Step into the heart of Chicago’s Design Week —where 50,000 designers gather, showrooms pulse with creativity, and deep dish dreams meet Michelin-star ambitions. In this electric episode, Maria VanDeman and Wesley Edmonds reflect on everything from Fulton Market’s immersive design experiences to unexpected encounters with industry icons like Cheryl Durst (yes, even with laryngitis!) and Roby Isaac from Mannington.

You’ll hear stories of bold murals, student innovation at ICFF, and why winning “Best Large Showroom” at Fulton wasn’t just about design—it was about heart, culture, and hospitality. The conversation weaves through laughter, food cravings, human-centered design, AI with empathy, and the kind of spontaneous connections that make this industry unforgettable.

If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to be inspired by a city, a space, or a stranger—this episode is your invitation.

Spoiler: Vibes are high. Energy is off the hook. And kindness is the new innovation.

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What does it really take to go from intern to entrepreneur? In this episode, Dani Miller, owner of Lauderdale Design in Knoxville, TN, shares her journey of stepping into business ownership, leading with intention, and building a design firm that reflects her values, vision, and bold spirit.

Recorded just days before welcoming her second child, Dani opens up about the realities of entrepreneurship—balancing risk and reward, leading a team, and making tough calls with courage and clarity. From managing global rebrands for Cadillac to returning home to take over the very firm where she started her career, Dani’s path proves that entrepreneurship is equal parts grit, growth, and grace.

She dives into what she’s learned about building a sustainable business, fostering mentorship, creating opportunity within a small team, and why personal finance and emotional well-being are critical to professional success.

Whether you’re dreaming of launching your own company, looking for inspiration to grow your leadership, or navigating the messy middle of running a business, Dani’s story will leave you feeling empowered and equipped to take the leap.

New from Imagine a Place: Tenwek Hospital: How faith, friendship, and design built a beacon of healing in Africa.

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Click here to get your copy of Maria's children's book—Design Your World.

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In part 3 of "In the ROOM," host Wesley Edmonds sits down with two visionary design leaders: Jane Nakagawa, Vice President of Research and Development at American Honda Motor Company, and Gabriele Chiave, former VP of Global Creative Direction at Estée Lauder and co-founder of the design collective Controvento.

Together, they dive into a wide-ranging conversation on the future of design—from Jane’s unexpected journey from architecture to automotive innovation, to Gabriel’s belief in the power of storytelling, culture, and emotion in shaping spaces. Together, they unpack how AI and emerging technologies are influencing design, the post-pandemic evolution of workplaces and hospitality, and why human-centered thinking must remain at the core of it all.

It’s a thoughtful, inspiring dialogue about where design is headed—and the responsibility we carry to make it more meaningful, sustainable, and deeply human.

Learn more about ROOM

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Join host Wesley Edmonds for part two of In the ROOM at ICFF, where design meets humor, emotion, and experience in unexpected ways.

First up is NYC-based comedian Dan Mahboubian Rosen, who brings a fresh—and funny—perspective to the world of design. Through his unique lens, Dan explores how comedy can shift our understanding of space and spark new ways of thinking.

Then, Wesley sits down with David Schwarz, Co-Founder and Creative Partner at HUSH, to talk about designing immersive environments that do more than look good—they make people feel something.

Though their approaches are very different, both Dan and David challenge the idea of what design can be. This episode is full of insight, a few laughs, and a reminder that great design connects us in ways we might not expect.

Let's escape the noise and join us "In the ROOM."

Learn more about ROOM

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Step into the ROOM at ICFF in New York City, where host Wesley Edmonds sits down with two inspiring women who are making waves in the design world with purpose and heart.

First up is Jaime Derringer, Co-Founder and Head of Brand at TRAME and the Founder and creative force behind Design Milk. Jaime reflects on her unexpected path from art and blogging to becoming a pioneer in digital design media. She opens up about the evolution of her work and how she's now exploring the space where technology meets craftsmanship, with a human touch.

Then, Wesley welcomes Stacy Shoemaker Rauen, Editor-in-Chief of Hospitality Design Magazine and Senior Vice President of the Design Group at Emerald. From her start in journalism to launching her own brand (Bump Water) to raising three boys while leading the industry, Stacy shares how she navigates life with drive, creativity, and a whole lot of heart.

These conversations offer a glimpse into what it really looks like to build a career around curiosity and care. Part one of In the ROOM at ICFF is a reminder that behind every big idea are people simply trying to do work that matters.

Let's escape the noise and join us "In the ROOM."

Learn more about ROOM

Connect with Maria on LinkedIn.

Click here to get your copy of Maria's children's book—Design Your World.

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What began as a friendship in a college dorm unfolds into a story of growth within the design profession — marked by pivots, promotions, and purpose. In this episode, Sara Meier, Interior Designer and Project Manager at CannonDesign, shares her journey from design school to a flexible, future-focused firm. She reflects on the power of saying yes to new challenges, seeking mentorship, and championing sustainable, human-centered design. We dive into the realities of design education, the lessons only experience can teach, and the drive to create healthier environments. Whether you're a student, a seasoned designer, or somewhere in between, this conversation is a reminder that where you start shapes you, but it doesn’t define where you can go.

BONUS: 

"In the Room" airs on the Imagine a Place podcast feed on Tuesday, May 20th, across all major podcast platforms.

Are you in NYC and want to check out ICFF? Imagine a Place invites you to be our guest! Click here for a complimentary pass. 

Connect with Maria on LinkedIn.

Click here to get your copy of Maria's children's book—Design Your World.

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In this episode, we dive deep into the raw, real, and rewarding journey of interior designer Cynthia Sarria, as she shares what it’s like to lead, learn, and build a thriving design culture from the ground up. From her unexpected move from Jersey to Miami to helping launch HOK’s office during a pandemic, Cynthia opens up about what it truly takes to grow a resilient team—and why floaties, heart, and humor are often more valuable than a perfect plan.

We talk about the messy middle of career transitions, the unspoken power of mentorship, and the emotional layers behind creating not just beautiful spaces, but empowered design teams. You’ll hear about the lessons she learned the hard way, how vulnerability builds trust, and why building culture starts with showing up for people—even when no one’s watching.

Whether you're an emerging designer, a seasoned leader, or someone navigating the in-between, this episode is packed with wisdom, warmth, and a few good laughs. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about doing the hard things, designing with purpose, and finding joy in the process.

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Click here to get your copy of Maria's children's book—Design Your World.

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Maria VanDeman and Wesley Edmonds unpack the powerful themes from IIDA’s 27th Industry Roundtable—"The Happiness Code." From designing for awe to embracing vulnerability and joy in the workplace, this episode explores how comfort, connection, and magic are influencing the future of design. Hear their reflections on insights from thought leaders like Dr. Upali Nanda and Mark Bryan—and find out what makes you magical.

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Click here to get your copy of Maria's children's book—Design Your World.

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Imagine a Place is stepping into a new chapter, and we're thrilled to introduce our new host, Maria VanDeman. In this heartfelt and unscripted debut, Maria opens up about the excitement — and a bit of the nervousness — that comes with taking the reins of a podcast that's inspired so many. She reflects on the 170+ incredible guests who’ve shaped Imagine a Place and shares her vision for what’s ahead: meaningful conversations with people who are creating impact — in their work, their communities, and the spaces they touch.

Maria also gives us a glimpse into who she is — a wife, mother, licensed interior designer, and someone deeply passionate about human connection. With new graphics, fresh sounds, and bold ideas on the horizon, this episode marks the beginning of an exciting journey.

Join us as we continue to imagine places — together.

Connect with Maria on LinkedIn.

Click here to get your copy of Maria's children's book—Design Your World.

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On this episode Doug is by himself talking about his 19th NeoCon and what caught his attention. He also talks about the future of this time of year as OFS is moving to Fulton Market for Design Days. Doug also takes time to share memories of Phyllis Menke, Matriarch of OFS who recently passed away at the age of 98.

Connect with Maria on LinkedIn.

Click here to get your copy of Maria's children's book—Design Your World.

Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn.