88: 5 Hard Truths That Changed My Design Business in 2025 (And What You Need to Know Before Next Year)

SHOW NOTES:

In this episode of The McClain Method Podcast, John McClain asks: are you running a beautiful design business that feels chaotic behind the scenes? This year-end reflection episode is for interior designers who are ready to work smarter, not harder.

In this episode, I'm sharing 5 business lessons that transformed my interior design business in 2025 and the practical strategies you can implement right now to build a more profitable, sustainable design firm.

WHAT INTERIOR DESIGNERS WILL LEARN:

LESSON 1: Business Pivots for Interior Designers Why scaling back on design projects actually grew my business. Learn how to identify what you're doing out of habit vs. alignment, and why reinvention is strategic CEO thinking.

LESSON 2: Rest as a Business Strategy for Creatives How a 2-month sabbatical brought more clarity than years of hustling. Discover the "do later" list method that reduces overwhelm and protects your creative energy.

LESSON 3: Using AI in Your Interior Design Business Best practices for AI tools without losing your brand voice. Why starting with pen and paper matters, and how to blend AI efficiency with authentic communication.

LESSON 4: Delegation Strategies for Design Business Owners Master "diligent delegating" for team members and AI tools. Learn why poor results usually mean unclear instructions, and how to onboard effectively for better outputs.

LESSON 5: Sustainable Growth for Interior Designers Why quarterly goals beat yearly overwhelm. Redefine growth beyond revenue with systems, pricing clarity, client boundaries, and business confidence all count.

FREE BUSINESS PLANNING TOOL FOR DESIGNERS: Download my Start, Stop, Continue Guide—the quarterly reflection framework I use to stay aligned and profitable. 👉 https://www.mcclainmethod.com/free-download-startstopcontinue

KEYWORDS: interior design business, business coaching for designers, pricing strategies, design business systems, work-life balance for creatives, CEO mindset, sustainable business growth

Connect: Instagram @themcclainmethod |

Text Me a Message!

Design feels natural. Business doesn’t. And that is frustrating.

Design Success Academy was created to help interior designers finally feel confident running the business side of their work.
Inside the program, you’ll learn how to price with clarity, create simple systems, position yourself professionally, and build a business that actually supports your creativity.

👉 Learn more: https://www.mcclainmethod.com/dsa

Support the show

🌟 For all things John and The McClain Method, head to: www.mcclainmethod.com https://mcclainmethod.com/ for information on coaching, memberships, & more!

📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://johnmcclaindesign.com/designerwithin

Connect With John!
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@mcclainjohn
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/themcclainmethod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mcclainmethod
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejohnmcclain/

EPISODE 87 — Be the Unicorn in the Room: Visibility, Partnerships & Mindful Success with Antonio DeLoatch

If you're an interior designer craving more visibility, confidence, and high-quality clients, this episode is your new playbook.

I’m joined by NYC-based designer and mindfulness advocate Antonio DeLoatch - a man who has mastered becoming the unicorn in the room. Together, we unpack what it really takes to stand out in a crowded design industry, elevate your brand presence, and build a business rooted in clarity and intention.

We talk High Point Market strategy, storytelling, designer mindset, brand collaborations, and the moment Antonio realized he needed to plug the “holes in his bucket” to grow with purpose. This conversation blends mindset, marketing, and soulful business strategy—exactly what designers need in today’s landscape.

Inside this episode, you’ll learn:
✨ How to elevate your visibility as an interior designer
✨ Practical conversation starters for networking (without the awkwardness)
✨ How mindfulness and clarity fuel luxury-level client experiences
✨ Smart strategies for building brand partnerships & collaborations
✨ Why storytelling is essential in modern design marketing
✨ How to show up consistently—even when you don’t feel “shiny”
✨ The visibility moves that helped Antonio grow in NYC, DC & LA

If you’re ready to build a memorable brand, attract aligned clients, and step confidently into the rooms where your future business lives, this episode will feel like a masterclass in both mindset and visibility.

Connect with Antonio:
Website → https://www.antoniodeloatch.com/

Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/antoniodeloatchdesigns

If this episode resonates, share it with a designer who’s ready to shine. 🌟

Text Me a Message!

Design feels natural. Business doesn’t. And that is frustrating.

Design Success Academy was created to help interior designers finally feel confident running the business side of their work.
Inside the program, you’ll learn how to price with clarity, create simple systems, position yourself professionally, and build a business that actually supports your creativity.

👉 Learn more: https://www.mcclainmethod.com/dsa

Support the show

🌟 For all things John and The McClain Method, head to: www.mcclainmethod.com https://mcclainmethod.com/ for information on coaching, memberships, & more!

📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://johnmcclaindesign.com/designerwithin

Connect With John!
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@mcclainjohn
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/themcclainmethod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mcclainmethod
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejohnmcclain/

Three Reasons Designers Stay Stuck (And How to Break Through In 2026)

If you’ve been feeling stuck in your design business — stuck at the same income level, stuck recreating your processes every time a new client reaches out, stuck second-guessing your pricing, or stuck behind a brand that doesn’t reflect your true talent — this episode is the shift you needed.

Today, John breaks down the three biggest reasons designers don’t grow (even when they’re working hard!) and teaches the mindset, strategy, and structure shifts he coaches inside The McClain Method. If you want a more confident, profitable, luxury-aligned business heading into 2026, this is your roadmap.

✨ IN THIS EPISODE YOU’LL LEARN:

• Why your business feels chaotic even when your design work is beautiful
• How reinventing your process for every new client drains energy, creativity, and profit
• What a real, repeatable business system looks like for designers
• The difference between pricing based on fear vs. pricing based on transformation
• Why your digital presence matters more than your portfolio
• How brand alignment impacts the level of clients you attract
• How to step into a higher level of confidence and clarity before the new year

Text Me a Message!

Support the show

🌟 For all things John and The McClain Method, head to: www.mcclainmethod.com https://mcclainmethod.com/ for information on coaching, memberships, & more!

📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://johnmcclaindesign.com/designerwithin

Connect With John!
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@mcclainjohn
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/themcclainmethod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mcclainmethod
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejohnmcclain/

The Hidden Reason Your Clients Don’t Feel Fully Taken Care Of

Even the most talented designers can unintentionally miss the small-but-critical details that shape how clients feel throughout (and especially at the end of) a project. And let’s be honest: clients remember the final 10% more than the first 90%.

In today’s episode, we’re diving into the quiet gap in most design businesses — the part that turns even the most beautiful projects into stressful, confusing experiences for clients.

We’ll talk about install-day chaos, missing FF&E clarity, post-project confusion, and the lack of a true care system that guides clients after the reveal.

If you want smoother installs, calm clients, and a luxury experience from start to finish, this episode is your starting point.

If you’re ready to make your client experience feel elevated, organized, and unmistakably professional, this episode will give you the clarity to get started — and the tools to take it further.

Text Me a Message!

Support the show

🌟 For all things John and The McClain Method, head to: www.mcclainmethod.com https://mcclainmethod.com/ for information on coaching, memberships, & more!

📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://johnmcclaindesign.com/designerwithin

Connect With John!
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@mcclainjohn
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/themcclainmethod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mcclainmethod
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejohnmcclain/

What if the version of success you’ve been chasing… isn’t actually yours?
 In this episode, John McClain gets personal about what happened when his business grew beyond what his soul was ready for — and why he made the decision to choose alignment over expansion.

From running two design offices across the country to finding peace and purpose in a smaller, more intentional business, John shares the real lessons behind sustainable success.

If you’ve ever felt pressure to “go big” before you were ready, this episode will remind you that the most successful business is the one that feels like home.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:
💡 The hidden pressure behind the “grow or die” mindset in business
💡 How John built two thriving offices — and why he chose to scale back
💡 The moment he realized busy doesn’t mean fulfilled
💡 How to know when your business growth is no longer aligned
💡 Practical steps to stay grounded and profitable without losing your peace

Episode Quote to Share:

“Growth without alignment is just chaos with better branding.” — John McClain

Resources & Mentions:
✨ Explore Design Success Academy inside The McClain Method — your roadmap to building a beautiful, profitable, and soul-aligned business.
👉 Visit mcclainmethod.com
for programs, tools, and free resources.

Follow John on Instagram → @themcclainmethod

Watch this episode on YouTube → John McClain YouTube Channel

Fast Action Step:
Take five minutes today to ask yourself:
👉 Is my business structure supporting the life I want — or stealing the joy from it?
If the answer feels even slightly off, it might be time to realign before you expand.

Text Me a Message!

Support the show

🌟 For all things John and The McClain Method, head to: www.mcclainmethod.com https://mcclainmethod.com/ for information on coaching, memberships, & more!

📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://johnmcclaindesign.com/designerwithin

Connect With John!
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@mcclainjohn
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/themcclainmethod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mcclainmethod
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejohnmcclain/

In this episode of The McClain Method Podcast, I’m joined by nationally recognized designer, TV personality, and NKBA Person of the Year Alena Capra — a powerhouse in the world of interior design and brand partnerships.

