The Interior Design Business CEO

What if the stress you're feeling with clients or your team isn't actually about what they're doing, but about what you expect them to do without ever saying it? In this episode, I introduce the concept of manuals, those unwritten operating rules you have for other people, and how they quietly create frustration, miscommunication, and emotional friction in your interior design business. I walk you through what manuals are, how to spot them, and why they lead to disappointment when they go unspoken. You'll learn how these hidden expectations show up in your relationships with clients, team members, and partners, and why relying on others to meet them keeps you stuck in frustration. I also share a simple exercise to help you identify your own manuals and begin releasing the ones that are no longer serving you. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/167 If you love what you're learning on the show, and want to learn how I can support you, click here to learn more about coaching: https://desicreswell.com/coaching Sign up for my Monday Mindset email list to get bite-sized insights on topics that you can use to set your week up for success: https://www.desicreswell.com/monday-mindset Follow along or send me a message on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/desicreswell/

What if better clients and smoother projects start long before you ever begin designing? In this episode, I sit down with Jaquilyn Edwards of Ochre & Beige to talk about how the words you use on your website, in consultations, and throughout your process, shape the kind of clients you attract and the experience you create. This conversation is all about being more intentional with your messaging so you can build trust earlier and lead your projects with more clarity and confidence. Join us this week to hear how language can either strengthen your positioning or quietly undermine it, why leading is more effective than justifying, and how your values can come through in ways that create a stronger connection with best fit clients. Jaquilyn also shares how small shifts in wording can influence client behaviour, reduce pushback, and support a more aligned and collaborative working relationship from inquiry to install. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/166 Access the free Get It Done Daily Planner: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources Sign up for my Monday Mindset email list to get bite-sized insights on topics that you can use to set your week up for success: https://www.desicreswell.com/monday-mindset Follow along or send me a message on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/desicreswell/

Are you carrying too much in your head right now? Between client details, timelines, delegation, and daily decisions, it can feel like your brain never fully turns off. In this episode, I introduce the concept of a digital brain and explain how creating external storage for your ideas, systems, and responsibilities can dramatically lighten your mental load and support a more efficient interior design business. I share why your human brain was never meant to hold everything and how relying on memory alone increases overwhelm and mistakes. You'll learn how to create simple, centralized digital spaces that protect your time and mental bandwidth, support better delegation, and reduce the constant looping of unfinished tasks. When you free up mental space, you create more room for creativity, thoughtful leadership, and strategic growth in your design business. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/165 Access the free Get It Done Daily Planner: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources Sign up for my Monday Mindset email list to get bite-sized insights on topics that you can use to set your week up for success: https://www.desicreswell.com/monday-mindset Follow along or send me a message on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/desicreswell/

Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed by time? How you relate to time has a significant impact on how you manage your business and personal goals. Shifting your mindset can help you move from a place of pressure and scarcity to one of ease, allowing you to focus on what matters most. In this episode, I guide you through the process of reshaping your relationship with time. By viewing it as a resource that supports you, you'll feel more control over your day and less stressed about meeting your goals. This shift will help you use time intentionally, making it work in your favor. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/164 Access the free Get It Done Daily Planner: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources Sign up for my Monday Mindset email list to get bite-sized insights on topics that you can use to set your week up for success: https://www.desicreswell.com/monday-mindset Follow along or send me a message on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/desicreswell/

How do you build a schedule that actually supports the way you work instead of constantly working against you? So many designers try to copy someone else's routine or force themselves into a structure that looks good on paper but falls apart in real life. The result is frustration, inefficiency, and a constant feeling of being behind before the day even begins. In this episode, I walk you through how to create a daily and weekly rhythm that reflects your workstyle, capacity, and responsibilities as a design CEO. Rather than prescribing a rigid formula, I share the principles and questions I use with my clients to help you design a schedule that bends with the realities of client work, team leadership, creative demands, and personal life. This is about building a framework that supports focus, momentum, and flexibility without burning you out. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/163 Access the free Get It Done Daily Planner: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources Sign up for my Monday Mindset email list to get bite-sized insights on topics that you can use to set your week up for success: https://www.desicreswell.com/monday-mindset Follow along or send me a message on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/desicreswell/

That feeling of always thinking you could have done more, wishing you were farther along, or feeling behind is something many designers experience. In this episode, I'm sharing my own struggle of closing out the year with a clean slate, only to feel like it wasn't enough. We'll focus on how to manage your time and plan effectively while cultivating the feeling of completeness. You'll learn how to interrupt the emotional patterns that keep you stuck in the "never enough" cycle and why embracing completeness creates momentum. You'll also discover how to become a boss you can trust, one who honors their word and takes time off when promised. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/162 Sign up for my Monday Mindset email list to get bite-sized insights on topics that you can use to set your week up for success: https://www.desicreswell.com/monday-mindset Follow along or send me a message on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/desicreswell/

What happens when you set your goals as if the start of the year is a blank slate? In this episode, I am looking at the reality that you are already carrying client work, ongoing commitments, and your personal life into the new year. The key to making steady progress is understanding the whole cost of your goals so you do not overextend yourself or your team. I am sharing the number one consideration you need before setting your 2026 goals and why the whole cost matters for every decision you make. You will learn how to break goals into manageable steps and choose priorities that match your capacity rather than your wish list. This approach will help you plan with confidence and choose goals that you can follow through on all year long. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/161 Sign up for Create Your 2026 Roadmap to join us on January 9th and 16th, 2026: https://www.desiid.com/2026roadmap Sign up for my Monday Mindset email list to get bite-sized insights on topics that you can use to set your week up for success: https://www.desicreswell.com/monday-mindset Follow along or send me a message on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/desicreswell/

What if you could close out the year with intention, rather than rushing ahead to the next? In this episode, I'm guiding you through a reflection practice that will help you honor the past year before stepping into the next. This isn't just another end-of-year exercise. This practice will directly influence how you set your goals for the coming year by shaping how you see yourself as a business owner. The exercise I'm sharing is a letter-writing practice to past you, reflecting on everything you've done this year with gratitude. We're not focused on evaluating results or what you missed. This is about appreciating your growth, the challenges you overcame, and the person you've become along the way. By honoring your journey, you strengthen the identity of someone who shows up, creates wins, and evolves as a resilient CEO. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/160 Sign up for Create Your 2026 Roadmap to join us on January 9th and 16th, 2026: https://www.desiid.com/2026roadmap Sign up for my Monday Mindset email list to get bite-sized insights on topics that you can use to set your week up for success: https://www.desicreswell.com/monday-mindset Follow along or send me a message on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/desicreswell/

What do you need to do to achieve your goals in 2026? All of us have set points, what we are comfortable having and doing, and where we hold ourselves back. In this episode, I'm diving into how these invisible barriers show up as "floors and ceilings" in your interior design business. These floors are what you're stuck to or cannot move beyond, while ceilings represent the bigger goals and what you need to break through to reach them. The identity shifts required to achieve your 2026 goals are an essential part of sustainable business growth. I'm exploring how your past, present, and future self concept directly impacts what you are able to create in your company. While this episode is rooted in mindset, you'll walk away with tangible takeaways you can start using immediately as you dream up what you want to create and achieve in 2026. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/159 Sign up for Create Your 2026 Roadmap and get early bird pricing until December 16, 2025: https://www.desiid.com/2026roadmap Sign up for my Monday Mindset email list to get bite-sized insights on topics that you can use to set your week up for success: https://www.desicreswell.com/monday-mindset Follow along or send me a message on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/desicreswell/

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the year-end rush? As the holidays approach, the pressure to finish tasks, meet deadlines, and prepare for the new year can feel intense. But what if you could reduce the stress, stay on top of your business, and still enjoy the season? In this episode, I'm walking you through a planning strategy to help you wrap up the year with clarity and confidence. I'll share my approach to creating a "bridge plan" that transitions you smoothly from Q4 to Q1, helping you prioritize what needs to be done now and what can wait until January. You'll learn how to create a "soft landing, smooth takeoff," avoiding that last-minute scramble and starting the new year refreshed. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/158 For the resources mentioned in this episode or to stay tuned for details about Create Your 2026 Roadmap, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources Sign up for my Monday Mindset email list to get bite-sized insights on topics that you can use to set your week up for success: https://www.desicreswell.com/monday-mindset Follow along or send me a message on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/desicreswell/

Do you struggle with marketing? Marketing your interior design business requires visibility and connection with potential clients. For introverts who prefer smaller groups and more intimate interactions, traditional marketing advice can feel overwhelming and misaligned with their natural working style. The challenge becomes finding ways to share your work authentically while honoring your temperament and energy levels. In this episode, I'm exploring how to create marketing strategies that align with your individual strengths and preferences as a business owner. Whether you identify as an introvert, extrovert, or somewhere in between, the key is understanding that effective marketing doesn't require you to be someone you're not. I share personal examples of how I structure my marketing activities to support my introverted nature while still achieving business growth. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/157 For the resources mentioned in this episode or to stay tuned for details about Create Your 2026 Roadmap, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources Sign up for my Monday Mindset email list to get bite-sized insights on topics that you can use to set your week up for success: https://www.desicreswell.com/monday-mindset Follow along or send me a message on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/desicreswell/

Big goals and bold changes often come with a surprising amount of resistance. Whether it's a shift you know needs to happen or a dream you keep putting off, the tug of war between wanting to move forward and feeling frozen can leave you exhausted. That resistance isn't a sign you're unprepared or unmotivated; it's fear doing its job of trying to keep you safe from uncertainty. In this episode, I'm sharing a coaching tool called a fear inventory that helps you get unstuck, build confidence, and take aligned action on the things you've been avoiding. I walk you through how I've used this process to make some of my biggest business decisions, including shifting the podcast schedule, closing my design practice, and investing in new levels of support, and how this same strategy can help you move through your own pivotal moments with more ease and clarity. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/156 For the resources mentioned in this episode or to book a strategy session to work 1:1 with me, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources Sign up for my Monday Mindset email list to get bite-sized insights on topics that you can use to set your week up for success: https://www.desicreswell.com/monday-mindset Follow along or send me a message on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/desicreswell/

How do you make decisions that honor both your business goals and your energy as the owner? Every decision about where I invest my time, money, and mental bandwidth shapes not only my bottom line but also my day-to-day experience as a business owner. The most sustainable businesses come from taking a holistic approach, listening to both the data and my gut when making decisions. In this behind-the-scenes episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on my own business to show how I make choices about resources and navigate changes as priorities shift. You'll get a real-world look at strategic decision-making in action. Plus, I share an important announcement about changes to the podcast schedule and how this shift demonstrates exactly how I'm walking my talk when it comes to resource allocation and running toward what I want to create in my business. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/155 For the resources mentioned in this episode or to book a strategy session to work 1:1 with me, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources Sign up to my Monday Mindset email list to get bite-sized insights on topics that you can use to set your week up for success: https://www.desicreswell.com/monday-mindset Follow along or send me a message on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/desicreswell/

This week, I'm pausing to share a powerful question for you to journal or think through. I also suggest revisiting a past episode with a fresh perspective for new takeaways. Next Wednesday, I'll be back with a big announcement about the podcast and a behind-the-scenes look at how I'm navigating changes in my business. For the resources available to you or to book a strategy session to work 1:1 with me, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

Sometimes the smallest tasks create the biggest mental weight. That pile of papers on your desk, the drawer you've been meaning to organize, the business process that needs updating – they sit there, taking up space in your mind every single day. The energy you spend thinking about these undone tasks often exceeds the energy required to actually complete them. In this pep talk episode, I share a simple four-step process for moving past avoidance and procrastination to finally tackle those lingering tasks. Using my own closet overhaul as a real-world example, I walk through exactly how I shift from endless postponement to actual completion. The same process works for personal projects and business tasks that keep getting bumped to next week's to-do list. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/154 For the resources mentioned in this episode or to book a strategy session to work 1:1 with me, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

How do you protect creative time when you're balancing a design business, family life, and a packed calendar? For designer CEOs, carving out dedicated time to create the vision for new projects isn't just a luxury; it's essential for project success and team clarity. In this follow-up to last week's listener Q&A, I'm diving into the practicalities of defining and honoring creative time as part of your regular workflow, even while managing team delegation and project reviews. I'm also reflecting on my own summer slowdown, including what went right, what didn't, and the lessons learned along the way. From perfectionism showing up in unexpected ways to finding powerful personal growth before summer even began, I'm pulling back the curtain on my experience. You'll learn how to manage expectations, re-decide on your plans without guilt, and set boundaries that actually stick. Plus, I'll share the phrase that's helped me extend the same grace to myself that I naturally give to others. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/153 For the resources mentioned in this episode or to book a strategy session to work 1:1 with me, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

How do you manage growing pains when bringing on a new employee while keeping your business running smoothly? That's the question one listener asked, and it's one many designers face when adding their first junior designer. Stepping into leadership, delegating effectively, and staying productive can feel like a delicate balance, especially when client projects and daily design work don't pause for training. This episode kicks off a two-part Q&A series following CEO Summer School. I dive into practical strategies for onboarding and managing a new team member, pinpointing where delegation often breaks down, and building systems that actually work. I also tackle how to make major business decisions when multiple exciting paths are available, whether that's growing your current business, pivoting to support other designers, or niching down further. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/152 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

How do you build trust with clients before they even start the inquiry process? For designers, this foundation often determines whether a project becomes a smooth collaboration or a series of stressful negotiations. I'm joined by Melissa Oholendt, founder of Oho Interiors and one of House Beautiful's 2025 Next Wave designers. Melissa has mastered creating client relationships that run deep. You'll discover how showing behind-the-scenes parts of your work on Instagram builds credibility, why documenting client preferences can transform project outcomes, and how taking full accountability for mistakes can strengthen relationships. Melissa also shares how thoughtful touches in design create lasting connections with clients. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/151 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

What if the key to moving your business forward isn't having all the answers, but making the right decisions and committing to them? In this episode, we wrap up the CEO Summer School series by exploring why strong decisions are the wheels that drive your business. Every choice you make, from your fees and services to how you spend your time, shapes the trajectory of your business. I break down what makes a decision strong versus weak, why commitment matters more than certainty, and how to stop straddling two mountains with one foot on each. You'll learn how to make choices that create momentum, use your decisions as a tool for learning and growth, and develop the self-leadership that allows you to steer your business toward your vision. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/150 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

What does it take to run a multifaceted design business that balances creativity, leadership, and growth? Katie Kath, CEO and Creative Director of Jkath Design Build, has spent years developing a business model that integrates interior design, custom cabinetry, and renovation management. Her journey from joining a two-person operation to leading an 11-employee team offers invaluable lessons for designers looking to scale their businesses strategically. In this episode, Katie explains her approach to building a team that supports both the CEO and the clients. She offers insights into hiring, delegation, and team alignment. Katie also shares how she identified the "sweet spot," an optimal business size that allows for continued growth, strong collaboration, and consistent work quality. She discusses how internal review systems, setting clear expectations with clients, and maintaining team cohesion contribute to her company's success, and how you can apply similar principles to your business. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/149 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

Are you solving the right problems in your design business? Every day brings new challenges, from client communications eating up your inbox time to profitability concerns that keep you awake at night. But there's a key difference between solving symptoms and addressing the root causes that will help your business thrive in the long run. In this episode, I'm sharing truth number six from my CEO Summer School series: effective solutions start with solving the right problems. Through examples from the design industry, I'll show you how to dig deeper and identify what's really going on beneath the surface. You'll learn why your brain gravitates toward quick fixes, how to spot the difference between avoiding discomfort and taking the easiest path, and how to pinpoint the true problem. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/148 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

Is your design business ready to take the next step with PR? If you've been wondering how public relations could help you grow your firm but aren't sure when or how to get started, you're in the right place. In this episode, we dive into the strategies that can take your brand from local visibility to national recognition. I'm joined by Allison Hay, a seasoned communications strategist and PR expert with over a decade of experience in the design industry. She has worked with top-tier design firms and brands, helping them secure media coverage and amplify their presence. Allison shares her expert advice on how to navigate the world of PR and what you need to do to see measurable results, whether you're just starting to explore PR or ready to elevate your approach. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/147 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

Building a strong team goes beyond simply hiring the right people. It requires a fundamental shift in how you engage with those who support your business. Many creative CEOs hire for relief, hoping to finally hand off tasks they don't enjoy or feel overwhelmed by. But this relief can quickly turn into frustration when team members aren't delivering the results you expected, or worse, when mistakes go unnoticed until they become costly problems. In this episode, I'm sharing truth number five from the CEO Summer School series: true CEOs collaborate, they don't abdicate. This means recognizing that while you're bringing on team members to handle specific tasks and responsibilities, you remain a key ingredient in creating your business's success. Collaboration allows you to be the driver of your business while having others who understand where you're going and help you get there. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/146 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

Do you often find yourself being your own toughest critic? Running a business as an interior designer requires resilience, but constantly focusing on what you haven't done perfectly can hold you back from reaching your true potential. In today's episode, I'm diving into why practicing self-compassion is one of the most powerful tools you can develop as a designer CEO. Self-compassion isn't about letting yourself off the hook; it's about shifting your mindset to support yourself through challenges, setbacks, and mistakes. By embracing kindness and understanding toward yourself, you'll break free from perfectionism and quiet your inner critic. You'll discover how this approach not only helps you feel better but also increases your efficiency and problem-solving ability. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/145 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources Click here to enroll in CEO Summer School: https://www.desiid.com/summerschool

Running a business is like being on an upward spiral - you're continually expanding as your business expands, but the spiral isn't always smooth. You bump up against internal limits and ceilings, often of your own creation. When you understand that scaling is an inside job, you develop the toolkit to move beyond them. Truth number four in the CEO Summer School series reveals that your business growth and all those outward markers of success start inside of you. In this episode, you'll discover how to address root issues instead of surface-level symptoms, understand why self-awareness without self-blame is crucial, and learn to recognize when your self-concept needs an upgrade to match your business expansion. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/144 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources Click here to enroll in CEO Summer School: https://www.desiid.com/summerschool

Are hidden time and energy drains quietly sabotaging your productivity? It's easy to focus on the obvious tasks—proposals, appointments, and emails—but what about the subtle drains that can add up over time? In today's episode, we're revisiting the important topic of time and energy leaks in your business, which are often harder to spot but can be just as costly. This is a follow-up to truth number three in my CEO Summer School series, where we talked about taking control of your time to shape your future. You'll discover how simple shifts can plug these leaks and create more time and energy for what truly matters in your business. I'll share actionable strategies that will help you work smarter, not harder, and feel more energized as you move toward your business goals. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/143 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources Click here to enroll in CEO Summer School: https://www.desiid.com/summerschool

Could time management be the key to creating the business and life you want? If you feel like you're always running out of time or struggling to get things done, this episode will give you a new perspective. In truth number three of CEO Summer School, I'm sharing why taking control of your time is the first step toward taking control of your future. You'll learn why time management gets a bad reputation and how a shift in perspective can help you see it as a tool for freedom rather than restriction. With a simple, sustainable approach to planning, you'll build the foundation needed to grow your business and make more deliberate progress toward your vision. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/142 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources Click here to enroll in CEO Summer School: https://www.desiid.com/summerschool

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the idea of pursuing a vision for your business? Setting your vision and pursuing it boldly can feel daunting, especially when you're focused on what you want three years from now. In this follow-up to CEO Summer School's truth number two, I'm highlighting a crucial distinction that impacts your energy, effectiveness, and enjoyment as you build your interior design business. The difference between running toward what you want versus running from what you fear shapes every decision you make and action you take. This subtle shift in focus can determine whether you're overcorrecting, settling for "good enough," or truly moving toward your vision with confidence. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/141 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources Click here to enroll in CEO Summer School: https://www.desiid.com/summerschool

Are you stuck trying to figure out what your business vision should look like? Maybe you know what you want but are unsure how to take action toward it. In today's episode, I'm sharing truth number two from my CEO Summer School series: "What I Know for Sure." In order to grow a thriving interior design business, you must have a compelling vision of where you're going and pursue it boldly. We're diving into the importance of setting a clear vision for your business and how to confidently take the necessary steps toward making it a reality. This truth is essential for anyone who wants to stop second-guessing their direction and start moving forward with confidence. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/140 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources Click here to enroll in CEO Summer School: https://www.desiid.com/summerschool

If there is no right way to grow your interior design business, how do you know what to do next? In this episode, I dive into how to identify your unique right way forward. Understanding your next steps requires examining three key areas: strategy, mindset, and emotional alignment. I share how to evaluate potential business moves through the lens of your goals and vision, while considering your current capacity and season of life. This practical framework helps you make confident decisions about which opportunities to pursue and which to save for later. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/139 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources Click here to enroll in CEO Summer School: https://www.desiid.com/summerschool

Are you stuck thinking there's a "right way" to grow your business? Maybe you're trying to follow best practices or copying strategies you've seen others use, but something still feels off. In this first episode of CEO Summer School, I'm sharing a truth I know for sure: there's no single "right way" to grow your business. There are countless ways to run a successful interior design business, and the key is finding what works best for you. This is all about moving away from the belief that there's one perfect method and instead embracing what fits your values, goals, and personal style. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/138 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources Click here to enroll in CEO Summer School: https://www.desiid.com/summerschool

Are you ready to slow down this summer, but still feel like you should be making progress in your business? Maybe you want to give yourself more space to enjoy the season, but also want to keep your interior design business moving forward. In this episode, I'm announcing the return of CEO Summer School—my free audio series designed to help you navigate the summer months without feeling overwhelmed. This year, we're bringing it back with a new theme, and I'm excited to share all the details with you. If you participated last year, you'll want to tune in for a fresh twist this time around. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/137 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources Click here to enroll in CEO Summer School: https://www.desiid.com/summerschool

Is there a part of your business you're feeling pulled to rethink or do differently? Maybe it's something you've outgrown or a new vision that keeps tugging at your attention. When that "what if" won't go away, it might be time to reimagine what's next. In this episode, I'm sharing a process you can use to make big changes in your business with more clarity and confidence. I'll walk you through the big change I'm making this summer and how you can use the same process to move from an idea to a plan that fits the season you're in. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/136 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

Have you ever started a new habit or routine, only to suddenly find yourself completely off track? That moment when you realize you've "fallen off the wagon" can trigger a spiral of guilt and self-judgment that makes it even harder to start again. These moments of deviation aren't failures at all, they're essential parts of the change process. In this episode, I share how to approach these inevitable moments of inconsistency with curiosity instead of judgment. By dropping the entire construct of "the wagon," you can build genuine self-trust that leads to sustainable change. This shift in perspective helps you recover faster from setbacks, and it transforms how you approach growth in your design business altogether. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/135 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

Are you constantly swooping in to save the day, taking on excessive responsibility, and feeling like you're the only one who can do things right? You might be caught in the pattern of overfunctioning, which can lead to burnout without even realizing it. I share the signs of overfunctioning, why we do it, and most importantly, how to break free from this pattern. By understanding the difference between healthy responsibility and overfunctioning, you can create more balance in your business and personal life. I offer practical questions to help you identify your own patterns and strategies to shift toward a more sustainable way of operating. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/134 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

Do you struggle to have difficult conversations with clients, contractors, or team members? I've been coaching on this topic a lot lately, and it's clear that many designers find themselves in situations where they worry about coming across as rude or confrontational. In this episode, I dive into why these conversations feel so challenging and how to navigate them with confidence. I share specific strategies to help you communicate more effectively, including how to identify what's really holding you back, ways to shift your mindset, and practical approaches to these conversations. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/133 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

Are you drowning in unmade decisions? I call this "decision debt" – the accumulation of postponed choices that drain your energy and keep you stuck in a perpetual state of indecision. As interior designers, we help clients make decisions every day, but often struggle with our own business decisions, letting them pile up until they become overwhelming. In this episode, I'm sharing my framework for clearing decision debt and developing stronger decision-making muscles. I'll help you understand why you might be avoiding decisions, how to identify your unmade choices, and implement a practical system for making decisions with confidence. When you free yourself from decision debt, you'll experience more momentum, clarity, and energy to pursue your vision for your interior design business. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/132 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

Is uncertainty in the design industry keeping you up at night? With economic shifts, political changes, and market fluctuations, it's easy to feel like the ground beneath your business is constantly shifting. As interior designers, we're not just navigating our own businesses—we're helping clients make significant investments during these same uncertain times. In this episode, I dive into practical strategies for not just surviving but thriving when everything feels unpredictable. I share why our brains crave certainty and how this natural tendency can actually work against us as business owners. The future may be uncertain, but your ability to navigate it doesn't have to be. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/131 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

Have you been ignoring your own needs while taking care of everyone else's? In this special pep talk episode, I explore the powerful practice of identifying what you truly need and then giving it to yourself. Whether it's physical rest, emotional support, or simply permission to want what you want, learning to honor your own signals can transform how you show up in your business and life. The inspiration for this episode came from a listener who shared her beautiful practice of apologizing to herself for the ways she'd been unkind to her own spirit. I explore how we can all become more attuned to our needs, whether they're big or small, internal or external, and how giving ourselves what we need builds our internal resources and supports our goals rather than detracting from them. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/130 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

Have you ever found yourself feeling exhausted, resentful, or frustrated with clients, contractors, or even team members? If so, you're likely experiencing the consequences of ineffective boundaries in your interior design business. I see this pattern repeatedly with designers who come to me for coaching—they know they need to set boundaries but struggle with how to establish and maintain them effectively. In this episode, I'm breaking down the four most common boundary-setting mistakes I see interior designers make. By understanding what not to do, you'll gain clarity on how to confidently establish and uphold boundaries that support both you and your business relationships. These insights will help you create a more sustainable business model that allows you to show up at your best while still maintaining healthy professional relationships. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/129 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

Are you constantly chasing the next goal, pushing yourself to the limit, and feeling like you can never quite catch up? In today's episode, I'm diving into the crucial distinction between hustling and hard work—two approaches that might seem similar on the surface but lead to dramatically different outcomes for your interior design business and personal wellbeing. I'll walk you through how to recognize whether you're operating from a place of frantic hustle or purposeful hard work, why the emotional fuel behind your actions matters more than the hours you put in, and practical steps to shift your approach if needed. This distinction isn't just about semantics, it's about creating a business that supports your life rather than consumes it, allowing you to achieve meaningful results without sacrificing your well-being in the process. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/128 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

Have you been feeling stuck in your interior design business lately? Are you ready to level up but unsure of the next steps to take? Attending a professional retreat or conference could be just the spark you need to reignite your passion and grow your business to new heights. In this episode, I'm joined by Jennifer Davis, founder of Davis Interiors and creator of the Midwest Design Retreat. Jennifer shares her insights on how stepping away from the day-to-day operations of your business to attend a retreat can provide the inspiration, validation, and community you need to take your business to the next level. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/127 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

As interior designers, we often juggle multiple projects and deadlines, making it easy to fall into the trap of putting things off until the eleventh hour. But this habit can lead to unnecessary stress, careless mistakes, and even damage to our professional reputation. It's time to make a change. I dive into the mindset shifts and practical strategies you need to stop doing things last minute. From dropping the self-judgment to finding intrinsic motivation, these tips will help you become more proactive, efficient, and calm in your work. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/126 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

If the thought of a break brings up a ton of fears and worries, it's time to start planning now to ensure your interior design business is set up for success during those sweet summer months. Whether you want to take extended time off, work a reduced schedule, or simply navigate the changes in rhythm that summer brings, it's important to be intentional about your approach. I share the 10 key things you need to do now to prepare your business for the summer season. From mapping out project timelines to reviewing your finances, we'll cover all the bases so you can create a summer experience that supports both your business goals and your personal desires. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/125 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

I'm an award winning interior designer and a master certified life and business coach. I created this podcast to help designers go from stressed and overwhelmed to calm, confident, and in control because I know that when you thrive, so will your business. In every episode, I blend mindset concepts, emotional resilience tools, and practical strategies to sustainably grow your interior design business in a way that supports you creatively, financially, and enriches your life by creating self-defined success. Here we cover essential topics like time management, boundaries, leadership, goal setting, and more to help you streamline your days, increase your profitability, and build a business you love to run. If you're ready for a holistic approach to business that empowers you as a designer CEO, you're in the right place. And for instant access to free resources that'll help you implement what you learn on the show, visit desicreswell.com.

In this episode, I dive into the dreaded fear of wasting time and energy and explore why it's not actually possible to waste your time if you have the right approach. I share how this fear manifests as withholding effort and how that ultimately keeps you stuck, preventing you from learning and growing. Join me as I reframe the idea of "wasted" time and effort and discover how to drop the resistance, stop withholding, and start moving forward with more efficiency and less effort. By the end of this episode, you'll have a new perspective on how to approach challenges in your business and feel empowered to take action without fear. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/124 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources

I'm joined by fellow interior design business coach Nancy Ganzekaufer for a collaborative conversation about six actionable strategies to make the most of your time. From planning your days for maximum efficiency to using AI to streamline communication and project proposals, these tips will help you work smarter, not harder. None of these strategies will take much time to implement, but they can have a huge impact on your bottom line. If you're ready to optimize your time and boost your profits, this episode is for you. Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.desicreswell.com/123 For the resources mentioned in this episode, click here: https://www.desicreswell.com/resources