In this episode, hosts Shaun and Rebecca kick off another round of the beloved Just Stop series—this time inviting submissions directly from their listener community. With a few listener submissions already in hand, they dive into some trends and pet peeves in the world of interior design branding, communication, and business practices. Expect their signature blend of candid humor, designer insight, and practical takeaways.

They explore key topics such as professional branding tropes (we're looking at you, barefoot headshots), generational social cues, the ethics of pricing design services, and creative integrity in design feedback culture.

In this episode they discuss:

• Why it may be time to just stop using barefoot photos in your professional branding—it can feel unprofessional or performative.
• The concept of the “millennial pause” in video content and why editing it out matters for audience engagement.
• Exploring the buzzword ethos in branding: why it might be overused, vague, or feel pretentious.
• How taking intentional summer breaks—especially July in the design industry—can support mental health and long-term business sustainability.
• Strategies for silencing notifications, reducing digital micro‑stress, and reclaiming control over your attention and productivity.
• The pitfalls of underpricing design services: why charging too little hurts individual designers and the broader community.
• Why the term timeless design is misleading, and what a more realistic approach to longevity and quality might look like.
• Common spelling mistakes in design terminology—such as principal vs. principle, loose vs. lose, and stationary vs. stationery.

Mentioned:

• Send us your Just Stop submissions: https://portal.dubsado.com/public/form/view/681d3da2db8d4f003ad45766

Our links:

• Subscribe and leave a review - Apple Podcasts
• Like, Comment, & Follow - Hot Young Designers Club Instagram
• Rebecca’s Instagram
• Shaun’s Instagram
• For more information - Check out the website
• Become a “Loyal Hottie” - Support us on Patreon
• Design Resources - Check out our shop

Mentioned in this episode:

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