Solutions. That’s what your client is looking for. But too often, designers with the best of intentions, bring them options, not solutions, In this episode, we talk about how to lead with authority, how to close the gap between the clients you dream of and the clients you have and how to lean into your expertise. Let’s talk about why narrowing your focus and standing firmly behind your design choices builds trust, saves time, and elevates your client relationships

In this episode we learn:

• clients want solutions, not a buffet of options

• stand confidently behind your design choices

• align your brand voice with your ideal client

• ask questions to uncover true motivations

• build systems and hire to complement your weaknesses

• focus on guiding, not overwhelming, your clients

In the design industry, clarity is power. Whether you’re running a firm with a business partner, leading a solo practice with or without a team, or collaborating with your spouse, like today’s guests, how you divide tasks can make or break your projects and your business. Marli Jones and Michael Kreuser share how they define their roles, delegate responsibilities like procurement and project management, and rely on trusted team members to keep every project running smoothly. There’s real value in having clear job descriptions—for project managers, operations managers, and even for yourself—so that creativity can flourish without chaos.

In this episode:

- Establish clear roles and responsibilities—clarity eliminates confusion.

- Define ownership and decision-making authority from the start.

- Use contracts and agreements to keep partnerships clean and professional.

- Build systems and processes before you delegate.

- Separate creative work from operations for balance and efficiency.

- Foster a culture that accepts mistakes and learns from them.

- Choose clients based on fit, not just project size or budget.

- Let process create space for creativity and innovation.

- Empower your team with trust, autonomy, and shared accountability.

- Nurture strong relationships with clients, trades, and vendors.

In this episode, we delve into the critical role of professional photography in the world of interior design. Join Kimberley Seldon and Candice Brooke as they explore how high-quality images can elevate your design projects, attract new clients, and enhance your marketing efforts. Discover the secrets to capturing stunning interiors and learn why investing in a skilled photographer is a game-changer for your business.

In this episode we learn:

• The impact of professional photography on business growth and client acquisition.

• Essential tips for preparing a space for a photo shoot, including lighting and decluttering.

• How to create a strategic shot list tailored to your project's needs.

• The importance of collaborating with photographers who have industry connections.

• Insights into leveraging social media and websites for maximum exposure.

• The evolving role of AI in interior design photography and its limitations.

• Practical advice for new designers on working with limited budgets

If you've been curious about how AI will impact your design practice (and who isn’t?), this episode is a must-listen. Kimberley sits down with Nithya Subramaniam, a trained architect who’s transitioned into product and experience design. Nithya shares how design professionals can harness AI to boost creativity, streamline workflows, and maximize profitability. Rather than replacing us, AI is here to enhance our work—helping you create smarter designs, automate repetitive tasks, and elevate the client experience. AI is here to stay, and you’ll want to be ready to embrace it.

In this episode we learn:

- AI in design supports—not replaces—designers through automation, better workflows, and smarter features.

- AI tools generate spatial solutions that meet specific needs, from light exposure to landscaping.

- Unlike traditional design, AI lets you iterate and adapt in real time.

- With data integration, AI enables future-focused design, from climate adaptation to sustainable materials.

- AI agents optimize resources, track carbon impact, and streamline timelines for efficiency.

In this continuation of our conversation with Bruce Philp, we dig deeper into what it means to step fully into your brand and the confidence it inspires in clients. When you downplay your value or operate under the shadow of imposter syndrome, you risk signaling uncertainty. But by embracing your brand with intention, you not only earn client trust—you grow into a bigger, brighter version of yourself.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

- Practical ways to combat and outsmart imposter syndrome.

- What it looks like when clients have total confidence in you and your expertise.

- Why clients want you to step into the role of “the answer”.

- How brand improvements help you grow into the leader your clients need.

In this episode, Bruce Philp joins us to explore the power of branding and how small business owners can step into a brand space with clarity and confidence. More than just a logo or tagline, your brand is the belief system your clients buy into. By understanding what truly builds trust and credibility, you can stop giving away your power and start showing up as the business clients feel confident hiring.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

- The three components of a healthy brand that every business needs to thrive.

- Why outsourcing your brand experience can strengthen how clients perceive your business.

- How the appearance of a corporation can instill confidence—even for small business owners.

- The three common ways entrepreneurs give away their power without realizing it.

Join Kimberley Seldon on the Business of Design podcast as she explores the powerful strategies of upselling and cross-selling to enhance your business with existing clients. Discover how these techniques can transform your projects into extraordinary experiences, boosting both client satisfaction and your bottom line.

In this episode, you will learn:

- The difference between upselling and cross-selling and why they matter.

- How to confidently suggest premium products and services without feeling pushy.

- The role of integrity in sales and how to propose upgrades that clients will value.

- Practical examples of turning small projects into significant opportunities.

- Strategies to grow your business profitably without additional time investment.

Tune in to unlock the potential of your current client relationships and elevate your design business to new heights.

In this episode of Business of Design®, Kimberley chats with Erin Gates, interior designer and author of Elements of Timeless Style. Erin is all about creating spaces that not only look great today but evolve beautifully over time. Whether you're designing your own forever home or creating a client home that stands the test of time, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

In this episode we learn:

- the importance of timeless design that evolves with the homeowner

- why a smooth, collaborative process is essential

- the emotional side of building a home and making sure the design reflects the story of the people who live there

- how to embrace flexibility in design—things will change, and that’s okay

- why you should invest in quality over quantity when it comes to your team and materials

- creating a space that feels like a forever home, even if you’re not sure if you’ll stay forever

For many of us, the hardest lessons are the ones that stick, but why not skip the struggle and learn from someone who's been there? On today's episode, designer Diana Wagenbach dishes out five solid takeaways that will change how you run your business. First up, it's not about waiting for the perfect system—just start with what you've got and let it evolve. Diana also reveals why time-tracking is a game-changer for profitability (hint: you’re probably undercharging without even knowing it!). She also dives into the power of saying ‘no’ to the wrong projects and the magic of creating clear, repeatable processes for your team. Finally, Diana drops a simple yet powerful truth… be nice. It’s the secret ingredient to building lasting relationships and growing your business. Don't miss this episode—it's packed with no-nonsense advice that will give you the boost you need right now.

In this episode we learn:

- don’t wait for the perfect time, start where you are

- the cost of underestimating Time and Tracking Early On — How failing to track hours and project scope from the start led to undervaluing work — and why consistent time tracking is critical for accurate estimating and protecting profitability.

- avoid saying yes too soon (and too often)

- hiring without defined roles or expectations leads to costly missteps

- doing it all isn’t a badge of honor

In this episode of Business of Design®, we sit down with Jenn Vandermeer, a veteran interior designer who’s now making waves on the supplier side of the industry. After years of applying the BOD™ strategies in her own design practice, Jenn has joined Aquavato, a world-leader in plumbing supplier, with a mission to help interior designers thrive while making more money. Jenn shares how we can deliver concierge-level service without sacrificing profit. From navigating MAP pricing to forging powerful vendor relationships,

In this episode we learn:

- understanding the difference between MAP (Minimum Advertised Price) and MSRP (Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price) can change the way you approach pricing and profit in your design projects

- trade pricing doesn’t mean trade-offs

- building strong partnerships with your suppliers can help you avoid costly mistakes, speed up sourcing, and improve your project outcomes

- design is about offering solutions, relationships, and exceptional value

- concierge-level service can be profitable

- consider using disbursements as an additional way to profit from your sourcing efforts while keeping your business transparent.