The Banko Buzz: A Commercial Interior Design Podcast

In this inspiring episode, CEO Laura Hope Whitaker and ESP spokesperson and actor Lily Moore join Melissa to talk about kindness, community, and the “joy exchange” that comes from serving others. Laura shares how a volunteer role led her to step into ESP leadership at just 19 years old after the passing of its founder — a moment that shaped not only her career, but the future of the organization. She reflects on how leading with grace, a learner’s mindset, and a deep belief in the potential of every individual has guided her through the years of growing ESP’s programs, teams, and impact.

Together, Laura and Lily explore how service builds confidence, empathy, and even workplace skills — and why putting down our phones and engaging with the people around us matters now more than ever. They discuss the power of real human connection, the joy that volunteering brings, and practical ways anyone can get involved. Whether you’re seasoned in service or taking your very first step, this conversation is a reminder that service is a practice that always leaves you more joyful than when you arrived!

Want to learn more about the Banko Design approach? Download The Resi-Mercial Recipe, our complimentary guide to creating commercial interiors that balance residential comfort with commercial performance.
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In this episode of The Banko Buzz, Jessye Archer, Co-Founder of South Haven Build Partners, shares how authenticity became her greatest strength in leadership and life. With roots in the Air Force and a decade climbing the ranks at John Wieland Homes, Jessye brings a mix of discipline and heart to the construction world. She opens up about facing imposter syndrome, the moments of self-sabotage that taught her growth, and the power of showing up fully as yourself — even in spaces not built for you. Joined by Melissa, Jessye discusses inclusion in the industry, the collaboration between design and construction, and why being real is the foundation of meaningful work and connection.

Want to learn more about the Banko Design approach? Download The Resi-Mercial Recipe, our complimentary guide to creating commercial interiors that balance residential comfort with commercial performance.
Get your copy: Resimercial Recipe Guide to Commercial Interior Design

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What do comedy, creativity, and commercial design have in common? For Wynne White, they’ve all shaped a career built on passion and purpose. As Vice President of Business Development for Gabby and Summer Classics and the founder of Wendy Jane, Wynne's multifaceted career bridges design and sales through cultivating strategic partnerships and designing fabrics and products for these beloved brands. In this episode, she and Melissa chat about the crossover between fashion and furniture, the importance of trust between designers and product partners, and what it’s like to grow up - and grow into - a family business. From building relationships to building a brand, Wynne shares how she stays inspired, productive, and present in both work and life.

Want to learn more about the Banko Design approach? Download The Resi-Mercial Recipe, our complimentary guide to creating commercial interiors that balance residential comfort with commercial performance.
Get your copy: Resimercial Recipe Guide to Commercial Interior Design

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Emily Hatch’s pivot from interior design into business led her to a career beyond the studio, yet still rooted in the industry. Now a Senior Architectural Representative for TileBar, she shares how she designed a career where creativity and commerce intersect, and how trust, relationships, and design insight drive success in sales. As a new mom, Emily also reflects on balancing career and family - navigating fears of losing yourself professionally, the reality of mom guilt, and the unexpected support she found in the industry. Joined by Melissa, the two discuss time management, building a village of support, and the evolving culture of design that makes space for both motherhood and ambition.

Want to learn more about the Banko Design approach? Download The Resi-Mercial Recipe, our complimentary guide to creating commercial interiors that balance residential comfort with commercial performance.
Get your copy: Resimercial Recipe Guide to Commercial Interior Design

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At two very different stages of their careers in our studio, Jessica Ybarra, Lead Interior Designer, and Baleigh Rape, Junior Interior Designer, bring candid, behind-the-scenes perspectives on what it’s really like to work in interior design. Together, they bust common myths about “what designers actually do all day” and share how the realities of design school differ from life in a studio. They discuss the contrasts between commercial and residential design, what it’s like designing across multifamily, senior living, and private club verticals, and the skills needed to thrive in each. Jessica and Baleigh also offer practical advice for designers at every level on career progression, teamwork, and creating a healthy work culture. Press play for an honest, inspiring conversation on building a fulfilling career in interior design!

Want to learn more about the Banko Design approach? Download The Resi-Mercial Recipe, our complimentary guide to creating commercial interiors that balance residential comfort with commercial performance.
Get your copy: Resimercial Recipe Guide to Commercial Interior Design

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Stacy Garcia built her career on bold color, inventive pattern, and fearless entrepreneurship, launching her first brand at just 26 years old. Today, she is a globally recognized designer and trend forecaster whose influence spans hospitality, commercial, and residential spaces across more than 50 countries. In this episode, Stacy reflects on what keeps her inspired as a designer, where she looks for fresh ideas, and how she channels her artistic instincts into products that resonate in markets worldwide. She also dives into the often-overlooked career path of product design, and the practical realities of turning creativity into a sustainable business. She opens up about identifying what’s marketable, finding your audience, and positioning yourself as the purveyor of “cool” in a crowded industry. Press play for actionable insights on trend forecasting, brand-building, and turning creative ideas into sellable products!

Want to learn more about the Banko Design approach? Download The Resi-Mercial Recipe, our complimentary guide to creating commercial interiors that balance residential comfort with commercial performance.
Get your copy: Resimercial Recipe Guide to Commercial Interior Design

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In this episode of The Banko Buzz, Nathan Jones, founder and CEO of Dash Media, shares how his journey from college football coach to media entrepreneur was guided by faith and purpose. Today, Dash Media is one of the most dynamic storytelling platforms in senior living, reaching millions with powerful, authentic narratives that are changing the way people see and experience senior living. Nate opens up about the calling behind his work, the lessons seniors have to teach us, and how building a mission-driven business can create lasting impact. Tune in for a candid conversation on faith, entrepreneurship, and the power of purpose-driven storytelling!

Want to learn more about the Banko Design approach? Download The Resi-Mercial Recipe, our complimentary guide to creating commercial interiors that balance residential comfort with commercial performance.
Get your copy: Resimercial Recipe Guide to Commercial Interior Design

Want more buzz? 👇

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In this inspiring episode, Melissa talks with Anna Matthews and Sam Seidel from Erin’s Hope for Friends, an organization dedicated to fostering lasting relationships for autistic teens and young adults through their e’s Club program. They discuss the importance of service—not just as philanthropy but as daily support—and how thoughtful design can promote mental wellness and address sensory needs. Melissa shares her personal journey and the profound impact of those who have shown her family servant-hearted kindness, and shows why service is woven into the fabric of the BD Studio Collection company culture. Together, they explore how we can see ability, not just the labels of disability, and address the critical gap in resources and opportunities for autistic individuals as they transition into adulthood. Prepare to be inspired by Anna and Sam’s stories, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to fostering understanding and belonging for all.

Want to learn more about the Banko Design approach? Download The Resi-Mercial Recipe, our complimentary guide to creating commercial interiors that balance residential comfort with commercial performance.
Get your copy: Resimercial Recipe Guide to Commercial Interior Design

Want more buzz? 👇

Watch this episode on YouTube

Visit our website at bankodesign.com

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Thank you for listening to The Banko Buzz!

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

What does it take to turn a shared passion into a thriving business? In this episode, Holli Van Cleave and Jennifer Horning, co-founders of Audrey Lane, share their not-so-straightforward journey of building a luxury tile design firm. This dynamic duo saw a need for easy-to-customize tile lines and dedicated themselves to turning interior designers’ wildest tile dreams into reality, winning awards for their innovative tile collections.

From feeling “safe” to take risks as a creative to making bold moves in product development—a career path often overlooked in interior design school—they’re showing us how they balance being both artisans and businesswomen. Get ready to nerd out on tile (and good branding), hear about the risks they’ve taken, and learn the lessons that have fueled their success!

Want to learn more about the Banko Design approach? Download The Resi-Mercial Recipe, our complimentary guide to creating commercial interiors that balance residential comfort with commercial performance.
Get your copy: Resimercial Recipe Guide to Commercial Interior Design

Want more buzz? 👇

Watch this episode on YouTube

Visit our website at bankodesign.com

Follow us on Instagram and TikTok

Thank you for listening to The Banko Buzz!

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Ever wondered what happens behind the curtain of real estate development? In this episode of The Banko Buzz, Sean Rosko, Development Partner at Middleburg Communities and former Vice President of Development at South City Partners, offers a glimpse into the processes designers don’t typically get to see. From navigating the complexities of financial underwriting and design coordination to managing construction and lease-ups, Sean shares what it takes to create successful multifamily projects. Discover how staying ahead of trends shapes thriving communities, what makes residents truly feel at home, and the state of the real estate market in 2024.

Want to learn more about the Banko Design approach? Download The Resi-Mercial Recipe, our complimentary guide to creating commercial interiors that balance residential comfort with commercial performance.
Get your copy: Resimercial Recipe Guide to Commercial Interior Design

Want more buzz? 👇

Watch this episode on YouTube

Visit our website at bankodesign.com

Follow us on Instagram and TikTok

Thank you for listening to The Banko Buzz!

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.