you sign up for a free professional membership, you’ll get access to exclusive discounts and referral benefits. Visit revelwoods.com to get started. Other Shows Mentioned #331 Power Talk Friday: Kate Ahl: Pinterest for Your Interior Design Firm #618 Jenna Gaidusek: How to Build an Online Business in Interior Design

Today with Peggy Morgans Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Window treatment pro, Peggy Morgans shares the experts she hired and the work she did to prepare her business for a sale. Previously doing 90% of the work herself, Peggy set a goal of taking herself out of the business and broke the action items into a checklist of just three simple to-dos to achieve her goal. Pick it apart: [13:07] Peg shares how she felt about the process documentation when work is so custom [22:54] Peggy details how she hired out some of her marketing [26:31] Peggy and LuAnn talk about lunch and learns [33:33] Peggy and LuAnn discuss the hiring learning curve [44:36] Peggy tells how she upgraded her systems to allow for process improvement [52:32] LuAnn and Peggy talk about the advantages of coaching and Chairman of the Board LuAnn and Peggy Morgans’ Ah-Ha moments: “You have a business, not a you.” - LuAnn Nigara We want to make this business so that the person who buys it doesn’t have to know anything about window treatments. - LuAnn Nigara There’s nothing wrong with the personality. But that personality doesn’t align with what you want. - LuAnn Nigara Part of what my role is is empowering you to listen to your own inner voice. - LuAnn Nigara More about Peggy Morgans: Peggy Morgans is the owner of Parkway Window Works, an award winning custom drapery workroom serving interior designers in the greater Rochester and Upstate New York area. Parkway Window Works started as a home based, solo operation 20 years ago and was built from Peggy’s background as a former chemical engineer and MBA. Streamlined systems and a problem solving approach are the cornerstones of the company. Today, Peggy is leading a team of 8 located in 2700 square feet of commercial space to house our designer consultation space and state of the art workroom. Parkway offers design professionals a one-stop-shop with unparalleled technical expertise and a hassle-free process that takes care of it all from measure to installation and everything in between. Connect with Peggy Morgans: Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Today with Vita Vygovska Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today’s WTF—Window Treatment Friday—is part 1 of a new three-part series on pricing window treatments. We’re breaking down margin vs. markup, how to do each, and why you need to know. You’re going to get the math and the formulas you need, but we’re also diving into what the numbers mean, so you can price window treatments with confidence and knowledge. Pick It Apart: [5:59] Vita and LuAnn reflect on why you as a designer need to understand the numbers behind the formulas. [11:30] Vita breaks down what markup is and how to calculate yours. [17:36] Vita shares insight on the multiplier—an often misunderstood part of the equation. [27:50] Vita walks us through margins and the formula behind them. [38:40] LuAnn highlights how you and the window treatment professional can both come away with profit. Ah-Ha Moments with LuAnn Nigara and Vita Vygovska: “The bottom line of this is that we care about these numbers because they are the drivers. They show us how financially free we are, how financially independent we are, how financially sustainable we are in terms of our business. And ultimately, our business then translates to our personal lives. That’s why we should care. It improves the quality of our lives—at least on a financial level.” -Vita Vygovska “There are people who are math whizzes and numbers geeks who will totally say ‘Oh, now I’m understanding all of the background on this and how to come up with numbers that will earn me a profitable markup so that I can run a profitable business.’ But then there’s a lot of people like me who will say ‘If you tell me the multiplier to run a healthy business is 2.5, that’s what I’m going to go for.’” -LuAnn Nigara More About Vita Vygovska Vitalia Vygovska (Vita for short), CWFP, MBA, is an award-winning window treatment specialist, author, speaker, mom, wife, and a ballroom dance enthusiast. Her company, Vitalia, Inc, provides all-encompassing concierge-level, tech-driven fabrication, measurement, installation, and project management services exclusively for interior designers. In business for over a decade, Vita and her team are experts in their narrow field, providing designers with superb quality product and excellent communication. Most importantly, they take off the stress, save time, and give peace of mind in the job is well-done. Connect with Vita Vygovska: Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest YouTube LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A BIG Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Kravet. Have you heard? The majority of Kravet Inc. product is in stock and ready to ship within days. Order your favorite patterns from Kravet’s exclusive in stock collections like Barbara Barry’s Midsummer to CuratedKravet's exclusive decorative accessories. Keep your design projects on track with Kravet Inc. and order memos today at www.kravet.com. Other Shows Mentioned: #589 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million #363 Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team #634 Power Talk Friday: Jessica Harling: A Specific Process for Onboarding a New Hire #448 Window Treatment Friday: A New Series featuring Vita Vygovska and LuAnn Nigara #456 Window Treatment Friday: Custom-Made vs Ready-Made Window Treatments #462 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 1 #471 Window Treatment Friday: Window Treatment Business Models, Part 2 #481 Window Treatment Friday: Overview of Hard and Soft Window Treatments #493 Window Treatment Friday: Vitalia Vygovska: A Mindset for Success #512 Window Treatment Friday: Drapery Hardware #518 Communication Between the Designer and the Window Treatment Professional #539 Window Treatment Friday: Look to Your Window Treatment Partner to Sell Remotely #551 Window Treatment Friday: Exploring Awnings as an Additional Revenue Stream #586 Window Treatment Friday: Tips for Selling Window Treatments #610 Window Treatment Friday: Listener Questions #645 Window Treatment Friday: Scaling to Your First Million Dollar Year #653 Window Treatment Friday: Rising from the Ashes

Today on A Well-Designed Business: A Well-Designed Business® is 6 years old today! Can you believe it? I can't tell you what it means to me to have you on this journey with me. So really, while I am celebrating this milestone for the podcast, I'm also celebrating YOU. I've been reflecting on all that's happened between February 15th, 2016 and today, and I'm blown away by the education I've received from all the incredible guests and sponsors I have had the privilege to work with throughout the years. Today I will be sharing some of the big lessons I've learned from my three featured sponsors: @kravetinc , @mydoma , and @windowworks Give the episode a listen, and tell me: What are the biggest #ahamoments you've experienced? Thank you for coming along for the ride and choosing to spend your time with me each week. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Today with Daniela Furtado: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Daniela Furtado, the Toronto-based managing director of Findable Digital Marketing specializes in SEO for the design industry. She covers what to look for when hiring an SEO specialist and how to DIY it without wasting your time. Daniela’s case study recommendation comes with a Goodie Doc checklist found by signing up at https://luannnigara.com/goodies/. Pick it apart: [11:26] Daniela shares how to optimize your portfolio [17:31] Daniela explains the structure of her case studies [21:11] Daniela gives an example of a designer she helped with SEO [24:35] LuAnn recaps Sara Barney’s SEO success [27:27] Daniela explains what to look for in a reputable SEO provider [33:01] Daniela suggests a process to solicit reviews from clients [37:46] Daniela shares how she works with clients [43:02] Daniela explains how Google Ads works [46:29] Daniela explains Google Search Console More About Daniela Furtado: Daniela Furtado is the managing director of Findable Digital Marketing, a boutique SEO agency that specializes in architects and interior designers. She’s based in Toronto, Canada. Connect with Daniela Furtado Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Mydoma Studio: Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit. Mydoma makes it easy to streamline your processes, track projects, communicate with clients, and get organized. It’s created by designers for designers, specifically to address what you need as a business owner. I’ve said countless times that systems and processes are how you reach the next level of profitability. Mydoma Studio makes it easy to do that. You can get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.

Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! "Let's meet for drinks", says an innocent email from a potential client. Or is it less than innocent? Today's episode was a great question, a very important question, from an anonymous listener, who found themselves in an uncomfortable situation with a client. How do you respond when a potential client extends an invitation for a meeting outside business hours? Join me for today's What Would Lu Do episode as I pick this situation apart, and we discuss the importance of listening to your intuition. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Today with Meredith Kallaher: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Once a CPA at PricewaterhouseCoopers, Meredith Kallaher took her love of numbers and fondness for small businesses and became a certified paid ad specialist. Learn the strategy Meredith uses for her clients to grow their social following and advertise on social despite increasingly restricted targeting options. Pick it apart: [8:35] Meredith recaps the iOS 14 update of April 2021 [13:25] Meredith explains a sample ad campaign creation [16:58] Meredith advises how to set up your social profile section [18:38] Meredith explains how to set up a social ad campaign [38:57] LuAnn shares a tactic for time blocking More About Meredith Kallaher: Meredith Kallaher helps entrepreneurs develop and implement marketing strategies that optimize for profit and meet their customers where they are with social media advertising (i.e. Facebook and Instagram ads) and conversion copy writing. Her 6 years of experience as a CPA with PricewaterhouseCoopers combined with her ownership of The Scout Guide Miami franchise where she developed an extensive advertising and social media marketing expertise has uniquely prepared Meredith to help businesses execute and implement successful social media advertising campaigns. Connect with Meredith Kallaher Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara Exciting Windows! Build a Better Business Registration luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Mydoma Studio: Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit. Mydoma makes it easy to streamline your processes, track projects, communicate with clients, and get organized. It’s created by designers for designers, specifically to address what you need as a business owner. I’ve said countless times that systems and processes are how you reach the next level of profitability. Mydoma Studio makes it easy to do that. You can get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness.

Today with Chanae Richards Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. The journey to building a well-designed business isn’t always linear. Sometimes designers come from the most unlikely of careers. That’s something we have heard many times on the show. But today Chanae Richards shares the story of how she founded her firm Oloro Interiors. Not only did she come into the space as a second career, but she even built her interior design business in an unusual and unexpected way. She has made some very unique decisions along the way that have led to her success. Pick it apart: [22:24] Chanae shares her unconventional story, which started in finance and then included Peer Space rentals before design. [29:37] Chanae and LuAnn dive into how she secured 500 rental bookings in two years, laying the foundation for her design referral base. [36:50] Chanae discusses how seeing another successful Black designer fueled her decision to leave her career and start her business. [44:55] Chanae reflects on her decision to shift her business to 100% referral-based. [1:04:30] Chanae highlights her Entrepreneurial Retail Center—a way that she gives back to the community and helps those who live in public housing start their own entrepreneurial journeys. LuAnn and Chanae Richard’s Ah-Ha moments: “There’s the confidence, and there’s the know-how behind that confidence. It’s not just the showy ‘I know it all,’ but it’s why you know it and how you know it and having them believe that you understand the guts to it.” -Chanae Richards “What’s interesting about this is that when you think about if somebody hypothetically said, ‘I want to be an interior designer…I have my education and my internships and I have my chops and I’m ready to go, but I don’t have clients yet. Should I start focusing on a rental space while I try to build my design business?’ You could line up ten business coaches and more than 50% of them would say, ‘No, don’t divert your attention.’ But you did it because you didn’t ask anyone’s permission, and that’s sometimes the best thing in the world. And it worked for you.” -LuAnn Nigara “I’m able to do all that I do, simply because I have hired and cultivated great teams, both at the firm and the Center. I have a number of people who are simply brilliant and I mean that. I hire great people and empower them to do great teams both inside and outside the firm.” -Chanae Richards More about Chane Richards: Chanae Richards is the CEO & Principal Designer of ọlọrọ interiors, an interior design firm with offices in Philadelphia and New York. Her curated spaces and design expertise have been featured in ELLE Décor, Business of Home, Philadelphia Magazine, and Apartment Therapy as well as on national syndicates including MSNBC, National Geographic, Vice, CNN, and The Travel Channel. An inaugural Philadelphia Mural Arts Fellow, Chanae also serves as the Managing Director of Philadelphia Housing Authority’s Entrepreneurial Resource Center, a groundbreaking initiative providing residents with free business resources and support for community innovation. Chanae received her BA from Temple University and MA and MPA from Rutgers University. She is also an alumna of Bank of America Women’s Institute at Cornell University and a member of the Black Interior Designer’s Network. Connect with Chanae Richards: Website Instagram LinkedIn Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio: Mydoma is your complete designer toolkit. Mydoma makes it easy to streamline your processes, track projects, communicate with clients, and get organized. It’s created by designers for designers, specifically to address what you need as a business owner. I’ve said countless times that systems and processes are how you reach the next level of profitability. Mydoma Studio makes it easy to do that. You can get 20% off your first three months by going to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. Other Shows Mentioned: #06 Identifying Your Transferrable Skills with Erika Ward #711 Christine Platt: The Afrominimalist

Today with Renee Gurganus: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking to Renee Gurganus, Executive Director of the Window Coverings Association of America (WCAA). I’m so happy to finally have Renee on our show. The WCAA is an association that I have been a board member of for two and a half years and I am so proud of everything they have done for the window coverings industry to provide education, networking opportunities, collaboration and so much more! Please check out this episode to learn the value that the WCAA could bring to your life, even if you aren’t in the window industry. Pick it apart: [12:00] Renee tells us about WCAA’s WISP program and how it highlights the members and links them to other members. [13:00] Renee talks about partnering with LIG to offer members insurance options. [22:00] Renee tells us about all of the different chapters WCAA has throughout the U.S. and also virtually. [32:40] Renee informs us about the Jill Robson Scholarship offered through the WCAA. LuAnn and Renee Gurganus’ Ah-Ha moments: “One of the really important things that our association does is that it really listens to our members. We get requests and survey feedback and we look at it as a team and talk about how we can implement those requests.” - Renee Gurganus “I want to emphasize that WCAA is an association and has really great benefits, but the greatest benefit is that we care so much about each other. We are a community that really helps each other.” - Renee Gurganus “There is a different feeling at a WCAA meeting. It feels like you’re coming to be with your friends as opposed to a networking situation.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Renee Gurganus: Seasoned, dedicated, and multifaceted professional with 20 years of leadership experience in nonand for-profit organizations. I am currently the Executive Director of the Window Coverings Association of America (WCAA). Known for my talent in Strategic Planning and re-branding of nonprofit organizations. Armed with proven record of success in spearheading initiatives to drive resolutions of problems and improve productivity. Equipped with excellent decision-making capabilities, along with keen attention to detail and organizational skills to monitor and document pertinent information to create reports accurately. Recognized for strong verbal and written communication as well as interpersonal abilities in establishing rapport with clients and key stakeholders. Renee lives in Wilmington, NC with her husband Mark and their two German Shepards – Sig & Heidi. She enjoys reading and enjoying time on their boats almost year around. Connect with WCAA: Website Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Today with Leia Ward Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. New York-based luxury stager, Leia Ward, took her dad’s suggestion to start a staging business and ran with it. She learned the business, wore every hat, and pushed out of her comfort zone to build an amazing business. Learn how she handles her finances, where she got her business knowledge, and what she tells herself every day. Pick it apart: [13:46] Leia tells about her first real staging gig a luxury property [19:16] Leia shares how she got images for her website [23:16] LuAnn recaps Leia’s smart business choices [26:17] Leia tells how she creates a strategic plan [30:06] Leia tells how she visualizes future memoring [41:00] Leia tells how she learned the money side of the business [49:39] Leia shares about the Profit First method she used LuAnn and Leia Ward’s Ah-Ha moments: There’s value in being strategic. Take time to think “how do I want to be received?” - and then you work backward from there.” - Leia Ward “The number one thing is, don’t worry about what anyone else is doing.” - Leia Ward “It’s the true desire connected to the gratitude and the action that makes it happen.” - LuAnn Nigara “If you’re going to dream, dream big.” - Leia Ward More about Leia Ward: LTW Design is an award-winning staging design firm specializing in exclusive luxury properties. Named one of the ‘Top 10 Luxury Stagers’ in the country, the firm’s expertise is limitless. With an expansive inventory of furniture, accessories and artwork, their strategic interior marketing approach helps to sell homes swiftly and at top market Value. Founder & Principal Leia T. Ward is a one-of-a kind uniquely qualified leader in the real estate staging industry. Professionally trained and using the most innovative marketing techniques, Leia & her team have staged the most exclusive homes in the Northeast ranging from $1M- $20M, including the residence of Bruce Willis + Emma Hemming. Known for her attention to detail and forever inspired by her world travels, Leia has remarkable talent for blending textures, natural light and clean lines in every project. The LTW brand has a signature style of casual sophistication, creating calm and beautifully balanced spaces. Clients today benefit from her exceptional communication, project management and problem solving skills mastered during her 10 years working in the television and magazine industries in New York City. She has developed a unique ability to understand her client’s needs — which has been a key part of LTW Design’s success. Her trademark aesthetic of clean lines, bold neutrals and layered textures has been featured in magazines and websites including House Beautiful, Town & Country, CTC&G, New England Living, PureWow, Serendipity, Access Hollywood and more. Connect with Leia Ward: Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma Studio, a software that helps you get paid faster, save time on admin work and manage your projects more efficiently. Go to mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness to learn more. Other Shows Mentioned: #467 #76 #123 #396 #545

On Today’s Flashback Friday Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s Flashback episode, we’re revisiting with Laurence Carr, a Manhattan-based designer who had two careers before settling on design. Learn why she formed an advisory council to coach her new business and why sticking to her core business strategy has led to her rapid success. Pick it apart: [6:52] Laurence speaks about how her advisory board works. [18:32] Laurence speaks about the sustainability mission for her business [21:37] Laurence tells about how her eBook magazine supports her email list [22:57] Laurence explains how her previous job influenced her own business [29:07] Laurence explains how she works with freelance designers [35:18] Laurence explains how she hires freelance designers [42:12] Laurence shares about her online affiliate brand marketing [55:22] Laurence talks about her quarterly strategy meetings LuAnn and Laurence Carr's Ah-Ha moments: “We talk about designing rooms, environments, space - but we have to know how to design a strategy as well.” - Laurence Carr “Design the career you want to have.” - LuAnn Nigara Connect with Laurence Carr Website Facebook Instagram Youtube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet has been a pillar vendor since the beginning of Window Works. They are also an original show sponsor. I just want to say thank you to Kravet for believing in this design community and for helping the show become a reality. Explore the entire library of guaranteed in-stock fabrics at kravet.com. And get 10% off using coupon code AWDB10.

Today with Marianna Zimmerman Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Marianna Zimmerman, owner of The BEST is yet to come DESIGNS, LLC. "Your current situation doesn't have to be your final destination." This quote from Marianna gives you a little clue of what we’re discussing today. For years Marianna was working in administration at a hospital. She questioned if she was able to do what she REALLY wanted to do, own her own design business. With the support of her husband and her decision to believe in herself, she has successfully owned her firm for 12 years. If you have any doubt or fear or questions about your abilities, know that this episode will give you the kick in the pants you need. Pick it apart: [7:00] After 20-30 years, Marianna tells us how she got into design. [19:15] Marianna tells us about the makeup of The BEST is yet to come DESIGNS LLC. [21:25] Marianna explains her fee structure and advice on how to charge clients. [45:00] Advice on taking the leap to starting your business. LuAnn and Marianna Zimmerman’s Ah-Ha moments: “I didn’t want to feel like I was playing catchup, but I had to realize that it’s not about playing catch up or competing. It's more about sharing my gift and what I can offer to the world.” - Marianna Zimmerman “Not every project is photo worthy. The reason you do what you do is to make the client happy. In the end, a happy client is the goal, not the professional shot.” - Marianna Zimmerman “You have to be the one to do it. Whether you have the emotional, physical or financial support of someone or you're on your own with no support, ultimately you have to be the one to do it. You have to decide to be excellent and make the decision to execute.” - LuAnn Nigara More about Marianna Zimmerman: Marianna Zimmerman, Brooklyn NY Native lived many years in Boston Ma until eventually settling down 9 yrs ago in good ole Dallas Texas. After Graduating from QC Design school 2001, She became a Certified Interior Designer and then a ASP Home Stager in 2009. With over 20 years of experience and helping friends and family design their homes part time while always working 2 jobs as a single mom, She moved to Texas and her husband encouraged her to use her gift & venture into her own business. She launched The BEST is yet to come DESIGNS LLC in 2011. Marianna believes "great design is about creating a beautiful space that you feel comfortable coming home to." She is devoted to designing with luxury and style that is affordable. She has always believed in the motto "your current situation doesn't have to be your final destination"... The Best is yet to come! While specializing in Modern aesthetics, she has traveled all over helping clients with a variety of different styles and genres. She is a self proclaimed decor fanatic and always finds that "one unique piece" that she incorporates & leaves her stamp in the project. She believes being an East Coast girl, living in a Texas world is what separates her from other local Interior Designers- Her modern, edgy, "think outside the box" flare combined with her passionate work ethic & outgoing friendly personality makes it natural for her to work with each client's specific style and needs. Connect with Marianna Zimmerman: Website Instagram Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma: Hit the reset button and shake up your mindset and processes to reach those big goals on your vision board. Register now for the Mydoma Studio’s 19H, a one-day seminar to set you on the path to the success you’re dreaming of. There has been no shortage of shakeups in the industry the last little while. From the need to do things more virtually, to the issues with supply chains – no matter how well you’ve weathered the storm, no doubt you’ve felt the effects somehow. Fresh, actionable advice. Bold ideas. Helpful tools and templates. In short, everything you need in one action packed day to have the best 2022 possible. To get your ticket head on over to mydomastudio.com/19hluann/ – and just for podcast listeners, the early bird pricing has been extended right up until the day of the event. Other Shows Mentioned: # 167 Kelsey Grose- Winner of Best New Design Blog at Design Bloggers Conference 2017 # 203 Darl

Today with Beth Bender: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Beth Bender, principal and co-founder of The Dove Agency where Beth has developed a team that expertly provides back-office operations for interior design professionals, from strategic planning and consulting to targeted marketing solutions. With 20 years of design experience, Beth decided she wanted to start something that would help those in the design industry with the back end of their businesses. Supporting both the financial and marketing aspects of the design business, Beth and I discuss The Dove Agency, how it works, benefits of working with the agency, and the fact that if you don’t run your operations smoothly, no matter how talented you are as a designer, it could mean the end of your business. More About Beth Bender: Principal and Co-Founder Beth Bender specializes in new client and strategic partner acquisitions for The Dove Agency. Beth has developed a team that expertly provides back-office operations for interior design professionals, from strategic planning and consulting to targeted marketing solutions. Additionally, Beth oversees human and organizational development services and she also manages strategic growth strategies at The Dove Agency. Beth earned her degree in human and organization development from Vanderbilt University, and she brings more than 20 years of design experience to her work, enabling her to advise and assist clients with uniquely informed perspectives as she helps them maximize their time, resources, and profitability. Combining their impeccable expertise, proficient knowledge, and well-versed viewpoints, Beth and her co-founder, Kenda, together developed services that streamline administrative processes, giving interior design professionals the time to do what they do best—design. These processes are the foundation and hallmark of The Dove Agency today. Beth works closely with the marketing team to strategically position each designer with the tools necessary for calculated growth, increased influence, and measurable success. Connect with Beth Bender: Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet Inc. has been here since the very beginning, helping me help you is a pretty incredible thing. If you have not opened your trade account with Krravet, yet, please go to kravet.com. No minimums per order or per year. Go to kravet.com today and use the code awdb10 to get 10% off any one order of Kravet fabric, wallpaper or trim. Other Shows Mentioned #575 WTF Episodes: #653, #645 , #610 , #586 , #551 , #539 Sara Lynn Brennan: #607 , #524 , #514 , #463

Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today is a follow-up to last week’s show where I suggested a framework for setting meaningful goals for your business. If you missed it, go ahead and listen to Episode 735 for all the background details of the DTBE goal-setting framework. In today's episode, I am going to share a story and a lesson based on the first step of the DTBE goal-setting framework— The D for Design. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: WWLD #735 What We Talked About: Self-Care with S.A.S.S. 5-Day Challenge! The Job You Were Born For by Eileen Hahn Today's Sponsor: Mydoma: Hit the reset button and shake up your mindset and processes to reach those big goals on your vision board. Register now for the Mydoma Studio's 19H, a one-day seminar to set you on the path to the success you're dreaming of. There has been no shortage of shakeups in the industry the last little while. From the need to do things more virtually, to the issues with supply chains - no matter how well you've weathered the storm, no doubt you've felt the effects somehow. Fresh, actionable advice. Bold ideas. Helpful tools and templates. In short, everything you need in one action packed day to have the best 2022 possible. To get your ticket head on over to mydomastudio.com/19hluann/ - and just for podcast listeners, the early bird pricing has been extended right up until the day of the event.

Today with Frank Eybsen: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today we speak with Frank Eybsen, founder of Buildlane. Buildlane’s mantra is to make custom easy for designers. We all know how daunting the custom process can be. Whether you are near or far, seasoned or new, Buildlane provides an experienced team and talented builders to carry out your specific custom furniture needs. Tune in to learn how to join the Buildlane platform and all of its wonderful benefits. Hint: Your Buildlane experience will leave you with an unexpected custom education. Pick it apart: easy for interior designers. [14:45] Frank explains all of the different opportunities to specify custom furniture through Buildlane. [29:28] Frank tells us the criteria for someone to be a part of Buildlane and also how a designer is given the opportunity to meet and get to know their builder. [35:45] Frank explains the benefits of their templates program and how to use it. [43:48] We learn the difference between 8 way hand tied versus springs. [47:33] LuAnn and Frank discuss how Buildlane has come at the right time, in terms of being eco friendly they can make it happen, especially with the help of Carla Pile. [54:53] Frank tells us how designers can get signed up for a trade account with Buildlane. LuAnn and Frank Eybsen's Ah-Ha moments: “Working with Buildlane you will have an extension of your own design team that is entirely in charge of managing your production.” - Frank Eybsen “From designers who are really green to experienced designers from big firms, everybody comes in with some knowledge gaps. The amazing thing that's happened with Buildland is that we’re educating people throughout the process. They learn that the mistakes that could have happened, didn't happen.” - Frank Eybsen “I love the transparency of being able to see the piece of furniture all through the process.” - LuAnn Nigara “With the sit test for those who can’t test the quality of the furniture before they order, we like to say to designers to have your client sit in something and tell us what it is that they loved, and we’ll be able to reproduce that. We know what everybody is building with and what materials they are using.” - Frank Eybsen “Truly I think the biggest thing with pricing has to do with the workforce behind the work. You can tell when you look at the details in the craftsmanship.” - Frank Eybsen Connect with Frank Eybsen Website Instagram More About Frank Eybsen: Frank Eybsen is an entrepreneur in the home industry from Los Angeles, California. While originally a fixture in the LA Tech Startup, his love for building things and manufacturing led him to the heart of furniture production in California - South Los Angeles. It was here that he received a hands-on education in upholstery and case good construction. This experience led to the founding of Buildlane - a platform where the country’s best craftspeople come together with the country’s most creative designers to create custom furniture. What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Thank you to Buildlane for sponsoring this show!

Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! Today is the first show of the new year, so let's work together and make sure 2022 is a productive and profitable year! In this episode, I will be talking about goal setting and strategies that can help us all tackle the year ahead. What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: Sara Brennan: #463, #514, #524, #607. Shea McGee: #236, #270 Amber Lewis: #169, #184 Jacklyn Marie: #515 Demetrious Robinson: #687 Cheryl Luckett: #292, #397, #573 The Vogue Room Foundation and The Vogue Room Interior Foundation started by Ebony Staten of The Vogue Room Inside Voice Outside Voice

Today with Chelsie Butler: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Today I am joined by Chelsie Butler. Chelsie is the executive editor of Kitchen & Bath Business, the official publication of the National Kitchen and Bath Association and the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show. I think we can all agree that to be featured in a magazine would be amazing! Today, Chelsie explains not only the benefits of being published in a trade magazine, but also the best practices on how to approach a trade magazine. I think you’ll be excited to learn all of the opportunities available to designers that Kitchen & Bath Business offers. From the KBB Person of the Year to being a guest on the podcast to being a judge at their awards program, Kitchen & Bath Business is much more accessible than you would think, to market your business. Pick it apart: [1:55] Chelsie explains to LuAnn the criteria and qualifications of how someone can become KBB’s Person of the Year. [9:20] This is where Chelsie and LuAnn start to pick apart all of the benefits of being published in a trade magazine. [18:40] Chelsie explains how the case is not always KBB finding the designer and doing a Q&A, but that a designer can pitch themselves, a topic, AND write the article. [28:45] Chelsie and LuAnn offer information and reassurance about nominating yourself for an awards program or Person of the Year. [35:15] Chelsie talks about the editorial advisory board and how you can be involved in that. LuAnn and Chelsie Butler’s Ah-Ha moments: “In terms of being published in a trade magazine, you’re able to elevate yourself among your peers.” - Chelsie Butler “When you submit yourself for the magazine, it’s not just the end result of being selected, which is exciting, but it’s also the creation of the relationships with the editors, writers, other designers etc. Sometimes the benefit is truly the building of the relationship because you can trace back so many other benefits that result from the relationship.” - LuAnn Nigara “We want to show the pretty projects and pictures, but we want the audience to come away learning something. The more information we can get from the designers, the more likely we will be able to feature your project.” - Chelsie Butler “We’re open to the designer actually writing the article and then I will edit it. We’ve worked with designers where there has been a lot of editing, and then after several more articles there is minimal editing. We’ve worked with designers where there is minimal editing right off the bat.” - Chelsie Butler “As a content creator, you are putting a magazine out, you are putting the podcast out, you are putting the webinar out, you are probably spending 60% of your week looking for people and ideas. So anybody that puts their hand up and expresses interest, that is a win win. It’s an opportunity for the person and less research that you have to do.” - LuAnn Nigara “When submitting your project, professional photos are what we are looking for if you have that.” - Chelsie Butler Connect with Chelsie Butler Website Instagram Facebook Twitter LinkedIn More About Chelsie Butler: Chelsie Butler is the executive editor of Kitchen & Bath Business, the official publication of the National Kitchen & Bath Association and the Kitchen & Bath Industry Show. She has been an editor for various trade magazines in the Atlanta area since graduating from the University of Florida with a journalism degree in 1993. Titles relevant to her current position have included Atlanta Home Improvement, Commercial Construction, Hospitality Construction and Commercial Kitchens magazines, as well as Design:Retail, a KBB sister publication. She has participated in panels at multiple industry events, including Coverings, KBIS and ICFF, and during her time in her current position, the magazine has won two prestigious Azbee awards and one from Trade Association Business Publications International. Besides her career, another of Chelsie’s passions is volunteering at local animal rescue shelters, which she has been involved with for 10 years. What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Mydoma: There has been no shortage of shakeups in the industry the last little while. From the need to do things more virtually, to the issues wi

Today with Ippolita Rostagno Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m talking with Ippolita Rostagno, founder of her eponymous 20 year-old jewelry brand, and co-founder of the luxury e-tailer, Artemest.com. While taking a leave of absence from her jewelry company, Ippolita learned to trust her professional intuition through all of her challenges, from people saying “no,” to certain technological challenges. Ippolita and I discussed the, “Come to Jesus” moments she faced with her jewelry business and while building Artemest.com. We discuss the importance of recognizing “failure,” to fail quickly, and to listen to your intuition. Listening to her intuition led Ippolita to temporarily leave IPPOLITA Jewelry. Listening to her intuition led Ippolita to buy back her jewelry company, grow it, while also growing Artemest from 60 artisans to 2000. This is a good one, folks! Pick it apart: [9:15] Ippolita explains how she gained the trust of the artisans in Italy who had resistance to sell online in addition to questioning how the beauty and detail of their craft could be portrayed. [17:50] Ippolita talks about how instinct and knowledge let her know that there are potential customers for these artisans and where there is demand. [21:57] Surprising lessons that Ippolita has learned along the way. [31:00] Ippolita and LuAnn discuss how not giving up, reflecting, and being persistent will lead to success, with examples. [42:00] Ippolita explains how Artemest works. LuAnn and Ippolita Rostagno’s Ah-Ha moments: “If you just start to research your industry, you can make choices along the way that really inform your path.” - Ippolita Rostagno “Execution is everything!” - Ippolita Rostagno “We say all the time, if you’re not making any mistakes then you’re just playing it too safe and you really aren’t stretching yourself in any way, shape or form. But it’s easy to forget that all of us make mistakes, no matter how amazing, we look at Artemest and think how everything must have been so easy.” - LuAnn Nigara “Living a life that is full of love and satisfaction is very important and I think it looks different for everyone. You can't be motivated by money, you have to be motivated by your passion. It's all going to take a lot of work. Being an entrepreneur means that you have a certain kind of courage to not align yourself to any one process; that you're willing to find a solution. Put your money where your mouth is, devoting your time, energy, and resources to making your dream come true.” - Ippolita Rostagno “It’s a good reminder that when we look at two of your businesses, how lucky they are, but there was a lot of intentional strategizing to make them happen. We can take those lessons to our own businesses; interior design firms, architecture firms, photography firms….” - LuAnn Nigara More about Ippolita Rostagno: Born and raised in the hills of Florence, Ippolita has always been inspired by the richness and simplicity of Italian culture. As a young girl, she discovered her love for jewelry in the shops and stalls of Ponte Vecchio. An artist first and a designer second, Ippolita studied sculpture and ceramics for five years at the Istituto D’Arte in Florence. After working in bronze and stone on large-scale works, Ippolita was inspired to apply her aesthetic to the world of adornment when she launched her eponymous jewelry collection in 1999 in New York with Bergdorf Goodman. A reverence for women and the female body has informed her style and her design vocabulary from the start. Her highly personal approach to fine jewelry is expressed in the sculptural nature of the organic shapes of her precious metals. A proprietary blend of 18K Gold and other precious metals creates a distinctive “green” hue, flattering to all skin types while her 925 Silver is a color with a brilliance all its own. The stone cuts Ippolita uses are characterized by their artfully random, larger-than-normal facets that conspire to create plays of light and shadow against the skin. Ippolita’s jewelry is an encounter with beauty. That beauty is an experience shared – between seller and buyer, wearer and creator, lover and loved one, devotee and neophyte. It is generous, participatory, outward-facing, welcoming, and open to all. “Beauty in our everyday lives brings joy to the human experience and fosters a culture of care.” “Age-old craftsmanship and the texture of the hand-wrought process are essential and defining to every piece I design.” “I want to sculpt feminine ease using shape and form in organic unity. Celebrating raw materials while also revealing evidence of the maker’s hand. All the while investing in wearable certainty.” “Wear the mark of the maker. Age-old craftsmanship and the texture of the hand-wrought process are essential and defining to every piece I design.” Connect with Ippolita Rostagno: Website Instagram Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.l

Today with Erica Courdae: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Erica Courdae, diversity and inclusion coach, is packed with simple, actionable advice ensuring our conversations and workplaces reflect a sense of kindness and inclusion. She also shares what to do when we get it all wrong as we continue to learn and grow alongside our fellow humans. Pick it apart: [10:10] Erica explains simultaneous realities [13:38] Erica explains what true conversation is [15:31] LuAnn covers a critical sales mistake [24:44] Erica shares how she works with businesses [39:10] Erica advises about how to communicate DEI efforts with a new, diverse hire [44:28] Erica explains what she means by “operating on demographics without psychographics doesn’t work” LuAnn and Erica Courdae’s Ah-Ha moments: “You’re not expected to know it all or have access to everything. You just have to be willing to stay in action.” - Erica Courdae “We are all processing through our own lens. There has to be a space of understanding.” - Erica Courdae “It’s not okay to assume that somebody wants to be a part of something that you didn’t give them the opportunity to opt-out of.” - Erica Courdae “There are learning opportunities in being less than perfect. If you get it all right, you’re not continuing to grow.” - Erica Courdae Connect with Erica Courdae Website Facebook Podcast Instagram Pause on the Play Podcast Community Salon Instagram LinkedIn Salon Website Erica’s FREE Imperfect Ally's Evaluation Checklist More About Erica Courdae: Erica Courdae has dedicated her life to expanding how others interact with the world through powerful conversations. As an entrepreneur and certified coach, her work is focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), imperfect allyship, and imposter syndrome. This work has taken her into communities and onto national stages as a speaker and educator at noteworthy industry events like AltSummit, ShePodcasts Live, and Being Boss. Erica is also the owner of an inclusive beauty salon, Silver Immersion, and the host of Pause on the Play, a podcast that features open dialogue on topics like company culture, visibility, and mindset. She lives in Maryland with her two children. What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet: Window Works has been having quality conversations with Kravet since the beginning. Their people know how to listen and how to deliver a premium experience and premium fabrics for both their buyer and for the end customer. For 10% off, go to kravet.com and use coupon code AWDB10

Today with Chloe Mackintosh Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m chatting with Chloe Mackintosh, the principal designer and creator of Boxwood Avenue. Chloe and I discuss her journey from owning an Etsy shop in college, to developing a thriving blog, e-commerce / brick & mortar shop, and design firm. Moving to a town of 99 people, Chloe explains how she built a team of 12 people to help her conduct her business and formulate a proper “system and process.” Pick it apart: [8:06] Chloe talks about how she shut down The Shop for one year and, while she is very grateful for the business that she received at the time, it’s ok to follow your intuition and put the ball down so you can put things in order and work on your other goals. [28:07] Chloe discusses the importance of setting clear business and financial goals and how to strategize and budget in order to achieve those goals. [39:47] Chloe and LuAnn discuss systems and processes and how digital platforms like Asana, along with their team, have been key in organizing their businesses and systems and processes. Examples and Chloe’s daily business routine included. [48:36] Chloe shares her who, when and what in terms of her content creation process for Boxwood Avenue. [57:30] Chloe admits how assistance with systems and processes has made her more confident in conducting her business and how, “Not passing on discounts” is important as a designer. LuAnn and Chloe Mackintosh’s Ah-Ha moments: “ That’s so sweet that you’ve noticed my belief of: If not you, then who? I would agree with you. It has helped me power through many things over the years as well. If you’re not going to do it, somebody else is? What trait, skill, asset...do they have that you don’t have? Figure it out. You can get what you need to have, to do it.” -LuAnn Nigara “ To build a business out at the size that you built it out, it’s again recognizing that different things are not your superpower. Surround yourself with people who understand those things respect you as you respect them back and also share your goals.” -LuAnn Nigara “Going above and beyond is important because one referral can lead to 5 referrals, that can lead to a really incredible project. Our biggest project came from Facebook, so don’t be afraid to showcase work that you are proud of, but also remember that focusing on the client’s experience and doing the best that you can do will grow your business.” -Chloe Mackintosh “The confidence that having great systems and processes and Renee’s help with our deliverables allows me to present myself better to clients and vendors. The confidence has been a big turn-around.” -Chloe Mackintosh More about Chloe Mackintosh: Chloe Mackintosh is the founder and creative director of Boxwood Avenue. She is a designer, shop owner, and blogger. She began her journey at 17 years old with an Etsy shop and has since built her business into a thriving blog, e-com / brick & mortar shop, and design firm. With a growing social footprint of over 10 million impressions per month and 250,000 followers across social platforms, Chloe now leads a team of 12, all from a town with a population of 99. Chloe has been featured by many publications including Domino and Country Living, she is a Better Homes & Gardens Stylemaker and former contributor to Martha Stewart. In addition, she leads retreats for small business owners each in Sonoma, CA at the Boxwood Avenue Creative Business Retreat and is a speaker at The Haven List Workshop for Interior Designers. With clients spanning from coast to coast, she has worked hard to develop a solid foundation of systems and processes. Today she will share how she went from not knowing what a “system or process” was to leaning on them to scale her business. Connect with Chloe Mackintosh: Boxwood Avenue Website Shop Boxwood Avenue Boxwood Avenue Design Instagram Facebook YouTube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Revel Woods offers a line of handcrafted and custom curated, premium hardwood and resilient flooring. If you want easy-to-clean flooring for your allergen-free home environment, check out Revel Woods and become a Revelwoods Trade Designer today. Find out more at www.revelwoods.com.

Today with Corinne Bentzen: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Today is a sponsored show with The Company Store, a premier source of luxury down bedding and home products. Corinne Bentzen, CEO of The Company Store, shares the company history, their commitment to quality, focus on responsible manufacturing, and understanding that the customer comes first. Pick it apart: [9:54] Corinne share the mission of The Company Store [13:22] Corinne tells about her suppliers and responsibly created products [17:48] Corinne tells about how the pandemic has affected the company [22:22] Corinne advises designers on helping clients understand the quality of The Company Store products [25:00] Corinne shares how The Company Store works with the trade [30:43] Corinne speaks about how designers can set up a trade account LuAnn and Corinne Bentzen’s Ah-Ha moments: “We have a responsibility to make great choices for our customers.” - Corinne Bentzen “Your home has never mattered more than now.” - Corinne Bentzen “There’s no better gift than leaving the client with a great night’s sleep.” - Corinne Bentzen Connect with Corinne Bentzen Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest Twitter More About Corinne Bentzen: Born in Geneva, Switzerland, Corinne Bentzen began her career at Procter & Gamble, where she built brand identity for premium brands before taking the leap across the pond to join Tiffany & Co. in New York. There she put her strategic thinking, strong decision making, and leadership skills to work, ultimately leading her to The Company Store where she breathed new life into the 110-year-old home goods retailer acquired by The Home Depot in 2018. Not one to shy from a challenge, Corinne most recently took over the leadership of Home Depot’s HD Home, in addition to her leadership role at The Company Store. An avid skier and cyclist, Corinne lives in Connecticut where she enjoys an active family life with her husband, two children, and their rescue dog Rosie. What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob insidevoiceoutsidevoice.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Thank you to The Company Store for sponsoring this show!

Today with Erica Reiner Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Erica Reiner of Eco Method Interiors niched down and rebranded after a few years in business. Learn what prompted her big change, what she does when the scarcity mindset strikes, and how her business has changed since she stopped trying to be everything to everyone. Pick it apart: [4:04] Erica shares what prompted her rebrand [10:15] Erica shares her struggle with her scarcity mindset [24:50] Erica advises about sourcing green products [34:28] Erica tells about variable standards for green products [42:50] Erica shares her thoughts about the link between environmental and social justice [49:42] Erica and LuAnn speak about niching and overcoming the scarcity mindset LuAnn and Erica Reiner’s Ah-Ha moments: “Set up expectations early and often.” - Erica Reiner “You have to figure out what is important to you and what is going to motivate you when it gets tricky and tough”. - Erica Reiner “If you do something from your heart and explain your reasons why, no one can compete with that.” - LuAnn Nigara More about Erica Reiner: Erica Reiner is the owner / principal designer of Eco Method Interiors, where her company helps people transform their space, health, and the planet. As an inspired interior designer specializing in cleaner and greener spaces, Erica truly can’t decide if she likes working best in residential, commercial or short-term rental sectors with all the fun that comes with each. Erica and her team are hired by clients for full service interior design, online E-design, and event styling. Since 2015, Erica has helped clients create more joy, expression, health and wellbeing through transformational design that goes deeper than aesthetics using the “Eco Method” way. Erica loves sharing her knowledge and has been featured in Better homes and Gardens, Forbes, Apartment Therapy, Reader's digest and more. Looking forward, Erica is working towards leading the home decor and design industry into a greener, cleaner place. In her spare time, she's hanging with her husband Reed and rescue mutt, Hank. Connect with Erica Reiner: Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour at High Point LuAnn Nigara and Friends Meet and Greet at High Point luannuniversity.com Inside Voice, Outside Voice Monthly Virtual Events http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: I’ve been doing business with Kravet through Window Works for decades so I wanted to share their statement on their furniture sustainability: At Kravet Inc. we are committed to providing quality product with limited environmental impact, pairing beauty and heirloom quality materials with sustainability to support both the planet and our future generations. The Kravet Inc. legacy is impenetrably bound to environmental awareness. On their website, at kravet.com/furniture-sustainability, they list all their sustainability efforts. Here’s a quick sampling: Nearly all waste products are sustainably recycled at Kravet Furniture factories. Greater than 80% of the metal upholstery springs in Kravet Furniture come from recycled metal products. The foam padding in Kravet Furniture contains the highest possible content of soy in an effort to reduce petroleum-based substances. Other Shows Mentioned: Susan Inglis: episode 670 Mike Peterson: episode 569 Deborah Rosenberg, Dimare Design: episodes 82, 117, 212, 218 Lane McNab: episodes 205, 699 Asha Jaipur Living: episode 526

Today with Danielle Hayden: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Danielle Hayden of Kickstart Accounting takes us through what she’s learned from years of helping female entrepreneurs understand their money, heal from damaging money mindsets and make smart business decisions. Learn what financial considerations to pay special attention to at each stage of your growing business. Pick it apart: [9:38] Danielle explains her mission of helping business owners understand their numbers [14:31] Danielle shares what CFO tasks are [18:37] Danielle explains how deeply her team understands her clients [23:44] Danielle reviews common setbacks for businesses with 100k in revenue [33:11] Danielle reviews common setbacks for businesses with 250k in revenue [35:53] Danielle reviews common setbacks for businesses with 500k in revenue [39:11] Danielle talks about options for a managing the business while staying close to design [42:15] Danielle talk about planning at the 2 million gross revenue level [45:11] Danielle shares her monthly give back event where individual staff members bring ideas and causes [48:41] Danielle shares about her system for unbiased/inclusive hiring [56:45] Danielle talks about her Five Day Bootcamp LuAnn and Danielle Hayden’s Ah-Ha moments: “You cannot get to a million dollars working in your business five days a week.” - Danielle Hayden More About Danielle Hayden: Danielle Hayden is a reformed corporate CFO (chief financial officer) who is on a mission to help rule-breaking female entrepreneurs understand their numbers so they can gain the confidence needed to create sustainable profits. After spending 10+ years in the boardroom as a corporate finance officer, Danielle is now in her sweet spot as the co-owner of Kickstart Accounting, Inc. where she helps business owners with bookkeeping, financial analysis, and education and as the author of the Profit Planner book series. When Danielle isn’t crunching numbers on her clients’ behalf or crafting the next iteration of the Profit Planner, you can find her hanging with her two kids as she inspires them to lead their fullest lives or doing any, and almost every fitness-related activity ranging from Spartan races to pilates. Connect with Danielle Hayden Website Instagram Facebook What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A BIG Thank You to Today's Sponsor: Mydoma Studio: Mydoma’s workflow software helps you keep your projects organized from beginning to end, and also offers a valuable, thriving designer community. Mydoma is created by designers, for designers, so you know that it can truly offer everything you need to stay organized and free up your time. You can get 20% off your first three months by signing up at mydomastudio.com/awelldesignedbusiness. Other Shows Mentioned: Episode 622

Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! We are continuing the year-end review mini-series! During this series, I will pick apart areas in your business that I want to encourage you to address as we approach year-end. To run a profitable business that supports you financially, professionally, and personally, you have to first know where you are, to then understand where you are going. I always say you have to run the autopsy of every project, and your business is no different than any other project you work on. In this series, we will run the autopsy of our entire year and today I am going to encourage you to review your technology, subscriptions and memberships, and insurances. You know what the Vin Man says, sometimes it’s not what you make, it’s what you don’t spend. So, let’s see if we can save you from some unnecessary spending in 2022, shall we? What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Shows Mentioned: Episode 719 Episode 721 Episode 723 Episode 725

Today with Tanya Dalton: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It's Power Talk Friday! Tanya Dalton, best-selling author, speaker, productivity expert, and growth strategist for female leaders is here to share a helpful goal framework that leaves space for life’s ups and downs, celebrates progress, and prevents you from getting discouraged and quitting. Pick it apart: [4:16] Tanya shares the mindfulness exercise she uses during her commute [9:27] Tanya summarizes her new book [11:58] Tanya walks through her IMPACT goal framework [25:05] Tanya shares her email-checking system [31:05] Tanya details her customer service system that includes auto-FAQs and using templated responses/multiple inboxes [38:30] LuAnn explains Sara Brennan’s calendar hack for new client consultations [43:58] Tanya covers quick tips on implementing habit stacking LuAnn and Tanya Dalton’ Ah-Ha moments: “It’s a choice to have an extraordinary life.” - Tanya Dalton “The goal isn’t the goal. Goals are the vehicle to get you the life you want.” - Tanya Dalton More About Tanya Dalton: Tanya Dalton is a best-selling author, speaker, nationally recognized productivity expert, and serves as a growth strategist for female leaders. In addition to her first book, The Joy of Missing Out, being named one of the Top 10 Business Books of the year by Fortune Magazine, Tanya’s podcast, The Intentional Advantage has received millions of downloads from listeners around the world. She is also a featured expert on several networks including NBC and Fox and is a VIP contributor for Entrepreneur.com. Tanya has been featured in some of the world’s leading publications including Forbes, Inc, Fast Company,and Real Simple. She has been awarded the elite Enterprising Women Award and has been named the Female Entrepreneur to Watch for the state of North Carolina. Tanya is also the founder + CEO of inkWELL Press Productivity Co. a multi-million dollar company providing tools that work as a catalyst in helping women do less while achieving maximum success. Connect with Tanya Dalton Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Twitter Buy Tanya’s Book What's new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well - Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business - The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: Kravet is a fifth generation family business that distributes top quality fabrics, furniture, wall coverings, trimmings, carpets and accessories. To view their selection, visit Kravet.com and make sure to use coupon code AWDB10.

Today on A Well-Designed Business: Today is a What Would Lu Do episode! We are continuing the year-end review mini-series! Over the next few weeks, I will pick apart areas in your business that I want to encourage you to address as we approach year-end. To run a profitable business that supports you financially, professionally, and personally, you have to first know where you are, to then understand where you are going. I always say you have to run the autopsy of every project, and your business is no different than any other project you work on. In this series, we will run the autopsy of our entire year and today we are talking about our marketing plan for 2022. I am going to kick this off with a line from one of my partners at Exciting Windows!, Steve Wishnow. "Always be marketing." No matter what kind of firm you have, no matter how large or how small or how busy or slow you are—always be marketing. Let's get to it! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Inside Voice, Outside Voice Windowworksnj.com Shop38east.com Comfortex.com Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Pre-Order Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast