Off By 2 : Brand Strategy & Business Growth for Founders Who Want More Freedom

By Kady SandelBusiness Entrepreneurship

Off By 2 : Brand Strategy & Business Growth for Founders Who Want More Freedom episodes

February 04, 2025146 Why Your Portfolio Isn't Landing You Clients (And What Will)
Most designers think their portfolio is all about showcasing stunning visuals, but that’s not what lands you clients. Your potential clients aren’t designers - they care about how your work solves their business problems. In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer, I’ll show you how to turn your portfolio into a client-magnet by focusing on strategy, results, and the stories behind your designs.
You will learn:
Why showcasing results, not just visuals, is the key to converting leads.

The three-part structure every case study in your portfolio should follow.

The biggest mistakes designers make in their portfolios (and how to fix them).

Actionable steps to rewrite your portfolio today to attract high-paying clients.
Grab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to redefine how you run your design business!
Aventive Academy's Resources
Mockup Magic: https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/
Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit
Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f
The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator
24 min
January 28, 2025145 Psychological Tricks to Sell Design Services
Selling doesn’t have to feel pushy or uncomfortable. In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, I’m breaking down the psychological tricks that make selling design services feel natural. From building trust to framing your services as solutions, these strategies will help you connect with clients and inspire confidence without feeling like you’re forcing the sale.
You will learn:
How to build trust using authority and social proof.

Why framing your services as solutions makes all the difference.

Ways to use scarcity and urgency ethically to motivate clients.

How reciprocity and thoughtful listening can create meaningful connections.

Strategies to refine your sales process and close more deals confidently.

Take notes and learn how to guide clients toward choosing you, effortlessly!
Aventive Academy’s Resources:
Mockup Magic: https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/
Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit
Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f
The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator
28 min
January 21, 2025144 Client Feedback Is How You Grow
Feedback is one of the most powerful tools for growing your design business - not just from clients who say yes but also from those who say no. In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, I’ll show you how to use client feedback to refine your designs, improve your sales process, and build better relationships. Whether it’s understanding why a client went with a competitor or asking better questions about your work, these insights will help you run a more efficient and successful business.

You will learn:
How to ask for detailed, actionable feedback on your designs.

Ways to gather insights on your sales process from both yes and no clients.

Strategies to turn feedback into real improvements in your business.

How to strengthen client relationships through thoughtful follow-ups.

Practical tips to track feedback and identify patterns for growth.

Take notes and discover how feedback can drive your design business forward!
Aventive Academy’s Resources:
Mockup Magic: https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/
Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit
Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f
The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator
27 min
January 14, 2025143 Is It a Scam or a Real Design Client?
Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and as design business owners, it’s essential to protect ourselves from falling for their tricks. In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, I’m sharing how to identify red flags, common scams targeting designers, and the steps you can take to verify potential clients. By the end of this episode, you’ll feel confident in handling inquiries and safeguarding your business against scams.
You will learn:
The red flags to watch for in client communication.

Examples of common scams targeting designers and how they work.

Practical steps to verify legitimate clients and avoid sketchy situations.

How to set up processes that protect your business and your energy.

Tips to stay informed and confident when dealing with potential clients.

Stay one step ahead and protect your business with these strategies!

Aventive Academy’s Resources:
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/
Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit
Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f
The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator
32 min
January 09, 2025142 How Graphic Designers Get More Clients - Mockup Magic
Struggling to impress clients with your designs? Mockups might be the missing piece to elevate your presentations and simplify your process. In this episode, I’m sharing all the details about my course, Mockup Magic, which helps you create stunning, photorealistic mockups in minutes using AI tools. Whether you’re tired of spending hours in Photoshop or want to deliver polished visuals that wow your clients, this episode is packed with actionable tips and insights to help you work smarter and charge more confidently.
You will learn:
Why professional mockups are essential to landing premium clients.

How Mockup Magic can save you hours of time and stress.

What’s inside the course and how it transforms your design workflow.

The tools and strategies I use to create custom, high-end mockups in minutes.
Let’s take your design presentations to the next level – one mockup at a time!
Mockup Magic with AI - https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/
17 min
January 07, 2025141 Client Onboarding Process for Brand Designers
Having a solid client onboarding process is critical for success as a brand designer. It’s more than just paperwork – it’s about creating a professional first impression and ensuring every project starts on the right foot.
In this episode, I’ll walk you through my step-by-step onboarding process, covering everything from setting expectations to delivering organized final files.
Whether you’re working with a startup or a high-profile client, this process will help you streamline your workflow and create a seamless client experience.
You will learn:
How to create a clear and professional onboarding process that sets expectations.

The steps to implement a client portal for organized communication.

How to present your design work effectively to showcase its value.

Tips for maintaining communication while setting boundaries with clients.

How to wrap up projects in a way that ensures client satisfaction and future referrals.

I hope these tips inspire you to refine your process and make your next onboarding experience even better!

Aventive Academy’s Resources:
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/
Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit
25 min
December 31, 2024140 3 Best Ways to Find Freelance Design Clients in 2025
2025 is here, and it’s time to attract the high-paying design clients you’ve been dreaming of. If finding clients has felt overwhelming or inconsistent, I’m sharing three powerful strategies to help you stand out and build a thriving design business this year. These proven methods will help you connect with the right people, showcase your expertise, and create a steady pipeline of clients who value your work.
You will learn:
How to use networking to create genuine opportunities and referrals

The steps to build an online presence that attracts dream clients effortlessly

How to master proactive outreach and position yourself as the go-to expert

The biggest mistakes designers make when finding clients—and how to avoid them

This is your year. Grab your notebook, and let’s transform the way you find clients in 2025!

Aventive Academy’s Resources:
Free Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/
Free Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit
27 min
December 24, 2024139 How to Craft Proposals That Win You High-Paying Clients
Proposals are more than just documents—they’re your ticket to landing high-paying clients. If your proposals feel generic or aren’t getting the results you want, it’s time to rethink your approach. I’m breaking down exactly what to include in a winning proposal, from crafting a compelling executive summary to confidently presenting your pricing. With clear structure, strong messaging, and polished design, you’ll be able to create proposals that close deals and attract the clients you really want to work with.
You will learn:
The essential sections every high-converting proposal needs

How to write about your services in a way that highlights client outcomes

Tips for presenting your pricing confidently and professionally

The most common mistakes designers make in their proposals—and how to avoid them

How to set clear next steps that make it easy for clients to say yes
Grab your laptop and let’s transform the way you craft proposals!

Aventive Academy’s Resources:
Free Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/
Free Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit
26 min
December 17, 2024138 How I Automated My Design Business and Took a Month Off
Tired of feeling like your design business would collapse if you stepped away for even a week? I’ve been there, and I’m here to tell you it doesn’t have to be that way. In this episode, I’m sharing exactly how I automated my branding agency, hired a team I trust, and took an entire month off—without losing clients or momentum. I’ll walk you through the tools, systems, and mindset shifts that made it possible for me to work just 15 hours a week when I’m in the office and confidently step away when I’m not. If you’ve been wondering how to scale your business while actually creating more freedom for yourself, this episode is for you.
You will learn:
How to build a team you can trust to handle your client work

The tools I use to keep my agency running smoothly, including Gmail, Trello, Slack, and WhatsApp

My approach to batching tasks and planning ahead to free up time

The weekly schedule that helps me stay focused while working fewer hours

Why shifting your mindset is the first step to building a business that works for you

Take a moment for yourself, grab your favorite drink, and let’s get started on building a business that truly works for you!
Aventive Academy’s Resources:
Free Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/
Free Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit
The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator
26 min
December 10, 2024137 Your Roadmap to a Profitable 2025 as a Designer
Creating a profitable 2025 starts with setting clear goals, defining your ideal clients, and building systems that support your growth. This episode is your step-by-step roadmap to envision where you want to be by the end of 2025—and build the structure to get there. From revenue planning to refining your service offerings, I’m sharing the actions that will set you up for a successful year.
You will learn:
How to envision your ideal 2025 and set actionable goals.

Strategies for defining revenue targets and achieving financial health.

Tips for identifying and attracting your ideal clients.

How to structure your service offerings for maximum impact.

Systems and actions to streamline your business.

Grab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to redefine how you run your design business!
Aventive Academy’s Resources:
Free Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/
Free Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit
The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator
25 min

About Off By 2 : Brand Strategy & Business Growth for Founders Who Want More Freedom

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Off By 2 is a business podcast for ambitious founders who want to grow and build a brand people know, but feel overwhelmed by their to-do list, unsure what to focus on, or tired of their business taking up more of their life than they want.

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Off By 2 : Brand Strategy & Business Growth for Founders Who Want More Freedom

Off By 2 : Brand Strategy & Business Growth for Founders Who Want More Freedom episodes

About Off By 2 : Brand Strategy & Business Growth for Founders Who Want More Freedom

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