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Today With Shaun Crha & Rebecca Plumb: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I have Shaun Crha of Wrensted Interiors and Rebecca Plumb of Studio Plumb on the show. They met on Instagram and are now design besties—together hosting the Hot Young Designers Club podcast, where they explore the emotional, practical, and humorous side of the interior design world. Shaun and Rebecca are here today to inspire community, not competition, between fellow designers, and we’re talking about relationships, boundaries, rates, and red flags. We hope that you join us. Pick It Apart [4:28] Rebecca and Shaun talk about how they met and became friends [11:50] Rebecca explains how the peer-to-peer mentorship between her and Shaun works and why it is helpful to have this relationship [22:32] LuAnn digs into how Shaun and Rebecca run the back end of their businesses [27:29] Rebecca explains how she uses automation to create boundaries with her clients [38:50] Rebecca and Shaun discuss rates and how they have both exper

Today With Staci Davidson: Welcome to A Well Designed Business. Today I am joined by Staci Davidson, owner of Everything but Design, where she does just that. Staci is capable of taking on every aspect of an interior design business, from accounting and bookkeeping to consulting and customer service, freeing up her clients so that they can get back to what they do best: Design. Staci is here to talk about her experience and the value that outsourcing your back-end operations can bring to your business, boosting not only your confidence, but your profits. Pick It Apart [3:39] Staci recounts her experience as an operations manager and bookkeeper for a residential design firm, handling “everything but design” in the business and growing it to a multimillion-dollar firm. [10:47] Staci and LuAnn discuss the services Everything but Design offers beyond just bookkeeping, and Staci explains how outsourcing administrative tasks to someone that understands the design industry allows her clients to focus more on the

Today With Amy Youngblood Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It’s no secret that I love systems and processes. They are the absolute backbone to increasing your profitability. My guest today, Amy Youngblood, principal of Amy Youngblood Interiors, has a very specific process that has helped her not just increase her profitability and bring in more clients, but also to bring in the right clients. She’s taking us through her intake process and discussing why and how it works to ensure that she works with her ideal clients. Pick It Apart [0:57] Amy shares her story of why she realized she needed to make a change in her business.  [7:07] Amy and LuAnn begin a deep-dive into Amy’s contact form. [20:58] Amy highlights why it’s important to ensure that partners in a home are on the same page. [43:58] Amy and LuAnn discuss the value of thinking outside of the box, even when you have systems and processes in place. LuAnn Nigara and Amy Youngblood' Ah-Ha Moments “What you’re saying is the first critical key in

Today With Julia Marcum: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today’s show is a Flashback Friday, an episode from the archives that was so good, and so relevant, we wanted to share it with you again! I hope you enjoy Julia Marcum’s episode that originally aired as episode 480! Julia started blogging more than ten years ago, and her readership has grown to include millions of people. In 2016, Chris left his day job to join Julia as a blogger on a full-time basis. With their blog, this remarkable couple shares their original, authentic, and sincere perspective on the daily coups and challenges of their DIY home renovations. People follow them to learn how to improve their space and to get inspiration, tips on trends, and motivation to get things done.  In today’s episode, Julia explains that they know exactly why they’re doing what they do, and they know who they do it for. LuAnn Nigara and Julia Marcum's Ah-Ha Moments “There is zero downsides to growing your Instagram presence” - Julia Marcum “Maximize w

Today With Kellie Burke: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Join me this week as I sit down with Kellie Burke, owner of Kellie Burke Interiors. One of Kellie's philosophies when designing a home is that "it should feel like a well-traveled home and not have a matching, store-bought look." Tune in to hear about her journey, the importance of failure, and the ups and downs of having a business. LuAnn Nigara and Kellie Burke's Ah-Ha Moments “The failure comes the lessons.” - LuAnn Nigara “I think we mistakenly see all the beautiful things and believe that that is the business of it, and it’s not.” - LuAnn Nigara More About Kellie Burke: Kellie studied design at Skidmore College in New York and overseas in Florence, Italy. While abroad, she soaked in the design principles associated with many different countries, including Portugal, Russia, Italy, France, Brussels, England, Estonia, and Scandinavia. After working as a studio artist and a faux painter, Kellie established her West Hartford, Connecticut

Today’s Show is Sponsored by the “Interior Design Standard.” Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show, Sandra Funk is here to share all the details of her upcoming course, the “Interior Design Standard”. I’m so excited to share Sandra Funk’s business program, the “Interior Design Standard”, with you because I know it will be the best investment for your business. Enroll here: https://interiordesignstandard.com/luann Today With Sandra Funk: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Have you ever found yourself apologizing for delays due to elements that are completely out of your control (backorders, supply chain issues, labor shortage, etc.)? My guest today, Sandra Funk, believes it’s time to stop apologizing.  Sandra shares her insights into why designers do this, why they need to stop, and how to take back control of your communication with your clients. Pick It Apart [1:30] Sandra picks apart why designers need to stop apologizing for things that are out of their control. [7:28] Lu

Today With John McClain: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am joined for the second time by John McClain. John is an accomplished interior designer, business coach, and author of The Designer Within. In this episode, he shares a bit about his back story with us—from crisis to conquest. John is here to help you understand that you can learn and grow from your mistakes, and success can be born out of failure. John shares his dark night of the soul story with us, but it didn’t end there. He turned that rough patch into a catalyst to organize his business for the better. Since then he has implemented a “How We Work” document, detailed client contracts, flat fees, and non-negotiables because his business is worth it. He is worth it. And you are worth it. Pick It Apart [6:38] John shares his dark night of the soul story involving client credit cards, attorneys, a factory fire, and armed guards. [20:35] John discusses the importance of knowing your company policies and non-negotiables, for example, h

Today With Carla Titus: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business Podcast. Today we are joined by financial expert Carla Titus, founder and CEO of Wealth & Worth Within, a financial planning company offering fractional CFO services to transform business profitability.  Carla helps us understand what a fractional CFO is and how this service can provide the financial support and insight many businesses need to achieve financial clarity and plan for a profitable future. She specializes in helping 6- and 7-figure businesses gain control of their numbers with a 5-step framework she calls 2C3P that tackles financial health from all sides. Listen in to find out more. Pick It Apart [3:08] Carla walks through the roles of bookkeeper, CPA and CFO and the conversations you as a business owner should be having with each. [8:58] Carla and LuAnn discusses the goal of hiring a CFO and improving the financial picture of the company . [15:19] Carla talks about changing your mindset and thinking like the CEO of your business b

Today With Joshua Smith: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Joshua Smith, of Joshua Smith Inc. Joshua draws on decades of experience transforming functional spaces into inspiring environments that engage the senses and nourish the soul. By cultivating the connections between mind, body, spirit, and space, he helps his clients elevate their experience each day. Join us for a great conversation about the power of meditation, the importance of being connected to your passion, and his amazing working philosophy! LuAnn Nigara and Joshua Smith's Ah-Ha Moments “It's the responsibility of the industry to educate the consumer” - LuAnn Nigara “We’re wanting to do what we can to make sure that we’re leaving the world as best we can for our kids” - Joshua Smith “You know what? I realize now that as an interior designer, you’re responsible for everything but you have control over nothing” - Joshua Smith “It's not just how you want to space to look, it’s how you want your space to feel” - Joshua Smi

Today With Nancy Ganzekaufer: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. It’s Power Talk Friday. Today, I’m joined by my friend Nancy Ganzekaufer. Nancy is here to talk about her new program Profit Insiders for Interior Designers Group Coaching + Mastermind which is packed full of value. But also, Nancy is here to share how certain events in her life forced her to slow down and how she shares her lessons with others on the importance of a work-life balance. LuAnn Nigara and Nancy Ganzekaufer's Ah-Ha Moments “Slow and steady is going to win the race. The small tweaks you make in your business can have huge outcomes.” - Nancy Ganzekaufer  “You don’t want your business to be your entire life, you want your business to support your life” - Nancy Ganzekaufer “Your inner being knows when it’s time to slow down and the universe will comply.” - LuAnn Nigara “We do all put pressure on ourselves and we need to ask the question, “who can help?” - LuAnn Nigara More About Nancy Ganzekaufer: Nancy Ganzekaufer is a sought-after B

Today With Jean Stoffer: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today we are joined by the one and only Jean Stoffer. Jean is an award-winning independent designer, star of The Established Home on the Magnolia Network, and author of the newly released book Establishing Home. In our conversation, Jean offers a glimpse into her journey, showing us the joys of intertwining work and family, the benefits of an unhurried attitude, and the blessings each season of life has to offer. Pick It Apart [6:01] Jean discusses “being in the trenches” as she built her business from the ground up, learning cabinetry design, kitchen design, and troubleshooting at her own pace. [10:10] LuAnn and Jean agree that cultural messages often pressure young designers to rush toward success, but both believe that isn’t always the right path. Jean discusses embracing the season you are in. [16:50] Jean walks through the current family dynamic and everyone’s role in the Stoffer Home business. [27:30] LuAnn and Jean talk about the importance

Today With Candice Olson: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Candice Olson's episode that originally aired as episode 74! On today’s show, Candice talks about her journey and how she became successful! More About Candice Olson: With over 25 years experience as an Interior Designer, Candice Olson has imparted her distinctively timeless yet on-trend aesthetic on countless residential and commercial projects. With the goal of showcasing the beauty, business and behind-the-scenes world of Interior Design and renovation, Candice launched her first hit TV show – Divine Design – on HGTV. After 8 seasons of number one ratings, Candice followed up with her second show – Candice Tells All – that delved deeper into Candice’s unique design inspiration and process. It also became a number one hit leading the NY Times to herald her as “the one to watch”! With her shows broadcast in over

Today With Regan Baker: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I am joined by Regan Baker, of Regan Baker Design. Have you ever had that client where you thought, “we could be friends!” How about that client where you noticed and were impressed with their work ethic? Why not employ them? That’s what Regan did and with three employees that were once clients of hers, she admits she wouldn’t be where she is today without them.  Join us for a great conversation about strong leadership and building a team from places you don’t usually expect. Pick It Apart [4:39] Regan’s first experience turning a client into an employee.  [15:18] Regan’s experience of when her long term goals have changed as time goes on. [24:34] The milestones were that developed the ROI in Regan’s business. [29:01] How Regan got another client of hers, Lindsay, on board as an employee. [34:19] How Regan realistically pays people like Allie and Lindsay. LuAnn Nigara and Regan Baker's Ah-Ha Moments “I’m a firm believe that you risk

Today With Nicole Gibbons: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Nicole Gibbons’ episode that originally aired as episode 411! On today’s show, Nicole talks about how she created her career by design, how TV really doesn’t pay as much as you would expect, the way that Nicole helps people with their color choice, and so much more! More About Nicole Gibbons: Nicole Gibbons is an interior designer, tastemaker, blogger and on-air personality best known for her fashion-forward point of view on style for the home. As a highly sought after expert, Nicole has been featured in top media outlets such as HGTV, TLC, The Rachael Ray Show, InStyle, House Beautiful, Martha Stewart Living, Real Simple, Better Homes & Gardens, Good Housekeeping, Apartment Therapy, Lonny, People Magazine, Domino, Elle Decor and more. She can also be seen helping deserving families re-imagine their living spaces as a desig

Today With Susie Novak: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today I am speaking with Susie Novak, owner of Susie Novak Interiors on a variety of topics. One being what it’s like being a part of a mastermind group. Spoiler alert: it’s fantastic to be a part of a mastermind. And hey, why not start your own? Susie has a good size design team too, so we also talk team tips, sustainability and networking.  Pick It Apart [1:50] Susie shares with us how she formed her mastermind group. [11:20] How accountability plays a role in her mastermind. [25:10] LuAnn and Susie discuss the importance of having diversity within a group. [35:03] Susie shares tips on how to manage a big team. [39:20] Tips on how to drum up more business.  [46:27] What sustainability means for Susie in her business. LuAnn Nigara and Susie Novak's Ah-Ha Moments “I think you find balance in unique ways.” - Susie Novak “If you can put a room together, but also explain the global perspective of using higher quality pieces that are built to

Today With Michelle Nussbaumer: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Michelle Nussbaumer’s episode that originally aired as episode 124! On today’s show, Michelle talks about her career, her opinions on the business, and her globetrotting lifestyle. Enjoy! More About Michelle Nussbaumer: Michelle is an interior designer, textile and furniture designer, an author and owns a beautiful shop: Ceylon et Cie located in the Dallas design district. Michelle’s journey includes a husband and four children and it starts in west Texas. She goes from New York, Rome, Los Angeles and all the way back to Texas. Her book for Rizzoli, Wanderlust: Interiors That Bring the World Home was released and it includes thirty years of interior design as well as her travels. Connect with Michelle Nussbaumer Website Instagram What’s new with LuAnn Nigara luannuniversity.com http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get

Today With Paul Mencel: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today on the show we have Paul Mencel, a former rock star and the craftsman/entrepreneur behind the gorgeous handmade furnishings at Philadelphia Table Company. What started as a side job between his music tours has grown into a seven-figure business, and Paul is here to tell us how important it is to hire wisely, pay attention to the business end of operations, and price your goods and services appropriately in order to remain profitable. Paul believes in asking for help when you need it, learning from your mistakes, and the power of mindset. He says that everything he knows about business he learned by being a rockstar, so this is a really fun conversation. Pick It Apart [4:28] Paul talks about being a working musician and starting his woodworking business to support himself in between tours and gigs, explaining how the business has grown to a team of six with Paul admitting he is now the least talented member of the team. [9:10] Paul talks a

Today With Mikel Welch: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Mikel Welch’s episode that originally aired as episode 297! On today's show, Mikel shares his really remarkable and encouraging success story. Listen in to hear about a turning point with Steve Harvey and other ways that doors keep on opening for Mikel. More About Mikel Welch: As a young boy growing up in Southfield, Michigan, Mikel Welch busied himself with the construction of sofas and dining tables using toy Legos for imaginary houses. It was evident to his family that an innate sense of creativity and a passion for design were embedded in Mikel from birth. Today Welch runs a New York based interior design business, Mikel Welch Designs, and works as a host and design expert on Quibi's Murder House Flip. On camera, Mikel shows viewers tips and tricks for renovating homes, designing sophisticated spaces and creating luxury l

Today With Christie Fleming: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today, I’m joined by Christie Fleming, principal of Lennon Nora Interior Design.  If you would have told me that there were any similarities between Occupational Therapy and interior design, I would have thought you were telling a joke. But for Christie, her experience as an OT led to her perfect niche, the one that let her leave her old career and strike out as the go-to designer for Aging in Place design. Pick It Apart [1:56] Christie shares how she went from occupational therapist to interior design.  [6:52] LuAnn and Christie discuss the value in working for another firm at the beginning of your career.  [14:03] Christie talks about how she stumbled onto her goldmine niche. [17:45] Christie discusses Aging in Place Design and what it entails.  [35:58] Christie shares how she markets such a specific niche. LuAnn Nigara and Christie Fleming's Ah-Ha Moments “I’m a huge proponent of working for another firm. Some of the most successfu

Today With Nate Berkus: Welcome to A Well-Designed Business. Today is a Flashback Friday episode, where we revisit some of the most popular shows from our archives. I hope you enjoy Nate Berkus’ episode that originally aired as episode 433!  In today’s show, Nate describes how his love of organic, rich, earth-tones is incorporated in the color palette he designed for this collection. Nate’s travels have been the inspiration for this collection. Each of his exclusive fabrics possesses a global point of view and the fabric collection, as a whole, represents his distinctly individual perspective, which blends history, architecture, and artwork from all around the world. Listen in to find out about Nate’s approach to his business, his perspective on color and design, and how he came to work with Oprah. More About Nate Berkus: Since designer Nate Berkus established his award-winning interior design firm at the age of 24, his approachable and elevated philosophy has transformed countless homes around the world