Step inside the vibrant world of design leadership as Michelle is joined by Anna Dower, co-founder of the Designer Boss Summit. Discover the art and strategy behind curating a global creative community, and learn how access, authority, and authenticity have redefined what it means to be a designer today. From building an inclusive stage for women to mastering your brand's signature style, this conversation unpacks the power of collaborative learning, thoughtful curation, and saying yes to opportunities uniquely aligned with your vision. If you're ready to elevate your creative business and stand out with intention, this episode is your blueprint.

ANNA DOWER is a graphic designer, entrepreneur, and sought-after creative mentor with 25 years of industry experience. She's passionate about enlightening, empowering, and elevating the businesses of graphic designers who are eager to make their mark— while having a blast doing it. Anna is all about balance, believing in both profit and pleasure, and she's proud to work just 20 hours a week while still smashing her income goals. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following:

• Designer Boss Summit origin story
• What drives the content of the Summit
• The impacts of social learning
• The planning and execution behind a global summit
• How to become a better speaker
• Lessons on design authority
• Why your business can't be for everyone
• Advice for designers

---------------------- RESOURCES:

• Get your free ticket to the Designer Boss Summit, February 10-13, 2026

---------------------- Guest info: To learn more about the Designer Boss Summit, follow them on Instagram @DesignerBoss.Co and Facebook @DBSummit and visit their website, DesignerBoss.co. ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO. Connect on social with Michelle at:

• Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Group
• Instagram
• Tik Tok

----------------------- -- COFFEE -- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! -- ZENCASTR -- This episode is brought to you by Zencastr. Create high-quality video and audio content. Get your first two weeks free at https://zencastr.com/?via=kma . -- AUDIBLE -- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma. This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard