Today With Ashley Ross:

In this episode of A Well-Designed Business, I sit down with Ashley Ross, the self-taught designer and founder of Muse Noire, to discuss her journey of building a business that defies traditional expectations. Ashley shares how she confidently navigated her second career, blending creativity with strategy to create a design firm that thrives on relationships, bold risks, and staying true to her vision.

You’ll learn how to:

Whether you're a new designer or looking to revamp your approach to business, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiration to help you confidently step into your full potential.

LuAnn Nigara and Ashley Ross’s Ah-Ha Moments:

“Sometimes when people are having their second act, they fumble around in the beginning, not realizing that they have transferable skills.” — Ashley Ross

“You can’t be successful until you have defined what success means to you.” — LuAnn Nigara

“Business is about relationships. It’s about how you show up for your clients, how you connect, and how you build trust.” — Ashley Ross

“Take your transferable skills and transfer them immediately. Don’t waste time.” — Ashley Ross

More About Ashley Ross

Muse Noire is a full service design firm with offices in both North Carolina and Texas, yet serving clients throughout the US. We are dedicated to curating contemporary global homes that celebrate culture. Led by founder and principal designer, Ashley Ross, the firm journeys clients to the intersection of their own cultural heritage and Muse Noire’s palatable script of interior wellness. Established in 2019, Muse Noire was born out of Ashley’s desire to create spaces that embrace people of color and make them feel whole when they return home. Recognizing the sacrifices individuals make to fit societal norms, Ashley believes in immersing high-performing BIPOC executives in a timeless and tactile environment where they can truly be seen and heard.

Connect with Ashley Ross

Website

Instagram

A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor:

This episode is sponsored by:

Window Works

Excting Windows!

Mydoma Studio

Duke Renders

DTS

Kravet Inc

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

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Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

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Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

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