Why do so many talented freelance designers get stuck in a constant cycle of hustling for clients, overworking themselves, and never quite hitting the income goals they’ve set? In this episode, I’m breaking down the root causes behind why freelancers struggle to grow and, more importantly, how you can break free from this trap. I’ll be sharing the exact steps that helped me move from being a solo freelancer to running a thriving design agency. We’ll talk about the mindset shifts, business model changes, and systems you need to unlock sustainable growth and finally step into your role as the Creative CEO of your business.

You will learn:

• The three main growth blockers that keep freelance designers stuck
• How to shift from a freelancer mindset to thinking like a business owner
• Strategies to package your services and move beyond the one-to-one model
• How I grew my design business and significantly increased what I charge
• The importance of systems and automation in scaling your design business
• How to position yourself to attract high-value clients who see you as a strategic partner

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

Designer to Agency Bootcamp, Sep 10-12th, 2024: https://aventiveacademy.com/designer-to-agency-bootcamp/

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/

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

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

Have you ever had an amazing client show up in your inbox… and maybe you even had calls with them, or they put down a deposit… then, they disappeared?!

In this episode, Kady Sandel talks about what to do when a freelance graphic, brand, or web design client ghosts you. Learn the top reasons why clients ghost designers, how you can prevent this from happening, and how to protect yourself when it does.

You will walk away with both mindset tips and clear-cut strategies to handle ghosting – and you’ll know how to attract better, more professional clients in the future.

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, 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

Have you ever tried so hard to seem “professional” for your freelance clients that you no longer felt like yourself? Is your content feeling stagnant and boring?

In today’s episode, brand strategist & guest expert Destiny Washington sits down with Kady for an incredible conversation about how to let your authentic voice & personality shine through in your freelance design business!

Learn how to make more money by bringing your whole self to your design projects, and our top tips to build trust with your audience by embracing (and sharing!) your values & personality quirks.

By the end of this episode, you will feel inspired by your freelance business again and have actionable next steps to attract more clients by being yourself.

About Destiny Washington:

Destiny Washington is the founder and brand strategist of Laurice Creative. She specializes in building authentic mission-focused brands for arts non-profits.

Laurice Creative was born out of a necessity of creative freedom and unabashed belief in one’s own ability. Destiny proudly built this business with limited means and a larger vision - library cards and "digital nomad" moodboards.

After 3 years, she has built a thorough branding and social media strategy system that was created and fine-tuned working collaboratively with non-profit and creative-based clients.

Learn more at www.laurice.studio and follow Destiny on Instagram at @lauricecreative

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 crack the code of charging more while working less in your design business? This is the episode for you!

Kady Sandel shows you how to explain your value to clients (and add the services they really want!) so you can charge more than other freelance graphic, brand, and web designers. 

You will hear the story of her first $9,000 month as a freelance graphic designer – and why that month wasn’t as good as it sounds. Learn the #1 mindset shift that will help you position in the value of your services, plus practical tips on what services to add to your business to get your dream clients to a yes.

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

If your freelance design clients constantly want tweaks and revisions to your projects… you can learn how to limit revisions effectively & spend less time on them in this episode!

Kady Sandel shares honest business advice around how you can massively reduce revision requests in your graphic, brand, or web design business. Learn how to set up your contracts, create boundaries with your clients, and structure your projects from the very beginning so clients see you as an expert (and stop asking for changes).

Kady also discusses the process her branding agency implemented that brought revision requests down to almost zero!

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, guest expert Dot Lung joins Kady Sandel to share how freelance brand, web, and graphic designers can leverage social media to attract high-paying clients.

Tired of getting a smattering of likes on your posts, but no $10k clients in your inbox? Learn the top mistakes designers make on social media, and how you can fix them to make more money in your design business!

We also show you how to grow your following through collaborations, pick the right platforms, and convert your followers into paying freelance clients.

About Dot Lung:

Dot Lung is a Los Angeles native that has travelled the world working on different social media campaigns. Dot is short for Dorothy, and Lung is Mandarin for dragons. Taking on the moniker of Mother of Dragons, she has helped her clients build social media empires.

Through her interest in human behavior and knowledge of all things social, Lung aims to empower creative people to make digital magic, build a future together, and get their work seen.

Learn more at www.dotlung.com and follow Dot at instagram.com/dotlung.

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

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

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

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

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/

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

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

In this episode, Kady Sandel takes you behind the scenes of her pricing journey as a freelance designer: from doing projects for free, to charging $65 for a logo on Craigslist, to charging $18,000 for a branding package within just a few years!

Learn how to upgrade your mindset, raise your rates, sell bigger packages, attract higher-paying clients, and make a living with 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 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

Are you constantly sending proposals to potential freelance clients, then never hearing back? Or maybe you’re confused on when to send a proposal at all! In this episode, Kady shows you how to create freelance design proposals that sell. Learn what your proposals need, the exact workflow of when to send one (without wasting your time), plus the biggest proposal mistake that is killing your sales.

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 millions of freelance designers out there… but in the end, none of them are competing with you. What?! In this episode, Kady will explain this concept and show you how to stop comparing yourself so you can make more money in your graphic, brand, or web design business. Learn how to do competitor research without getting jealous or deflated, plus how to stand out from them without even trying.

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 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

Are you tired of clients who lowball you, negotiate your rates, or complain that your design services are expensive? In this episode, Kady will show you how to leave them behind and find freelance clients who are happy to pay your rates. Learn how to attract better clients, get them to hire you, set boundaries, and never look back!

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ever wondered how long it takes to land high-paying clients? You’ll be surprised, I promise. Welcome! In this episode, I walk you through every single step I had to take to land my $29,000 branding and web design clients. While this is just one example, the majority of my clients are in the five-figure range, and the steps I take remain consistent with each potential client. I also share where our clients typically find us, how they communicate with us, what we offer, what's included, and all the important details.

This episode is incredibly valuable if you're aiming to land amazing clients you want to work with.

You will learn:

•  How we acquire high-paying design clients
• The timeframe for landing a five-figure client
• The precise steps needed to secure a $29k client

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

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

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

Every designer grapples with challenging clients—it's an inevitable part of the journey. We've all been there, facing clients who may not align with our vision or approach. But what defines a "bad" client? Is it the low-paying ones, the ones who seem to micromanage every detail, or perhaps the ones who reach out for minor tweaks at inconvenient times? The truth is, the definition of a bad client varies from person to person. It's a subjective experience and it’s up to you to decide!

In today's episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, we’re talking with Josh Hall all about filtering out bad-fit clients and focusing on attracting the dream high-quality clients you want to work with. We’re covering everything from how to structure your contract form, sales funnels, services, networking events, and much more!

PLUS! Josh is proving his framework (usually paid but FREE for my listeners) 😊

Web Design Client Funneling Framework: Use code “Profitable-Graphic-Designer” at checkout for 100% off :)

In this episode you will learn:

• Proven methods for effectively weeding out bad-fit clients before they become a drain on your time and resources
• Innovative contact form ideas designed to capture more leads and, more importantly, high-quality leads that are a perfect fit for your services
• Insights on which social media platforms are currently the most effective for brand, graphic, and web design professionals, with a special emphasis on why LinkedIn stands out
• Actionable tips on positioning yourself as the go-to designer in your niche or industry, establishing credibility, and attracting premium clients who recognize and value your expertise
• Expert networking strategies and little-known tricks for generating a steady stream of referrals and landing lucrative design projects that align with your strengths and interests

Grab a cup of coffee and join us!

About Josh:

Josh is a web design business coach, podcast host and web agency founder based out of Columbus, Ohio. Through his podcast, youtube channel, online courses and web design community Web Designer Pro™, he teaches web designers how to build a web design business that gives them freedom and life they love.

Website: https://joshhall.co

Instagram: https://joshhall.co/instagram

Aventive Academy’s 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 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

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

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

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

I am hosting a FREE masterclass on April 10th on how to get amazing design clients on LinkedIn. If you are a brand, graphic, or web designer, this is for you, and you can register by clicking on this link – aventiveacademy.com/linkedin.

In today’s podcast episode, on The Profitable Graphic Designer podcast, we’re covering why LinkedIn is such a powerful social media platform that not many designers utilize. It’s a B2B platform that has a lot of potential clients. Yet, many designers stay away from it.

My first $10k client came from LinkedIn. And since then, I’ve gotten $15k, $25k, even $29k design clients through this powerful platform. And in today’s podcast episode, I talk more about it. Tune in, and I hope to see you on April 10th at 10 am CST during the free masterclass that will help you get design clients on LinkedIn (recording available).

It's a milestone worth celebrating! The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast is proud to announce its 100th episode!

Over the past 100 episodes, we've had the privilege of hosting some of the sharpest minds in the creative industry. Our guests have shared their experiences, tips, and strategies that have empowered designers to run profitable, simple and sustainable design businesses they love!

None of this would have been possible without YOU - our incredible listeners. Your support, feedback, and dedication have fueled our passion to bring you the best of the design & business world.

We've received hundreds of messages from designers around the world who've found inspiration and practical advice through our episodes and I, as your host, want to thank you! 😊 The journey to 100 episodes is just the beginning. We're excited to continue providing you with valuable insights, expert interviews, and a platform to thrive as a creative business owner.

In this podcast episode, we have a fantastic guest, Chris Do, and we’ve touched on many different business topics that will help design business owners improve their business.

Chris Do shared how he started his business, how he got some of the first clients, when he started outsourcing, hiring, and how he grew his business into a successful creative agency in LA. Chris also touched on how you can start getting high-paying clients that you would love to work with!

He also helped us understand why clients choose the designers they choose and how you can position yourself and your business as the best possible option for those dreamy clients. It’s very easy to understand and implement in your business, so I would encourage you to go through it.

And, Chris Do also talked about how you can start creating content that will attract dream design clients. Really, the whole episode is full of value, and I know you will find it super valuable if you are a brand, graphic, or web designer trying to build a sustainable design agency.

Here’s what you will learn:

• Discover the work-life balance of a busy entrepreneur, including hobbies and family time.
• Learn about Chris's journey from a freelance designer to building his agency, Blind.
• Gain expert advice on transitioning from a solo designer to building a team and agency.
• Find out how to overcome the challenge of hiring when you have limited resources.
• Explore effective marketing strategies that work when using social media.
• Delve into the importance of personal branding in the creative business world.
• Get insights into content creation and social media management.

Thank you for being a part of our journey, and enjoy this milestone episode with Chris Do & your host, Kady Sandel.

Resources:

Getting Design Clients on LinkedIn: https://aventiveacademy.com/linkedin/

$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

About Chris Do: Chris Do is a loud introvert, recovering graphic designer, Emmy award winning designer, and founder of the Futur, an online education platform. His mission is to teach 1 billion people how to make a living doing what they love. Think of the Futur as private art school without the crippling debt.

Connect with Chris Do:

Website: thefutur.com

Get a copy of his book Pocket Full of Do

Coaching communities:

1. Accelerator - For early founders & freelancers seeking a step-by-step blueprint on building a thriving creative business.
2. Pro Group – For established creative service providers, coaches and consultants who are ready to scale.
3. Brand Lab - For founders ready to create their personal brand, build thought-leadership, and innovate their businesses.

Follow him on:

Twitter

Instagram

Linkedin

TikTok

YouTube (1500+ videos)

Futur Podcast (Top 10 ranked for Marketing)

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

As someone who's been in your shoes, consistently pulling in $5k a month as a freelance graphic designer, I understand the urge to take things to the next level. Let's talk about transforming your solo operation into a small design agency. We're diving into the steps you need to take to make that transition seamlessly. This podcast episode is going to be incredibly valuable for you if you're a brand, graphic, or web designer ready to scale and provide better design services to your clients.

Running a design agency also means you no longer have to do everything alone in your business. If you don’t enjoy communicating with clients, you can hire someone to take over. If web development isn’t your forte, you can outsource it. If you believe you should focus on the vision while someone else handles the day-to-day tasks, you'll have the time to do so. There are many benefits to running an agency versus staying solo. So, let’s chat!

You will learn:

• How to pinpoint your agency's niche and services to attract the perfect clients, leveraging your expertise and passions.
• The ins and outs of crafting a killer brand and online presence that screams professionalism and credibility.
• Proven strategies for expanding your client base beyond your current network, including networking tips and the power of referrals.
• Practical advice on hiring your first employee, from finding the right fit to navigating the legalities.
• My personal insights on effective team management and delegation to keep your agency running smoothly.
• Plus, we'll delve into the importance of cultivating strong client relationships and retention strategies for long-term success.

Grab a cup of coffee and tune 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

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

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

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.

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

Join me in this exciting episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, where I had the pleasure of hosting the incredibly talented Will Paterson. Will is a true master in the world of graphic design, specializing in Logo Design, Hand Lettering, and Brand Identity. As the owner of a successful design agency, he's collaborated with big names like Adobe, Instagram, and Skillshare. And did I mention his YouTube channel? It boasts a whopping 852,000 subscribers!

In this episode, I dive deep into a conversation with Will, getting personal about his journey as a content creator and his path to online stardom.

Here's what you'll learn:

• The secrets behind Will's rise as a content creator and how he began crafting his digital presence.
• How business owners in the design field can leverage content creation to attract premium clients, increase rates, and supercharge their businesses.
• The effective strategies and tactics Will used to grow his YouTube subscribers and Instagram followers.
• Insights into the types of content that resonate with his audience and find out if his target audience includes potential clients or fellow designers.
• How Will maintains a consistent content creation schedule and whether he has a support system in place to help with the grind.

But that's not all, we also dive into the nitty-gritty of logo design. Will shares his creative process, from initial concept to the final product, and unveils his secrets to developing a signature style. Plus, he spills the beans about his course, Logo Launch, designed to empower designers with everything logo design & business related. So, get ready to be inspired and learn from the best.

About Will Paterson:

Will is a creative director, designer, branding expert and YouTuber. He’s been designing for over a decade, beginning as a freelance artist to now being the proud owner of our design agency, based in the North East of England. He loves creating memorable, unique branding for companies as well as YouTube videos to help people level up their own design skills and knowledge.

YouTube

Instagram

Logo Launch

Website

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

Welcome, fellow designers, to another exciting episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast. I'm thrilled to have a very special guest joining me. Meet Ran, a seasoned designer with over two decades of experience and a deep passion for all things WebFlow.

Throughout our conversation, we'll delve into Ran's remarkable journey and uncover the secrets of generating passive income while building a thriving agency that sells online courses. If you're a design business owner on the hunt for fresh income avenues, you're in for a treat.

In this episode, you will learn:

• What ignited Ran's desire to share his knowledge and expertise with the design community, and how it can inspire your own journey.
• The inside scoop on what passive income truly means in the context of web design and online courses, demystified by Ran.
• A behind-the-scenes look at Flux Academy, Ran's successful agency that sells online courses – discover the origins, the pivotal steps taken, and the lessons learned along the way.
• Insights into the most profitable types of online courses in the design industry, along with the rationale behind their success.
• Proven strategies and tips for effectively marketing and promoting online courses to your target audience, including the secrets to making your courses irresistible.

About Ran Segall:

Ran has been a designer for over 20 years and a passionate Webflow advocate for over 6 years. He has spent the last few years dedicating his efforts to educating the design community on YouTube and Flux Academy, enabling designers to do more and better work.

https://www.flux-academy.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@FluxAcademy

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

Join me in this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast as I sit down with the insightful Matthew Essam, a seasoned designer who has a unique perspective on selling design services. In this conversation, we explore a refreshing approach to selling that goes beyond the traditional sales pitch. Matt encourages us to shift our focus from selling to listening, providing valuable insights into how this mindset change can transform the way designers connect with clients. We delve into the art of pitching without selling, discussing practical examples that showcase the power of genuine conversations. Discover the secrets to initiating meaningful dialogues with potential clients, understanding the significance of niching and specialization, empathizing with your clients' problems and desires, and tapping into the emotional aspect of design. Imagine the satisfaction of having a cohesive, meaningful brand that not only boosts your confidence but also attracts your ideal customers while growing your business. Tune in and embark on a journey towards becoming a more client-centered, successful graphic designer.

You will learn:

• The transformative power of shifting from selling to listening in your design services approach.
• Practical examples of pitching design services without coming across as salesy.
• Strategies for initiating meaningful conversations with potential clients.
• The importance of niching and specializing in the design industry.
• How to empathize with your clients' problems and connect on an emotional level.

About Matt Essam:

Matt Essam is the founder of Creative Life, a business accelerator program exclusively for award winning creative agencies. He is also a highly sought after business coach and has been featured on podcasts alongside the likes of Seth Godin, Austin Kleon, Donald Miller and many more.

His international best selling book Create and Prosper received critical acclaim from industry leading figures and has been read by creative business owners across the globe.

Connect with Matt on LinkedIn.

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Welcome to another episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast!

Before I tell you more about the new pod episode – I just want you to know that we did a role play where I was a client, and Michael sold me his logo design! It was amazing. You don't want to miss this!

Today, we're in for a treat as I sit down with the incredible Michael Janda, a design industry veteran who's taken his career from being a solo designer to running and eventually selling a thriving creative agency. His journey is packed with wisdom, and in this episode, we'll explore the path that led him to success, his strategies for attracting top-tier clients like NBC, Disney, and Google, his insights on team building, and the ever-important topic of pricing your design services. Plus, we'll discover what Michael has been up to since selling his agency in 2015. If you're looking to grow your creative business or simply seeking inspiration, this episode is a must-listen.

You will learn:

• Michael's personal journey from a solo designer to a successful design agency owner.
• Strategies for attracting high-value clients like NBC, Disney, and Google.
• Insights on assembling a winning design team.
• Pricing strategies for your design services.
• Discover what Michael has been up to post-agency sale.
  

So, join me for this insightful conversation with Michael Janda, and get ready to take your design business to new heights. And don't forget to subscribe to The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast for more expert advice and creative inspiration. Enjoy the episode!

About Michael Janda:

Michael Janda is an award-winning creative director, designer, and agency veteran. In 2002, he founded the creative agency Riser, which provided design and development services for clients that included Disney, Google, Warner Bros., Fox, NBC, ABC, National Geographic and many other high-profile brands. Michael sold his agency in 2015 and now spends his time speaking, developing books, courses, and social media content to help creatives level-up. He is the author of “Burn Your Portfolio” and “The Psychology of Graphic Design Pricing.”

Connect with Michael Janda:

https://michaeljanda.com

https://youtube.com/morejanda

https://linkedin.com/in/morejanda

https://instagram.com/morejanda