Bad Bird Good Design with Robyn Branch

Bad Bird Good Design with Robyn Branch

By Robyn BranchBusinessCareers
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Bad Bird Good Design with Robyn Branch episodes

  • 13. Color, Chaos & Connection: Neal Edwards of Worlds Away

    This episode is pure joy. 😂

    My guest is Neal Edwards of Worlds Away — and let me tell you… Neal was my VERY first account back in the Atlanta Market days (aka a million years ago), and we’ve basically been laughing, screaming across showrooms, and causing trouble ever since.

    We talk about what selling really means (hint: it’s relationships), why reps matter, how design keeps evolving, and what we’re seeing for 2026 trends—from traditional vibes coming back to layers of color + pattern saving us from the beige doom spiral.

    It’s real, it’s ridiculous, it’s heartfelt… and yes, there’s talk of wastebaskets, vodka, and staying sane in the middle of the madness. 🥂🎨

    🎧 Listen now to Bad Bird Good Design wherever you get your podcasts!

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    39 min
  • 12. The Surface Standard: Robyn Gets Real About Cambria Quartz | Bad Bird Good Design

    We’re back from break and diving deep into countertops! Robyn Branch sits down with Garnett from Cambria USA to talk all things quartz—what sets Cambria apart, why it's designer-approved, and how it delivers stress-free beauty with a lifetime warranty. Plus, a few laughs, rep stories, and real talk from the showroom floor.

    🎧 Listen to Bad Bird, Good Design with Robyn Branch on your favorite podcast app.

    #InteriorDesign #CambriaQuartz #MadeInUSA #DesignPodcast #KitchenDesign #QuartzCountertops

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    25 min
  • 12. Developers vs. Designers: The Love-Hate Dance of Creation

    In this lively episode of Bad Bird Good Design, Robyn Branch welcomes a vibrant panel of developers, designers, and builders — including Larry Johnson, Gordon Kessler, Dawn and John Hillman — to unpack the complex, often hilarious relationship between designers and developers. From tales of early creative sparks and glamorous childhood forts to the real-world struggles of working across disciplines, Robyn and her guests explore the tensions, teamwork, and trends that shape great spaces. Plus, the group shares insider stories from Crane Island, the launch of Cabana Lane, and how being deeply connected to design changes everything — even how you demo a house.


    Key Takeaways:

    • Vision Matters: Developers with a long-term vision make collaboration with designers far more rewarding (and fun).

    • Trends are Out: Timeless design wins over fleeting trends — houses should feel enduring, not dated.

    • Design Instincts Start Young: Most creatives started "building" from their childhood, whether through forts, dioramas, or carpeted Barbie garages!

    • Good Communication = Great Projects: The best outcomes happen when developers, designers, and builders truly collaborate, respecting each other’s strengths.

    • Own Your Role: Sometimes, to protect the integrity of your work (and your health!), you have to step up and fully own the building process.

    • Fresh Air, Fresh Spaces: Great homes should engage all the senses — open windows, hear the birds, feel the breeze.

    • Community Takes Time: Moving into a new place? Fitting in isn’t instant — it’s built through shared spaces, shared stories, and a little bit of serendipity

      If you love creativity, collaboration, and a few hard-won lessons in construction dust and Clorox, this episode is for you.


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      43 min
    • 11. From Repping to Designing: Candice Petty’s Creative Evolution

      In this heartfelt and inspiring episode of Bad Bird Good Design, host Robyn Branch sits down with her longtime friend and Palachuk rep, Candice Petty. Together, they reflect on their shared journey in the design industry, their initial impressions of each other, and the lessons they've learned about creativity, resilience, and relationships. Candice opens up about her transformative journey from being a multi-line sales rep to launching her own fabric line, Cloth and Soul. She shares the challenges of overcoming self-doubt, embracing her passions, and finding inspiration in the natural world and personal experiences.

      With stories ranging from soul-searching moments to entrepreneurial grit, this episode is a celebration of creativity, personal growth, and the power of connection.


      Key Takeaways:

      1. The Value of Relationships: First impressions aren’t everything—relationships evolve over time with understanding and shared experiences.
      2. Overcoming Creative Doubts: The journey to creative fulfillment often involves battling self-worth issues and learning to embrace your unique vision.
      3. The Power of Nature and Slowing Down: Candice emphasizes the importance of grounding inspiration in the natural world and the clarity that comes from stepping back to breathe and reflect.
      4. Entrepreneurial Lessons: Whether you're launching a product line or navigating professional shifts, persistence and passion pave the way to success.
      5. The Role of Faith and Resilience: Both Robyn and Candice share how moments of spiritual connection and resilience have guided them in personal and professional challenges.


        Quote of the Episode:

        “What if everyone loves it? That thought alone can change everything.” – Candice Petty


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        47 min
      6. 10.2 Relationships Rule the Design World: Casey Schroyer and Robyn Branch Share Stories

        In the second part of this two-part episode of Bad Bird Good Design, Robyn Branch and Casey Schroyer continue their lively discussion, diving deeper into the heart of their shared profession—relationships. From Casey’s childhood in his family’s furniture store to Robyn’s reflections on her mother’s retail adventures, they share how personal connections shape their work as designers. The conversation meanders through humorous anecdotes, lessons from bad subcontractor experiences, and how they handle the unpredictable challenges of design projects. With warmth and wit, Robyn and Casey explore how their industry is as much about people as it is about aesthetics.


        Key Takeaways:
        1. Relationships Drive Design: Building genuine connections with clients, colleagues, and vendors is key to creating meaningful and lasting designs.
        2. Learn from Everyone: From bad subcontractors to seasoned craftsmen, every interaction can teach valuable lessons in what to do—or not to do.
        3. Design Evolves with Life: Homes and designs should adapt to the evolving needs of clients, whether accommodating family changes or personal preferences.
        4. Retail Roots Matter: Early experiences in retail helped both Robyn and Casey develop a keen eye for quality, pricing, and the value of customer relationships.
        5. Humor Helps: The challenges of design—whether it’s a crooked sink mold or a chaotic project—are easier to face with a sense of humor and a supportive community.


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          34 min
        6. 10. Post-MODERNE Perspectives: Casey Shroyer and Robyn Branch Redefine Design

          Join Robyn Branch on Bad Bird Good Design as she welcomes Casey Shroyer, the creative force behind Post-MODERNE, to explore the intersection of passion, design, and personal growth. Casey shares the inspiration behind his brand’s name, his logo’s hidden design story, and how intuition shapes his creative process. In this candid conversation, Robyn and Casey delve into the challenges of balancing artistic vision with business demands, the vital role of relationships in the design industry, and why Casey is taking a much-needed sabbatical to recharge and refocus. Their lively discussion is filled with humor, heart, and wisdom for designers and creatives alike.


          Key Takeaways:
          1. Design with Intention: Casey’s journey shows how thoughtful branding can convey both story and purpose.
          2. The Power of Connection: Robyn and Casey emphasize relationships as the cornerstone of creative success.
          3. Taking a Break to Move Forward: Casey’s decision to step back highlights the importance of self-care for longevity in any industry.
          4. Retail Reimagined: Insights into how great design is about more than products—it’s about people and experiences.
          5. Learning and Growing: Both hosts reflect on how challenges in business and creativity fuel innovation and resilience.

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            35 min
          6. 07. Stories of Creativity, Friendship, and Renovation Stories with Robyn Branch

            In this episode of Bad Bird Good Design, interior designer Robyn Branch sits down with her dear clients, Suzanne Fletcher, Liza Cotter, and Helen Johnson. Join us as Suzanne shares her heartfelt story of how Robyn saved her from design overwhelm, turning her home into a beautiful, meaningful space filled with personal touches. Discover why her clients like Suzanne, Helen, and Liza trust Robyn to bring their unique visions to life.


            Key Takeaways:


            1. The importance of listening to clients’ stories to create meaningful design.
            2. How personal touches and memories can elevate a home’s decor.
            3. The challenges of managing expectations and overcoming design roadblocks.
            4. Building lasting relationships with clients beyond the work itself.


              5. Don't miss the fun, laughter, and behind-the-scenes moments that make Robyn’s design process so special!

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              56 min
            5. 06. Crafting Legacy: 60 Years of Masterful Design with Dan Brandt of Billiards by Brandt

              In this special episode of Bad Bird, Good Design, Robyn Branch sits down with the legendary Dan Brandt of Billiards by Brandt, a family-owned business that's been creating custom billiard tables and unique designs for over 60 years. From humble beginnings to working with high-profile clients, Dan shares his journey, the art of listening to clients, and the magic of turning dreams into reality. Discover how engineering meets artistry in every custom piece and why true craftsmanship is more than just a business—it's a legacy.


              Key Takeaways:

              1. Legacy of Craftsmanship: Learn how Billiards by Brant has sustained its reputation for excellence over six decades, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern innovation.
              2. Client-Centered Design: Discover the importance of truly listening to clients and how involving them in the design process creates personalized, meaningful experiences.
              3. Engineering Meets Art: Explore the balance between engineering and creative design, ensuring that every piece is not only beautiful but also structurally sound.
              4. Giving Back: Hear about Dan’s efforts to give back to the community, from designing custom tables for the Boys and Girls Club to creating unique experiences for kids.
              5. The Power of Custom Design: Find out how Billiards by Brant transforms simple ideas into extraordinary, one-of-a-kind creations that stand the test of time.


                Tune in for an inspiring conversation about craftsmanship, creativity, and the art of designing with heart.

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                36 min
              6. 05. Inside the Creative Minds of Robyn Branch and Designer Friends

                In this episode, Robyn Branch introduces two of her talented designer friends, Marsha Faulkner of Studio M Interior Design and Lisa Gielincki of Lisa Gielincki Interior Design. Join us as they share their journeys, from brand naming challenges to the joys of creating beautiful spaces.


                Key Takeaways:


                1. Branding with Purpose: Learn why Marsha Faulkner chose a collaborative name for her design studio and the forward-thinking behind it.

                2. Rebranding Realities: Lisa Galinsky shares her decision to rebrand her firm after 22 years and the importance of evolving with your business.

                3. Client Trust and Gratitude: Discover the role of gratitude and trust in client relationships and how they can lead to successful projects.

                4. Handling Business Challenges: Robyn and her guests discuss the balance between creativity and billing, sharing practical advice for young designers.

                5. The Joy of Design: Explore the emotional and creative rewards that come with successful design projects, from client satisfaction to creating lasting relationships.


                Tune in for a lively discussion filled with laughter, wisdom, and the inside scoop on what it takes to thrive in the world of interior design!



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                56 min
              7. 04. Designing the Future: Balancing Beauty & Technology in Smart Homes with AJ Hall from TDG Smarter AV

                In this episode, Robin chats with AV expert AJ Hall with TDG Smarter AV about creating seamless smart homes that don't compromise on beauty.


                In this episode:

                - The synergy between architects, designers, and tech specialists

                - How to integrate smart home features without sacrificing style

                - The importance of teamwork in renovation and construction projects


                Key takeaways:

                🔑 Strategies for hiding unsightly equipment in elegant interiors

                🔑 Tips for maintaining strong client relationships during complex installations

                🔑 Insight into fostering mentorship across generations in design and tech fields


                Don't miss out on this blend of creativity and innovation – tune in now!

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                1 hr 4 min

              About Bad Bird Good Design with Robyn Branch

              From the publisher's feed

              Bad Bird Good Design with Robyn Branch is an unvarnished peek into the daily grind of design and creativity with Robyn Branch. This podcast isn't all glamour; it's real life, peppered with candid…