Episodios

  • #105 | How to Set Boundaries in your Interior Design Business (& Life)

    #105 | How to Set Boundaries in your Interior Design Business (& Life)
    Mar 17 2026
    Interior Designer's Business Blueprint In this episode, Becca and I talk about the role boundaries play in building a sustainable interior design business. We explore why boundaries can feel difficult to set — especially for women and service-based entrepreneurs — and how designers can begin creating healthier expectations around time, scope, communication, and client relationships. In this episode, we discuss: What boundaries actually are and why they're simply expectationsWhy interior designers often struggle with setting boundariesThe four types of boundaries that help protect your businessTime boundaries like office hours, meeting schedules, and communication response timesScope boundaries and how to prevent scope creep in design projectsEmotional boundaries and protecting your energy with clientsFinancial boundaries, including payment expectations and project termsWhy clear boundaries help protect your professional reputationHow listening to your intuition can help you recognize when a boundary is neededPractical ways to start practicing boundaries in both business and life If you're ready to build a design business that supports your life — not the other way around — I'd love to invite you inside the Interior Designer's Business Blueprint + Membership. Inside, we help designers refine their processes, strengthen their pricing and positioning, and build profitable businesses with the support of a thoughtful, collaborative community. Doors are open through March 22, so if this conversation resonated with you, now is the perfect time to learn more and join us. Mentioned in this episode: DOORS ARE OPEN through March 22nd! - Join Today! Interior Designer's Business BlueprintFREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers 🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer's Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/join WANT MORE? 🛒 Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles ⬇️ Free Resources FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram 📍 Pinterest 📺 YouTube ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/how-to-set-boundaries-in-your-interior-design-business
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    35 m
  • #104 | Take a Look Inside the Interior Designer's Business Blueprint with Esther Ellard & Colleen Slack

    #104 | Take a Look Inside the Interior Designer's Business Blueprint with Esther Ellard & Colleen Slack
    Mar 12 2026
    Interior Designer's Business Blueprint "You don't have to build your business someone else's way—you get to build it around your values, your lifestyle, and the way you actually want to live." What if the biggest shift in your business doesn't come from working harder, but from getting clearer about what actually matters to you? In this episode, I'm joined by two longtime Designer's Oasis members, Esther Allard and Colleen Slack, for an honest conversation about building an interior design business that feels profitable, aligned, and sustainable. We talk about the power of community, the importance of setting boundaries, and how defining success for yourself can completely change the way you run your business. Esther shares how a painful client experience became the catalyst for stronger boundaries, better pricing, and a business built around her faith and family. Colleen shares how she evolved her firm over time and stepped into a more differentiated brand by incorporating human design and nervous system regulation into her design process. This conversation is such a powerful reminder that there is no one right way to build a successful interior design business. The goal isn't to copy someone else's formula. It's to create a business that supports your values, your lifestyle, and the work you want to be known for. If you've been craving more clarity, more confidence, or more support as you grow, this episode will remind you that you do not have to figure it all out alone. In this episode, we cover: Why community matters so much for interior designers, especially solopreneursHow hearing other designers' perspectives can help you make better business decisionsEsther's journey from staging to interior design and the client experience that changed everythingHow difficult projects can become turning points instead of reasons to quitWhy stronger boundaries often lead to better clients and a healthier businessHow Colleen built a design business that reflects her values and unique strengthsWhat it looked like to integrate human design and nervous system regulation into her firmWhy there is no one-size-fits-all formula for success in interior designHow core desired feelings can help shape your business model and decisionsWhy profitability and lifestyle do not have to be in conflictHow to reverse engineer your business around the life you actually wantThe role of accountability, shared wisdom, and support inside a strong design community If you're ready to build a design business that supports your life — not the other way around — I'd love to invite you inside the Interior Designer's Business Blueprint + Membership. Inside, we help designers refine their processes, strengthen their pricing and positioning, and build profitable businesses with the support of a thoughtful, collaborative community. Doors are open through March 22, so if this conversation resonated with you, now is the perfect time to learn more and join us. Mentioned in this episode: DOORS ARE OPEN through March 22nd! - Join Today! Interior Designer's Business BlueprintFREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers 🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer's Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/join WANT MORE? 🛒 Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles ⬇️ Free Resources FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram 📍 Pinterest 📺 YouTube ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/look-inside-interior-designers-business-blueprint
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    44 m
  • #103 | How to Handle Imposter Syndrome in Interior Design (And Why It Shows Up at Every Level)

    #103 | How to Handle Imposter Syndrome in Interior Design (And Why It Shows Up at Every Level)
    Feb 28 2026
    Imposter syndrome gets tossed around constantly in the design world — but what if it's not a syndrome… it's just a temporary feeling (and one we can learn to move through)? In this episode, we unpack why "imposter syndrome" might be the wrong label, how it can turn into an excuse that keeps you stuck, and what to do when those thoughts show up mid-project, mid-pivot, or mid-big-decision. We talk about the difference between filling real knowledge gaps (skills, systems, confidence builders) and rewiring your inner dialogue (self-talk, visualization, affirmations, community support). If you've ever questioned whether you "belong" because you don't have the "right" credentials, background, or path — this one is your reminder: you're allowed to build success in a way that fits your life. In this episode, we cover: 👉 Why we should stop pathologizing imposter syndrome (and what to call it instead) 👉 "Imposter feelings" vs. an identity you carry around 👉 How imposter talk can quietly become an excuse for staying small 👉 What to do when comparison spirals start while scrolling Instagram 👉 The power of the right next step (instead of needing a 5-year plan) 👉 Practical tools: visualization, affirmations, asking for support, and reflecting on hard things you've already done 👉 Why confidence matters in hard client conversations (especially budget conversations) 👉 How community helps you move through self-doubt faster Join the Business Blueprint Reset If you're feeling stuck, heavy, or like your business requires more effort than it should, Kate invites you to the Business Blueprint Reset — a 4-day experience designed to help you get quiet, reconnect with what matters, and uncover what's really driving your stress or indecision. Visit designersoasis.com/reset to learn more and register. Mentioned in this episode: JOIN the waitlist - Doors open early March: Interior Designer's Business BlueprintFREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior DesignersRegister for The Spring Reset - March 9th - 12thPODCAST: Episode 26: Raising Your Design Fees Without the "Ick"PODCAST: Episode 28: How Limiting Beliefs Might Be Holding You BackPODCAST: Episode 30: The Perfectionism TrapDaniel House Club Curated Collection 🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer's Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint WANT MORE? 🛒 Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles ⬇️ Free Resources FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram 📍 Pinterest 📺 YouTube ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/imposter-syndrome
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    50 m
  • #102 | Nurturing Your Creativity as an Interior Designer

    #102 | Nurturing Your Creativity as an Interior Designer
    Feb 25 2026
    Interior Designer's Business Blueprint Creativity isn't just for "artsy" people — it's a key part of being a great designer, problem-solver, and business owner. In this episode, we talk about what creativity actually is (hint: it's not just painting or making something pretty), why stress can shut it down, and how wellness, community, and novelty can help you reconnect with the part of you that sees possibilities. We also explore why so many high-achieving designers struggle to make time for creativity "just because," how chronic stress can narrow your thinking, and why small changes — like coworking, taking a different route home, or putting yourself in the "path of awe" — can unlock new ideas and energy. Plus, I share a personal shift I've noticed over the last few years: as my health improved (sleep, alcohol-free living, stress support), my creativity came back online in a way that made me feel like a better designer, leader, and human. In this episode, we cover: Why creativity isn't a personality trait — it's something you can nurtureA simple definition of creativity: making new connectionsHow stress (especially chronic stress) impacts creativity and problem-solvingThe role of community (and "body doubling") in focus and creative momentumWays to support your nervous system so creativity feels more accessibleThe power of novelty, awe, and art (creating or observing) to spark ideasPractical tools I love: Insight Timer, Oura Ring, and tapping Join the Business Blueprint Reset If you're feeling stuck, heavy, or like your business requires more effort than it should, Kate invites you to the Business Blueprint Reset — a 4-day experience designed to help you get quiet, reconnect with what matters, and uncover what's really driving your stress or indecision. Visit designersoasis.com/reset to learn more and register. Mentioned in this episode: JOIN the waitlist - Doors open early March: Interior Designer's Business BlueprintFREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior DesignersRegister for The Spring Reset - March 9th - 12thBook: Your Brain on ArtApps/Tools: Insight Timer, The Tapping Solution, Oura RingPODCAST: Going Alcohol Free - Listen here! 🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer's Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint WANT MORE? 🛒 Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles ⬇️ Free Resources FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram 📍 Pinterest 📺 YouTube ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/nurturing-creativity-for-interior-designers
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    51 m
  • #101 | Permission to Pivot: Redefining Success on Your Own Terms

    #101 | Permission to Pivot: Redefining Success on Your Own Terms
    Feb 19 2026
    "Sometimes we think one thing is the goal, but as we start moving through it, it shifts and pivots. The goal might stay the same—but the how can change." In this episode, we dive into one of the most powerful (and often uncomfortable) parts of entrepreneurship: pivoting. Whether you're evolving your services, redefining success, or quietly questioning whether the path you're on still fits, this conversation is a reminder that change isn't failure—it's growth. Here's a glance at this episode… 👉 Why pivoting isn't failure—but often a sign of growth and deeper alignment 👉 How to recognize when you're forcing yourself into someone else's version of success 👉 The importance of clarifying your values before making big business decisions 👉 How seasonality (in life and in business) can shape your services and revenue model 👉 Why giving yourself permission to change may be the most strategic move you make Mentioned in this episode:

    • JOIN the waitlist: Interior Designer's Business Blueprint

    • Register for The Spring Reset - March 9th - 12th, 2026

    🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer's Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/blueprint WANT MORE? 🛒 Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles ⬇️ Free Resources FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram 📍 Pinterest 📺 YouTube ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis EPISODE WEBSITE ⇗- designersoasis.com/episode/permission-to-pivot
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    42 m
  • Rewrite the Rules: Build a Business That Feels Like You

    Rewrite the Rules: Build a Business That Feels Like You
    Sep 23 2025

    For Interior Designers Who Want Profit, Peace, and Portfolio-Worthy Projects

    Doors are open for the Interior Designers Business Blueprint 2.0 Course and the Designer's Oasis Membership - find out more here!

    Doors Close September 30th!

    🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer's Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/join WANT MORE? 🛒 Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles ⬇️ Free Resources FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram 📍 Pinterest 📺 YouTube ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis
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    1 h y 20 m
  • #74 | 20 Time Saving Tips for Interior Designers [REPLAY]

    #74 | 20 Time Saving Tips for Interior Designers [REPLAY]
    May 22 2025
    What is most important is that you start to recognize the value of your time. Discovering the value of your time includes understanding how important it is to manage, control, and protect it while still remaining flexible as a business owner. In today's episode, we dive deep into time-saving tips tailored specifically for interior designers that will help you handle minor inefficiencies so that you can spend your time in your zone of genius and the areas that are revenue-generating. We'll cover the top areas that tend to take up time - sourcing, email management, and general time management. Here's a glance at this episode… I share my top 6 productivity hacks for sourcing including how I use SketchUp, buying groups, and vendors to streamline my design processes.I share how I have created a trade directory over time, how I handle shipping rates, and the method behind how I organize my materials library.I dive into my top 4 tips for managing your email without getting stuck in the rabbit hole of checking email all the time.I discuss how I use automation, time blocking, time tracking, and extensions/add-ons within Google to streamline my processes and my calendar.I share with you how I protect my "white space" so that I can have dedicated deep work time.I share my best tips for creating SOPs, managing meeting scheduling, and communicating with my clients and team. Mastering the art of time management and creating more space for true productivity and creativity is crucial for achieving success as an interior design business owner. By implementing strategies such as whitespace scheduling, leveraging productivity tools, and embracing efficient communication methods, you can enhance your productivity, reduce stress, and ultimately achieve your business and design goals with greater ease and efficiency. So, whether you're a solopreneur or part of a growing team, investing in effective time management practices can help to create the space you need to do your best work while also increasing your revenue and time for your personal life. Mentioned in this episode: Blog Post: How to Organize Your Materials LibraryBlog Post: Makeover Your Week with TimeblockingBlog Post: How to Capture Systems with LoomShop: Email Template SuiteJoin Sketchup - SketchUpJoin Danielle House Club Join Designer's Inc.Check out Design Trade ServiceStart using Boomerang for EmailDubsadoHoneybookUse this Visual Timer: Time TimerStart using Loom for Video RecordingFREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior DesignersFREE Masterclass: 6 Park Framework for A Thriving Interior Design BusinessJOIN: Designer's Oasis MembershipSign up for The Brief today! 🎯 Learn More: Interior Designer's Business Blueprint - https://www.designersoasis.com/join WANT MORE? 🛒 Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer) 🔖 Interior Design Business Articles ⬇️ Free Resources FOLLOW ALONG 🤳Instagram 📍 Pinterest 📺 YouTube ------------------------------------- ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts*** FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis Episode Page: designersoasis.com/episode/20-time-saving-tips-for-interior-designers
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    1 h
  • #53 | How to run your Interior Design Consultation like a Pro

    #53 | How to run your Interior Design Consultation like a Pro
    May 8 2025

    Want to have better proposals? Start with delivering better consultations. Consultations are the first step in working with your client and the better experience they have, the more likely they will want to work with you

    Here's a glance at the episode:

    • I discuss how to effectively set expectations for your clients from the beginning - even before the consultation begins.
    • I share how I prepare for a consultation and what I typically do in terms of paperwork, research, and getting to know the potential client(s).
    • I share with you some of the little nuances that I have picked up along the way that help you to make a great first impression.
    • I go through how I get more information about the lifestyle of the client and what they are looking to feel in their home and how they entertain to get a full picture.
    • I discuss how I treat the consults as a "mini-design" session to add value for my client where I share a few design solutions to allow them to see the possibilities, however big or small. I also use this time to explore the different surfaces and revisit the budget to present a solid proposal.
    • I share how I wrap up the session and remind the client of their options moving forward.

    Mentioned in this episode:

    • Episode #5- How to Create a Successful Client Welcome Packet
    • My favorite tape measure
    • JOIN: Designer's Oasis Membership
    • FREE DOWNLOAD: 7 Habits of Highly Profitable Interior Designers
    • Sign up for The Brief today!

    🎯 Learn More: Designer's Oasis Membership - https://www.designersoasis.com/join

    WANT MORE?

    🛒 Template Shop - 10% off the shop PODCAST10 (Limit one use per customer)

    🔖 Interior Design Business Articles

    ⬇️ Free Resources

    FOLLOW ALONG

    🤳Instagram

    📍 Pinterest

    📺 YouTube

    -------------------------------------

    ***Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts***

    FOLLOW this channel so you never miss an episode! - https://www.youtube.com/@DesignersOasis

    designersoasis.com/episode/53Episode Page: designersoasis.com/episode/53
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    46 m