Today we welcome Melissa Sanabria, principal and founder of Sanabria & Co based in Washington, DC. In this episode, Melissa shares her journey from a successful career in finance to launching her own interior design firm—and the real transferable skill that helped her thrive in a creative business. She walks us through the intentional strategies she implemented during the transition, including a three-year planning period, data-driven decision-making, and a commitment to investing in her business early on. Melissa also unpacks her top three foundational strategies and opens up about how community and peer support are key to her survival in the business of design.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

• Melissa’s transition from a 15-year finance career to founding her design studio
• The three-year strategic plan she followed before launching her business
• How her analytical mindset, not her financial degree, fueled her business success
• Her top three strategies for launching a sustainable and scalable design firm
• Why thinking big and investing early helped her avoid growing pains
• The critical role of data tracking in achieving profitability and refining systems
• Her flat-fee pricing model and how she uses time tracking for continuous improvement
• Why trusted peers and a supportive design community are essential to survival

NOTABLE QUOTES

• “I was very used to creating structure out of ambiguity… that to me was very clear and easy to do—sounds like a design process to me.”
• “If you're starting a restaurant, you're not like, ‘I'm just going to be the cook and the server and the hostess.’ You have to invest. You're going to take a risk.”
• “I just look at the value I bring and what I want to make—and that's how much I charge.”
• “Being successful means that I have options… that I can dial it up or dial it down, and the sky’s the limit.”

SUPPORTING RESOURCES

• Sanabria & Co Website
• Sanabria & Co on Instagram
• Register for the Design Biz Retreat

SPONSOR LINKS

• Design Manager
• Daniel House Club
• Hooker Furnishings

Today we welcome LA-based interior designer and stylist Dorothea Coelho to the podcast. Dorothea shares her remarkable journey from stand-up comedy to working with one of LA’s top designers and ultimately creating a unique design business model that includes professional styling services. We explore the often-overlooked art of styling, from the thoughtful editing of a space to the logistics of collaborating with photographers and designers. Dorothea offers invaluable insight into the stylist’s role in the design process and shares tips on sourcing, storytelling through objects, and the power of collaboration. If you’re curious about how to level up your next photoshoot or are considering bringing a stylist onto your team, this episode is for you.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

• Dorothea’s unconventional path from comedy and acting to interior design and styling
• What it’s like to learn design on the job and the value of mentorship in the field
• The emotional and visual impact of styling and how it enhances a space
• Tips for curating vintage and second-hand items with intention
• The stylist’s role in a collaborative photoshoot and how it differs from a designer’s
• Sourcing secrets and styling staples that bring a space to life
• Why kindness, collaboration, and curiosity are essential for success
• Advice for designers thinking about hiring a stylist for the first time

NOTABLE QUOTES

• "Every designer is a stylist, but this was like the pressure… everything had to be done. It was like being at the Olympics."
• "A room is like a song. What the songwriter intended might be one thing, but how we interpret it could be another."
• "Just remember that we’re here to help. It’s not a competition—it’s a collaboration."
• "You have to love your space. If you don’t love it, take it out of the shot."

SUPPORTING RESOURCES

• Dorothea Coelho on Instagram
• Brave Used World on Instagram
• Register for Design Biz Retreat

SPONSOR LINKS

• Design Manager — Project management and accounting software for interior designers
• Daniel House Club — Trade purchasing from 150+ vendors with exclusive pricing
• Hooker Furnishings — High-quality furnishings and personalized design support

Today we welcome Nicole Roe of R Nickson Interiors as our PODCAST TAKEOVER guest host! The podcast takeover is an annual tradition to celebrate another year of inspiring conversations about life and the business of interior design. In this special 7-year anniversary episode, Nicole takes the reins and puts host Rick Campos in the hot seat. Rick reflects on the podcast’s journey, shares personal and professional insights, and opens up about the mission behind the mic. Plus, questions submitted by past guests Antonio DeLoatch, Jamie Gasparovic, John McClain, and Brittany Glass bring even more depth and personality to this milestone moment.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

• Rick shares his transition from California to Washington state and how it’s shaping his personal and professional life.
• Insights into Rick’s ongoing commitment to living boldly and being of service to the design community.
• A behind-the-scenes look at what has surprised Rick the most over seven years of podcasting.
• How vulnerability in podcast guests has become a hallmark of the show’s impact.
• Reflections on defining success and evolving beyond the expectations of others.
• Candid updates about future plans—including goats and chickens!
• The mission and transformative experience of the Design Biz Retreat.
• How Rick maintains work-life balance and prioritizes health and longevity in a demanding industry.

NOTABLE QUOTES

• “Living boldly is a goal, but it takes a lot out of me... because I see firsthand the impact that it has on the design community.”
• “My definition of success is really just, you know, being of service, being a good person and just seeing and hearing that sigh of relief or that sparkle of optimism.”
• “Seven years ago, I was just learning how to overcome [caring what people think], and I think these conversations have really helped me get to a place where that is no longer occupying space in my mind.”
• “I would love to support every cause that came my way... if I had a million dollars, I’d spend it pretty quickly doing good.”

SUPPORTING RESOURCES

• Learn more about the Design Biz Retreat: designbizsurvivalguide.com/retreats-for-interior-designers
• Follow Nicole Roe and R Nickson Interiors: Instagram

SPONSOR LINKS

• Design Manager
• Daniel House Club
• Hooker Furnishings

Today we welcome Nicole Arnold of Nicole Arnold Interiors—a turnkey residential and commercial interior design firm based in Dallas, Texas. In this episode, Nicole shares how her 15+ year career in sales and marketing with Levi Strauss & Co. laid the foundation for her pivot to interior design in 2008. We explore how her corporate experience shaped the structure, culture, and client commitment in her design business. Nicole also opens up about the things she didn't know when launching her firm and how the design community became a vital source of knowledge and support. Her story is one of fearless entrepreneurship, thoughtful leadership, and an unwavering expectation of excellence.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

• How Nicole’s career at Levi Strauss prepared her to run a design business
• The pivotal moment that led her from corporate life to creative entrepreneurship
• Building a firm from the ground up during the 2008 recession
• The power of process: why consistency is non-negotiable in her business
• Why she co-founded the North Texas Design Group and how it supports growth
• Embracing risk and finding opportunity in times of change
• Leadership lessons and how she motivates her team
• The importance of continued education and coaching for personal and professional growth

NOTABLE QUOTES

• "Excellence has to be our minimum standard. Mediocrity is my kryptonite."
• "I’m a businessperson operating in a creative industry—not a creative trying to run a business."
• "You do not have to stay in a client-designer relationship that doesn’t work for you."
• "If I don’t believe in it, I won’t sell it. But when I do, I’ll sell the hell out of it."

SUPPORTING RESOURCES

• Register for our Design Biz Retreat 
• Nicole Arnold Interiors: nainteriors.com
• Nicole’s Instagram: @na_interiors_dallas
• Book Mentioned: Cure for the Common Life by Max Lucado
• Program Mentioned: Vistage Worldwide (vistage.com)
• NLP Certification: Intro to NLP

SPONSOR LINKS

• Design Manager — Project management software for interior designers
• Daniel House Club — Trade-only sourcing and purchasing platform
• Hooker Furnishings — Versatile furnishings for residential, hospitality, and contract design

This special Industry Spotlight episode of Design Biz Survival Guide shines a light on brands and partners that support designers creatively and professionally. These episodes are our way of sharing valuable resources and insights with our loyal listeners.

Today we speak with Erik Perez, Principal of Hello PR Group, a full-service communications and strategic brand development firm specializing in design, lifestyle, and luxury brands. Erik shares the evolution of Hello PR, his insights on the shifting landscape of public relations, and how his team collaborates with designers to elevate their brand presence. From the importance of storytelling and media relationships to knowing when you’re ready for PR representation, Erik delivers a masterclass on visibility in the design industry.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

• Erik shares how his background in fashion PR pivoted into a passion for interior design communications.
• The story behind Hello PR Group’s founding and how it fills a gap for high-end residential design firms.
• Key differences between PR ten years ago versus today—including the rise of digital media and social engagement.
• Insight into what PR clients should be prepared to bring to the table, from project photography to time commitment.
• How Erik and his team evaluate potential clients for strategic alignment and storytelling potential.
• Why visibility through PR is more than just magazine features—it’s about events, panels, and social presence.
• The evolving role of social media in PR and how strategic messaging makes all the difference.
• Tips for designers considering licensing deals or brand collaborations and how PR plays a vital supporting role.

NOTABLE QUOTES

• "Anytime you get to speak about your brand or your firm, that’s PR."
• "We can tell your story, but no one will tell your story like you do."
• "It’s not a sprint. It’s a marathon."
• "We’re only as good as the content we’re provided."

SUPPORTING RESOURCES

• Hello PR Group Website

Today we welcome Ivan Pineiro, owner and Principal Designer of Pimell Interiors based in Las Vegas, Nevada. In this episode, Ivan shares the winding, 15-year journey that led him from retail to interior design and how a pivotal move to Las Vegas—and a push from his design community—helped him finally embrace his calling. Ivan gets candid about his struggle with imposter syndrome, the pressure to have it all figured out, and how cancer helped him reframe his priorities. This is a conversation about courage, resourcefulness, and the power of community in building a thriving design business.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

• Ivan’s career pivot from retail to interior design after 15 years of exploration and doubt
• How moving to Las Vegas during the pandemic opened the door to entrepreneurship
• The clever strategy he used to build a portfolio and visibility before booking real clients
• Why building a strong design community and networking was essential to his success
• Ivan’s candid take on fear, confidence, and what it really takes to launch your design business
• The emotional moment that made him commit to pursuing his passion for design
• How volunteer leadership through IDS accelerated his reputation and connections
• Why success, for Ivan, is waking up every day and owning his identity as a designer

NOTABLE QUOTES

• “You don't have to have everything perfect in order to succeed in this business.”
• “It’s better done than perfect. Just show up and do it.”
• “Once you realize you’re amazing and you do great things, that’s when the roadblocks go away.”
• “The future of our business is in collaboration.”

SUPPORTING RESOURCES

• Pimell Interiors Website: https://www.pimellinteriors.com
• Pimell Interiors Instagram: @pimellinteriors
• IDS (Interior Design Society): https://interiordesignsociety.org

SPONSOR LINKS

• Design Manager: https://www.designmanager.com
• Daniel House Club: https://danielhouse.club/pages/dbsg
• Hooker Furnishings: https://www.hookerfurnishings.com

Today we welcome Jenny Slingerland, Founder & Principal Designer of Black Ink Interiors based in Scottsdale, Arizona. In this episode, Jenny shares her unique journey into design, from working as a labor and delivery nurse to launching her own thriving interior design firm. We dive into her transition from healthcare to homebuilding, the pivotal moments that shaped her business, and how her greatest weakness—understanding the financials—evolved into her biggest strength. Jenny's story is a testament to the power of surrounding yourself with experts, staying curious, and building a business that supports your personal values and family goals.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

• Jenny’s path from nursing to interior design, and how she paid her way through design school by delivering babies.
• How working for top custom home builders gave her a strong foundation in construction and technical design.
• The importance of asking “why” on job sites and the impact of curiosity on professional growth.
• Why Jenny and her husband decided to team up in business and how his financial and construction background supports their success.
• How COVID prompted a re-evaluation of business goals and led to a lifestyle-driven pivot in her firm’s structure.
• Jenny’s transformation from financially overwhelmed to financially empowered through business coaching and “Finance Fridays.”
• The critical role of time tracking in profitability and project efficiency.
• Her advice on establishing systems and processes before growing your team.

NOTABLE QUOTES

• “You can be the most talented designer in the world and your business can fail because you're not watching your numbers.”
• “We all have our zones of genius. Hire the people that you specifically need.”
• “Just because you know your business is doing great doesn't mean that something doesn't come up—you have to keep learning.”
• “Success is no longer about crazy financial goals. It’s about supporting my family and creating a lifestyle we love.”

SUPPORTING RESOURCES

• Black Ink Interiors Website
• Black Ink Interiors Instagram
• Michelle Williams (Business Coach): Scarlet Thread Consulting
• Time Tracking Tool: Timely App
• Book: Profit First by Mike Michalowicz

SPONSOR LINKS

• Design Manager
• Daniel House Club
• Hooker Furnishings

Today we welcome Emily Campbell, principal designer of Emily Jean Interior Design based in Portland, Oregon. In this episode, Emily shares her fresh perspective on the business of design as a student and entrepreneur. We discuss the pivotal moment that prompted her transition from fashion to interiors, her experience of balancing design school with launching a business, and how she’s building a foundation for long-term success by combining technical skills with real-world networking. Emily also shares how her entrepreneurial spirit, fearlessness, and commitment to community are shaping her journey.

• Emily shares her creative roots in fashion and how her design interests evolved toward interiors after building and renovating her own home
• She explains why she chose to return to school to learn the technical side of design, despite already having a strong foundation in textiles, color theory, and branding
• Emily discusses the importance of choosing a program that focuses not just on skills, but also on networking and building real-world relationships
• She talks about the entrepreneurial spirit that runs in her family and how it's influenced her desire to start her own business
• Emily opens up about the role of mentorship in her career development and how working alongside seasoned designers is helping her learn faster and more confidently
• She reflects on the transferable skills she gained from fashion trend forecasting, like overcoming shyness, building confidence, and approaching people fearlessly
• Emily emphasizes the importance of getting out of the classroom to network, visit showrooms, and engage with the design community early and often
• She shares advice for students in design programs: ask questions, stay curious, and embrace the learning process
• Emily offers her personal definition of success: focusing on the process of creating something meaningful rather than the outcome

• “Hold on to a beginner’s mind and never let yourself feel like you know it all.”
• “It’s okay to fail. Redefine what failure means to you.”
• “Just because you can see the vision doesn’t mean the client can—you have to be able to show them.”
• “The classroom and showrooms are where you should be asking the questions.”

Emily Jean Interior Design WebsiteFollow Emily on Instagram

Design Manager — Project management, accounting, and purchasing built for interior designers Hooker Furnishings — Versatile furniture, décor, and designer support Daniel House Club — Sourcing from over 150 vendors in one place with trade pricing and concierge service

Page Sigband, founder of Design by Page and Joyride Garage Design, joins the podcast to share how she carved out her place in the design world by specializing in one of the most overlooked spaces—the garage. In this episode, Page walks us through her background in graphic and furniture design, her transition into museum design, and how these experiences uniquely shaped her niche business model. From TV appearances and magazine features to pop-up tents and mechanic shop visits, Page reveals the real marketing strategies that move the needle. We also explore how thoughtful branding, hands-on sales experience, and good old-fashioned networking have fueled her success and brought a fresh perspective to garage design.

• Page’s unique design background in graphic, furniture, and museum exhibit design shaped her storytelling approach and hands-on creativity.
• Her pivot into garage design began with transforming her own space during the pandemic and led to a TV opportunity that launched Joyride Garage Design.
• Branding was a critical step, including rebranding her business and learning the importance of trademarking the right way from the start.
• Old-fashioned networking works best—building relationships at car shows and with auto industry professionals has driven more business than media features.
• She values freedom over scale, prioritizing creative satisfaction and personal fulfillment over running a large firm or managing a team.

• "I just want enough work to satisfy my creative soul."
• "The only thing more complicated than the business of design is a niche business of design."
• "You can't just flip the open sign and wait for them to come. You've really got to show up for this."
• "I don't know anyone who's doing garage design—this could be a really cool niche."
• "Branding lesson: talk to a trademark attorney first. It can save you a ton of time and money."

Design by Page WebsiteJoyride Garage Design WebsiteFollow Design by Page on InstagramFollow Joyride Garage Design on Instagram

Sponsor Links:

A bit thank you to our sponsors:

Design Manager – Project management, accounting, and purchasing built for interior designers. Hooker Furnishings – Versatile furniture, decor, and designer support. Daniel House Club – Source from over 150 vendors with exclusive trade pricing.

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select 'Ratings and Reviews' and 'Write a Review,' then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Paul McClean, founder of McClean Design, returns to the podcast for an insightful conversation about the evolution of his internationally renowned residential architectural firm since our last interview in 2019. Paul shares how his business has expanded into the global market post-COVID, the challenges and rewards of working internationally, and the nuances of merging cultural traditions with contemporary design. We also dive into the process of developing his second book, Contemporary Living by McClean Design, and his deep appreciation for California’s architectural landscape.

[00:26] Paul’s background and an overview of McClean Design [05:10] How his business model has evolved over the last 25 years [08:39] The impact of COVID on his firm and the industry [12:29] The importance of in-person collaboration in creative fields [15:13] Expanding into international markets and the challenges of working globally [22:57] The process of selecting homes for his latest book [26:08] The balance between honoring architectural history and creating modern spaces [29:39] The impact of California wildfires and the future of rebuilding [33:59] Paul’s perspective on leadership, relationships, and business longevity

• "We were always like, 'You need to come in and work.' Remember how sick we used to come to work? Now it's like, 'No way, stay home.'"
• "I think we've been very fortunate to be in business for 25 years now. But for the business to continue, it has to become less about me and more about the team."
• "Time zones are the biggest challenge in global design. The Middle East is a full 12-hour difference, and it’s really hard to get that to work."
• "COVID made people more critical of design. They now think deeply about how they live at home—offices, wellness, fitness spaces. That shift is here to stay."
• "The houses we design are the backdrop of people’s lives. Let’s not make them part of the problem—let’s make them part of the solution."

McClean Design Website Follow McClean Design on Instagram

Design Manager – The all-in-one platform for project management, accounting, and purchasing, designed specifically for interior designers.

Hooker Furnishings – A trusted resource offering a versatile portfolio of furniture and decor, with a dedicated design support team.

Daniel House Club – Source from over 150 of your favorite vendors with exclusive trade pricing and personal concierge service.

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple ‘+’ in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select 'Ratings and Reviews' and 'Write a Review,' then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second, and it helps spread the word about the podcast.