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Explore every episode of the podcast Better: The Brand Designer Podcast

Dive into the complete episode list for Better: The Brand Designer Podcast. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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1–50 of 256

TitlePub. DateDuration
S10 E7: What Should You Charge? (Pricing Survey Results!)10 Sep 202400:43:56

What is everyone charging in this industry?! I asked and I have the results. This week I surveyed over 100 designers to ask what they are charging for various services and I share what they said with you. 

Connect With Us:

Our Free Facebook Community

Our Website

Podcast Instagram

Tags:

designer, design, brand design, brand identity design, design studio, design business, graphic design, brand designer, better podcast, brand designer podcast, logo design, brand identity design

S10 E6: 4-Year Update on Motherhood & Business03 Sep 202400:45:31

A more personal episode this week! With baby number two right around the corner I share how both myself and my business have changed in the after the first four years of motherhood. 

Links Mentioned:

Carly Riordan

Rowan Made

Inbox Question:

"[Question here?]” - [Name Here]

Connect With Us:

Our Free Facebook Community

Our Website

Podcast Instagram

Tags:

designer, design, brand design, brand identity design, design studio, design business, graphic design, brand designer, better podcast, brand designer podcast, logo design, brand identity design

From the Archives | S8 E11: Design Retainers, Privacy, & Carving Your Own Path with Olivia Herrick09 Jul 202401:10:40

Today I’m joined by the design icon Olivia Herrick as we chat about how to create consistent revenue with retainers, maintaining personal boundaries in business, lead generation and SO much more.

Guest Information:

Guest Name: Olivia Herrick

Guest Business Name: Olivia Herrick Design

Guest Website: https://www.oliviaherrickdesign.com/

Guest Instagram: @oliviaherrickdesign

Links Mentioned:

www.hellojunecreative.co/minimind

Design Retainer Bootcamp use 50OFF for $50 off

This Season’s Partner:

The Shopify Code(x)

Connect With Us:

Our Free Facebook Community

Our Website

Our Resources Page

Podcast Instagram

Support us on Patreon

Our podcast disclaimer can be found by visiting:

www.betterbranddesigner.com/disclaimer

Tags:

designer, design, brand design, brand identity design, design studio, design business, graphic design, brand designer, better podcast, brand designer podcast, logo design, brand identity design

S6 E3: Coaching Each Other Through the Tough Stuff23 Aug 202200:56:52

Get ready for a soul chat! We talk this week about parts of our business that we both really struggle with and coach each other through those tough spots. Jen brings up feelings of scarcity mindset and Esther talks through finding an organic marketing strategy that feels authentic to her brand (and works). We hope this chat encourages anyone who feels similar to us!

Inbox Question:
“As a brand designer, should we target our services to a specific market segment, or is it better to enter all markets?” — Titus Harum

Our partners:
Design Biz Mastery by Morgan Rapp
Grow your revenue and start taking Fridays off (like Jen!) with Design Biz Mastery. Visit dbm.morganrapp.com/better to learn more, get a special bonus, and also receive access to a free training about Morgan’s 3-part framework to peacefully scale your design business towards your first or next 6-figures on part-time hours.

The Shopify code(x)
If you want to learn how to grow from just a brand designer to a full-service studio that can create custom high quality Shopify stores, The Shopify code(x) is for you. Visit shopifycodex.com/better to get $300 off by using code: BETTER at checkout.

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S6 E2: Never Have I Ever: Designer Edition!16 Aug 202201:00:51

We play Never Have I Ever all about design and business topics - the tea is boiling! We chat through embarrassing stories about the beginnings of our business, lessons we’ve learned, projects that didn’t go our way, difficult clients, and so much more. We end with some classic Never Have I Ever questions - you definitely don’t want to miss it!

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S6 E1: How to Prioritize your Mental Health in Busy Work Seasons with Emily Ospina-Ruiz09 Aug 202200:53:01

Emily is a London born Colombian designer, wellbeing fanatic and the founder of Vibras Creative Studio and House of Vibras. She qualified as a Graphic Designer with a degree from Central Saint Martins in 2017. Her editorial style earned her a place creating layouts at ELLE UK magazine, followed by a string of in-house design roles at household-name British fashion brands.

Despite doing what she was good at in her day job, she knew that something vital was missing. Vibras Creative Studio was born out of a combination of her passions - creativity and wellbeing - with the aim of re-defining how to run a successful business. Her number one priority is to prove to herself and others that it is possible to be a successful entrepreneur, while still looking after yourself - mentally, physically, spiritually and emotionally. In this episode, Esther chats with Emily about all the moving parts of her business(es), life transitions, and ultimately how to prioritize mental health through busy seasons.

Guest Information:
Guest Name: Emily Ospina-Ruiz
Guest Business Name: Vibras Creative Studio + House of Vibras
Guest Website: www.vibrascreativestudio.comwww.houseofvibras.com
Guest Instagram: @vibrascreativestudio@houseofvibras

Inbox Question:
“How do you go about managing your social media accounts when your someone who doesn’t use social media often, and is someone who just doesn’t want to spend time on their phone all the time?” — Jennifer Hibdige

Upcoming Events:

  • Faster with Figma co-workshop with The Shopify (code)x on August 15th at 12pm Eastern (11am Central, 10am Pacific) — In this workshop Lea from The Shopify (code)x will be walking through how to go from Brand Guide to Branded Shopify Store in record time with Figma. The call will be held in our Facebook group, so join us now to get all the deets!
  • Patreon-Only LIVE Quarterly Q&A Call on September 12 at 11am Eastern (10am Central, 9am Pacific) — As we always do, we’ll be holding our chat where our Patrons can come hang out with us and get some personal time to ask questions, chat about what’s happening in your own biz. Become a Patron before then by going to www.patreon.com/betterpodcast so you can get the call info!

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S6 E0: Welcome Back! What to Expect in Season 6 & Jen/Esther Updates09 Aug 202200:28:41

We’re back! Season 6 is on a roll, and we update you guys on our July breaks (Esther adopted a puppy and Jen went to Ireland!), upcoming events, and what to expect for Season 6 of the pod. Check out what’s coming up for us below!

Upcoming Events:

  • Faster with Figma co-workshop with The Shopify (code)x on August 15th at 12pm Eastern (11am Central, 10am Pacific) — In this workshop Lea from The Shopify (code)x will be walking through how to go from Brand Guide to Branded Shopify Store in record time with Figma. The call will be held in our Facebook group, so join us now to get all the deets!
  • Patreon-Only LIVE Quarterly Q&A Call on September 12 at 11am Eastern (10am Central, 9am Pacific) — As we always do, we’ll be holding our chat where our Patrons can come hang out with us and get some personal time to ask questions, chat about what’s happening in your own biz. Become a Patron before then by going to www.patreon.com/betterpodcast so you can get the call info!

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

From The Archives: S3 E10: Value-Based Pricing and Shifting Your Mindset with Morgan Rapp02 Aug 202201:12:47

We’re taking a short break in between Seasons 5 and 6 (Season 6 is coming in hot August 9!) so we’ve pulled some of our favorite episodes from the archives for you guys to enjoy. This one is Season 3, Episode 10: Value-Based Pricing and Shifting Your Mindset with Morgan Rapp. This was one of our most-requested topics with one of our all-time favorite guests, Morgan Rapp. Morgan is the founder and designer behind Design Biz Mastery, a group coaching educational platform that focuses on teaching designers how to use value-based pricing, structure their offer suites, nail sales calls, and work on their mindset. Morgan shares about her foray into the world of designer education as well as her personal philosophy around value-based pricing and focus on profitability. This one is a favorite for a reason!

Links Mentioned:
Original Episode: Season 3, Episode 10: Value-Based Pricing and Shifting Your Mindset with Morgan Rapp

Design Biz Mastery

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

From The Archives: S3 E5: Designer Confidence and Imposter Syndrome26 Jul 202201:02:31

We’re taking a short break in between Seasons 5 and 6 (Season 6 is coming in hot August 9!) so we’ve pulled some of our favorite episodes from the archives for you guys to enjoy. This one is Season 3, Episode 7: Designer Confidence and Imposter Syndrome. This rerun episode with Jen and Giselle was chock full of so much knowledge and vulnerability. Imposter syndrome is something that is all too common for us designers. Our relationship with our work is something sacred. As creatives we often feel like we ARE our work, but breaking out of that is freeing. You are not what you do. Jen and Giselle are open and honest they were about the feelings that are brought up when you see other designers’ work, how you feel about clients’ reactions, and the personal ego.

Links Mentioned:
Original Episode: Season 3, Episode 7: Designer Confidence and Imposter Syndrome

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

From The Archives: S2 E5: Creative Ways to Get Clients19 Jul 202200:45:02

We’re taking a short break in between Seasons 5 and 6 (Season 6 is coming in hot August 9!) so we’ve pulled some of our favorite episodes from the archives for you guys to enjoy. This one is Season 2, Episode 5: Creative Ways to Get Clients. In this rerun episode, we listen to Jen and Giselle talk about how to get clients in ways that push outside the box. Some of our biggest takeaways from re-listening to this episode was that getting super creative and taking some fun risks can be so impactful for your bottom line. You never know if your highest paying client could be right around the corner!

Links Mentioned:
Original Episode: Season 2, Episode 5: Creative Ways to Get Clients

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

From The Archives: S2 E1: Setting Healthy Boundaries in Your Design Business12 Jul 202200:53:08

We’re taking a short break in between Seasons 5 and 6 (Season 6 is coming in hot August 9!) so we’ve pulled some of our favorite episodes from the archives for you guys to enjoy. This one is Season 2, Episode 1: Setting Healthy Boundaries in Your Design Business. Giselle and Jen chat about what setting boundaries with family and friends, setting boundaries with clients, and setting boundaries with yourself (the hardest part!) We hope this episode not only allows you to listen to Giselle’s beautiful voice and laughter once again, but it inspires you to set the life-giving boundaries that you need to protect your time in your design business.

Links Mentioned:
Original Episode: Season 2, Episode 1: Setting Healthy Boundaries in Your Design Business

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S5 E25: Answering Your Inbox Questions05 Jul 202201:00:42

And thats a wrap! Another season has come to an end. In our final episode of Season 5, we answer a whole bunch of your juicy inbox questions.

Thank you for being a part of our community! We can’t wait to keep these conversations going. Let us know if you have any follow up questions, or more thoughts on this episode or any in all of Season 5!

Some of the MANY questions we answer in this episode:

  • “What has helped you gain more higher-paying brand design clients?” - Natalie Trinidad
  • “How do you know when you have found the right design and to end development phases?” - Charlotte Grimshaw
  • “Where do you learn about off-boarding files for client work and what are some ways to keep it all organized??” - Katy Couch
  • “As a designer, when you are finished with a brand strategy session with your client, how do you take the information from the brand strategy and apply it to the actual concept or design?” - Erin Baron
  • “I’ve wanted to start my own design/marketing business for awhile, but I’ve really struggled to start. I’d love to quit my current 9-5 and try to go at it full time, but I’m scared of what my friends and family will think/say. None of them have a creative job or have ever started their own company. How do you explain what you do/want to do to people who have a more traditional view of work? And how do you push past not getting the support you’re looking for, if they don’t get it?” - Samantha Stratton

Links Mentioned:

Stock Image Sites:

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:

Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/

Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com

Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S5 E24: Identity Crises and How to Create Living Brands with Alejandra McPherson28 Jun 202201:04:49

Alejandra is the strategist and designer behind Ale Now Design. She specializes in creating brands with humanity, emotion, and storytelling because she believes business is personal. Alejandra is Peruvian and migrated to the United States when she was 18. She believes this fact has made her identity issues even harder living between two spaces. Not fully belonging to either world, has made her feel like she needs to "fit in" or "choose one" when in reality, she’s learned it is a matter of celebrating her own uniqueness and finding ways to live her "own way.” In this episode we talk about that identity crisis and how it’s impacted the way she creates brands.

Guest Information:
Guest Name: Alejandra MacPherson
Guest Business Name: Ale Now Design
Guest Website: alenowdesign.com
Guest Instagram: @ale_now_design

Links Mentioned:
The Shopify Codex - The Shopify Codex is a first-of-its-kind course by Arq Design Studio that helps designers offer Shopify websites that go beyond the restrictions of premade themes. Better: The Brand Designer Podcast listeners get an exclusive discount! Get $300 off the course when you use code BETTER at checkout.

Inbox Question:
“Do you also have to be a brand strategist to be a brand designer?” — Veronica Oronos

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S9 E15: Answering Your Inbox Questions25 Jun 202400:47:30

The finale of season 9 is already here! I can't believe how quickly time goes by! As always we are answering your submitted inbox questions to wrap up this season. 

Connect With Us:

Our Free Facebook Community

Our Website

Podcast Instagram

Support us on Patreon

Tags:

designer, design, brand design, brand identity design, design studio, design business, graphic design, brand designer, better podcast, brand designer podcast, logo design, brand identity design

S5 E23: Using Intuition in Your Design Process with Alex McGinness21 Jun 202201:06:08

Jen and Alex from The Arcoíris Design Co. chat all about discovering, cultivating, and making the best use of your intuition in your design business. They discuss what an “intuitive hit” is, how to recognize different types of inspiration and thoughts, and best practices for getting acquainted with your intuition and using it to provide more value to your clients and increasing your creativity. Alex shares a bit about her rebrand, her Oracle Deck, and what creating and launching her Squarespace Template shop was like!

Guest Information:
Guest Name: Alex McGinness
Guest Business Name: The Arcoíris Design Co.
Guest Website: https://www.thearcoirisdesign.co/
Guest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thearcoirisdesign.co/

Links Mentioned:
The Shopify Codex - The Shopify Codex is a first-of-its-kind course by Arq Design Studio that helps designers offer Shopify websites that go beyond the restrictions of premade themes. Better: The Brand Designer Podcast listeners get an exclusive discount! Get $300 off the course when you use code BETTER at checkout.
Design Biz Mastery by Morgan Rapp
Branding with Bre by Rowan Made

Inbox Question:
"How do you create standout brands that aren't typical?" - Chiara Garcia

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S5 E22: Esther and Jen’s 6-Month Business Updates14 Jun 202201:05:27

6 months has FLOWN by! In this episode we wanted to share with you some updates on our own businesses — our project statuses, how we’ve changed as business owners, what’s stayed the same, what we’re learning, and oh so much more! Tune in to hear our real-time goings on, the good the bad and everything in-between.

Links Mentioned:
The Shopify Codex - The Shopify Codex is a first-of-its-kind course by Arq Design Studio that helps designers offer Shopify websites that go beyond the restrictions of premade themes. Better: The Brand Designer Podcast listeners get an exclusive discount! Get $300 off the course when you use code BETTER at checkout.
Superhi: Intro to User Experience Course

Inbox Question:
“How do I organize my clients time to be able to schedule them for current and future months?” — Mayra Padilla Rosas

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S5 E21: 2-Year Update on Motherhood & Business with Jen07 Jun 202200:39:42

Jen gives an update on what the second year of her life as a mom and business owner looks like compared to the first, and the lessons she learned along the way. This is less of an advice episode (all parents, babies, and families are different) and more of a place for Jen to chat openly about the beauty and the struggles of being a mom and running a business full time. Jen hopes that this episode is relatable, insightful, and interesting to listen to for both people who are and aren’t parents.

Links Mentioned:
The Shopify Codex - The Shopify Codex is a first-of-its-kind course by Arq Design Studio that helps designers offer Shopify websites that go beyond the restrictions of premade themes. Better: The Brand Designer Podcast listeners get an exclusive discount! Get $300 off the course when you use code BETTER at checkout.

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S5 E20: Connecting and Selling in an Organic Way on Social Media with Ashleigh Henry31 May 202201:04:26

If you’ve ever felt like marketing yourself on social media (or elsewhere) felt uncomfortable or you’re worried about coming off “salesy,” then this is the episode for you! Ashleigh Henry of The Cheetah Company is a marketing consultant who focuses on educating powerful women to show up and serve in their digital spaces with intentional storytelling and a whole lot of joy. She chats with us in this episode about breaking the “burn and churn” cycle of content creation and marketing, how to organically make lasting connections that provide conversion or collaboration, and what mistakes she sees brand designers specifically making in their content marketing on social media.

Guest Information:
Guest Name: Ashleigh Henry
Guest Business Name: The Cheetah Company
Guest Website: thecheetahcompany.com
Guest Instagram: @thecheetahcompany

Links Mentioned:
http://thecheetahcompany.com/

Inbox Question:
“I'm always looking for different methods to acquire clients and share my work more efficiently online. What do you do?” — Nakia Chiron

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S5 E19: Bridging Culture + Design with Esther24 May 202200:20:53

Bridging culture and design is a topic that is near and dear to Esther’s heart, especially as she is mixed Chinese-American, and has spent time meeting and connecting with people of all cultures. In this episode she talked about what to do and what not to do when working on a project that has cultural nodes. The big idea here: Being curious, thoughtful, and intentional when bringing culture and storytelling into design allows you to better connect with audiences, make them feel seen, and stand out in a sea of “borrowed” cultures.

Links Mentioned:
Sereth Design
Kutoa Project by Sereth Design
Continue the conversation with Esther on Instagram

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S5 E18: How to Use Fonts Legally and Confidently for Client Projects with John Giardiniere from Fontspring17 May 202201:11:54

In this episode, we chat about ALL things font license with John Giardiniere, the custom licensing specialist at Fontspring. John breaks down what font licenses are, the different types of licenses are, and how to use them. This episode will give you confidence in understanding the legalities around the fonts you use and love.

Guest Information:
Guest Name: John Giardiniere
Guest Business Name: Fontspring
Guest Website: www.fontspring.com

Links Mentioned:
www.fontspring.com/worry-free
www.fontspring.com/matcherator

Email john@fontspring.com for questions!

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S5 E17: How to Plan Your Work Schedule for True Rest + Vacation10 May 202200:50:25

Do you ever feel like you can’t take a TRUE vacation? Maybe your fears are that your clients will be mad, you don’t have enough funds to pay for the time away, or you feel like you have TOO much to do that taking time away doesn’t make sense. We’ve been there. In this episode we talk about:

  • The things we do to prepare for vacation
  • Battling mindset when taking time away
  • How we plan for vacation ahead of time
  • How time-off impacts our business and our own mental health?
  • How to build rest into our schedules more regularly
  • And much more!

Inbox Question:
“How do you make the most use of a junior designer/intern?” — Indy Griffiths

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S5 E16: Traveling Full Time while Running a Design Studio with Natalia Agostinelli03 May 202201:00:50

Natalia is a brand designer and the Owner behind By Nat Studio. She's been designing since 2015 as a side hustle and in 2020 she shifted to working on her business full time. She is based out of South Florida but she's often traveling with her husband embracing the 'digital-nomad' lifestyle. In this episode we chat with Nat on how her business changed and evolved during this time, how she stayed focused and productive, and her big learnings of living that life.

Guest Information:
Guest Name: Natalia Agostinelli
Guest Business Name: By Nat Studio
Guest Website: bynatstudio.com
Guest Instagram: @by_nat

Links Mentioned:
By Nat Studio Template Shop | 25% off template shop with code BETTER
**Hey Whipple, Squeeze This: The Classic Guide to Creating Great Advertising — by Luke Sullivan and Anselmo Ramos
Drop Dead Designer with By Ariel Co
Design Biz Mastery with Morgan Rapp

Inbox Question:
“What was the greatest resource you used to help you learn how to design a brand?” — Kiana Nicole

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S5 E15: Advice to Our Younger Selves26 Apr 202200:57:50

Today’s convo is inspired by an inbox question we received: “If you could travel back in time to any point in your career and give yourself a single piece of advice, when would you go back to and what advice would you give yourself?” — Meher Kaur

In this episode, we chat about:

  • What the beginning was like
  • Some of the limiting beliefs we had
  • Things that were really tough to work through
  • How we’ve evolved over time
  • We also read short letters to ourselves!

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S5 E14: Iterating on the One-Concept Method18 Apr 202201:05:37

A lot has changed for us since we started using the One Concept Method. (Don’t know what we’re referring to? Check out Season 1 Episode 7 for an overview!) We chat today all about where we started, what we updated, our brand strategy & creative direction process, and how to talk with clients about the One Concept Method (educating them on the benefits, feedback, refinements, and more). All of the updates we’ve made to our processes are in service of minimizing refinements and having a smooth and easy concept development and presentation phase of your projects.

Links Mentioned:
Elby Creative’s Notion Dashboard Workshop
Branding with Bre
Studio Seaside

Inbox Question:
“What’s a must when adding a project to your portfolio? What do you think truly helps tell the client’s story and showcase their new brand/your talents the best way possible?” — Amanda DeWoody

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S9 E14: How to Sell Out Your Design Services with Expert Brand Positioning with Chelsea Blackwell from Honey & Co. Creative10 Jun 202400:53:26

In today's episode I sit down with my friend Chelsea Blackwell from Honey and Co. Creative. Chelsea is an expert in brand positioning and we talk about how your brand positioning may be what's holding your business back, and how to up-level it.

Links Mentioned:

The Dream Design Biz Mentorship

The Tune-Up Session

Use Code BETTER15 for 15% off The Tune-Up Session Intensive

Guest Information:

Guest Name: Chelsea Blackwell

Guest Business Name: Honey & Co.

Guest Website: https://www.honeyandcocreative.com/

Guest Instagram: @honeyandcocreative

Inbox Question:

“What do you say in a sales call when you get push back about price or value?” - Jennifer Jones

Connect With Us:

Our Free Facebook Community

Our Website

Podcast Instagram

Support us on Patreon

Tags:

designer, design, brand design, brand identity design, design studio, design business, graphic design, brand designer, better podcast, brand designer podcast, logo design, brand identity design

S5 E13: Using Conceptual Projects to Attract Clients with The Brief Collective12 Apr 202200:53:13

This week Jen chats with the ladies from The Brief Collective - Kenzi Green, Marisa Burgett, and Sammi Reese - all about using creative briefs (or conceptual projects) to attract new leads, flex your creative muscles, and practice creating on a deadline. Our convo covers everything from how to create a conceptual project, to how long you can/should spend on them, the benefits both for new and seasoned designers, and how being creative for yourself strengthens your unique style and creative capabilities!

Guest Information:
Guest Names: Kenzi Green, Marisa Burgett, and Sammi Reese
Guest Business Name: The Brief Collective
Guest Website: thebriefcollective.com
Guest Instagram: @thebriefcollective

Links Mentioned:
https://sharpen.design/

Inbox Question:
"How do you make room for your own creations?” - Angela Davis

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S5 E12: Smash or Pass!05 Apr 202201:21:47

Episode Description:
Welcome to Better Pod After Dark!! Jk - we’re playing the safe-for-work version of the game “Smash or Pass” today, brand designer edition! We polled you guys on Instagram to see if you liked or disliked certain programs, web platforms, social media, and juicy designer situations, and we play along with you!

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/

Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com

Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources

Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/

Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S5 E11: Designing a Website from Start to Finish with Kenzie Amick29 Mar 202201:01:05

Kenzie is a brand and website designer who fell in love with website design and decided to start her business focusing on brand and website design for small businesses. In this episode we talk about the process of building a website from start to finish, making websites feel like our clients’ digital homes, and the details we think about when putting a site together.

Guest Information:
Guest Name: Kenzie Amick
Guest Business Name: Kenzie Amick Co.
Guest Website: www.kenzieamick.co
Guest Instagram: @kenzieamickco

Inbox Question:
“Do you register the fonts you use/customize for the client or the client will register/trademark it themselves?” — Rhegimae Samson

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/\
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S5 E10: What School Did and Didn’t Teach Us22 Mar 202200:59:38

One of the questions we get asked most often is: how important is a college degree to running a brand design business? We’re here to chat through the things we found most valuable from our college experiences (Esther in Advertising with a Focus in Design and Jen in Journalism) and the things that we didn’t learn as much about (surprise: the technical side of brand and web design!) We’re both incredibly grateful for the people we are today due to our degrees, but we’re here to lay it all out as to whether what we learned in school had a direct, indirect, (or no direct) impact on our careers as independent brand design studio owners.

Links Mentioned:
Never Split the Difference by Chris Voss
Profit First by Mike Michalowicz
The Futur Podcast The Art of Negotiation
Standout Squarespace
Branding with Bre

Inbox Question:
"Does anyone else neglect their brand as they are too busy working on everyone else?” — Maria Crider

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S5 E9: Working with an Online Service Provider with Kailyn Sprinkle15 Mar 202200:57:02

Have you ever wondered when to know it’s time to start outsourcing and building a team as a brand and web designer? Or what type of outsourcing should you look for? Or how you let go of control when outsourcing? These are all JUICY questions! In this episode, Kailyn Sprinkle, an Online Business Manager (and Esther’s previous VA!) shares her knowledge of the Online Service Provider world and her journey working with Brand and Web Designers.

Guest Information:
Guest Name: Kailyn Sprinkle
Guest Business Name: Kailyn Sprinkle Co.
Guest Website: www.kailynsprinkle.com
Guest Instagram: @kailynsprinkle

Links Mentioned:

Inbox Question:
“How do you message potential clients in a way that converts on social media?” — Lexie McCarty

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S5 E8: Crafting Your Schedule Intentionally08 Mar 202200:58:11

Are you stuck in the mindset that your schedule has to be 9-5 because that’s what everyone else is doing? Well we’re here to tell you that’s far from the truth! The truth is… you can craft your schedule intentionally to fit your needs! We all have different lifestyles, seasons, and energy shifts. In this episode we’re talking about working with your energy to make your schedule fit your needs and what to do when your schedule doesn’t go as planned.

Links Mentioned:
Mariah Coz: Fearless CEO — Champagne Client

Inbox Question:
“How do you attract higher paying clients?” - Natalia Babalici

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S5 E7: Being a Consciously Kind Boss With Daniela Marti from Lunaria Design Studio01 Mar 202201:04:48

In this episode we’re talking about being a being a consciously kind boss to yourself and making your business work on your OWN terms. Daniela from Lunaria Design shares how she has come to understand herself and her human design better, which in turn helps take care of her needs first, set boundaries, and be the best boss for herself.

Guest Information:
Guest Name: Daniela Marti
Guest Business Name: Lunaria Design Studio
Guest Website: www.lunariadesignstudio.com
Guest Instagram: @lunaria.design

Links Mentioned:
Get Your Human Design Chart

Inbox Question:
“How can I learn to trust myself more and say no to projects that aren’t ideal, but help pay the bills?” — Mama & Co.

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S5 E6: Level-Up Your Pricing & Start Charging $10k+ with Carli Anna22 Feb 202201:13:25

Five years ago Carli dropped out of design school and started her own business with charging $200 a logo. Today, at 25 years old, She runs a multiple six-figure business that allows her to provide for her growing family, book dream projects at 15k+, all without selling her soul and every hour to her business. Now Carli is teaching other creatives how to charge more while still having more fun in their business. In this episode we talk to Carli about her story, why she's passionate about teaching others how to earn money, and her learnings on the path to success.

Guest Information:
Guest Name: Carli Anna
Guest Business Name: Carli Anna Co.
Guest Website: https://carlianna.co/
Guest Instagram: @carlianna_

Links Mentioned:
The Brand Mapping Method with Carli Anna
10K Girl Gang
CE-Over-It Podcast

Inbox Question:
"What's your worst client story? Spill the tea haha (Follow up to that Question: What advice would you give yourself looking back now that you have more experience?)" — Bianca Martinez

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S5 E5: How to Know When to Say No to an Opportunity15 Feb 202201:02:14

Saying no to clients is tough! We easily can fool ourselves into saying yes to opportunities that might not be right fits for various reasons. The reasons might be niche, vibes, budget, workload, other red flags. Join our conversation to talk about how we filter clients, trusting our intuition, and saying no gracefully.

Inbox Question:
“How many offerings should you have as a designer?” — Bethany McCamish

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S5 E4: All About Packaging Design With Lauren Braier from Elby Creative08 Feb 202200:59:01

Packaging design is a whole other animal - and in our eyes, more complicated than Brand Identity design. There are so many steps, checklists, file types, and terms to understand, let alone legal specifications and printer communications to work through. We invited Lauren Braier, owner of Elby Creative and multipassionate entrepreneur with an emphasis on packaging design, to chat with us about what adding packaging design services to your offerings arsenal looks like.

Elby Creative is a playfully modern design studio that transforms e-commerce brands into scroll-stopping sensations. In this episode Lauren shares loads of valuable information about what you need to know to work with packaging clients (and what pitfalls you need to avoid!) to step into the space with confidence.

Guest Information:
Guest Name: Lauren Braier
Guest Business Name: Elby Creative
Guest Website: www.elbycreative.com
Guest Instagram: @elbycreative

Links Mentioned:
Discount code for PDM: ‘better’ 75$ off enrollment — elbycreative.com/pdm

Inbox Question:
"Could you share 5 valuable tips for your first month after launch?” — Sofia Inacio

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S9 E13: How I’m Managing My First Trimester (I’m Pregnant!) While Working28 May 202400:31:26

Hey Guys! So excited to share with you that I'm pregnant! So I thought I would let you guys know how I am managing my first trimester while also being the primary bread winner for my family.

Connect With Us:

Our Free Facebook Community

Our Website

Podcast Instagram

Support us on Patreon

Tags:

designer, design, brand design, brand identity design, design studio, design business, graphic design, brand designer, better podcast, brand designer podcast, logo design, brand identity design

S5 E3: Running A Successful Design Business with Neurodivergence with Lea Gucciardi01 Feb 202201:09:36

Neurodivergence is the term for those whose brains function differently in one or more ways than is considered standard or typical. In this episode Lea Gucciardi, the Founder and Creative Director of Arq Design Studio, shares about her journey to becoming a multi-6-figure design studio owner, her experience with ADHD and how it impacts her life and business, her coding background, and her newest offer for designers who are looking to take their Shopify projects to the next level. We are so grateful to Lea for opening up to us and our listeners, and for her vulnerability, strength, and willingness to share her story publicly. It is our hope that through this episode, designers with neurodivergent minds feel less alone and and encouraged by Lea's story of resilience and success.

Guest Information:
Guest Name: Lea Gucciardi
Guest Business Name: Arq Design Studio
Guest Website: https://www.arqdesign.studio/
Guest Instagram: @arqshopifystudio

Links Mentioned:
Lea's Shopify Codex Course
Morgan Rapp Design Biz Mastery
Squarestylist with Rache

Links & Resources from Lea:
Youtube community
Resources on Diagnoses
Instagram community
Successful entrepreneurs who are very open about their experiences
Podcast episode worth listening to

Inbox Question:
"What is the best way to overcome imposter syndrome?" — Headlands Creative

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S5 E2: Finding Creative Inspiration25 Jan 202200:55:32

Do you ever find it hard to be inspired as a designer? Yes, there's the internet - design portfolios, digital magazines, Dribble, and Pinterest (oh, the joys and drool-worthiness of Pinterest!), and yet... sometimes it's hard to really get the juices flowing! In this episode, Esther and Jen talk about what inspires them both within the industry AND outside of it and discuss how to keep being on the hunt for different ways to bring a unique design perspective to the world.

Links Mentioned:
Branding with Bre from Rowan Made
The Brand Gap by Mary Neumeir

Font Inspiration:
Fonts In Use
Typewolf

Website Inspiration:
MaxiBestOf
Awwwards
Site Inspire
Commerce Cream

Brand Design Inspiration:
Identity Designed
Inspiration Grid
Sephora
Target

Creative Magazines:
Communication Arts
Real Simple

Inbox Question:
How do you prevent new brands from having an identity crisis? (I'm working with a startup)" — Keith Talusig

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S5 E1: What to Do When a Client Doesn't Love Your Work18 Jan 202200:53:35

Have you ever had a review session with a client and they're just not feeling the work you've created? We've been there! In this episode Jen and Esther talk about some of their experiences with push-back and how they worked through the problems to create better solutions for their clients.

Links Mentioned:
The Anti-Anxiety Notebook

Inbox Question:
"How do you present your initial designs to the client? What do you include– how many logo/secondary logo ideas, how many fonts (and where to get fonts/legalities), do you photoshop a mock-up and include that with the package? Like what do you do lol" — Mackenzi Chapman

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

S5 E0: Introducing Esther Knox-Dekoning & Podcast Updates!11 Jan 202200:50:17

Welcome to Season 5 of the Better Podcast! We are officially welcoming Esther Knox-Dekoning as our new co-host! In this episode we get to hear Esther's story and her experience as a designer in the corporate advertising world and how she transitioned to owned her own design studio, Sereth Design.

Guest Information:
Guest Name: Esther Knox-Dekoning
Guest Business Name: Sereth Design
Guest Website: www.serethdesign.com
Guest Instagram: @sereth.design
Guest Pinterest: @serethdesign

Links Mentioned:
Design Biz Mastery with Morgan Rapp https://morganrapp.com/design-biz-mastery
Cassie Gudmunsen from Reux Design Co https://reuxdesignco.com/sba
Squarestylist https://www.squarestylist.com/
Branding with Bre https://www.rowanmade.com/branding-with-bre

Inbox Question:
"I just started offering brand and web design... I am looking for courses and resources to build my branding skills and confidence." — Brooke Anglin

Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/
Patreon: https://patreon.com/betterpodcast

S4 E3: All About Brand Strategy with Melinda Livsey06 Jan 202201:09:09

A message from Jen:
Hey Better family - I'm honored to post two episodes that Giselle and I recorded together last summer 2020  (episodes 1 and 2) and one episode that I did (episode 3) to comprise a short but very sweet season 4. I encourage you to listen to our memorial episodes, Celebrating Giselle: Podcast Community and Celebrating Giselle: Friends & Family. Enjoy these episodes, I know Giselle is with us when each one is heard <3

Brand strategy is the foundation upon which meaningful brand identity design lives. It's important for brand designers to understand the "why" behind brand strategy so they can use it to improve their design work and sell it to their clients as a package with design or standalone service.

Today Jen chats with Melinda Livsey all about Brand Strategy. Melinda is a brand strategist and online educator from Southern California. She currently helps graphic designers become brand strategists so they can develop entire directions and personalities of brands. Her courses Brand Strategy Bootcamp and How to Sell Brand Strategy can be found at https://www.marksandmaker.com.

Inbox Question:
“How do you help, or should you help your clients find the answers to brand strategy questions (eg. What does your ideal customer value?) A question like this may come up in a brand discovery session but is it expected that clients know answers to such specific questions?” - Monica Choi

Links Mentioned:
Melinda's videos on The Futur's YouTube channel: tinyurl.com/5y8kr6dk
Melinda's website: marksandmaker.com/
Melinda's course, Brand Strategy Bootcamp: marksandmaker.com/brand-strategy-bootcamp
Melinda's Brand Strategy Resources: marksandmaker.com/brand-strategy-resources
"The Brand Gap: How to Bridge the Distance Between Business Strategy and Design" by Marty Neumeier: amzn.to/3eFVoMg
"You Are A Badass at Making Money: Master the Mindset of Wealth" by Jen Sincero: amzn.to/3FS3sWc

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner
Podcast Website: betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: instagram.com/betterpodcast

S4 E2: Work Less & Make More with Kelsey Kerslake from Pinegate Road06 Jan 202201:11:48

A message from Jen:
Hey Better family - I'm honored to post two episodes that Giselle and I recorded together last summer 2020  (episodes 1 and 2) and one episode that I did (episode 3) to comprise a short but very sweet season 4. I encourage you to listen to our memorial episodes, Celebrating Giselle: Podcast Community and Celebrating Giselle: Friends & Family. Enjoy these episodes, I know Giselle is with us when each one is heard <3

Episode Description:
Imagine an easy, slow morning: you wake up, have breakfast with your family, do an activity with your kids or explore a hobby on your own, work for a couple of hours, then have the rest of the day to yourself. This reality is attainable, but more importantly, you don't need to sacrifice income when you make shifts to get to a more aligned schedule. Today Giselle & Jen chat with Kelsey Kerslake all about her journey from *needing* to make some quick cash to pay her bills to owning and running a 7-figure business.

Kelsey Kerslake is a multi-passionate CEO of two companies: Pinegate Road, and the Aligned Business. Kelsey has been helping entrepreneurs and businesses build their brands and market their online presences for over a decade. She is a business strategist, coach, and mentor for service-providers, coaches, and educators looking to scale their online businesses in complete alignment with the lives they want to live and the values they hold. She deeply believes that everyone has the potential to make their dreams reality and her businesses help online business owners define their future vision and literally bring it to life through coaching, strategy, design, and websites.

Inbox Question:
"How do you get the client to agree the project is finished?" - Jessica Robinson

Links Mentioned:
Kelsey's Instagram: instagram.com/kelseykerslake
The Aligned Business Academy: pinegateroad.com/academy
The Aligned Business Mastermind: pinegateroad.com/mastermind
Kelsey's Website: pinegateroad.com
Kelsey's resources: pinegateroad.com/grow-your-biz

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner
Podcast Website: www.betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: instagram.com/betterpodcast

S4 E1: Catching Up with Jen & Giselle: Updated "Day in the Life"06 Jan 202201:03:02

A message from Jen:
Hey Better family - I'm honored to post two episodes that Giselle and I recorded together last summer 2020  (episodes 1 and 2) and one episode that I did (episode 3) to comprise a short but very sweet season 4. I encourage you to listen to our memorial episodes, Celebrating Giselle: Podcast Community and Celebrating Giselle: Friends & Family. Enjoy these episodes, I know Giselle is with us when each one is heard <3

Episode Description:
Welcome back to Season 4 of the podcast! Giselle and Jen come back with an updated "Day in the Life" episode in a casual conversation going through each of their average work days. The first one they recorded was back in season 1 - and a lot has changed, especially since Jen became a mom (and surprisingly, some things have stayed the same!) Giselle and Jen also catch up in general, sharing about new developments in their lives and chatting a bit about the future as well.

Links Mentioned:
Typeform: typeform.com
Morgan Rapp: morganrapp.com
1% For the Planet: onepercentfortheplanet.org

Inbox Question:
"How do you keep client projects on schedule? What incentives or consequences do you give your clients for their deadlines like getting feedback to you by a certain date? How do you communicate that you need to stay on pace and wrap up their project so you can accommodate other clients? Any tips would be amazing!" - Haley Siebe

Connect With Us:
Our Free Facebook Community: facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner
Podcast Website: betterbranddesigner.com
Podcast Resources Page: betterbranddesigner.com/resources
Podcast Instagram: instagram.com/betterpodcast

Celebrating Giselle: Friends & Family04 Jan 202200:26:48

This summer, our design community, and the world, lost an incredible soul too soon during a climbing trip in Peru, our very own co-host, Giselle Field. In the first part of this two-part memorial episode, we heard many incredible things about Giselle from our design and podcast community. Now, in the second part of this two-part episode, we will hear from those who were closest to her - her friends and family. Because of Giselle, countless designers, and countless friends and family members, have found friendship, comfort, support, encouragement, and someone to turn to when they felt alone.

A few months after Giselle passed away, Jen created a submission form to which anyone could submit either written or audio memories of their dear friend, podcast co-host, mentor, co-worker, and sister. These two special memorial episodes are where these memories will be forever available to whomever wants to hear how Giselle touched the lives of so many, and the wonderful ways in which she will be remembered. Thank you to everyone who submitted a memory - Jen hopes for these two episodes to be very small reflections and facets of Giselle's beautiful self, a tribute to her life and the impact she had on everyone she touched.

In both of these episodes, Jen is joined by Ella Moyer, UX designer, photographer, past podcast virtual assistant, team member of Hello June Creative, team member of Wander Design Co., and good friend to both co-hosts. Ella has been integral in the success of this podcast, and there were many days where she, Jen, & Giselle would hang out in the Better slack channel together, dreaming about the podcast, and about meeting one day.

Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/

Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com

Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources

Celebrating Giselle: Podcast Community04 Jan 202200:29:32

This summer, our design community, and the world, lost an incredible soul too soon during a climbing trip in Peru, our very own co-host, Giselle Field. We will hear many incredible things about Giselle from our design and podcast community today, and in the second part of this two-part episode, from those who were closest to her - her friends and family. Because of Giselle, countless designers, and countless friends and family members, have found friendship, comfort, support, encouragement, and someone to turn to when they felt alone.

A few months after Giselle passed away, Jen created a submission form to which anyone could submit either written or audio memories of their dear friend, podcast co-host, mentor, co-worker, and sister. These two special memorial episodes are where these memories will be forever available to whomever wants to hear how Giselle touched the lives of so many, and the wonderful ways in which she will be remembered. Thank you to everyone who submitted a memory - Jen hopes for these two episodes to be very small reflections and facets of Giselle's beautiful self, a tribute to her life and the impact she had on everyone she touched.

In both of these episodes, Jen is joined by Ella Moyer, UX designer, photographer, past podcast virtual assistant, team member of Hello June Creative, team member of Wander Design Co., and good friend to both co-hosts. Ella has been integral in the success of this podcast, and there were many days where she, Jen, & Giselle would hang out in the Better slack channel together, dreaming about the podcast, and about meeting one day.

Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/

Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com

Podcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources

BONUS E2: How Giselle Made $10k+ with Her First Digital Course Launch (and How You Can Too)17 Mar 202100:32:14

In this solo episode, Giselle opens up about why and how she launched a digital course. What seems like a couple of months of preparation for the course was really three years in the making. Giselle spills it all to encourage those that dream about making digital products but hold themselves back for many reasons — just like she did to herself.

Giselle covers: product ideation, goal-setting, prelaunching and launching, imposter syndrome, progress over perfection, Essentialism by Greg McKeown, business coaching, overcoming shame, mental health challenges, and future ideas for the course.

From Giselle:
First off, I have to give a huge shoutout to the women that impacted my professional and personal lives, my previous coaches and current friends: Avani Miriyala, Jane Scudder, and Kelsey Kerslake.

I also wanted to address the importance of taking care of one’s mental health in this episode. My hope is that we as entrepreneurs can have the space to step back when our personal lives call for it and not feel ashamed nor lose the momentum we worked so hard to build for our businesses. It's ok to step back, it's ok to take care of yourself first. Plus, our community is built to support you in both the highs and lows.

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Website: https://www.bettebranddesigner.com/
Better Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources

Links Mentioned:
Avani Miriyala’s Instagram
Kelsey Kerslake’s Instagram
Diana Martinez from Required Reading
ClickUp*
Clickup for Designers Course
Essentialism by Greg McKeown*

*Affiliate links: we receive a small commission to help support the podcast at no cost to you.

S9 E12: How to Increase Sales Through Email Marketing with Emily Claire Hughes14 May 202401:09:07

Today I am talking to my former NYC roommate Emily Claire Hughes! Emily is an email marketing expert who has worked all over the world! Get ready to get email curious!

Guest Information:

Guest Name: Emily Claire Hughes

Guest Business Name: Emily Claire & Co.

Guest Website: https://www.emilyclaireand.co/

Guest Instagram: @emilyinhamburg

Links Mentioned:

https://www.emilyclaireand.co/10k-email-club

Inbox Question:

"What is your opinion on integrating copywriting into the design process?” - Alexa Gupta Wells

Connect With Us:

Our Free Facebook Community

Our Website

Podcast Instagram

Support us on Patreon

Tags:

designer, design, brand design, brand identity design, design studio, design business, graphic design, brand designer, better podcast, brand designer podcast, logo design, brand identity design

S3 E12: Answering Your Inbox Questions26 Jan 202100:50:02

And thats a wrap! We’re finishing season 3 off with an episode packed with answers to your inbox questions. Giselle and I talk everything from contracts, whether we pricing on our websites, knowing when to grow teams, (and finding good contractors to work with), communicating value to clients, and more. 

We couldn’t be more thankful for our Facebook community and can’t wait to hear your thoughts on this episode!

Our VA:
Ella’s website
Ella’s photo site
Ella’s Instagram: @ellamoyer.ux

Our Editor:
Stuart's website

Links Mentioned:‍

All things legal episode
Difficult client stories episode
Our new website
Jen on Clubhouse: @hellojune
Giselle on Clubhouse: @wanderdesignco

BONUS E1: Navigating Maternity Leave & Scaling a Business With a Newborn12 Jan 202100:34:33

Today is a very special episode with just Jen Davis! We had some interest in learning more about Jen’s experience having a baby and scaling her business at the same time, and so she recorded an episode about it where she chats through maternity leave, struggles, wins, mistakes, and what she did during the first 6 months of her baby's life as a mom and a business owner.

From Jen:
I am so beyond blessed to have my little baby boy Ryder (who inspired my new studio name - he was born in June 2020!) - but I think beyond sharing the happy, positive, wonderful side of new motherhood it's important to also talk about how hard it can be, especially as someone running a business full time from home.

An important note: like all businesses, all babies (and mamas) are different and find different things that work for them. I am only sharing my personal experience in the hopes that it might encourage other mamas and/or help you avoid the mistakes I made! Like all of our episodes, take what resonates and leave the rest!

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Website:https://www.bettebranddesigner.com/
Better Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources

Links Mentioned:
https://www.hellojunecreative.co
Instagram.com/hellojunecreative
Facebook.com/hellojunecreative

S3 E11: All Things Legal with Shay M. Lawson, Esq05 Jan 202101:01:46

Giselle is joined by Shay M. Lawson, Esq to answer all your legal questions! (Jen badly wishes she could have been there, but the baby needed her that day!)

Giselle and Shay open today's episode answering the icebreaker question: “Thinking back to a year ago today, what is one thing you gained last year that you want to step more into this year?” Then, they move into talking all about the legal side of running a design business. 

Shay breaks down brand identity and trademarks, what trademarking a brand looks like and explains what consumer confusion is. She then speaks to filing copyright registration, trademark registration, client services agreements and what to do before starting the design process with a new client. (SO many nuggets here — this is one you will want to take notes on!)

If you are a freelance designer, studio owner, or someone hoping to work with your own clients someday, this episode is one you won’t want to miss! We can’t wait to hear what you think of today’s episode!

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/
Website: https://www.bettebranddesigner.com/
Better Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resources


Links Mentioned:
www.shaymlawson.com
www.solo-ceo.com
IG: @shaymlawson
Twitter: @shaymlawson
FB: Shay M Lawson
Podcast: Minute of Your Time
Clubhouse: @shaymlawson
Consult Calendar: bit.ly/consultshay

Work with Shay By Booking a Free Discovery Call Here: solo-ceo.com


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