The Profitable Graphic Designer (Kady Sandel)

In today's episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, I am bringing you a conversion-focused brand and web designer, Yevgeniya (and you can call her Gigi), from One 6 Creative. Today, we're discussing a topic that we haven't covered on this podcast yet, and it's all about becoming an indispensable designer, which essentially means gaining repeat clients.

You will learn:

• How to secure more work from your past clients.
• When to follow up with previous clients and precisely what to say/ask.
• What additional offerings you can provide to your previous clients, aside from completed design projects.
• How to find clients online if you are just starting out and don't have a substantial client history.
• Strategies for design business owners to increase client lifetime value.

About Yevgeniya (Gigi):

Yevgeniya "Gigi" Davarashvili is the founder behind One6Creative, a conversion-focused creative agency specializing in branding and web design for mission-driven small businesses. With a background in sociology, neuromarketing, and business, Gigi blends data-driven strategies with design, helping thought leaders and industry experts make their mark online, connect with their audience, and drive revenue.

In 2020, Gigi expanded her reach by launching One6Creative Academy, a digital academy offering resources and courses aimed at empowering designers to become better business owners.

When she's not crafting brand experiences, Gigi revels in outdoor adventures with her family and is an avid tennis player and skier. For business insights and behind-the-scenes content, catch her on Instagram or tune in to her podcast, Create to Convert.

To connect with Gigi you can visit her website: https://one6creative.com/ or follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/one6creative/

Setting goals is easy. Achieving them, not so much. Many design business owners set their wishes and not goals – which means you want to get to $10k months, hit 6-figures, or work part-time while making a full-time income, but then… that doesn't happen, or you realize it's way harder than it should be. Why? Because you didn't set your goals properly. Or even worse – you didn't break them down into action steps that will help you get there.

In today's episode on The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, we are talking all about your mindset (you have to believe you can achieve your goals before you set them), setting your goals, breaking them into steps, and making the money you deserve in your creative agency.

You will learn:

• How to stay motivated and positive even when things are not going well.
• What marketing strategies work for brand, graphic, and web design business owners.
• How to set your goals (for 2024 and beyond, really).
• What steps you need to take to achieve your goals.
• How to join The Profitable Designer Program (a 12-week biz course for designers).

Listen to the episode now (we don't judge if you 2x speed). :)

Ready to position your design business for premium clients and elevate your brand to the next level? I’m breaking down exactly how you can identify your ideal clients, stand out in a crowded market, charge what you’re truly worth, and build a portfolio that attracts the kind of high-paying clients you’ve been dreaming of. If you’ve been struggling to make the leap from just another designer to a sought-after creative partner, this episode is for you.

You’ll learn:

• How to pinpoint and connect with your ideal clients who are ready to invest in quality design.
• Strategies for crafting a unique value proposition that sets you apart from the competition.
• The key elements of a premium portfolio that showcases your best work and results.
• Pricing techniques that reflect the true value of your services and attract high-end clients.
• Ways to enhance the client experience, making your business the go-to choice for premium services.

Grab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to redefine how you run your design business!

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

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

Scaling a graphic design business can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. I’m breaking down exactly how you can attract more premium clients, raise your rates, and start outsourcing so you can get your time back and grow your business without burning out. I’ll share the strategies that have worked for me, from refining your brand positioning to building a team that allows you to focus on the high-level work that drives your business forward. If you’re ready to stop being the bottleneck and start scaling your design business with confidence, this episode is for you.

You will learn:

• How to position your brand to attract premium clients who are willing to pay top dollar
• Effective strategies to raise your rates and increase your revenue without losing clients
• The key steps to outsourcing and delegation that free up your time for growth-focused activities
• How to implement systems and processes that make your business scalable and sustainable

Grab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to redefine how you run your design business!

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

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

Have you ever thought about creating a quiz as a designer? No, I'm not talking about designing it, but using it in a way that will help you GET CLIENTS! Yes, it works.

In today’s episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, we are talking with Josh Haynam, the CEO and creator of Interact.

Interact is a tool for creating online quizzes that generate leads. We use quizzes at Aventive Academy, and you can check one out for yourself; it’s called "Marketing for Designers," and it will help you figure out which marketing strategy is the best for you as a designer to get clients. It’s amazing. In this episode, we covered everything from how to create it, the results you can get, what clients like and don’t like, and much more.

You will learn:

• How you can generate design leads using quizzes

• What it takes to create a quiz and the best ways to promote them
• The full workflow, from a lead finding out about your quiz to all the next steps until they become your clients
• The importance of understanding your audience’s psychology in marketing
• How to create a quiz that doesn’t feel like a waste of time and is actually valuable and personalized

Tune in, and again, try out the Marketing Quiz for Designers to test it out.

About Josh Haynam:

Josh is the co-founder and CEO at interact, an AI powered quiz platform for generating leads and engaging audiences. Josh founded Interact 11 years ago and has bootstrapped it to 7,000 customers and over 1 billion quizzes served.

Connect with Josh: 

tryinteract.com

https://www.instagram.com/tryinteract/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhaynam/

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

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

The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator

High-paying clients aren’t avoiding you because you’re not talented—they just don’t see you as the expert they need. If you’re stuck working with low-budget clients while hearing about other designers landing $10K+ projects, it’s time to fix what’s keeping you invisible to premium clients. I’ll break down exactly why they aren’t hiring you and what you need to change today.

You will learn:

• The biggest mistakes that make high-paying clients ignore your services
• How to position yourself as a premium designer (so clients see your value)
• What your portfolio needs to attract serious inquiries
• Where to find clients who can actually afford $10K+ branding
• The one strategy that will get high-paying clients to reach out to you

Listen in and start making the changes that bring in better clients and bigger projects.

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/

Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/

The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/

Mockup Magic: https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/

Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/

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

If you’re still offering logo design as a standalone service and wondering why high-paying clients aren’t hiring you, this episode is going to change everything.

Premium clients don’t just want a logo. They want a full brand identity that positions them for success. And if you’re still marketing yourself as just a logo designer, you’ll always be compared to the cheapest option.

In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly why you’re struggling to attract high-ticket logo clients and how to fix it. I’ll share how I went from working with low-budget clients to consistently landing $10K+ branding projects, the biggest mistakes most designers make when selling their services, and what you need to shift to start attracting premium clients who value your expertise.

You will learn:

• Why selling just a logo keeps you stuck with low-paying clients
• The power of offering full brand identity packages (and how it helped me scale)
• Why having a niche makes it easier to land premium projects
• How to position yourself as a branding expert, not just a designer
• The one shift that changed everything in my business

If you’re ready to start booking high-ticket branding projects, this episode is for you.

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/

Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/

The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/

Mockup Magic: https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/

Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/

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

Most designers focus on making things look good, but that’s not what high-paying clients are actually looking for. They want clarity, confidence, and someone who understands how design impacts their business. In this episode, I’m breaking down what clients really care about when they’re hiring a brand or web designer and how you can stand out by showing up differently. You’ll learn how to position yourself as more than just a designer, build trust instantly on your website, and shift from selling deliverables to selling real outcomes. Whether you’re still undercharging or ready to start landing premium clients, this episode will show you what actually closes the sale.

You will learn:

• What clients really want when they hire a designer

• Why brand and web together create higher-value offers

• How to sell strategy without calling it strategy

• What to show on your website to build fast trust

• The mindset shift that helps you book premium clients with confidence

Grab your notebook or go for a walk. This episode will change how you talk about your work.

And if you want to start offering web design without dealing with code or tech stress, check out ⁠Wix Studio⁠. It’s built for designers like you who want to keep full creative control and add more value for their clients.

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/⁠

Client Portal for Designers: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/⁠

The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/⁠

Mockup Magic: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/⁠

Brand Guidelines Template: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/⁠

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

In this episode, we sit down with a freelance illustrator Ashwin Chacko to discuss the ins and outs of building a successful business in the visual arts. Whether you're just starting out as a freelancer or looking to take your existing business to the next level, our guest offers valuable insights into what it takes to succeed as an illustrator.

You will learn:

• Strategies for finding and attracting new clients
• Insights into pricing your services, negotiating with clients, and managing the business side of freelance work
• Tips on how to start your own business and get clients
• What social media to use as an illustrator (it’s not Instagram!)
• How AI can help you grow your business and save time
• Tune in to hear from a seasoned professional in the world of freelance illustration, and gain valuable insights into how to grow and thrive as a creative entrepreneur.

Ashwin’s website: https://whackochacko.com/
Ashwin’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whackochacko/

Resources:

The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/

Connect with Kady on Instagram ⁠@aventiveacademy⁠

Our 12-week Profitable Designer Program helps design business owners grow their business to 5-figure months so they can have the freedom and lifestyle they desire. Join 300+ designers ⁠aventiveacademy.com/make-money

Without hiring a team in your design business, you can only get to a certain level of success. In this episode, business coach Kady Sandel shows you the most important things to consider when hiring help in your graphic design, brand design, or web design business.

Learn who to hire first, how to make sure you have the money to pay them, and why even a small amount of help (5 hours a week or less!) can catapult your business to the next level.

You will walk away empowered with the tools to stop running your business like a freelancer, love your business again, and step into your power as a design agency CEO.

Resources:

Scale your creative business to $20k months without burning out in our mastermind program, The Creative CEO: aventiveacademy.com/mastermind

Connect with Kady on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our 12-week Profitable Designer Program helps designers sign $10k+ clients and scale into six-figure design agencies so they can have the freedom and lifestyle they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com/make-money

In this episode, business coach Kady Sandel shows you how to stop running your design business like a freelancer and embrace your role as a creative CEO!

Most graphic designers, brand designers, and web designers hit a plateau in their businesses at $3-7k months. At that point, you will need to create systems to build a simple & sustainable design agency that doesn’t need you 24/7.

Learn how to realign your business so you can work 5-10 hours a week while landing $10k+ clients, including a breakdown of how Kady spends her time in her branding agency.

Resources:

Scale your creative business to $20k months without burning out in our mastermind program, The Creative CEO: aventiveacademy.com/mastermind

Connect with Kady on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our 12-week Profitable Designer Program helps designers sign $10k+ clients and scale into six-figure design agencies so they can have the freedom and lifestyle they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com/make-money

Wondering why you’re spending all your time marketing your design business, yet not actually landing clients from it?

In this episode, Kady Sandel shows you how to tell if your marketing strategies just need more time to work… or if you are doing them completely wrong!

Learn the #1 mistake that graphic designers make when trying to market their services, plus practical tips on how to land design clients using methods like blogging, LinkedIn, networking events, and more.

Resources:

Want to sign a $12k graphic, brand, or web design client? Snag your spot in our free $12k Client Attraction Masterclass here: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/

Connect with us on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our 12-week Profitable Designer Program helps designers sign high-ticket clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom and cash they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com/make-money

Branding isn’t just for your clients - it’s essential for your design business too.

Often, designers overlook their own brand, assuming their work will speak for itself. But a strong brand identity is what sets you apart, attracts clients, and establishes you as a serious professional. In this episode, I share everything you need to know about creating a powerful brand for your business.

You will learn:

• How to define your brand’s core values and mission.
• Steps to build a consistent visual identity that represents you.
• Tips for crafting brand messaging that aligns with your values.
• How to structure your portfolio to attract the right clients.
• Why consistency is crucial as your business grows.

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

Welcome to The Profitable Graphic Designer podcast! In our very first episode, Kady Sandel breaks down the behind-the-scenes journey of how she started her freelance graphic design business. From posting endlessly on Craigslist at the beginning, to eventually signing $18k clients, you will learn everything from her biggest mistakes to the strategies that got her amazing results.

Resources:

Want to sign a $12k graphic, brand, or web design client? Join our free 5-day $12k client challenge here!

Connect with us on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our Aventive Academy programs help designers sign better clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom and cash they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com

Ever wondered how you can work only 15 hours a week while running a 6-figure design agency?

I used to work 15 hours a day, but I made a conscious choice to change that and spend more quality time with my kids. Now, with the help of my amazing team, I focus on what I truly enjoy and outsource the rest, including tasks like taxes and even house cleaning. In this episode, I’ll share the practical steps I took to transform my business and life. Plus, I’m excited to announce The Creative CEO Accelerator starting in September, designed to help you consistently attract top clients and maximize your design agency income in just five months. The waitlist is now open at aventiveacademy.com/accelerator.

You will learn:

• How to prioritize and plan your tasks to maximize efficiency.
• The importance of building a reliable team and delegating effectively.
• Strategies for landing high-paying clients and focusing on five-figure projects.
• Tips for outsourcing tasks that don’t bring you joy or add value to your business.
• The mindset shifts necessary to achieve a balanced and fulfilling work-life integration.

Tune in to discover how you can work smarter, not harder, and take control of your business and life.

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

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

The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator

The Designer to Agency Bootcamp is a 2-day live (and recorded) event that will guide business owners through the 4 main components of a successful and sustainable business:

1. Position Your Design Business as a High-End Agency, even if you don't have a team yet!

In this one-hour workshop, I’ll help you become the best option for your clients and ensure that clients choose YOU over other designers.

2. Create Your Signature $10k+ Offer That Clients Really Need and Easily Say YES to!

Still offering everything and anything? Try offering exactly what YOU want instead and charge a premium for your expertise.

3. The Best High-Ticket Marketing Strategies for Your Personality Type #introvert #extrovert

Not every marketing strategy is right for YOU. I will show you how to promote your business in the simplest way possible, and you’ll enjoy it!

4. Outsourcing, Hiring, Getting Your Time Back, and Becoming a Creative CEO! You can’t grow alone. Let me help you make more money so you can hire people to do the things you don’t like doing in your biz. #taxes #instagram #events

Listen to this episode to learn if the Designer to Agency Bootcamp is the right fit for you or not!

Sign up for the Designer to Agency Bootcamp here: https://aventiveacademy.com/designer-to-agency-bootcamp/

Chasing leads is exhausting, and it’s holding you back from growing your design business to its full potential. I’m sharing my approach to consistently attracting high paying clients without the constant hustle. Imagine having clients seek you out, ready to pay what you’re worth, without you ever having to chase them down. It’s all about positioning yourself as an authority, creating a magnetic brand, and leveraging strategies that bring clients to you on autopilot.

You will learn:

• How to establish yourself as the go-to expert in your niche and let clients come to you
• The secrets to building a brand identity that attracts high-value clients effortlessly
• Proven systems to generate leads automatically, so you can focus on designing
• Techniques to turn one-time clients into long-term relationships and consistent revenue

Grab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to redefine how you run your design business!

AventiveAcademy’s Resources:

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

Have you ever wondered if blogging is still a viable way to get graphic design clients? Or how to set up your website’s SEO so it attracts and converts the high-ticket clients you want?

In today’s episode, guest expert Jacob Cass sits down with host Kady Sandel for an incredible conversation about how to use blogging & SEO to land design clients, get leads, and generate passive income.

Jacob’s website has been viewed over 70 million times! He shares how to set goals for your blog, manage the workload, and the key tricks to help your posts stand out in a crowded market.

We also talk about how you can outsource blogging to a team of writers so you can reap the benefits of SEO without spending all your time on it. Tune in!

About Jacob Cass:

Jacob Cass is a brand designer, strategist, educator, podcaster, business coach, community builder and the founder of JUST Creative, a branding & design consultancy that doubles as an industry-leading blog and community.

Jacob helps grow brands strategically and has worked for clients such as Disney, Nintendo and Jerry Seinfeld however he is now focused on bringing this global brand experience to smaller businesses.

For Jacob, design is a lifelong journey of continuously honing his craft, as well as empowering other fellow designers & entrepreneurs to build on theirs, which has allowed him to build a large and loyal following, including his JUST Creative website which has been viewed over 70 million times.

Jacob has spoken at TEDx and been featured in Entrepreneur, Forbes, and a number of high-profile design books including The Best of Logo Lounge Master Series.

Learn more at justcreative.com or on Instagram @justcreative

Resources:

Want to sign a $12k graphic, brand, or web design client? Snag your spot in our free $12k Client Attraction Masterclass here: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/

Connect with Kady on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our 12-week Profitable Designer Program helps designers sign high-ticket clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom and cash they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com/make-money

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

From transitioning from a freelance graphic designer to developing a product tailored for designers, Michael shares his journey of inventing software for logo designers in this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast. We delve into the highs and lows of his path.

We discuss the benefits of using The Logo Package software and how designers can leverage it to save time and establish themselves as professionals and experienced brand and logo designers in the eyes of their clients.

Michael and I also explore how to establish a product based business as a designer and how to find affiliates for your products. We dive into the question of whether passive income is truly passive.

Information about the software (+ get 20% off using my affiliate links):

1. Logo Package Express is the Adobe Illustrator extension that automatically generates and exports logo packages with blazing speed.

2. Logo Package Swatch automatically gathers all the brand color information you need in one easy-to-access location.

Use coupon code “aventive20” for an exclusive 20% discount!
CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

You will learn:

• The profitability of developing a product.
• The time required for research, testing, and product development.
• Strategies for building an affiliate program.
• The number of hours needed for product development and how many hours Michael currently dedicates after the product's launch.
• What Logo Package is and where to find these products.

Click here and use “aventive20” at checkout to get your 20% discount.

Michael’s Bio: Michael Bruny-Groth stumbled into graphic design by mistake when he was accidentally put into a design class in high school. With a degree in graphic design and several years of agency experience under his belt, Michael became a freelance designer in 2016. After parting ways with a major client in 2018, Michael started inventing software for logo designers and has been the Founder and CEO of Logo Package for over 5 years.

Website: www.logopackage.com

Instagram URL: http://instagram.com/logopackage/

Freebies: https://www.logopackage.com/freebies

Have you ever craved the guidance of a mentor for your freelance design business, but you weren’t sure where to find one?

In today’s episode, Kady Sandel speaks with guest expert Prajin Shee about how to find the right mentor for your creative business – including where to find one, what qualities to look for in a mentor, and how exactly a mentor can help you grow your graphic design, brand design, or web design business.

Prajin shares how having a mentor helped him scale his company, plus the best way to set up your mentor relationship so you see real results in your business.

Join us and discover how to skip the years of trial and error by finding a mentor who can get you to the next level!

About Prajin Shee:

Prajin is the Co-founder of Gray Line Media, an agency that helps solopreneurs and small businesses create remarkable websites and relatable content.

He is passionate about giving time back to business owners/freelancers by helping them build out streamlined processes and automating redundant tasks so they can focus on the things that are important to them.

Prajin has been featured by Gartner where he discusses the importance of focusing on people, processes, and culture and shares his learnings through cofounding his own business.

Prajin's presentations are full of valuable content, sharing stories from his life and providing tips from the trenches to ensure small business owners/freelancers are geared for success

Learn more at www.graylinemedia.comand connect with Prajin on LinkedIn at @prajin-shee

Resources:

Want to sign a $12k graphic, brand, or web design client? Join our free 5-day $12k client challenge here!

Connect with us on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our Aventive Academy programs help designers sign better clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom and cash they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com

The reason most freelancers struggle is not because their design skills are not good enough. It is because they are thinking like freelancers, not business owners. If you are tired of chasing projects, lowering your prices, and constantly starting from scratch, it is time to fix this.

Today, I am breaking down exactly why most designers stay stuck and how to shift into building a profitable design business that finally pays you what you are worth.

You will learn:

• Why better design skills are not the answer
• How your pricing model is keeping you broke
• The mindset shift you need to stop freelancing and start building a business
• What systems actually help you work less and make more

For your next website design project check out wix.com/studio

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/

Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/

The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/

Mockup Magic: https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/

Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/

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

In this episode, Kady Sandel shows you what to do during client lulls and dry spells in your freelance graphic design, brand design, or web design business.

Freelancers often fear those time periods between clients, but if you’re strategic, they offer the perfect opportunity to improve your design business, fine-tune your messaging, grow your network, and get your next five-figure client!

Learn what to focus on if you don’t have freelance clients at the moment, including the top action steps to get you the best ROI.

Resources:

Want to sign a $12k graphic, brand, or web design client? Join our free 5-day $12k client challenge here!

Connect with us on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our Aventive Academy programs help designers sign better clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom and cash they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com

In this episode, I dive deep into an opportunity that could redefine your journey as a design business owner. Get ready to discover The Creative CEO Accelerator – a program I developed from my own experiences and aspirations.

Imagine crafting a design agency that perfectly aligns with your dream lifestyle. Join me over the next few minutes as I walk you through the key aspects of this accelerator and how it can revolutionize your business game.

From breaking free from the 9-5 grind and commanding $25,000 per website design to building a team and scaling up your income... You're not alone on this journey; you'll gain access to a vibrant community of fellow designers. Plus, I'll be your personal guide, providing timely insights and strategies. Let's not just dream about it; let's achieve it together.

By the end of this episode, you'll know why this accelerator is the game-changer you've been waiting for.

You will learn:

• Craft Your Dream Lifestyle: Discover how to structure your design agency for ultimate time flexibility and financial freedom, whether it's real estate investments, early retirement, quality family time, or personal passions.
• Proven Strategies for Design Success: Dive into the real deal – no more endless workshops or YouTube videos. I share practical, actionable steps that guarantee results, based on my own experiences with over 250 design clients.
• Unlock the Power of Community: Explore the power of a private platform with designers who'll be your support system. They'll help you overcome hurdles and achieve your goals faster than ever.
• Personalized Support: With direct access to me, get answers to your specific questions and challenges within hours. Imagine the confidence of knowing you're backed by expert advice whenever you need it.
• Sustainable Business Mastery: Learn the secrets to a thriving design agency – from mindset and branding to clients, marketing, team building, and sales. It's a comprehensive journey toward the business you deserve.

I can't wait to have you onboard. So, let's take a closer look at The Creative CEO Accelerator and transform your design business into a masterpiece that empowers your life. Visit thecreativeceo.com for all the details and let's make your dreams a reality together.

See you inside the accelerator!

Welcome back to another exciting episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer podcast. In this insightful conversation, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the incredible Shay, founder of Bucketlist Bombshells, to uncover the secrets behind getting booked out 3, 6, and even 12 months in advance as a graphic designer. We delved deep into Shay's wealth of experience, exploring her journey in the graphic design and sales realms. We discussed the challenges graphic designers commonly face in client attraction and retention, shedding light on effective solutions.

You Will Learn:

• Crafting an Effective Sales Funnel: Discover how graphic designers can skillfully guide potential clients from initial awareness to successful conversion using a well-structured sales funnel.
• Proven Sales Strategies: Uncover specific, actionable sales strategies tailored for graphic designers, transforming prospects into loyal paying clients.
• Mastering Online Presence: Learn the art of leveraging social media and various online platforms strategically, understanding the most effective methods to market and sell design services successfully.
• Implementable Roadmap: Shay provides actionable steps and a clear roadmap, empowering graphic designers to implement her sales strategies, ensuring a consistent stream of clients well in advance.
• Effective Sales Calls: Gain insights into what designers should focus on during sales calls, including crucial talking points and the right questions to ask potential clients, ultimately leading to successful collaborations.

Join us as we unravel the secrets to becoming a sought-after graphic designer, mastering the art of sales, and securing your client roster well into the future. Get ready to transform your business and take your design career to new heights!

Bio: Shay Brown is the COO and co-founder of Bucketlist Bombshells, a multi-million dollar business education company for the next generation of female entrepreneurs. Having built a thriving community of more than 150,000 women around the world, the Bucketlist Bombshells Academy® teaches foundational business skills and provide a step-by-step roadmap to create and run an online service-based business. They are also the creators of the Bucketlist Bombshells Collective® business-growth membership & community for female business owners. Plus they coach & mentor women in their Scale with Purpose Mastermind 6-month group coaching program to help female entrepreneurs scale their businesses to 6-figures & beyond.

Bucketlist Bombshells has been featured by Forbes, CNBC, BBC and Greatist for paving the path to remote work for millennial women through entrepreneurship — even before the world adjusted to remote work during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Links & Social Media:

https://bucketlistbombshells.com/mastermind
https://bucketlistbombshells.com/podcast 
https://instagram.com/bucketlistbombshells 
https://bucketlistbombshells.com/salescalloutline

Join me in this exciting episode where I sit down with the incredible Becca, a web designer who has cracked the code to earning $5K per day with her innovative approach. Becca shares her inspiring journey as a web designer, revealing the secrets behind her 'website in a day' services. Discover how she developed this unique business model, and learn the key steps involved in her lightning-fast projects. If you're a designer looking to venture into day rates, Becca's expert advice is a goldmine.

You will learn:

• Becca's inspiring journey from a novice to a $5K/day web designer.
• The step-by-step process of executing a 'website in a day' project.
• Strategies for maintaining quality under tight timelines.
• Tips for setting day rates and attracting high-paying clients.
• Real-life success stories showcasing the effectiveness of the 'website in a day' model.

Resources:

The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/

About Becca: Becca Luna is a high school dropout who created a multiple six-figure web design business on a MacBook Air in a 500 sqft apartment. She now runs a million-dollar educational empire teaching driven creatives how to build 6 figure web design brands with no college degree, no coding knowledge, and no previous experience. Now it's your turn.

Links:

Becca's FREE course: https://beccaluna.com/creative-career-course

IG: instagram.com/iambeccaluna

TikTok: tiktok.com/@iambeccaluna

Website: beccaluna.com

In this episode #66 of The Profitable Graphic Designer, I'm diving into a challenge that many designers face: reducing the number of revisions.

Join me as I share practical strategies that help minimize those never-ending change requests from clients and create a smoother design process.

We'll explore how to effectively manage client expectations, streamline our design workflow, and implement communication techniques that foster collaboration.

Through my personal experiences, you'll learn how to establish clear communication from the start, involve clients in the design process, and educate them on the impact of excessive revisions.

You will learn:

• Strategies I use to establish clear communication and manage client expectations from the beginning.
• Techniques I employ to streamline my design process and reduce the need for extensive revisions.
• The importance of involving clients throughout the design process and gaining their trust and collaboration.
• Effective communication strategies I use to convey my design choices and address client feedback.
• How to educate clients on the design process and strike a balance between their revision requests and project objectives.

Resources:

The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/

12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/make-money

The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator

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

To celebrate 3 years of The Profitable Graphic Designer podcast, I’m offering 30% off The Profitable Designer Program with code CAKE this week only!

Join by Wednesday to get a free 30-minute 1:1 coaching call with me!

👉 aventiveacademy.com/program

In this extra episode, we dive into the reasons why so many talented designers stay stuck—underpaid, overworked, and unsure of how to scale. I’ll share exactly what you need to do to transition from freelancer to creative CEO and start building the design business you’ve always wanted.

Don’t miss out—listen now!

In this episode on The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, I dive deep into a burning question that every designer and business owner grapples with: "What is the real difference between a $10,000 visual identity project and a $1,000 one?"

Join me as I share my personal insights and experiences from my branding & design agency. I'll reveal the secrets behind the pricing disparity, why high paying clients opt for premium services, and how you can position yourself to attract these lucrative opportunities.

You'll learn:

• The key elements of a $10,000 visual identity project and how it goes beyond just design.
• Strategies to educate potential clients about the value of investing in their brand's identity.
• Tactics for attracting high-paying clients who appreciate your expertise.
• The power of niching down and becoming a specialist in your chosen industry.
• Effective communication techniques to convey the value you bring to your clients' businesses.

Join me in this episode, and let's unravel the mystery of pricing in the world of design, helping you find your path to profitability as a graphic, brand or web designer.

Resources:

The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-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

Every designer knows your portfolio is important, but how should you format it to attract the attention of paying clients? In this episode, Kady gives you the real-life hacks to create a portfolio that sells projects and stands out from the competition. Plus learn the one change she made to her portfolio that finally got dream clients to reach out to her!

Resources:

Want to sign a $12k graphic, brand, or web design client? Join our free 5-day $12k client challenge here!

Connect with us on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our Aventive Academy programs help designers sign better clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom and cash they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com

Tired of clients who don’t see the value in branding, question your prices, or treat design like an afterthought? The problem isn’t your work - it’s how you’re positioning and selling it. Clients don’t automatically understand the value of branding. You have to show them.

In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly why you’re attracting clients who don’t respect your expertise and how to shift your positioning so you start working with people who actually see branding as a business investment.

You will learn:

• Why clients don’t automatically value design (and how to change that)
• How to position yourself as a brand expert, not just a designer
• The difference between selling deliverables vs. selling outcomes
• Where to find clients who take branding seriously and are willing to invest
• The one mindset shift that helped me start booking $10K+ clients

Listen in and start attracting better clients who respect your work and your pricing.

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/

Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/

The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/

Mockup Magic: https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/

Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/

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

Have you ever wondered how to leverage IG stories to make more money in your design business? Then this is the episode for you!

Kady Sandel speaks with guest expert Alyssa Moorhead about how to grow your graphic design, web design, or brand design business on Instagram – specifically using the Stories feature.

You’ll learn how to build genuine connections with ideal clients, how to get them to find you in the first place, and what you should be doing in the DMs to get hired without feeling pushy.

Alyssa shares how she scaled her own creative business using IG stories, plus the best way to convert your Instagram stories & private messages into actual paid design clients on social media.

***

About Alyssa Moorhead:

Alyssa is the owner of Nerve Client Studio, a Brooklyn-based Client Strategy Studio. The Nerve team helps mostly female-identifying business owners curate their dream client roster + achieve beyond-their-dreams income through done-for-your sales services.

At Nerve, they do sales differently- Not only do they nurture leads, but opportunities too; And they don’t just nurture, but they actually sign clients and opportunities. If you want sales taken off your plate by people who live for sales, Nerve is for you.

Learn more at nerveclientstudio.com and follow Alyssa on Instagram @nerveclientstudio

***

Resources:

Want to sign a $12k graphic, brand, or web design client? Join our free $12k Client Attraction Masterclass here: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/

Connect with us on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our Aventive Academy programs help designers sign better clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom and cash they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com

Most freelance designers have had at least one horrible client…. but have you ever won a huge contest because you had the WORST client story of every designer who entered?!

Our host Kady Sandel has – and she even won a year-long Adobe subscription as her prize! In this episode, Kady shares her hilarious contest-winning client story that you don’t want to miss.

You’ll also learn how to spot these “clients from hell” sooner in your own graphic design, brand design or web design business – as well as tips to position yourself to repel these clients in the future.

Plus, check out our fun store at aventiveacademy.com/shop where we have products & merch to help you laugh at your own bad client experiences!

Resources:

Want to sign a $12k graphic, brand, or web design client? Join our free $12k Client Attraction  Masterclass here: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/

Connect with us on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our Aventive Academy programs help designers sign high-ticket clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com

Most designers stay stuck at $3K projects because they’re pricing wrong, targeting the wrong clients, and positioning themselves as just another freelancer. The difference between a $3K designer and a $10K designer isn’t design skills. It’s how they run their business. In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly what separates the two with real examples you can apply today.

You will learn:

• Why pricing by hours or deliverables is killing your income
• How to position your services so clients happily pay $10K or more
• What high-paying clients actually care about (it’s not your portfolio)
• How to stop selling logos and start selling solutions
• The mindset shift that helped me go from $3K to $12K projects

Grab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to redefine how you run your design business!

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/

Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/

The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/

Mockup Magic: https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/

Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/

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

You’re doing all the things in your design business—designing, managing clients, handling marketing, and everything else on your plate—but the more you take on, the harder it is to actually scale. You know something has to change, but letting go of control feels risky. In this episode, I’m breaking down what you need to do to shift from being a solo designer to running a thriving agency. From setting up systems to refining your positioning and preparing to hire, we’ll cover the steps that will help you stop doing it all yourself and start building a business that supports your growth.

You will learn:

• The biggest mindset blocks that keep designers stuck at a solo level.
• Why positioning your services is key for attracting premium clients as an agency.
• Practical steps to prepare for hiring and expanding your team.
• Marketing strategies that align with an agency business model.
• Systems you can implement now to streamline your processes.

Grab your coffee, your notes, and get ready to rethink how you run your design business!

Designer to Agency Bootcamp: https://aventiveacademy.com/designer-to-agency-bootcamp/

Some designers always seem to have a steady stream of clients, while others struggle to get inquiries. The difference? Messaging. If your website, Instagram bio, or content doesn’t clearly communicate your value, you could be pushing clients away without realizing it. In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how to refine your messaging so it attracts high-paying clients instead of repelling them.

You will learn:

• The three things your messaging must communicate instantly
• How to turn your website into a client-converting machine
• The Instagram bio formula that makes potential clients take action
• The biggest messaging mistakes designers make (and how to fix them)

It’s time to upgrade your messaging and start attracting more clients - let’s do this!

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/

Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/

The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/

Mockup Magic: https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/

Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/

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

Yes, this is written by AI and you can spot it miles away (if you have ever used ChatGPT) 😊
Get ready to supercharge your design and business game in this episode! I'm diving into the incredible world of AI and how it's a game-changer for designers like me. We're exploring the endless possibilities of harnessing AI in design and how it transforms the way we do business. You won't want to miss this!

In this episode, I'm sharing design tips:

• How AI serves as an endless source of inspiration, helping you brainstorm and create unique design concepts effortlessly.
• Tips and tricks for using AI to master fonts in Illustrator and create stunning typography that stands out.
• The magic of generative fill and how it takes your designs to the next level, making them more dynamic and captivating.
• Discovering how to easily create eye-catching 3D mockups with the help of AI tools.
• A deep dive into Adobe Firefly and how it streamlines your design process, making it more efficient and effective.
• Learning how to create powerful client presentations that leave a lasting impression and win you more projects.
• Exploring how AI elevates your professional portfolio and showcases your work in the most impressive way.

On the business front, we're also delving into:

• Crafting website copy that not only resonates with your audience but also ranks higher in search engines, driving more traffic to your site.
• Using AI to supercharge your social media posts and engage your audience like never before.
• Elevating your professional email communication with AI-powered suggestions for more effective correspondence.
• Developing a rock-solid brand strategy with AI tools that help you understand your market and competitors better.
• Creating website copy that not only tells your story but also converts visitors into paying clients.
• Finally, we're discussing the power of AI in blogging, helping you generate ideas and even write high quality content faster than ever before.

Grab a cup of coffee, get ready to take notes and enjoy. I know you’re going to love this episode.

Are you looking for a better way to sell your design services? In this episode of The Profitable Designer Program, we explore an alternative approach to selling design services – by packaging them into specific, pre-defined products!

You can use this approach to increase your pricing, streamline your sales process, and build a stronger brand identity, just like Kady Sandel (your host) did.

We discuss the benefits of productizing your design services along with the drawbacks of the the traditional hourly & project rates. Kady will also show you how to package your services effectively, plus the importance of positioning your products correctly. Tune in!

Resources:

What’s the best high-ticket marketing strategy for your design business? Take our quiz here to find out: https://bit.ly/3lN3xVS

Connect with Kady on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our 12-week Profitable Designer Program helps designers sign $10k+ clients and scale into six-figure design agencies so they can have the freedom and lifestyle they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com/make-money

Looking to grow your freelance design business ASAP? In this episode, Kady Sandel shares her simple 2-step strategy to help you to land freelance graphic, brand, and web design clients in the short term – like tomorrow! Learn how to get clear on who your next client is, contact them with confidence (even if you’re an introvert!), plus the long-term marketing tactics you can start using today.

Resources:

Want to sign a $12k graphic, brand, or web design client? Join our free 5-day $12k client challenge here!

Connect with us on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our Aventive Academy programs help designers sign better clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom and cash they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com

Welcome to another episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast! In this episode, we're excited to have Kyle Courtright joining us. Kyle, a visionary who rejected the traditional 9-5 grind, has been making waves in the freelancing world. His impressive client roster includes big names such as PayPal, Toyota, Chipotle, Walmart, NVIDIA, NFL, NBA, and the USA Olympics. But that's not all—Kyle also manages two additional companies! One, Logo Wave, is dedicated to recognizing exceptional design work, adding value to organizations and boosting careers. The other is a subscription-based design service. Curious to learn more? Tune in to find out!

In this episode, you will learn:

• How Kyle got these amazing Fortune 500 companies as a graphic designer.
• What platforms he uses to land design clients, and not just any client but high-value and high-paying clients.
• If LinkedIn is worth the effort + a personal story of posting every day for 6 months with no results.
• How he manages to work only 20-30 hours a week while running 3 design companies.
• If SEO is still relevant and what you can do to get in front of potential clients that Google and search for your services.

This episode is super valuable, and I am sure you’ll love it!

About Kyle Courtright:
Kyle Courtright is an award-winning designer, mentor and author specializing in brand design. He's worked with 650+ entities in over a decade including widely recognized brands like PayPal, Toyota, Walmart, Chipotle, Lowe's, NVIDIA and USA Olympics. Kyle is the founder of Logo Wave, a reimagined logo awards platform recognizing and rewarding designers, bringing additional value to their creative services for positive career impact. He's also the founder of Etch, a productized brand design agency with a small but mighty team of ten. He also created the Logo Inspiration Generator Tool and authored The Ultimate Guide to Logo Design, now purchased by designers spanning 6 continents and over 50 countries. He's passionate about helping designers reach their career goals and leveling up their creative craft!

etchdesign.co | courtrightdesign.com | logowave.comlinkedin.com/in/kcourtright | x.com/kcourtdesign | x.com/mylogowave

Resources:

$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

The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator

In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer, we talk about the strategies and tactics necessary to attract high-paying clients for your design business. If you're a graphic, brand, or web design business owner aiming to secure clients who are willing to invest $10,000 or more per project, this episode is for you. We explore the importance of positioning yourself as an expert in your field, building strategic relationships, enhancing your marketing strategies, and consistently delivering exceptional value.

You Will Learn:

• The significance of specializing in a niche and showcasing a stellar portfolio to establish yourself as an expert in your field.
• Effective networking strategies and how to leverage partnerships to connect with potential high-paying clients.
• How to develop a compelling content strategy, utilize testimonials and referrals, and implement targeted advertising to enhance your marketing efforts.
• The importance of understanding your clients' goals, communicating your value proposition, and providing a remarkable client experience to attract and retain high-paying clients.

Join us as we provide actionable insights and practical tips to help you elevate your design business and attract clients who recognize and value your expertise.

Resources:

The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/

12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/make-money

The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator

In today’s episode, we talk numbers: specifically, the math of how you can get to a $10k month as a freelance graphic, brand, or web designer!

Kady Sandel breaks down the numbers of how you can hit six figures in your design business in a way that feels manageable, possible, and fun. There are a lot of ways you hit $10k per month, and some strategies require more work than others – let’s dive into the details together.

If you usually feel intimidated by math, be sure to join us for this episode to gain a new perspective & feel empowered to sign $10k+ clients in your design business.

Resources:

Want to sign a $12k graphic, brand, or web design client? Join our free 5-day $12k client challenge here!

Connect with us on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our Aventive Academy programs help designers sign better clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom and cash they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com

You already know that branding and design are important… but how important are they to your own freelance design business? In this episode, Kady Sandel shows you the strategy of what your own logo, designs, colors, and fonts need to look like to attract high-paying freelance design clients.

Learn what visual designs $12k brand, web, and graphic clients care about the most, where you should put your attention as a freelancer, and what to do if your visual branding isn’t working.

Resources:

Want to sign a $12k graphic, brand, or web design client? Join our free 5-day $12k client challenge here!

Connect with us on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our Aventive Academy programs help designers sign better clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom and cash they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com

When you try to appeal to everyone, you end up appealing to no one. Specializing in a specific niche or service can transform your design business, making you the go-to expert for your ideal clients. In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer, I’ll show you how narrowing your focus leads to higher-paying clients, better referrals, and easier marketing.

You will learn:

• How specializing positions you as an expert in your industry.
• The benefits of focusing on a niche, including attracting higher-paying clients.
• Common fears about specializing and how to overcome them.
• Actionable steps to identify your ideal niche and start specializing today.

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

Welcome to another episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer podcast! Today, we’re talking about social media content creation with our guest, Kenzi Green. With her expertise in luxury brand and web design, Kenzi is the creative force behind Kenzi Green Design. Kenzi shares her experience and insights into crafting compelling content tailored to attract design clients.

In this episode, you will learn:

• How Kenzi's background in design has shaped her approach to content creation and client acquisition.
• What to do when you don’t have clients and how she got a high-paying client + sent a $13k proposal after a few days of intentionally creating Reels.
• Strategies for developing a robust content strategy that resonates with potential design clients.
• Recommended tools and resources for streamlining the content creation process for design professionals.
• Kenzi's personal insights on the joys and challenges of navigating social media's dynamic landscape.

Join us as Kenzi unveils the secrets to leveraging social media effectively to grow your design business and connect with your ideal clients. Don't miss out on this invaluable conversation!

About Kenzi:
Luxury brand & web designer behind Kenzi Green Design and co-founder of The Brief Collective - Design Biz Academy.

Website: kenzigreendesign.com

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

Designer pricing guide: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/641cae0cfdc205d62dc7f1a9

Unapologetic Designer Podcast: https://kenzigreendesign.com/unapologetic-designer-podcast

You have heard the industry advice to niche down in your design business… but you might be afraid you will lose potential clients. Let’s bust that myth and show you the behind-the-scenes of what happens before and after you niche down!

In this episode, Kady gives you a full view of her design business before and after she embraced a niche – including her financial numbers. Learn how to choose a design niche that will be profitable, plus what you need to change in your messaging to be seen as an expert.

Resources:

Want to sign a $12k graphic, brand, or web design client? Join our free 5-day $12k client challenge here!

Connect with us on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our Aventive Academy programs help designers sign better clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom and cash they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com

Your portfolio might be the reason clients keep ghosting you or pushing back on your prices. Not because your design work is not good enough, but because your portfolio is sending the wrong message.

Most designers fill their portfolios with visuals like logos and mockups and forget that high-paying clients are not looking for pretty work. They are looking for proof that you understand business and strategy.

I am breaking down the portfolio mistakes that keep you stuck with low-budget clients and showing you exactly how to fix them.

You will learn:

• The mistake that makes your portfolio attract low-paying clients
• How to present your work so clients see your value
• What high-ticket clients actually look for when hiring a designer
• How to shift your portfolio from a gallery to a sales tool

Grab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready!

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/

Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/

The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/

Mockup Magic: https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/

Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/

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

In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, we talk about expanding your design business and building your dream team. From feeling swamped with administrative tasks to struggling to attract top-notch clients, we've all been there. If you've heard my other podcast episodes, you'll know that I used to be a solo freelance designer charging $65 for a logo, to building an amazing team and agency, and getting 5-figure clients all the time. So, I'm here to guide you through the process, sharing my own journey and the lessons I've learned along the way. We talk about the perks of growing into an agency, the types of roles you might need (think virtual assistants, extra designers, marketing & sales…), and the flexible hiring options that fit your budget and workload. No need to stress about making the perfect hire – I've got tips for finding the right fit and making the decision with confidence. Plus, ever heard of the floating agency model? It's a game-changer! It’s amazing! So, grab your coffee and tune in 😊

You Will Learn:

• Why transitioning to a design agency model can help your business and save you time.
• How to pinpoint your pain points and figure out which roles will make the biggest impact on your workflow.
• Who exactly I have on my team and who works full-time, part-time, or are contractors in my branding & design agency.
• Tips for hiring - whether you're looking for a virtual assistant or a marketing guru.
• The lowdown on flexible hiring options, from contractors to part-timers, that'll keep your business agile and adaptable.
• The scoop on the floating agency model and how it can revolutionize the way you approach staffing.

Resources:

$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/make-money

The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator

You asked for this one! In this episode, Kady Sandel walks you through the client workflow and design process her branding agency uses when working with $10k, $15k, and $20k+ clients.

Graphic designers often fear that higher-ticket clients will require more work, but that is often not true. Learn how you can adjust your process when working with multiple stakeholders, plus how to handle design revisions effectively with bigger clients to leave them raving at the end of their project.

Kady also breaks down the pros and cons of working with $3k clients, $15k clients, and $40k clients to figure out which price points are right for your design agency.

Resources:

Want to sign a $12k graphic, brand, or web design client? Snag your spot in our free $12k Client Attraction Masterclass here: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/

Connect with Kady on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our 12-week Profitable Designer Program helps designers sign $10k+ clients and scale into six-figure design agencies so they can have the freedom and lifestyle they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com/make-money

Who pays the processing fees? How about taxes? Designer or Client?

In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, we are revealing something that many designers don’t handle correctly. It’s definitely something that your clients can choose not to hire you for or hire you for. I’ve been freelancing and running my design agency since 2015, and I've been on both sides. Sometimes I am the client because we hire and outsource to contractors all the time. So, I know what feels right and who should pay the fees. Are fees the cost of doing business, or should your clients pay them? Tune in to learn more.

You will learn:

• What fees you need to pay and what fees your clients should pay.
• If you are a contractor that a project was outsourced to, who needs to pay taxes and processing fees.
• If fees are included in a project price or charged extra.
• How to present the fees to the clients.
• Overall, who pays and what fees.

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

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

The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator

AI is shaking up the design industry, and the smartest designers are using it to work faster, scale their businesses, and increase profits. I’ll show you exactly how I use AI in my branding and design agency to streamline workflows, enhance client communication, and automate marketing. If you’ve been wondering whether AI is a tool or a threat, this episode will give you the clarity (and strategy) you need.

You will learn:

• How to use AI to create mockups, proposals, and marketing content
• The best AI tools to automate client communication and admin work
• Why AI isn’t replacing designers – but those who use it are getting ahead
• Ways to integrate AI into your design process without losing creativity

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

In today’s episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer podcast, we're talking about design revisions. Throughout this episode, you'll learn how to embrace revisions as a natural part of the creative process, communicate effectively with clients to minimize misunderstandings, and educate clients on the value of your designs. By the end of our discussion, you'll have practical strategies to handle revisions with confidence and professionalism, ensuring smoother project workflows and happier clients.

You will learn:

• How to reframe revisions as opportunities for improvement.
• Strategies for effective communication with clients during the whole process.
• Techniques for educating clients on the value of your designs.
• What we do, in my branding & design agency, to minimize revisions and how we handle them when we have them

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

Client Portal: 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

The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator

Tired of feeling like you have to post endlessly on social media to land design clients? I’ve got you covered! In this episode, I’ll show you how to build a thriving design business without relying on social media platforms. I'll share practical strategies to connect with potential clients, leverage SEO, and make the most of referrals. You'll discover how to create meaningful relationships that lead to real business opportunities.

You will learn

• How to tap into your existing network to find new clients
• Effective SEO techniques to boost your online presence
• Strategies for asking for and receiving valuable referrals
• Tips for showcasing your work and expertise without social media
• Ways to follow up and stay connected with potential clients
• Say goodbye to social media overwhelm and hello to a more personalized and effective approach to landing design clients!

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

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

The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator

Many designers (and other creatives!) are concerned about the potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on the design industry.

In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer podcast, Kady Sandel shows you how AI can assist designers in the creative process, using a case study from behind the scenes of her branding agency to illustrate the benefits of incorporating AI into your workflow!

Additionally, Kady talks about future implications of AI in the design industry and shares tips to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving field. You'll discover examples of how you can utilize AI in your business to save time and work in your zone of genius.

Resources:

What’s the best high-ticket marketing strategy for your design business? Take our quiz to find out: https://bit.ly/3lN3xVS

Connect with Kady on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our 12-week Profitable Designer Program helps designers sign $10k+ clients and scale into six-figure design agencies so they can have the freedom and lifestyle they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com/make-money

Join guest expert Lucian Grofsorean in a conversation with host Kady Sandel on how freelance brand, web, and graphic designers can build their personal brands!

You know that your design business needs its own brand, especially if you are positioning yourself as an agency or studio… but how can you build a personal brand at the same time? And do you even need to? We cover it all in this episode.

Learn the psychology of personal branding, as well as why it’s harder to make your own brand than it is to make a brand for your clients. Plus walk away with actionable steps to convert high-ticket clients with your personal brand!

About Lucian Grofsorean:

Lucian Grofsorean is a brand strategist & designer passionate about psychology and conversion-centered design. He is on a mission to help entrepreneurs transitioning from the corporate world confidently sell to their ideal clients.

Starting on your own can be terrifying at times, but with Lucian’s guidance, you'll find the clarity and consistency you need to build a personal brand that converts. He loves working with motivated people who embrace a collaborative approach and are not afraid to stand out from the crowd.

You can connect with Lucian & learn more about his work at Darkcore Studio: https://www.darkcore.studio/ or on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucian-grofsorean/

Resources:

Want to sign a $12k graphic, brand, or web design client? Snag your spot in our free $12k Client Attraction Masterclass here: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/

Connect with us on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our Aventive Academy programs help designers sign better clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom and cash they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com

Have you ever been scared that when you present your designs to the client, they will be unhappy? Well… that happened to Kady! In this episode, she tells you the whole story, what you can learn from it, and most importantly: how to attract better freelance clients (and spot the red flags!) so this won’t happen in your design business.

Resources:

Want to sign a $12k graphic, brand, or web design client? Join our free 5-day $12k client challenge here!

Connect with us on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our Aventive Academy programs help designers sign better clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom and cash they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com

Get ready, because in this episode, I'm unveiling the secrets to turbocharge your design business with an unstoppable client pipeline. As a graphic, brand, or web design business owner, I've walked the same path, and today, I'm sharing my tried-and-true strategies. Join me as I guide you through the art of Lead Generation – we'll explore how to reel in potential clients from various sources. Then, we'll dive into Lead Qualification, helping you spot the gold amidst the rocks. Next up, we'll discuss the art of Engagement, where you'll discover how to connect with your audience on a whole new level. After that, it's Conversion time – turning leads into loyal clients. But it doesn't end there; we'll explore Client Relationship Management and the magic of Retention and Referrals. Lastly, we'll dissect Analytics and Optimization to ensure your pipeline is always running at peak performance. Get ready to transform your design business and take it to new heights.

You will learn:

• How to identify your ideal clients and attract them effectively.
• The secrets of lead qualification to save you time and energy.
• Strategies to engage your audience and build lasting connections.
• The art of converting leads into paying clients.
• Techniques for client retention and harnessing the power of referrals.

Resources:

$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/make-money

The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator

Are you burnt out from trying to scale up your design business problems on your own? Craving an outside perspective to help you see if your ideas make sense? In this episode, Kady Sandel shares the story of when she joined a mastermind earlier in her brand design business, including the positive and negative aspects of it.

Learn about our upcoming High-Ticket Client Mastermind for creatives and how it can help you hit $10k months in your web design, graphic design, or brand design business. Prevent burnout and stop trying to do everything yourself – it’s time to accept help, make designer friends, and see real results in your design business! Visit aventiveacademy.com/mastermind for all the details.

Resources:

Want to sign a $12k graphic, brand, or web design client? Join our free 5-day $12k client challenge here!

Connect with us on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our Aventive Academy programs help designers sign better clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom and cash they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com

There are things you should do to market your graphic, web, or brand design business, and other things you should definitely NOT do! In this episode, Kady Sandel dives deep into the 5 biggest marketing mistakes that cost her time, money, and clients when she was starting out as a freelancer.

From awkward networking events to social media blunders to wasted advertising money… hear her personal freelancing stories, as well as how to avoid these mistakes so you can land $12k+ design clients faster.

This episode will help you revitalize your marketing and learn what strategies DO work to hit six figures in your freelance design business!

Resources:

Want to sign a $12k graphic, brand, or web design client? Join our free 5-day $12k client challenge here!

Connect with us on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our Aventive Academy programs help designers sign better clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom and cash they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com

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

Are you attracting cheap graphic design, brand design, or web design clients? That means it’s time to update your portfolio to make it look more expensive!

In this episode, Kady Sandel walks you through the exact portfolio changes you need to make to attract $10k+ design clients.

Even if your design work is amazing, if you aren’t presenting it right, it simply isn’t going to impress the clients who have big budgets… so let’s fix your portfolio together with these actionable tips. Tune in!

Resources:

Free workshop to uplevel your design portfolio & attract $12k+ clients: https://aventiveacademy.com/iyp-workshop/

Connect with us on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our Aventive Academy programs help designers sign better clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom and cash they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com

In this episode of The Profitable Designer Podcast, we sit down to talk to David, the founder of Nebula Snacks. He could potentially be a client to a brand, graphic, or web designer. 😊

In episode #58, Kady asks him a lot of questions about how he got his logo designed, his packaging, website, and other visuals for the brand. As a designer, this is your opportunity to gain insight into the client's perspective and hear whether every client needs a designer.

Tune in and let us know what you think by DMing us on Instagram: @aventiveacademy

Our 12-week Profitable Designer Program helps design business owners grow their business to 5-figure months so they can have the freedom and lifestyle they desire. Join 300+ designers aventiveacademy.com/make-money

Most freelance designers have questions about how to add services to their design business: like how to go from being a logo designer, to a brand designer, to maybe even a web designer or full-service studio. In this episode, Kady Sandel covers all the “hows” of how she personally evolved her freelance business into an agency!

Get the inside scoop on what design services she learned (versus which she outsourced), how she knew when it was time to level up, and her #1 tip for when you want to expand your design business but are scared to make the leap.

Resources:

Want to sign a $12k graphic, brand, or web design client? Join our free 5-day $12k client challenge here!

Connect with us on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our Aventive Academy programs help designers sign better clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom and cash they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com

Have you ever wondered how saying “no” could actually double your income? It may sound strange, but turning down clients has been one of the most transformative strategies in my design business. When I stopped taking on projects that didn’t align with my goals or respect my worth, I opened the door to more profitable, fulfilling opportunities. In this episode, I share my journey of learning to say no and how it skyrocketed my business, giving me more freedom and better clients along the way.

You will learn:

• How to spot red flags and avoid clients who undervalue your expertise
• Why setting boundaries can boost both your income and your creative energy
• The long-term benefits of focusing on quality over quantity
• Real-life examples of how saying no can lead to high-paying projects

Settle in with your favorite drink, grab a pen, and get ready for this super valuable episode!

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

If you’re running a six-figure design business, you already have a team, your expenses are creeping up, and you’re wondering how to get to an even higher level without hiring a ton of more people… this episode is for you!

Business coach Kady Sandel will show you how to revamp your creative agency to get rid of burnout, reduce your work hours, and scale even further without hiring a massive team.

Learn how to work “smarter not harder” at this agency level, how to productize your design services, and how to start making passive income that will keep your design business thriving well into the future.

Resources:

Scale your creative business to $20k months without burning out in our mastermind program, The Creative CEO: aventiveacademy.com/mastermind

Connect with Kady on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our 12-week Profitable Designer Program helps designers sign $10k+ clients and scale into six-figure design agencies so they can have the freedom and lifestyle they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com/make-money

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

Welcome to The Profitable Graphic Designer podcast!

In this episode #57, you'll learn three strategies that helped me raise my rates the most. As a design business owner, I've experienced firsthand how challenging it can be to increase your rates. That's why I'm excited to share my personal experience, tips, and examples to help you attract more ideal clients and increase your profitability.

Resources:

$20k months as a graphic designer – blueprint: https://bit.ly/3lN3xVS

Connect with me on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our 12-week Profitable Designer Program helps design business owners grow their businesses to 5-figure months so they can have the freedom and lifestyle they desire. Join 300+ designers aventiveacademy.com/make-money

This episode means the world to me. I want you to understand that the $32,000 isn't about bragging - it's about showing you what's possible. Trust me, I've been there, starting with those $65 logo gigs on Craigslist. It wasn't a quick journey, and yours won't be either. But let me tell you, it's doable. What used to be a massive accomplishment for me is now just another day in the office, and that's something I'm truly proud of. On this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, I'm thrilled to share how you can start landing those high-paying clients too. From where to find them to understanding exactly what they need, I'm going to spill all the beans.

You will learn:

• Strategies for acquiring high-value ($20k or so) clients, whether through networking events or online platforms.
• The importance of setting the right prices and how to gradually increase them as your business & expertise grow.
• Tips for effective project management, including tools like Trello for internal communication and Notion for client portals.
• How to build a strong reputation that attracts referrals and fosters long-term success.

Resources:

The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/

12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/make-money

The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator

How good of a designer do you need to be before you can sign freelance clients? Will improving your design skills help you grow your business? If you feel like you’re constantly improving your portfolio and doing sketches, but STILL not catching the interest of high-paying clients – this episode is for you!

Kady Sandel shows you the right balance between design skills and business skills so you can get unstuck, attract $12k+ freelance design clients, leave your 9-5, and finally feel confident in your freelance design business.

Resources:

Want to sign a $12k graphic, brand, or web design client? Join our free 5-day $12k client challenge here!

Connect with us on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our Aventive Academy programs help designers sign better clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom and cash they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com

Want to land high-ticket design clients? Then stop calling yourself a graphic designer :)

In today’s controversial episode, we talk about how to describe your graphic design, brand design, or web design business in a catchy way that stands out and makes clients & networking partners remember you.

Kady Sandel breaks down the reality of what non-designers picture when they hear the word “graphic designer,” and why you don’t want to be lumped in with that crowd! Learn a simple & fun way to describe your business differently, plus one mindset shift that will help you make more money and step into your power as an entrepreneur.

Resources:

Want to sign a $12k graphic, brand, or web design client? Join our free 5-day $12k client challenge here!

Connect with us on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our Aventive Academy programs help designers sign better clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom and cash they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com

Ever wondered how you can charge more for your web design projects?

In this episode, I’ll share my journey from charging $500 for a website to landing $10k+ web projects.

Building on the insights from Part 1 (Episode #119), you’ll learn how to price your web projects for maximum profitability by understanding client needs, communicating value, and building a high-value portfolio.

I'll also share tips on specializing, advanced sales techniques, and leveraging case studies to boost your credibility and rates.

If you haven't yet, make sure to listen to Episode 119 for more foundational strategies.

You will learn:

• How to transition from low-priced websites to high-value web projects.
• The importance of understanding client needs and communicating value.
• Effective strategies for building a high-value portfolio.
• Advanced sales techniques to close high-paying deals.

Grab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to redefine how you run your design business!

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

LIVE Designer to Agency Bootcamp (Sep 10th - 12th): https://aventiveacademy.com/designer-to-agency-bootcamp/

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

In episode 55 of The Profitable Graphic Designer podcast, business coach Kady Sandel explores the topic of cold emailing and whether it really works to land graphic, brand, and web design clients.

She delves into the benefits of cold emailing for designers, including the ability to connect with potential clients who wouldn't have otherwise been accessible.

Additionally, Kady discusses the process of cold emailing for designers, the do's and don'ts to remember, as well as how to follow-up without feeling annoying. She also covers the potential downsides of cold emailing, including the risk of being ignored or considered spam.

Resources:

What’s the best high-ticket marketing strategy for your design business? Take our quiz to find out: https://bit.ly/3lN3xVS

Connect with Kady on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our 12-week Profitable Designer Program helps designers sign $10k+ clients and scale into six-figure design agencies so they can have the freedom and lifestyle they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com/make-money

This client portal changed absolutely everything in my design business. Fewer revisions, fewer emails, fewer questions. It’s all in one spot. Clients don’t ask us to resend the final files, they don’t ask about the timeline, they know exactly when they should pay next, and they are not asking for revisions via email. All the answers for them are in one spot. It’s amazing.

https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/

No clients? No problem!

Join me as I share invaluable insights and strategies for navigating those challenging times when clients seem to be nowhere in sight. In this episode, I'll guide you through practical steps to not just survive but thrive during these downtimes. You'll learn how to revamp your portfolio to attract new clients, harness the power of social media to stay visible, and get creative with client acquisition strategies. Additionally, I'll share tips on optimizing your business processes for long-term success. By the end of this episode, you'll be equipped with the tools and mindset to conquer slow seasons with confidence and emerge stronger than ever before.

You will learn:

• How to stay motivated and keep going when you don’t have design clients.
• Techniques to refresh and strengthen your design portfolio.
• Strategies for creating engaging content on social media platforms to maintain visibility.
• Creative approaches to finding and acquiring new clients.
• Tips for optimizing your business processes to ensure long-term growth and success.

Grab a cup of coffee and join me!

$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

The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator

In this episode, guest expert Natalie Gates joins Kady Sandel to share how freelance brand designers, graphic designers, and web designers can make more money and land bigger clients by collaborating with copywriters.

You’ll hear Natalie’s tips on where to find the best freelance copywriters and how to become their #1 go-to designer, the logistics of how to structure your partnership (aka: who pays who!), plus how to get graphic design clients through copywriting referrals.

We also cover the pros and cons of collaborating with other freelance creatives & what to do if a design client gives you terrible copy to work with!

About Natalie Gates:

Natalie Gates is a website copywriter and brand messaging strategist for creatives and professional service providers. She helps small businesses capture their unique value, connect with more of the right people, and turn their website into a lead-generating tool.

You can follow Natalie on Instagram at @wordsbynatalieor visit her website http://www.nataliegates.ca

Resources:

Want to sign a $12k graphic, brand, or web design client? Join our free 5-day $12k client challenge here!

Connect with us on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our Aventive Academy programs help designers sign better clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom and cash they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com

Are you tired of clients ghosting you after you've invested time and effort in pitching your design services?

In this episode, business coach Kady Sandel explores the most common reasons behind client ghosting and shares what you can do to prevent it from happening to you. As a graphic, brand, or web design business owner, understanding why clients ghost you is essential to growing your business and making sure it happens less frequently.

We also discuss the importance of pricing strategy and how it can impact your client responses, plus how to offer value beyond your design services to attract and retain clients. Tune in!

Resources:

What’s the best high-ticket marketing strategy for your design business? Take our quiz to find out: https://bit.ly/3lN3xVS

Connect with Kady on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our 12-week Profitable Designer Program helps designers sign $10k+ clients and scale into six-figure design agencies so they can have the freedom and lifestyle they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com/make-money

If you’ve ever wondered how to take your design business from freelance to something more sustainable, today’s episode is for you. I had a great conversation with Kiri Mohan, who helps women freelancers with corporate backgrounds grow their businesses and regain more time for themselves. We touched on everything from finding higher-paying clients to achieving a better work-life balance, and there are so many helpful takeaways. Whether you’re in the process of scaling or just looking for ways to refine your business, you’ll find some valuable insights here.

You will learn:

• Key steps for transitioning from corporate life to a thriving freelance design business.
• How to attract high-paying clients and position yourself as a premium service provider.
• Strategies for setting and raising your rates confidently, without losing clients.
• Tips on maintaining work-life balance while scaling your design business.
• Mindset shifts that help freelancers break past income plateaus and avoid burnout.

Grab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to redefine how you run your design business!

About Kiri:

Kiri Mohan helps women freelancers who have a background in the corporate world take their contractor business from surviving to thriving. Her Corporate2Contract Core and Collective programs guide women growing their freelance business to set them up for success, earn an income over six figures and get more time back in their day. Kiri knows that there is a way to have a career, a flexible schedule, and get paid what you deserve, and her framework teaches you to do that. When not working on her courses or leading women, she is podcasting (Freelance to Freedom Podcast) drinking tea and reading books.

Website: www.corporate2contract.com

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

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirimohan/

Money mapper - https://corporate2contract.thrivecart.com/money-mapper/

Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/her-balanced-hustle-scale-your-business-with-work-life/id1634211553

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

Free Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/

The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/

$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/

Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f

12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit

Welcome to The Profitable Graphic Designer podcast, where I help designers build thriving businesses.

In episode #59, I discussed the importance of diversifying your income streams and explored different ways to create passive income and additional revenue streams as a brand, graphic or web designer. As a designer myself, I knew firsthand the challenges of relying solely on client work and the benefits of exploring different income streams. That's why I was excited to share my insights and expertise with you. Join me as we explore the different ways you can generate passive income, offer coaching or consulting services, explore speaking engagements, sell physical products featuring your designs, and more.

Resources:

$20k months as a graphic designer – blueprint: https://bit.ly/3lN3xVS

Connect with Kady on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our 12-week Profitable Designer Program helps design business owners grow their business to 5-figure months so they can have the freedom and lifestyle they desire. Join 300+ designers aventiveacademy.com/make-money

When was the last time a single social media post changed your life? Ever?

Join me on The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast as I sit down with James Barnard, an award-winning logo designer, design educator, and the creative mind behind Barnard.co. James has an incredible story of how one viral TikTok post skyrocketed his career, bringing in countless design inquiries and transforming his business. From his journey as a solo freelancer to becoming a sought-after design expert, James shares his “secrets” to success, balancing content creation with client work, and handling the ups and downs of social media fame. You won't want to miss this inspiring conversation!

You will learn:

• The pivotal moment when James’ TikTok post went viral and how it impacted his design business.
• Insights into James’ content creation process, including his strategies for TikTok and Instagram.
• How James manages negative comments and maintains a positive online presence.
• Tips on balancing content creation with client work.
• How to identify and attract high-quality design clients.
• Advice for brand, graphic, and web designers on growing their businesses and increasing their rates.

Tune in to discover how you can leverage social media to grow your design business and attract high-quality clients.

About James Barnard:

James is an award-winning logo designer, seasoned freelancer, design educator, dad, and owner of Barnard.co. He specializes in designing logos and visual identities with meaning.

James started his career in graphic design more than a decade ago, working in the publishing industry. He has designed creative content for some of the UK’s biggest titles, including The Daily Telegraph, Grazia, Men’s Health, Empire, Cosmopolitan, The Times, and many more.

These days, James runs his freelance logo design business from the Gold Coast, Australia, after emigrating from London in 2021. He has an impressive variety of skills in design software, which he aims to pass on to the next generation of designers through his social platforms.

His work has been published in the Logo Lounge, and he speaks as an authority in the world of logo design at design conferences, on podcasts, and for other design channels.

Connect with James:

https://barnard.co/

https://www.instagram.com/barnardco/

https://www.tiktok.com/@barnardco

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

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

The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator

Ever feel like you’re drowning in tasks, both personal and professional, as a freelance designer? You're not alone. In this episode, I share how hiring and outsourcing can transform your business and your life. From hiring a cleaner or nanny to taking on a design assistant, I’ll show you the steps to move from solo freelancer to thriving business owner. Discover the freedom and growth that comes with building a team and the tangible benefits it brings.

You will learn:

• How outsourcing personal tasks can boost your productivity and mental well-being.
• The steps to transition from a solo freelancer to a business owner with a team.
• The benefits of hiring in your design business, including increased efficiency and financial growth.
• Practical tips for identifying tasks to outsource and finding the right people for your team.
• How to overcome common challenges in letting go of control and managing a remote team.

Grab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to redefine how you run your design business!

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

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

In this episode, guest expert Josh Hall joins Kady Sandel to talk about growing your web design business, setting your prices, and whether you can guarantee results like sales, traffic, or conversions to your web design clients!

You’ll hear about Josh’s career journey from cabinetmaker and drummer to web designer and online educator, and how these unique experiences have helped him grow his web design business.

We also cover how to collaborate with copywriters, the #1 thing you should do to get a new web design client, and how to use value-based pricing as a web designer. Tune in!

About Josh Hall:

Josh is a web design business coach, podcast host, and web agency founder who lives and works in Columbus Ohio. Through his online courses, podcast, and YouTube channel, he teaches web designers how to build their dream web design business that gives them freedom and life they love.

Learn more at joshhall.co and check out his Web Design Business Podcast at https://joshhall.co/podcast/

Resources:

Scale your design business to $20k months without burnout in our mastermind program, The Creative CEO: aventiveacademy.com/mastermind

Connect with Kady on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our 12-week Profitable Designer Program helps designers sign $10k+ clients and scale into six-figure design agencies so they can have the freedom and lifestyle they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com/make-money

Why do some designers land high-ticket clients on repeat, while others have clients in their inbox trying to demand the cheapest price ("how much for a logo?")? Kady Sandel dives into it in this juicy episode about why she gets $12k+ design clients!

She shows you the 3 unique strategies she uses to attract high-ticket clients, with before-and-after examples from her own brand design business.

Learn how to get graphic design clients who have the budget to pay you well, package your offers in a way that excites them, and use outsourcing to provide a better experience (even if you’re just starting a design business!).

Once you've listened to the episode, be sure to sign up for Kady’s free $12k Client Attraction Masterclass at https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/ .

Resources:

Connect with us on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our 12-week Profitable Designer Program helps designers sign high-ticket clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom and cash they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com/make-money

In this episode, business coach for designers Kady Sandel dives into the world of social media for graphic, brand, and web designers. Let’s explore how you can use these platforms to attract high-paying clients ($10k+) and grow your creative business!

She discusses the importance of developing a strong social media strategy that targets the right platforms for your ideal design clients, creating high-quality content that showcases your skills and expertise, engaging with potential clients to build relationships and attract new business, and much more.

Plus, learn why you need to create a high-value service offer that justifies your pricing and helps you reach your income goals!

Resources:

What’s the best high-ticket marketing strategy for your design business? Take our quiz here to find out: https://bit.ly/3lN3xVS

Connect with Kady on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our 12-week Profitable Designer Program helps designers sign $10k+ clients and scale into six-figure design agencies so they can have the freedom and lifestyle they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com/make-money

How do you know if freelancing is right for you? And how can you structure your design biz to give you even more freedom than you have right now? In this episode, Kady shares the evolution of her branding agency over time – from freelance solopreneur, to hiring a team, to changing the structure of her business when her goals and priorities changed.

Resources:

Want to sign a $12k graphic, brand, or web design client? Join our free 5-day $12k client challenge here!

Connect with us on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our Aventive Academy programs help designers sign better clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom and cash they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com

As a designer who's been on the exhilarating path of entrepreneurship, I'm excited to delve straight into a pivotal topic that has the potential to revolutionize your design business: Finding the Perfect Niche Target. Over the next 30-40 minutes, I'll be your guide on this journey, sharing the insights and strategies that have shaped my own success.

Get ready to discover:

• The transformative power of niche specialization for your design business.
• Practical steps to unearth that niche that perfectly aligns with your passions and market demand.
• The invaluable perks of niche targeting, including forging stronger client connections and commanding higher prices.
• Actionable advice on how to test, refine, and own your chosen niche like a pro.
• Why personal fulfillment in your work isn't just a lofty dream but a reachable goal through niche specialization.

Join me as we embark on this journey to unlock the full potential of your design business. It's time to find your niche and watch your profits soar!

Resources:

The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/

12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/make-money

Get ready for an eye-opening journey on the latest episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast! Today, I'm delving deep into the art of pricing for design business owners, sharing insights that have personally transformed my career.

In this power-packed episode, you will learn how to:

• Discover the True Value: I'll show you how to recognize the immense value of your design skills and communicate it effectively to your clients.
• Craft a Winning Pricing Strategy: Learn the art of value-based pricing and tiered packages to maximize your income without sacrificing quality.
• Educate and Persuade: Find out how to educate your clients about the design process and persuade them to invest in your expertise, leading to higher profits.
• Price Evolution: I'll share the journey of incremental price increases, ensuring you're always growing your earnings while maintaining client loyalty.

Let's dive in!

Resources:

$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/make-money

Get ready to explore the vibrant world of design entrepreneurship with Kristy Campbell, the innovative force behind Pink Pony Creative. In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, we uncover Kristy's journey from a solo designer to leading a successful design agency.

Discover the inspiration behind Kristy's 100-day design challenge and the strategies she employed to scale her business. From her unique approach to social media marketing to attracting dream clients, Kristy shares invaluable insights and advice for fellow designers and small business owners aiming to thrive in the industry. Join me as we unravel the secrets to building a thriving design agency, straight from the dynamic mind of Kristy Campbell.

You will learn:

• The story behind Kristy's 100-day design challenge on Instagram and its impact on her journey.
• Strategies for transitioning from a solo designer to leading a successful design agency.
• Insights into effective social media marketing and attracting dream design clients.
• Kristy's approach to managing social media accounts and identifying the most effective platforms.
• Key lessons and advice for aspiring designers and small business owners seeking growth and success in the industry.

Grab a cup of coffee and be ready to take notes!

About Kristy:

Kristy Campbell, founder of Pink Pony Creative and Adobe MAX speaker, is a New Zealand-based Brand Identity and Graphic Designer with over ten years’ of experience in the industry. She expresses herself in daring, vibrant and exciting ways, pushing the boundaries of branding through the combination of loud color, quirky illustrations, and stylized logos. Kristy now undertakes projects for clients worldwide and embraces an ‘anything but boring’ aesthetic in design and business. And with a business name like “Pink Pony”, you know she creates a little differently.

www.pinkponycreative.com

https://www.instagram.com/kristy.thepinkpony/

https://www.tiktok.com/@pinkponycreative

The Social Ponies Podcast

Resources:

$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

The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator

Welcome to an insightful episode where I sit down with Shannon Mattern, a seasoned business coach specializing in helping web design entrepreneurs create freedom, flexibility, and financial independence. In our conversation, Shannon shares invaluable insights into the realm of marketing for design professionals. Uncover the key elements of a successful marketing strategy, gain clarity on identifying your unique selling proposition, and explore practical tips for leveraging social media platforms effectively. From content marketing to networking, Shannon sheds light on common misconceptions and provides actionable guidance for design business owners.

You will learn:

• The importance of marketing in attracting the right clients and fostering business growth.
• Strategies for identifying and leveraging your unique selling proposition to stand out in a crowded market.
• Practical tips for effectively showcasing your work and attracting potential clients on platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.
• Insights into content marketing strategies tailored to resonate with your target audience and establish authority in your niche.
• Common marketing mistakes to avoid and actionable guidance for refining your marketing efforts.

Tune in!

About Shannon:

Shannon Mattern is a business coach for web designers and host of the Profitable Web Designer Podcast where she shares strategies and advice to help web designers create freedom, flexibility and financial independence.

Website: https://webdesigneracademy.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/profitablewebdesigner

Web Designer Archetypes Quiz: https://webdesigneracademy.com/quiz

In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer, I'm excited to dive into a topic that's close to every designer's heart – effective sales strategies. As fellow graphic, brand, and web design business owners, you and I understand the importance of closing deals and boosting our revenue.

Join me as I share my insights on understanding clients' needs deeply, building trust through content marketing, and providing personalized design solutions. We'll explore the incredible power of social proof and how positive reviews can make a real difference. Plus, I'll walk you through the art of gracefully handling objections and the key techniques I've mastered for successfully closing deals. Get ready to supercharge your sales game and witness your design business thrive like never before.

You will learn:

• The fundamental stages of the sales process and how they apply to your unique design business.
• Strategies to build trust and establish your credibility by sharing your expertise through content.
• How to create tailored design proposals that speak directly to your clients' pain points and aspirations.
• The transformative impact of social proof, utilizing client testimonials to amplify your sales approach.
• Techniques to confidently address objections, leaving you poised to seal the deal with professionalism and finesse.

Resources:

The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/

12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/make-money

The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator

Ever wondered how to significantly increase your rates?

In this episode, I share my journey from charging $65 for logo designs to landing $20k+ branding projects. You’ll get insider tips on positioning, specializing, and communicating value to attract high-paying clients.

I’ll walk you through the exact steps I took to transform my pricing strategy and attract clients who value my work. From finding your niche to effective sales techniques, this episode is packed with actionable advice you can start implementing today.

You will learn:

• How to transition from low-priced projects to high-value branding.
• The importance of finding and defining your niche.
• Effective sales techniques to highlight the value of your services.
• Tips on building credibility and showcasing your expertise.

Grab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to redefine how you run your design business!

Make sure to subscribe to The Profitable Graphic Designer, as this is Part One of our pricing series. You won’t want to miss Part Two, where I’ll dive even deeper into advanced strategies and tips for maximizing your profitability!

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

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

Outsourcing Your Designs aka White Labeling is an episode for graphic, brand, and web design business owners who want to expand their services and increase their revenue.

In this episode of the Profitable Designer Podcast, Kady Sandel (your host) talks about the concept of white labeling and if it can benefit your design business.

She covers the pros and cons of white labeling, including the benefits of increased revenue and access to new clients, as well as the potential downsides of limited creative control and lack of credit.

You will learn:

· The definition of white labeling and how it works in the graphic design industry

· The benefits and downsides of offering white labeling services as a designer

· How your business can grow really fast while working for someone else

· How to offer white labeling services, including research, setting clear guidelines, signing a contract, and keeping open communication

Resources:

What’s the best high-ticket marketing strategy for your design business? Take our quiz here to find out: https://bit.ly/3lN3xVS

Connect with Kady on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our 12-week Profitable Designer Program helps designers sign $10k+ clients and scale into six-figure design agencies so they can have the freedom and lifestyle they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com/make-money

Most designers only see the output of design platforms, but today we’re talking to someone who actually helps build the tools we use every day.

Miri from the Wix Studio product team joins me for a conversation about what freelance designers and agencies really need to grow their businesses. We talk about workflows that make a difference, how platforms are evolving, and what premium clients are actually looking for right now.

You will learn:

• What most designers overlook when choosing platforms and tools
• How to start thinking like a studio, even if you’re working solo
• How AI can enhance your creativity rather than replace it
• What makes a designer stand out to high-paying clients
• Why web design is more accessible than most designers think

This episode is full of insights. Grab your notes and hit play. Let’s talk about building a design business that’s made to grow.

And if you want to start offering web design without dealing with code or tech stress, check out ⁠Wix Studio⁠. It’s built for designers like you who want to keep full creative control and add more value for their clients.

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/⁠

Client Portal for Designers: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/⁠

The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/⁠

Mockup Magic: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/⁠

Brand Guidelines Template: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/⁠

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

The one-concept method is something I've been practicing for a few years now. No more sending multiple concepts to clients for them to choose from. They have one problem, and I offer one solution! Our guest, Hayley, a talented graphic designer, is here to unveil the power of the one-concept method. Discover why presenting a single design concept to your clients might be the fresh perspective your business needs. Learn why people are willing to pay more for one concept/one design versus multiple options and how it can significantly increase your efficiency. Hayley will share her journey, client responses, and the remarkable benefits this approach can bring to your workflow. Plus, she'll provide invaluable tips on how to transition seamlessly.

You will learn:

• What the one-concept method is and how it differs from offering multiple design options.
• How clients respond and benefit from this approach.
• Why they are willing to pay more for ONE design versus multiple options.
• Practical advice for effectively communicating the value of a single concept to your clients.
• The impact on your workflow and efficiency as a designer.
• Tips and steps to successfully transition to this innovative method.

Can't wait for you to dive in and start applying the insights we talked about soon! 😊

About Hayley:

Hayley Fedders is a branding expert who founded the Carpinteria based design agency, Studio Seaside. With a passion for brand and website design, Hayley brings her creative skills and expertise to help businesses and organizations establish their visual identities and online presence.

Hayley holds a bachelor's degree in industrial arts from San Francisco State University, which has provided her with a strong foundation in design principles and techniques. Her educational background, coupled with her keen design eye, has enabled her to excel in the field of design.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Hayley enjoys spending quality time with her family and serves on the Board of Trustees for Girls Inc, of Carpinteria. She values family and cherishes the opportunity to travel and explore new places with her loved ones.

Resources:

https://www.studioseaside.com/resources

https://www.studioseaside.com/brand-process-savvy

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

If you keep landing clients who expect a full brand identity for a few hundred dollars, it’s not just bad luck—it’s a sign that something in your approach needs to change. High-paying clients don’t randomly find designers, and they definitely don’t hire based on just “good design.” In this episode, I’m breaking down the three biggest mistakes that keep designers stuck working with low-budget clients and what you need to do differently to start attracting premium clients.

You will learn:

• Why positioning yourself as “just a designer” is costing you high-ticket clients
• The pricing mistake that keeps you undercharging for your work
• How to market yourself to clients who actually have a budget
• The one shift that helped me go from low-paying projects to $10K+ branding clients
• Where to find clients who value branding and will invest in it

Listen in and start attracting better clients who see your work as an investment, not just an expense.

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/

Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/

The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/

Mockup Magic: https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/

Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/

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

There are clients out there right now who are ready to invest $10K+ in design services—are you positioned to attract them? The biggest difference between designers struggling with low-budget clients and those landing high-ticket projects isn’t talent—it’s strategy. In this episode, I’ll show you how to reposition yourself, find premium clients, and close high-value deals confidently. Plus, I’ll share details on my 12-week business course, where I walk you through the exact process to make this your reality.

You will learn:

• The #1 mindset shift that helps you attract high-value clients
• Where to find businesses that are ready to invest $10K+ in design
• How to position your branding and messaging for premium clients
• The secret to closing high-ticket projects with confidence

Grab a notebook, and let’s get you landing high-paying clients ASAP!

Aventive Academy’s Resources:

$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/

Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/

The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/

Mockup Magic: https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/

Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/

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

When I charge $25k for a branding project, I’m not just picking a number - I’m showing clients the level of transformation and expertise I bring. This confidence in pricing doesn’t just impress clients; it signals that you know your worth.

Think about it: every time you set a price that genuinely reflects your work's value, you’re establishing a standard for the clients you want to attract.

In this episode, I’m guiding you through the steps to develop that same confidence in your pricing so that clients trust in your value from the start.

You will learn:

• How to shift your mindset and embrace the value you bring to clients.
• The importance of setting a minimum base rate and how to calculate it.
• Strategies to adopt value-based pricing and charge for outcomes, not hours.
• Tips for presenting your prices confidently to clients, even during tough conversations.
• How to handle objections without feeling pressured to lower your rates.

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

We’ve all had them: the design client who wants to pay “in exposure,” who asks their entire family for opinions on your logo, who complains about all their previous designers…

In today’s episode, Kady Sandel shows you the freelance client red flags to watch for, with plenty of examples from her own business. Learn how to spot potential headaches before accepting a project, set and hold your boundaries, and land better clients that value your work and expertise (and that you genuinely love working with!).

Resources:

Want to sign a $12k graphic, brand, or web design client? Join our free 5-day $12k client challenge here!

Connect with us on Instagram @aventiveacademy

Our Aventive Academy programs help designers sign better clients, make more money, and grow their freelance businesses so they can have the freedom and cash they desire. Join us at aventiveacademy.com