Laura Williams, founder of Living Oak Design in Austin, Texas, joins the show to share her remarkable journey from opera singer to sought-after interior designer. Growing up in a creative family of musicians and artists, Laura always had an eye for design—she was the kid constantly rearranging furniture in her room. After studying opera through college and working in the fast-paced design scenes of New York City and Miami, Laura developed the grit and work ethic that would later fuel her entrepreneurial success. When she became a mother, she stepped away from corporate life to focus on her young children, but her passion for design never faded.

What started as a part-time venture while her kids were in school has evolved into a thriving full-service design firm with a team of seven, a retail showroom, and projects spanning full home renovations to intimate bathroom refreshes. Laura's design philosophy centers on creating cozy, lived-in spaces that reflect the personalities and needs of the families who inhabit them. She believes in timeless design over trends, incorporating meaningful heirlooms and personal stories into every project. Her approach has resonated particularly well with families navigating the same life stage she's in, as she understands firsthand the practical considerations of designing kid-friendly yet sophisticated spaces.

Beyond her design work, Laura is launching her podcast "Here With Laura," expanding her retail store with monthly community events, and dreaming of creating a Magnolia-style experience with Living Oak stores across the country. She shares candid insights about learning to delegate as her team grows, the importance of finding your community when starting a business, and her philosophy that "busy is a choice." Laura's story is a testament to turning creative passion into a successful business while maintaining balance as a present mother and entrepreneur.