46\\ From Doubt to Success: Overcoming Challenges in Interior Design and Architecture with Robert Ancill

"I don't know where to start!" Marketing overwhelms you, with so many platforms (Instagram, Pinterest, SEO, email, ads). You struggle to create a clear strategy and wonder which efforts will bring results."I hate self-promotion—I don’t want to sound salesy!" You love creating beautiful spaces but dislike talking about yourself. You worry about coming across as pushy instead of naturally attracting clients."Technology stresses me out!" CRMs, email marketing, and automation tools sound helpful, but learning them feels overwhelming. You want simple, done-for-you solutions that don’t require becoming a tech expert.I hear you! Many interior designers struggle with scattered tools, complicated strategies, and the challenge of standing out.So in this episode, I chat with marketing expert, Ben Rutledge from Sidemark, who shares simple ways to take the stress out of marketing. He explains how to build systems that work, attract your ideal clients, and use automation to stay organized—so you can focus on designing, not just selling.Ben also reveals the biggest mistakes designers make in marketing and how to avoid them.Don't let marketing be your constant struggle. Tune in now and learn how to streamline your design business with the right marketing strategies and systems. Plus, don’t forget to grab Ben’s free 2025 Interior Designers Marketing Checklist.Featured Guest:⁠Ben Rutledge⁠ is co-founder of ⁠Sidemark⁠, a marketing solution for interior designers.With 15-plus years in small business marketing, Ben now helps interior designers simplify and succeed in marketing. He enjoys demystifying the process, building strong brands, and driving growth.Ben lives in Colorado with his wife, Nicole, and loves getting outside every chance he gets.Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:Learn how to attract your ideal clients without feeling scattered or stressedSet up systems that make your business look more professional even if you’re just starting outDevelop a plan on how to nurture leads without feeling salesyCheck out the show notes >>> Stress-Free Framework to Attract Clients to Your Design Business Links Mentioned:The 2025 Interior Designers Marketing ChecklistNEXT STEPS:Get on the waitlist Launch Your Business Bootcamp to secure your spotGrab your freebies:Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:Email: podcast@rwarddesign.comInstagram: @rwarddesign Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps:(0:00) Introduction(2:34) Ben’s Journey into Interior Design Marketing(4:07) Addressing Overwhelm in Marketing(6:09) What Sidemark Offers(10:54) Who Sidemark Helps(12:02) 2025 Marketing Strategies for Interior Designers(13:44) Key Marketing Questions for Designers(14:24) The “Pie Shop” Analogy for Marketing(15:41) Nurturing Leads and Closing Sales(18:38) Importance of Systems in Business(20:55) The Value of Setting Up Systems Early(25:32) The Role of Email Marketing in Interior Design(29:48) Overcoming the Fear of Self-Promotion(34:03) How Often to Send Emails

31 Maalis 37min

Are you exhausted from juggling client demands, endless decisions, and late-night work sessions? You're not alone.Burnout is a common struggle for solopreneurs and interior designers, but it doesn’t have to be your reality.I completely understand how burnout feels; I experienced it myself early in my career. Thankfully, I've learned effective strategies to manage it. I’m happy to say I’m no longer an overwhelmed and burned-out designer. This shift has made a big difference. It improved my ability to be the best designer for my clients.In this episode, I explore the common causes of burnout and share my personal experiences in overcoming it. I also provide practical tips for maintaining inspiration and avoiding burnout, which can help you in your own design career.If you are looking for ways to reclaim your creativity, reduce stress, and enjoy the career you love, this episode is for you.Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode:Discover practical tips for setting boundaries and saying no to projects that aren’t a good fit.Learn productivity & time management tools to streamline your business and maintain a healthy work-life balanceCreate a work schedule that supports your well-being while staying on top of your projectsCheck out the show notes >>> How to Stop Burnout and Protect Your Creative EnergyNEXT STEPS:Get on the waitlist Launch Your Business Bootcamp to secure your spotUse Full Focus Planner to set and track your 2025 goalsGrab your freebies:Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me:Email: podcast@rwarddesign.comInstagram: @rwarddesign Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week!Timestamps:(0:00) Introduction(02:46) The Reality of Burnout in Interior Design(05:20) The Impact of Burnout(07:45) Setting Boundaries to Prevent Burnout(10:30) The Role of Self-Care in Avoiding Burnout(16:22) Productivity & Time Management Tools(20:07) Strategies to Avoid Overwhelm in Business

24 Maalis 23min

Are you struggling to generate consistent, high-quality leads for your interior design business?Many designers rely on social media and word of mouth, but these methods alone may not bring in steady, high-quality leads.In this episode, Porsche Williams, CEO of The Prototype, shares her expert strategies for building a stress-free, scalable lead generation system that nurtures relationships and drives long-term growth.She explains the biggest mistakes designers make—like focusing too much on new leads and forgetting past clients—and reveals how to create a simple system that keeps your pipeline full.Plus, Porsche shares a step-by-step framework to help you stay top-of-mind with potential clients.Don't let lead generation overwhelm you. Tune in to this episode and learn how to create a scalable, stress-free system that allows you to focus on your creative vision while attracting your ideal clients.Featured Guest:Porsche Williams is the CEO of ⁠The Prototype⁠, a business concierge firm specializing in client experience and lead generation for interior designers with a passion for streamlining business growth.She helps designers attract ideal clients, nurture relationships, and scale with confidence, all while staying focused on their creative vision through The Prototype's expertise in client experience and lead qualification.Since 2020, her team has supported luxury interior design and architecture firms across the US, Canada, and Australia and partnered with IDS, ASID, Mydoma by Studio Designer, and more. Now, she's bringing her expertise to The Designer's Guide to Reliable Lead Generation, a course designed to help designers build scalable, stress-free lead generation systems while strengthening relationships and driving long-term growth.Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode: Learn how to re-engage past and current clients for steady leads Identify missing steps in your client experience that repel great clients Develop a plan for strategic gifting and industry partnerships (like working with realtors and builders) to generate high-quality leads fasterCheck out the show notes >>> Struggling to Get Clients? Here’s a Better Way to Find LeadsLinks Mentioned: The Lead Generation Jumpstart 2-Minute Quiz: What’s Holding You Back in Your BusinessNEXT STEPS: Join the My Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!Grab your freebies: Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerListen to Related Episode: Episode 16: How Outsourcing Client Intake Helps Interior Designers Convert and Retain ClientsConnect With Me: Email: podcast@rwarddesign.com Instagram: @rwarddesign Website at rwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps:(0:00) Introduction(05:05) Common Mistakes in Lead Generation(07:47) Strategies for Effective Lead Generation(12:53) Structuring Lead Generation & Client Retention(17:32) Practical Tips for Improving Lead Generation

17 Maalis 24min

What does luxury really mean in interior design?Many designers say they offer a luxury service, but what makes a design truly high-end?In this episode, I explain what it means to be a luxury interior designer and how to attract the right clients.I also share how to communicate the value of high-end design, price your expertise confidently, and provide a white-glove experience that clients are happy to pay for.If you are transitioning to high-end projects or just curious about what sets luxury apart, this episode will help you understand the key details that elevate your services.You’ll learn why luxury isn’t just about expensive materials—it’s about customization, seamless service, and creating a stress-free client experience.If you’re ready to level up your interior design business and attract clients who appreciate everyday luxury, this episode is for you! Tune in now and start elevating your design services!Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode: Discover the specific details and white-glove experiences that define luxury Evaluate whether your current design services can be considered "luxury" and identify areas for improvement Implement strategies to enhance the luxury experience for your clients Check out the show notes >>> 6 Ways to Deliver a Luxury Interior Design ServiceLinks Mentioned: Grab the Everyday Luxury Checklist Sign up for My Design Mentorto kickstart a successful career in interior design!NEXT STEPS:Grab your freebies: Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me: Email:podcast@rwarddesign.com Instagram:@rwarddesign Website atrwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps:(0:00) Introduction(1:55) Defining Luxury in Interior Design4:31 What Luxury Clients Expect(06:57) Luxury as a High-Touch Service(09:12) Pricing & Value in Luxury Design(09:46) High-Value Details That Define Luxury(12:36) Access to Resources and Execution in Luxury Design(14:47) Final Thoughts and Conclusion

10 Maalis 18min

Have you ever wondered if you need a design degree or a perfect career plan to become an interior designer? Think again!In this episode, I sit down withStef Johnson, founder ofStef Johnson Design, who shares her inspiring journey from growing up around design to running a successful interior design studio.Stef’s path wasn’t straight—she explored event planning, worked in real estate, and even managed construction projects before finally launching her own business. Her story proves there is no one "right" way to build a fulfilling career in this creative field.Whether you are just starting or thinking about shifting into interior design, this episode will encourage you to take the first step—even if you don’t have it all figured out yet! Tune in and start paving your path in design.Featured Guest:Stef Johnson owns⁠Stef Johnson Design⁠ (SJD), a full-service interior design studio based in North Carolina providing a classic approach to easy luxury in residential and commercial projects.For over a decade, the SJD team has offered a unique combination of design and construction knowledge. They pride themselves on prioritizing clients’ tastes and taking a cost-effective approach to every job. Stef believes a home should reflect her client’s unique personality highlighting objects they love.Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode: Learn how to start a design career from any background and navigate the early stages of your interior design career Get practical tips and strategies to improve your design business practices Be inspired to follow your passionCheck out the show notes >>>From Economics to Interiors: The Journey to Becoming an Interior DesignerNEXT STEPS: Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design!Grab your freebies: Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me: Email:podcast@rwarddesign.com Instagram:@rwarddesign Website atrwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps:(0:00) Introduction(01:47) Stef’s Background in Interior Design(02:31) Early Career Path & Exploration(06:34) Building Her Expertise & Going Solo(10:29) Handling Client Projects Across Different Regions(14:42) Stef's Design Philosophy & Style(18:24) Lessons in Running a Design Business(19:53) Advice for Aspiring Interior Designers

3 Maalis 23min

What happens when things don’t go as planned in your design projects?A contractor gets sick, a supplier raises prices, or a hidden problem adds unexpected costs—these surprises can cause major stress and financial loss.Uncertainty is inevitable, but with the right preparation, you can stay in control and keep your business running smoothly.As an interior designer, you need to be ready for the unexpected.In this episode, I share real-life stories of unexpected challenges and how to handle them like a pro. Learn the proactive strategies I use to manage these situations, including building a solid contract, establishing a retainer policy, leveraging your professional network, maintaining financial buffers, and keeping your business profitable - even when the unexpected happens.With these strategies, you’ll feel more confident and prepared for anything that comes your way.Don't let the unexpected catch you off guard. Tune in to discover the best ways to safeguard your interior design business and keep your projects on track. Plus, check outMy Design Mentor for expert guidance as you build a thriving design career.Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode: Discover real-life stories of delays, cancellations, and hidden costs, and how to manage them Evaluate existing contracts for provisions for cancellations, pauses, and unforeseen events Identify strategies to establish a financial safety net to avoid debt and burnoutCheck out the show notes >>>How to Handle Unexpected Problems in Interior Design Without Losing Money or Feeling StressedNEXT STEPS: Join theMy Design Mentor to kickstart a successful career in interior design! Grab your freebies: Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerConnect With Me: Email:podcast@rwarddesign.com Instagram:@rwarddesign Website:rwarddesign.comTimestamps:(0:00) Introduction(02:00) Uncertainty in Design Projects(04:08) Real-life Challenges & Unexpected Situations(08:28) Contracts as Protection(12:13) Managing Client Expectations(13:32) Financial Strategies for Stability(14:40) Proactive Strategies for Managing Unexpected Situations(15:45) Knowing When to Enforce vs. Bend Contract Terms(19:26) Building a Support System(21:04) Final Thoughts and Conclusion

24 Helmi 23min

Are you wondering why, despite having a beautiful website, you are not attracting your ideal clients?As interior designers, we often prioritize the visual aspects of our websites, such as design and imagery, while overlooking important functional and strategic elements.While a stunning website is important, if it doesn’t guide visitors toward taking action, you may be missing out on valuable inquiries and bookings.In this episode, web design expert Cathleen Barnes shares how interior designers can turn their websites into powerful tools that attract high-end clients and increase conversions.She reveals the top mistakes designers make—like weak call-to-actions, unclear client processes, and generic testimonials—and explains how to fix them. She also shares smart strategies like using case studies instead of simple portfolios, streamlining client onboarding, and improving website navigation for a seamless user experience. By applying these tips, you can create a website that not only looks stunning but also works behind the scenes to grow your business.Don't let your website be a missed opportunity. Tune in now and start making simple but powerful changes that will set you apart in the interior design industry!Featured Guest:⁠Cathleen Barnes⁠ is the founder of ⁠Cathleen Barnes Consulting⁠, a web design and branding studio focused on creating strategic websites for interior designers.With over 10 years of experience in e-commerce, Cathleen has recently shifted her focus to the interior design industry. She helps designers recognize the value of their websites, which often serve as the first impression for potential clients.Her approach goes beyond aesthetics; she understands the unique challenges designers face and how their audience interacts with their sites. By leveraging strategic insights, she ensures that each project aligns with her clients’ business goals.Cathleen has successfully partnered with numerous interior designers to enhance their online presence and improve conversion rates through strategies centered on brand positioning and streamlined client onboarding. She empowers designers to fully utilize the potential of their websites.Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode: Learn how to create a strategic website that attracts and converts high-end interior design clients Identify common website mistakes designers make and fix them to enhance your online presence Transform your portfolio into compelling case studies that showcase your expertise and make potential clients eager to work with youCheck out the show notes >>> The Secret to a High-Converting Interior Design Website That Brings You More ClientsNEXT STEPS: Join my Launch Your Business Boot Camp!!! I'll help you launch your design business this spring.Grab your freebies: Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my CareerEmail me at podcast@rwarddesign.comDM me on Instagram at@rwarddesignVisit my website atrwarddesign.comThanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week...Timestamps:(0:00) Introduction(02:42) Cathleen Barnes: Background and Motivation(04:44) The Importance of Strategic Website Planning(08:49) Common Mistakes in Website Design That Interior Designers Make(12:20) How to Get Better Client Testimonials(16:08) Missed Opportunities in Website Strategy(20:08) How to Attract High-End Clients Through Your Website(25:30) The Website Design Process at Kathleen Barnes Consulting

17 Helmi 30min

"How can I show what I can do if no one gives me a chance?" This is a question I often hear from young designers struggling to find paid internships or get clients to take a chance on them. It’s frustrating, discouraging, and can leave you feeling stuck. You know you have the passion and potential to succeed, but without experience, it feels like you’re standing at a locked door, waiting for someone to hand you the key. Don’t worry—there are creative and practical ways to build your skills and portfolio! In this episode, I’m sharing actionable strategies to help you gain the experience you need to stand out. From offering free design help to friends and family, to job shadowing, creating mock projects, and building vendor relationships, you’ll learn how to showcase your talent and make your mark as a designer. You don’t need a fancy job to start building your portfolio—you just need the right plan! I also introduce you to my My Design Mentor program, where you can gain hands-on experience through sample projects, so you feel confident applying for jobs or starting your own business. Whether you’re fresh out of school or transitioning into interior design, this episode is packed with advice to help you get scrappy, increase your knowledge, and build connections that will open doors. Tune in now and take the first step toward your dream design career! Why you’ve got to check out today’s episode: Discover resourceful ways to get hands-on experience and build your portfolio without a traditional job Develop the skills and confidence to showcase your talent and attract opportunities Get practical, actionable tips to build your network and use vendor relationships to your advantage Check out the show notes >>> Creative Ways to Build Your Interior Design Portfolio and Get Hired NEXT STEPS: Sign up for My Design Mentor to get an internship or sample project experience Grab your freebies: The Remodel Budget and Timeline Guide Furnishings Investment Guide Your Roadmap to a Career in Interior Design 3 Things I Wish I had known when I Started my Career Listen to Related Episode: Episode 05: The Do’s and Don’ts of Interior Design Internships Email me at podcast@rwarddesign.com DM me on Instagram at @rwarddesign Visit my website at rwarddesign.com Thanks for listening! I hope this helps you discover if interior design is the career for you. See you next week... Timestamps: (0:00) Introduction: Creative Ways to Build Your Interior Design Portfolio and Get Hired (01:23) Challenges Young Designers Face in Gaining Experience (03:06) Gaining Experience Through Small Projects (04:35) Internships and Job Shadowing (07:09) Creating a Portfolio Without Clients   (08:19) Building Vendor Relationships (09:42) Online Learning & Volunteering (11:56) Networking & Finding Opportunities

10 Helmi 13min