Explore how to transform your design business for the better and unlock the secrets of successful collaboration in our special year-end review of Designer Discussions. Join Jason, Maria, and Mirjam as we highlight the most captivating moments of 2024, including Katie Decker's expert insights on optimizing design operations for profitability and her memorable tips from High Point. Relive the intriguing revelations on the evolution of digital PR with Mirjam, including the unique journey of Haro, and discover unexpected tech facets with Maria’s deep dive into AI and chat GPT-4.

Celebrate the collaborative spirit that defines our industry with Maria's reflection on Tori Sikama's episode, where photography transcends its role as a mere marketing tool to become an integral part of brand partnerships. Hear firsthand how building relationships with photographers can elevate your business branding and content creation. Reflect with us on the rich insights our guests have shared, and join us in anticipation of the exciting innovations and opportunities awaiting us in 2025.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-131-Year-End-Review-2024

The links and past episodes mentioned in the episode​ are:

• Episode 130
• Episode 127
• Episode 126
• Episode 125
• Episode 109
• NKBA Webinar

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

What if you could streamline your business operations and boost your profitability with a few key strategies? Join us as Katie Decker Erickson, a multifamily and commercial designer turned business coach, unravels the secrets of implementing effective processes that keep your business running smoothly, even when team members are unavailable. Discover how establishing well-defined processes allows designers to focus on their creative strengths while bolstering the firm's capacity to handle more projects and attract high-value clients.

Scaling your business is within reach when you master communication and pricing confidence. Learn from Katie's expertise on proactive client updates, which not only minimize confusion but also enhance satisfaction. Dive into the world of software tools that simplify operations, noting that the right combination tailored to your needs can significantly elevate your firm's efficiency. Katie stresses the importance of market research and competitive pricing, urging designers to charge their worth and target clients who truly appreciate their expertise.

Strong client relationships and a clear business identity are the cornerstones of success. Katie shares her strategies for targeting your ideal audience and building trust, emphasizing the importance of a specialized approach rather than trying to be everything to everyone. Whether you aim to scale up or refine your boutique business, listen in for actionable tips on nurturing client connections and the value of a vibrant community and resources. Don't miss out on this opportunity to align your business with your unique goals and elevate your marketing game with personalized coaching and expert insights.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-130-The-Power-of-Processes-and-Profitability

The links mentioned in the episode​ are:

• https://colorworks.design/
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/deckerkatie/
• https://www.facebook.com/colorworkscoaching/
• https://www.youtube.com/@ColorfulConversations

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

Discover the key strategies for transforming your website into a powerful conversion tool with insights from seasoned marketing expert, Jason. His extensive experience highlights the crucial role of maintaining an updated, engaging website as the central hub for your business, rather than depending solely on social media platforms. Jason shares practical advice on tailoring your website's content to captivate your ideal client, emphasizing the need to feature current, relevant projects. He provides actionable tips on arranging your site's layout to not only capture but also sustain visitor interest, ensuring that your online presence effectively represents your brand.

Learn the essential elements your website should highlight above the fold to maximize impact, including clickable contact numbers, compelling calls to action, and authoritative logos that establish trust and credibility. Jason's expertise sheds light on showcasing testimonials and media features to reinforce your business's reliability. Whether you specialize in remodeling or interior design, his guidance will equip you with the knowledge to present your business in the best possible light, making your services more appealing and accessible to your target audience. Tune in to elevate your website's effectiveness and enhance your brand's digital footprint.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-129-How-to-Optimize-Your-Website-for-Conversions

The links and past episodes mentioned in the episode​ are:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-128-How-to-develop-a-digital-brand-for-your-business
• https://developers.google.com/speed
• https://gtmetrix.com/
• https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

Can consistency in your brand's voice make or break your design business? Join us on Designer Discussions as Jason, Maria, and Mirjam unravel the secrets to building a digital brand that resonates with reliability and professionalism. Discover the art of crafting comprehensive brand guidelines, covering everything from logo variations and font styles to mission statements. By maintaining uniformity across all digital platforms, your brand becomes easily recognizable and trusted by clients. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting, Jason's insights into creating consistent brand messaging are indispensable.

We journey through the essentials of developing a client avatar and understanding your target market, fundamental steps that shape your branding strategy. Empower your team and external partners, such as marketing or PR agencies, with these guidelines, ensuring they represent your brand accurately. This episode is packed with valuable advice to enhance your digital presence and fortify your brand identity. Tune in to learn how a consistent brand voice could transform how clients perceive your design prowess and operational dependability.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-128-How-to-develop-a-digital-brand-for-your-business

The links and past episodes mentioned in the episode​ are:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-2-branding-for-high-dollar-sales
• https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store/products/23
• https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

Can you imagine transforming the way you manage business tasks with just one tool? Join us as we unlock the future of design office efficiency with ChatGPT's latest advancements. This episode, featuring Maria's expert insights, promises to equip you with the knowledge to revolutionize your workflow. From structuring emails and drafting presentations to handling difficult customer interactions, discover how these new features can save you time and reduce stress. By utilizing the groundbreaking Canvas feature, simultaneous collaboration on a single document becomes a reality, eliminating the hassle of juggling between multiple prompts.

But that's not all—ChatGPT's capabilities extend beyond traditional writing tasks. Learn to effortlessly create spreadsheets or presentations that meet your business needs. Maria walks us through practical applications like generating furnishing budget spreadsheets or crafting ready-to-use social media prompts. Whether you're looking to streamline operations or enhance content creation, our conversation is packed with valuable tips and insights to help you maximize the potential of cutting-edge AI tools. Let us help you transform your business operations with ChatGPT 4.0.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-127-Chat GPT-Tools-to-help-you-save-time

The links mentioned in the episode​

• https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store/products/23
• https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

Discover how to transform your work environment with insights from Dr. Katie Thomas, a seasoned organizational psychologist and founder of Better Work Experience. With over two decades in the field, Dr. Thomas shares her expertise on the pivotal role of leadership as the steady anchor amidst the chaos of modern work life. From navigating generational diversity to adapting to technological disruptions, she emphasizes the necessity of self-awareness and trust-building in leadership. Through assessments and coaching, she assists leaders in identifying blind spots and fostering team resilience. Listen in to learn how leadership development not only enhances team dynamics but also aligns teams with the overarching goals of the organization.

Our conversation takes an intriguing turn as Dr. Thomas delves into the finer points of team dynamics and employee engagement. She uncovers how unresolved conflicts and unclear roles can sabotage even the most talented teams, offering practical strategies like team-building exercises and open dialogues to address these issues. We explore the concept of alignment in teams and its critical link to employee engagement. Dr. Thomas passionately discusses the importance of genuine human connections in boosting productivity and loyalty, asserting that engagement is rooted in meaningful relationships with colleagues and the company's mission. Join us for a thought-provoking discussion that promises to elevate your team's potential and create a thriving work culture.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-126-Creating-Better-Work-Experiences

The links mentioned in the episode​

• www.betterworkexperience.com
• www.linkedin.com/in/dr-katie-thomas

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

Can digital PR platforms truly transform your business? Tune in to uncover how the evolution of these platforms, starting with Peter Shankman's pioneering HARO, has reshaped the landscape for design professionals seeking press coverage. You'll gain insights into Shankman's latest venture, Source of Sources (SOS), which aims to rekindle HARO's original accessibility. As we navigate this transformative PR terrain, we also address the pivotal role of AI, cautioning against over-reliance on shortcuts that promise effortless media placements without the requisite effort.

Join us as we explore the nuances of leveraging platforms like Quoted, Connectively, and a nod to Harrow's evolution. Discover how Quoted's approval-based system, though intricate and costly, offers rich insights for crafting effective pitches. Learn about Connectively's AI-driven approach to matching journalists and sources, and the emphasis on creating original content to maintain credibility. With actionable steps to simplify your marketing and boost business growth, we also invite you to enhance your strategies through our Designer Discussions Academy membership. Stay with us for practical tools and insights tailored to elevate your design business.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

•  https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-125-The-evolution-of-digital-PR

The links mentioned in the episode​

• Source of Sources
• Qwoted
• Connectively
• Designer Discussions Academy

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

Ready to revolutionize your marketing and PR game? Discover the groundbreaking Designer Discussions Academy, where we break down complicated strategies into manageable, impactful actions. This episode unveils the Academy's unique approach, led by our very own "Dr. Flankenstein" (Jason), designed to help design professionals overcome the hurdles of effective marketing. Learn how our weekly Q&A sessions and comprehensive curriculum can transform your brand into the go-to name in your community.

Join us as Maria, Miriam, and Jason share the journey from a niche PR membership to a full-fledged educational powerhouse. Gain insights into the supportive community we've built, offering direct access to industry experts and practical advice tailored for designers and remodeling studios. Whether you're looking to enhance your marketing prowess or establish a strong local presence, this episode is packed with invaluable tips and success stories from those who've already benefited. Tune in and start your transformative journey with the Designer Discussions Academy today!

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-124-DD-Academy-New-Launch

To learn more about the Designer Discussions Academy, click the link below:

• https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

Can networking feel daunting, especially if you're not a social butterfly? Imagine turning casual conversations into powerful business opportunities without stepping too far out of your comfort zone. Join Jason, Maria, and Miriam on this episode of Designer Discussions as we unravel the secrets of networking tailored for design professionals. Whether it's leveraging LinkedIn connections, engaging with professional organizations like ASID and NKBA, or even educating your own family and friends about your work, we offer practical strategies to expand your reach effortlessly.

We didn’t just meet by chance; our professional bonds were forged online, illustrating that meaningful relationships can start with a simple message. Tune in as we share personal stories about unexpected networking hotspots, from college alumni events to sports watch parties. Even if you experience social anxiety or have a packed schedule, we’ve got you covered with tips on making every interaction count. Learn how to harness the power of your immediate network and discover that networking success is more accessible than you think.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:​

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-123-The-Importance-of-Networking

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

What if everything you thought you knew about copyright and AI was turned upside down? In this eye-opening episode of Designer Discussions, Maria takes us on a deep dive into the murky waters of AI-generated content and its legal implications for design professionals. Prepare to uncover the crucial distinctions between human-made creations and AI-generated images, and why the latter remains unprotected in the public domain. Through riveting examples and real-world scenarios, Maria reveals the essential updates you need to make to your client contracts, ensuring you stay ahead of the legal curve in this rapidly evolving landscape.

Beyond just the legalities, Maria stresses the importance of understanding the terms and conditions of AI platforms. Did you know that images created on free accounts are not only non-commercial but also must be clearly labeled with the platform name and creation date? This episode is a treasure trove of indispensable information, from the potential pitfalls of using AI in your design projects to the ethical obligations of giving proper credit. Tune in and arm yourself with the knowledge to navigate the intersection of design, AI, and copyright law like a pro. This is one episode you can't afford to miss.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

• https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-122-The-Top-Things-to-Know-About-AI-and-Copyright

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.

Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY