Send us a text

How to Fully Craft Your Client Journey: Part 2 with Brittany Farinas

In the concluding episode of Season 1, John McClain celebrates the one-year anniversary of 'The Designer Within' podcast and shares exciting plans for Season 2.  

John then dives into part two of his insightful interview with Brittany Farinas. Brittany emphasizes the importance of maintaining direct client communication, effective project intake processes, client expectation management, and the integration of custom furniture. They also discuss business scaling strategies, outsourcing procurement, and the critical role of client vetting to ensure the right match between designer and client. Brittany shares how she remains hands-on with initial client interactions and her philosophy on balancing systematic processes with fluid client experiences. The conversation highlights the significance of transparent communication and how to manage and delegate tasks efficiently within a design business.

01:22 Celebrating One Year of Podcasting

01:55 Season Two Announcements

04:01 Part Two of the Interview with Brittany Farinas

04:25 Maintaining Client Communication

05:56 Handling Project Hiccups

09:40 Balancing Systematic and Fluid Processes

12:25 Customizing Client Experiences

17:35 Team Dynamics and Client Matching

20:34 Finding the Right Clients

23:24 Client Communication and Delegation

23:41 Hiring and Team Strengths

24:24 Procurement Process and Outsourcing

26:57 Financial Management in Procurement

33:22 Business Perception and Social Media

35:46 Future Plans & Custom Furniture

41:40 Finding & Working with Vendors

More On Brittany:
House of 1 Website: https://www.houseof1.com/
House of 1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/houseofone_/
Brittany Farinas Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/brittanyalexa_/

 Download your free checklist:
 “Stop Sabotaging Your Marketing: 6 Ways to Get Aligned with the Clients You Want”
👉mcclainmethod.com/fixmybrand

Support the show

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

📄 For Podcast Downloads & Freebies: https://mcclainmethod.com/freebies

🍸 To join The McClain Method for courses, coaching, and more: https://mcclainmethod.com/work-with-me

📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://stan.store/johnmcclain/p/order-johns-book



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/

Send us a text

In this engaging episode (Part 1 of 2) of the Designer Within Podcast, host John McClain welcomes Brittany Farinas, CEO, and Creative Director of House of One, to discuss her journey in the interior design world. Together, they delve into Brittany's early career challenges, the importance of professional branding, and key business strategies that have propelled her to success. Highlights include insights into Brittany's investment in PR, the dual role of personal and professional life in her brand, and practical tips on custom furniture, client onboarding, and much more. Get ready for an inspiring conversation about merging passion with business acumen.

00:00 I'll see you in Las Vegas Market!

01:16 Introduction to Today's Episode

02:00 Welcome to The Designer Within Podcast

03:12 Interview begins with Brittany Farinas: Part 1

06:50 Brittany's Journey into Interior Design

11:37 Building a Brand and Business

17:56 The Importance of Professional Image

30:41 Balancing Personal and Professional Life

35:43 Conclusion and Teaser for Part 2

36:26 Final Thoughts and Resources

House of 1 Website: https://www.houseof1.com/
House of 1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/houseofone_/
Brittany Farinas Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/brittanyalexa_/

 Download your free checklist:
 “Stop Sabotaging Your Marketing: 6 Ways to Get Aligned with the Clients You Want”
👉mcclainmethod.com/fixmybrand

Support the show

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

📄 For Podcast Downloads & Freebies: https://mcclainmethod.com/freebies

🍸 To join The McClain Method for courses, coaching, and more: https://mcclainmethod.com/work-with-me

📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://stan.store/johnmcclain/p/order-johns-book



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/

Send us a text

Can the words you choose truly shape your business success? Discover the transformative power of language in our 50th milestone episode of the Designer Within Podcast. I'll unveil how the words you use can either build bridges or create barriers in your professional relationships. Learn how to replace phrases like "cheap" and "budget" with more positive alternatives such as "less expensive" and "investment expectations" to foster confidence and professionalism. This episode is packed with insights on refining your vocabulary to enhance client interactions and elevate your business communication skills.

In this special episode, we also explore the art of choosing positive language, offering practical tips for incorporating solutions-focused phrasing into your daily conversations. Avoiding negative connotations can make a significant difference in how clients perceive your capabilities. Additionally, we delve into the importance of mindful listening, effective communication techniques, and the value of seeking feedback to build trust and rapport with clients. Tune in for personal anecdotes and actionable advice that will help you master the subtleties of client communication and achieve greater professional success.

 Download your free checklist:
 “Stop Sabotaging Your Marketing: 6 Ways to Get Aligned with the Clients You Want”
👉mcclainmethod.com/fixmybrand

Support the show

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

📄 For Podcast Downloads & Freebies: https://mcclainmethod.com/freebies

🍸 To join The McClain Method for courses, coaching, and more: https://mcclainmethod.com/work-with-me

📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://stan.store/johnmcclain/p/order-johns-book



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/

Send us a text

What if you could turn your passion into a thriving career? This week, I sit down with Jamie Gasparovic, the visionary founder and principal designer of Studio Gaspo, to uncover the secrets behind her meteoric rise from a marketing professional to a celebrated interior designer. Jamie takes us through her journey of launching her own firm at just 27, without traditional mentorship, and how sheer determination and self-reliance fueled her success.

Jamie generously shares hard-earned wisdom on valuing your work, setting appropriate pricing, and overcoming the guilt often associated with making money in creative fields. From listing out all deliverables to understanding business expenses, Jamie details practical strategies for setting and communicating prices that reflect the true value of your work. We also discuss client investment expectations, evolving business models, and how to handle the financial transition from salary jobs to self-employment, making this episode a treasure trove of advice for new and seasoned designers alike.

But that's not all; Jamie delves into the softer skills that are crucial for thriving in the design industry. We explore the importance of building confidence, refining your design style, and nurturing essential vendor relationships. Jamie emphasizes the power of education and community, encouraging designers to share their knowledge to elevate the industry collectively. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your existing practice, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiration to help you unleash the designer within you.

Find Jamie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studiogaspo
Find Jamie on her website: https://studiogaspo.com/

 Download your free checklist:
 “Stop Sabotaging Your Marketing: 6 Ways to Get Aligned with the Clients You Want”
👉mcclainmethod.com/fixmybrand

Support the show

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

📄 For Podcast Downloads & Freebies: https://mcclainmethod.com/freebies

🍸 To join The McClain Method for courses, coaching, and more: https://mcclainmethod.com/work-with-me

📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://stan.store/johnmcclain/p/order-johns-book



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/

Send us a text

Ever wondered how a background in IT could transform the world of interior design? This episode of The Designer Within Podcast with John McClain promises an engaging exploration of career transitions with our inspiring guest, Sarah Wilson, the owner and principal designer of Chansaerae Designs. Sarah’s incredible journey from the structured environment of IT to the creative realm of interior design is a must-hear.

She openly shares her experiences of returning to design school as an adult, leveraging her technical skills to streamline her business operations, and taking bold creative risks that set her apart in the industry. We explore how she aligns with clients to bring their wildest design dreams to life while staying true to their personal identity.

Our conversation dives into the unexpected ways previous career skills can enhance new ventures. Sarah’s story is a testament to leveraging past experiences for success in interior design, offering a unique perspective on the importance of formal education, practical industry knowledge, and the value of attending market events. Together, John McClain and Sarah discuss the significant influence of personal and cultural backgrounds on design aesthetics, enriching the creative process with distinctive styles.

The latter part of our episode tackles the often tricky subject of pricing transparency and client communication in the design industry. We share candid insights on managing client expectations, the importance of clear communication, and building trust through unique design solutions. 

This episode is a treasure trove of actionable insights and inspiring stories for designers and creative entrepreneurs eager to push boundaries and exceed client expectations.

Join us and get inspired to create extraordinary designs that leave a lasting impact with Sarah Wilson of Chansaerae Designs.

More on Sarah Wilson:
Website:  https://chansaeraedesigns.com/
Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/chansaeraedesigns/

 Download your free checklist:
 “Stop Sabotaging Your Marketing: 6 Ways to Get Aligned with the Clients You Want”
👉mcclainmethod.com/fixmybrand

Support the show

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

📄 For Podcast Downloads & Freebies: https://mcclainmethod.com/freebies

🍸 To join The McClain Method for courses, coaching, and more: https://mcclainmethod.com/work-with-me

📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://stan.store/johnmcclain/p/order-johns-book



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/

Send us a text

Can you imagine transforming every client consultation into a surefire sales opportunity? That's exactly what you'll learn in this episode of the Designer Within Podcast with me, John McClain. We explore the essential strategies for mastering successful consultations in sales-driven businesses, especially for creative entrepreneurs. By embracing consultations as crucial sales calls, you’ll discover ten actionable steps that have driven my own business success. From setting clear legal expectations and leveraging online scheduling systems to delivering valuable insights during the meeting, this episode will empower you to turn consultations into a powerful tool for winning clients and closing deals.

Come along as we uncover the best practices for design consultations. Learn how to use comprehensive design questionnaires to extract deeper insights into your clients' preferences and aspirations, ensuring every meeting is as informative as it is effective. I share personal anecdotes on how specific questions can reveal crucial information, ensuring you understand and meet your clients' needs. Setting clear expectations, providing printed materials, and creating a structured consultation process are key takeaways that will leave a lasting positive impression and foster successful client relationships. Elevate your consultation skills and boost your business in just 20 minutes!

Download your free Interior Design Consultation Questionnaire: https://john.myflodesk.com/consultquestionnaire

 Download your free checklist:
 “Stop Sabotaging Your Marketing: 6 Ways to Get Aligned with the Clients You Want”
👉mcclainmethod.com/fixmybrand

Support the show

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

📄 For Podcast Downloads & Freebies: https://mcclainmethod.com/freebies

🍸 To join The McClain Method for courses, coaching, and more: https://mcclainmethod.com/work-with-me

📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://stan.store/johnmcclain/p/order-johns-book



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/

Send us a text

Imagine transforming your home into a sanctuary that not only soothes your soul but also stands as a testament to ethical living. Join me, John McClain, and pioneer Deborah Dimare as we navigate the intersection of interior design and moral responsibility, ensuring that every piece of furniture and fabric honors both your well-being and the planet's. Our lively discussion explores my journey to creating healthful living spaces, and Deborah's transition from traditional design to championing animal rights and sustainability within the industry.

This episode isn't just about aesthetics; it's a deep dive into the heart of vegan and cruelty-free design practices. Delve into the world of non-toxic materials with us as we inspect the challenges designers face in sourcing ethical products, such as the elusive featherless sofa, and how bedroom environments can be revitalized with GOTS-certified organic materials. We share practical tips for those yearning to create a nurturing home environment—one that is family-friendly, durable, and free of harmful toxins.

Whether you're a seasoned professional or a curious novice, there's a wealth of knowledge to be gained as we craft spaces that not only look good but do good, fostering healthier communities one room at a time.

Learn more about Deborah:
www.dimaredesign.com Use Code: The Designer Within to save 40% off of her kids and babies room design course: https://dimaredesign.com/online-babies-and-kids-room-design-course/

Deborah Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deborahdimare/
Deborah's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/987654061723239
Deborah's Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/HealthyHumaneDesign,

 Download your free checklist:
 “Stop Sabotaging Your Marketing: 6 Ways to Get Aligned with the Clients You Want”
👉mcclainmethod.com/fixmybrand

Support the show

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

📄 For Podcast Downloads & Freebies: https://mcclainmethod.com/freebies

🍸 To join The McClain Method for courses, coaching, and more: https://mcclainmethod.com/work-with-me

📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://stan.store/johnmcclain/p/order-johns-book



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/

Send us a text

If you have ever felt behind schedule before you even opened up your laptop or found yourself chasing the clock to get something done by a deadline. Well, you're not alone.

We have ALL been there my friend, but guess what? There are solutions to your productivity problems and Amber De La Garza is the productivity expert and she's HERE on the podcast today!

She has created a very detailed list of ways that we (as creatives) can be more productive in our days. (Trust me, I know it's hard)!

Get your notepad out. This one is for sure you'll want to recall later and implement!

Here are some of the topics Amber and I cover in this episode:
*  What is YOUR definition of productivity?
* Time blocking: Breaking it down step by step
*  Amber's 4 "Buckets" of Productivity & how to fill them
*  Delegation made easy
*  How to merge Amber's 2 time blocking strategies to work for you

Amber also has a great quiz for you to take for free on her website that will give you your very own productivity playlist: CLICK HERE for that: https://amberdelagarza.com/QUIZ/

Now, get going and be productive and download this episode now. You will want to relisten to it for sure!!


For more information on Amber:
Website: https://amberdelagarza.com/
Podcast: https://amberdelagarza.com/podcast/
Social Media: Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/amber_delagarza/
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/theproductivityspecialist

 Download your free checklist:
 “Stop Sabotaging Your Marketing: 6 Ways to Get Aligned with the Clients You Want”
👉mcclainmethod.com/fixmybrand

Support the show

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

📄 For Podcast Downloads & Freebies: https://mcclainmethod.com/freebies

🍸 To join The McClain Method for courses, coaching, and more: https://mcclainmethod.com/work-with-me

📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://stan.store/johnmcclain/p/order-johns-book



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/

Send us a text

I love having talented and successful friends on the podcast and Christopher Todd Hall is that and so much more!
 
Christopher not only is a successful 30 year veteran of the design industry, but also has lots of exciting ventures within his company that allow him to spread his creative talents while increasing revenue.

In this fun and very enlightening convo, you will learn:
* How Christopher markets himself in his own very unique way
* The trip across the country that led to the Academy Awards for Christopher
* The retail showroom journey, its ups and downs and lessons for anyone considering starting their own retail showroom
* His Vanessa Williams transition: from fan to friend to business partner
* Insights from an expert on the future of the design industry you won't want to miss.

I adore Christopher. His true down-to-earth honesty and candor and I know you will too. Listen to this episode and consider where you are in your own business and design journey and if there are lessons that can apply to you too.

Spoiler Alert: There will be!
Enjoy!

For more on Christopher Todd:
Website: https://www.christophertodddesign.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ctdesignlv/
Shop Christopher Todd Home Store online: https://www.shopchristophertodd.com/
Vanessa Williams candles: https://www.shopchristophertodd.com/vanessa-williams/

 Download your free checklist:
 “Stop Sabotaging Your Marketing: 6 Ways to Get Aligned with the Clients You Want”
👉mcclainmethod.com/fixmybrand

Support the show

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

📄 For Podcast Downloads & Freebies: https://mcclainmethod.com/freebies

🍸 To join The McClain Method for courses, coaching, and more: https://mcclainmethod.com/work-with-me

📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://stan.store/johnmcclain/p/order-johns-book



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/

Send us a text

Have you ever felt the wear and tear of burnout creeping into your life, inching its way into your creative soul? I know I have, and it's time to talk about the lifeline that boundaries are in our industry. Today's episode of the Designer Within brings in Lori Miller, an interior designer with a unique twist—her expertise in mental health counseling. We peel back the layers of how psychological principles can shape the spaces we live in, affecting our overall well-being. I get personal with my own brushes with burnout and share the pivotal steps I've taken to keep my mental health on track amidst the demands of our bustling field.

Navigating the emotional labyrinth of client relationships and the pressures of home renovations can be a daunting task for designers, but it's one we dissect with care. We discuss striking the right chords with our clients, understanding their deeper motivations, and the undeniable impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on all of us within the design industry. Lori sheds light on the subtle but potent signals of burnout, and we contemplate strategies to manage stress before it overtakes us.

I wrap things up with a heart-to-heart on the sacredness of Sundays, the power of a pause, and the transformative nature of mindfulness practices in our daily routines. If you're looking for a nudge towards self-care, a reminder to breathe, or practical tips on keeping your professional balance without tipping over, this is your sign.

Highlights of our convo:
* The signs of burnout and how to notice them
* How to avoid burnout altogether using tools you already have
* Psychology tactics to work with clients from the very beginning
* How boundaries and expectations are key

I hope you take the time to TRULY listen to this episode and I hope if you need help you seek it. Notice the signs of burnout as it reveals itself to you and take care of it now. You are worth it.

For more information on Lori Miller:
Website: www.lgcinteriordesign.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lgc.interiordesign


And for those yearning to delve deeper into the business side of interior design, my Design S

 Download your free checklist:
 “Stop Sabotaging Your Marketing: 6 Ways to Get Aligned with the Clients You Want”
👉mcclainmethod.com/fixmybrand

Support the show

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

📄 For Podcast Downloads & Freebies: https://mcclainmethod.com/freebies

🍸 To join The McClain Method for courses, coaching, and more: https://mcclainmethod.com/work-with-me

📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://stan.store/johnmcclain/p/order-johns-book



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/