We’re pulling back the curtain on what it really takes to build a thriving design brand from the ground up — one that’s respected, recognizable, and rooted in authenticity.

Alena and I dive into:

• 🌟 How to find your niche and use it to stand out in a crowded design industry
• 🤝 The secret to landing brand partnerships and ambassadorships (even when you’re just starting out)
• 🧠 Why consistency and visibility are key to building a trusted design brand
• 💬 How to create lasting relationships with showrooms, reps, and other designers
• 💡 What it means to evolve your brand intentionally — and how to keep your creative passion alive while doing it

Whether you’re an emerging designer dreaming of partnerships with your favorite brands, or an established pro looking to grow your visibility and influence, this episode is full of insight, laughter, and real-world wisdom from two designers who’ve walked the walk.

✨ Connect with Alena Capra

🔗 Website: alenacapradesigns.com

📸 Instagram: @alenacapradesign

Text Me a Message!

Design feels natural. Business doesn’t. And that is frustrating.

Design Success Academy was created to help interior designers finally feel confident running the business side of their work.
Inside the program, you’ll learn how to price with clarity, create simple systems, position yourself professionally, and build a business that actually supports your creativity.

👉 Learn more: https://www.mcclainmethod.com/dsa

Support the show

🌟 For all things John and The McClain Method, head to: www.mcclainmethod.com https://mcclainmethod.com/ for information on coaching, memberships, & more!

📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://johnmcclaindesign.com/designerwithin

Connect With John!
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@mcclainjohn
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/themcclainmethod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mcclainmethod
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejohnmcclain/

If your Instagram captions or newsletters sound like a bad Hallmark card… I hate to break it to you, but I know AI wrote them.

And so does your audience. 👀

Here’s the deal: AI isn’t the problem. It’s actually a powerful tool — but if you’re handing it the mic and posting whatever it spits out, your content is going to sound robotic, generic, and totally forgettable. And luxury clients? They don’t hire forgettable.

In this episode of The McClain Method, I’m giving you the tough love (and the strategy) on:

✨ Why AI-written captions often sound fake (and how your audience can spot it instantly).
 ✨ The difference between free vs. paid ChatGPT — and why it matters for your brand voice.
 ✨ How to train AI to sound more like YOU, not a corporate brochure.
 ✨ My “Cocktail Rule” test to make sure your captions actually connect with luxury clients.
 ✨ A fast action step you can do today to make your content sound authentic, magnetic, and luxury-ready.

AI should be your assistant, not your replacement. This episode will show you how to stop sounding like everyone else online — and start showing up with the presence, personality, and polish that attracts the clients you actually want.

💡 DOWNLOAD MY FREE GUIDE: BRAND VOICE CHATGPT PROMPT 

https://mcclainmethod.com/chatgpt-kickstart-prompt

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The McClain Method — because when your brand speaks clearly, the world pays attention.

82: I Know AI Wrote Your Instagram Caption (Here’s How to Fix It)

Text Me a Message!

Support the show

🌟 For all things John and The McClain Method, head to: www.mcclainmethod.com https://mcclainmethod.com/ for information on coaching, memberships, & more!

📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://johnmcclaindesign.com/designerwithin

Connect With John!
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@mcclainjohn
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/themcclainmethod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mcclainmethod
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejohnmcclain/

How to Avoid Common Interior Design Business Mistakes with Ronniesha Rivera

In this episode of the McClain Method Podcast, host John McClain discusses overcoming difficulties in the interior design business with guest Ronniesha Rivera, founder of Vetted By Design. 

They talk about the importance of dealing with hardships, the challenges of finding good help, outsourcing effectively, and maintaining long-term profitability. They also delve into the specifics of hiring bookkeepers, accountants, and the crucial role of contracts. 

Ronniesha shares her insights on delegating, managing contractor relations, and the essential role of boundaries in maintaining a successful design business. She highlights the need for robust processes and the importance of investing in oneself. Additionally, they introduce Vetted By Design, a platform created to help designers find pre-vetted industry professionals, ensuring reliable and tailored support for various business needs.

More about Vetted By Design and Ronniesha Rivera:

Website: https://vetted-bydesign.com/

If you are a vendor or company wishing to be added to Vetted By Design, mention The McClain Method for 15% off of your listing!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vettedbydesign/

Text Me a Message!

Design feels natural. Business doesn’t. And that is frustrating.

Design Success Academy was created to help interior designers finally feel confident running the business side of their work.
Inside the program, you’ll learn how to price with clarity, create simple systems, position yourself professionally, and build a business that actually supports your creativity.

👉 Learn more: https://www.mcclainmethod.com/dsa

Support the show

🌟 For all things John and The McClain Method, head to: www.mcclainmethod.com https://mcclainmethod.com/ for information on coaching, memberships, & more!

📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://johnmcclaindesign.com/designerwithin

Connect With John!
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@mcclainjohn
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/themcclainmethod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mcclainmethod
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejohnmcclain/

Do it Afraid: Navigating Fear and Change in Design

In this episode of the McClain Method Podcast, host John McClain speaks with Katie Derek Erickson, founder of Success by Design. 

They discuss the importance of grit, perspective, and intuitive decision-making in business. Katie shares her journey from flipping houses to leading a multimillion-dollar commercial design firm and emphasizes the significance of sustainable design. The episode also touches on overcoming fear, the power of celebrating small wins, and the impact of having a defined 'why' in business. 

14:18 Celebrating Success and Finding Joy

18:12 Remote Teams and Effective Hiring

27:11 The Power of Systems and Processes

36:04 The Importance of Marketing Processes

36:53 The Need for Structured Task Management

44:38 Building Strong Relationships with Tradespeople

53:40 Handling Business Challenges and Burnout

01:00:32 The Power of Knowing Your 'Why'

01:05:44 Rapid Fire Insights and Conclusion

More On Katie and her program and podcast: Success by Design

Website: https://successbydesign.coach/

LISTEN HERE to John on Katie's Podcast: https://successbydesign.coach/podcast-library/b/attracting-luxury-interior-design-clients-with-john-mcclain

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/successbydesign_coach_podcast/?hl=en

****

Text Me a Message!

Design feels natural. Business doesn’t. And that is frustrating.

Design Success Academy was created to help interior designers finally feel confident running the business side of their work.
Inside the program, you’ll learn how to price with clarity, create simple systems, position yourself professionally, and build a business that actually supports your creativity.

👉 Learn more: https://www.mcclainmethod.com/dsa

Support the show

🌟 For all things John and The McClain Method, head to: www.mcclainmethod.com https://mcclainmethod.com/ for information on coaching, memberships, & more!

📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://johnmcclaindesign.com/designerwithin

Connect With John!
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@mcclainjohn
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/themcclainmethod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mcclainmethod
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejohnmcclain/

Episode 79: Clutter-Free Life – Transform Your Space, Transform Your Mindset with Helen Sanderson

In today’s episode of The McClain Method Podcast, we’re diving into the powerful connection between your home environment and mental wellness. I’m joined by Helen Sanderson, the UK’s leading expert on the psychology of clutter and the author of The Secret Life of Clutter. 

Helen is here to show us how to clear the physical clutter in our spaces—and how doing so can lead to a clearer, more intentional mindset.

Helen, known as "The Clutter Therapist," shares her unique approach that blends psychotherapy with interior design to help people declutter not only their homes but their lives. This episode explores:

• Why clutter is more than just physical stuff – it’s about what’s going on inside your head.
• How clutter can be a mirror for your mental state, and how clearing it can help you tap into your potential.
• The emotional journey of decluttering, from attachment to guilt to personal growth.
• Tips for interior designers on how to gently help clients face the clutter in their own homes without overstepping.
• The powerful role of mindset in design and how to create spaces that support both mental and physical wellness.

Helen gives insightful advice on the Clutter Shift and the importance of compassionate guidance through the decluttering process. If you’ve ever struggled with the clutter in your home—or in your mind—this episode is for you!

Resources Mentioned:

• Helen Sanderson’s Website: https://www.helensanderson.com/
• The Secret Life of Clutter – A must-read book by Helen Sanderson.
• The Clutter Shift Program – Helen’s signature program to help you declutter and shift your mindset.

Text Me a Message!

Design feels natural. Business doesn’t. And that is frustrating.

Design Success Academy was created to help interior designers finally feel confident running the business side of their work.
Inside the program, you’ll learn how to price with clarity, create simple systems, position yourself professionally, and build a business that actually supports your creativity.

👉 Learn more: https://www.mcclainmethod.com/dsa

Support the show

🌟 For all things John and The McClain Method, head to: www.mcclainmethod.com https://mcclainmethod.com/ for information on coaching, memberships, & more!

📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://johnmcclaindesign.com/designerwithin

Connect With John!
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@mcclainjohn
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/themcclainmethod
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mcclainmethod
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejohnmcclain/