Explore every episode of the podcast Hot Young Designers Club | Interior Design Business Podcast
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200: High Point Fall 2026 Recap + the Showrooms You Missed
30 Oct 2026
01:13:09
Fresh off Fall 2026 High Point Market, Shaun and Rebecca are back with their favorite showroom discoveries, emerging interior design trends, and the hidden gems you may have missed! From innovative performance rugs and stunning decorative hardware to lighting details that deserve more attention, they're sharing the products, vendors, and creative inspiration that caught their eyes at the world's largest home furnishings trade show. Plus, they're calling out the trends that are starting to feel a little too overdone.
Whether you're planning your first trip to High Point Market or looking for fresh sourcing resources for your interior design business, this episode is packed with insider tips. Shaun and Rebecca discuss the benefits of staying close to market, building relationships with vendors, attending industry panels, and finding unique pieces that set your designs apart. Along the way, they share their favorite moments with fellow designers, lessons from their speaking engagements, and plenty of hilarious behind-the-scenes adventures.
In this episode they discuss:
Their biggest takeaways from Fall 2026 High Point Market, including how staying nearby and using local shuttles completely changed their market experience.
Exciting rug discoveries at Jaipur Living, including innovative performance fibers, geometric patterns, and thoughtful design details from Vern Yip's collection.
Underrated lighting and hardware vendors, including Art and Forge, Ellis Works, and Hudson Valley Lighting, that deserve a spot on your sourcing list.
Why bright white lampshades, repetitive block prints, and beige-on-beige showrooms are starting to feel tired, and what they'd rather see from manufacturers.
Discovering one-of-a-kind antiques, textiles, furniture, and accessories at 313 Space and the curated Ticking Tent event.
The growing popularity of rustic wood finishes, natural materials, and handcrafted details in furniture and interior design.
Their experiences speaking on panels at Norwalk Furniture and Hooker Furnishings, including conversations about originality, creative inspiration, and designing beyond social media trends.
How to make the most of High Point Market through strategic sourcing, industry networking, educational events, and meaningful connections with other interior designers.
Hot Young Designers Club is brought to you by Programa. Learn more at programahq.link/hydc. Use code HYDC25 to save 25% on an annual plan.
199: What Your Tile Installer Wishes You Knew, with Icon Tile
23 Oct 2026
01:26:08
What does your tile installer really wish you knew before starting your next interior design project? This week, Shaun Crha and Rebecca Plum welcome Adam Wilson, founder of Icon Tile, to get an insider’s perspective on custom tile installation, bathroom renovations, and the relationship between interior designers and skilled tradespeople. From the great Schluter debate to intricate tile layouts, waterproofing systems, and the true cost of craftsmanship, Adam shares what goes into bringing ambitious design ideas to life—and why some tile installers say “no” when designers want to push the boundaries.
With more than two decades of experience in the tile industry, Adam also shares how he has grown Icon Tile into a thriving business, why training the next generation of skilled tradespeople matters, and what designers should understand about natural materials like lime plaster, microcement, and tadelakt. The conversation takes a timely turn into material safety, lead in zellige tile, silica exposure, and the responsibility designers and manufacturers share in creating healthier homes. Whether you're specifying tile for a bathroom remodel or managing a complex custom installation, this episode will help you communicate better with contractors, avoid costly surprises, and create beautiful work together.
In this episode they discuss:
What tile installers wish interior designers understood about custom tile installation, detailed layouts, and the craftsmanship behind a beautiful finished project
The debate over Schluter trim, mitered tile edges, and waterproofing systems—and how budget and design intent influence installation decisions
How Adam grew Icon Tile from a small operation into a larger team and why apprenticeships and skilled-trade education are essential to the future of construction
The differences between lime plaster, microcement, and traditional Moroccan tadelakt, including the extensive prep work behind seamless bathroom finishes
Growing concerns about silica dust, lead in zellige tile, and how designers, installers, and manufacturers can approach material safety and healthier interior design
Why detailed design plans, accurate tile specifications, realistic budgets, and early communication help contractors say “yes” to creative installations
The hidden costs of tile installation, from substrate preparation and complex patterns to change orders and the importance of hiring tradespeople with the right expertise
What designers should know about shower waterproofing, hot-mop shower pans, drainage systems, and preventing moisture-related problems
Hot Young Designers Club is brought to you by Programa. Learn more at programahq.link/hydc. Use code HYDC25 to save 25% on an annual plan.
198: Is Your Insurance Company Worried?
16 Oct 2026
01:25:11
Are you taking on more liability in your interior design business than you realize? This week, Rebecca and Shaun are diving into the sometimes confusing world of project management, construction coordination, and business compliance. After hearing about an interior designer facing a workers' compensation audit for potentially operating like a general contractor, they're asking some important questions about where an interior designer's responsibilities should end and how to protect your business from costly mistakes.
But it's not all insurance audits and legal headaches! They're also talking about hiring employees versus independent contractors, outsourcing the parts of your business you don't love, and building a design team that actually understands your creative vision. Plus, they're sharing practical insights on business lines of credit, cash flow management, and why growing your interior design firm doesn't have to mean giving up the creative work that brings you joy. Whether you're a solo designer or growing your studio, this episode is a reminder that running a profitable interior design business means making intentional decisions about your time, your team, and your risks.
In this episode they discuss:
The difference between interior design project management, design intent management, and construction management—and why defining your scope of work matters.
How acting like a general contractor could expose interior designers to workers' compensation audits, insurance requirements, and unexpected financial penalties.
The risks of misclassifying independent contractors as employees, plus why hiring an HR consultant can help keep your design business compliant.
How Programa simplifies construction documentation, FF&E schedules, and communication with contractors to keep interior design projects organized.
Deciding which responsibilities to outsource and which creative tasks to keep as your interior design business grows.
Building an interior design team that understands your studio's values, design philosophy, and approach to client experience.
Navigating the hiring process, delegating responsibilities, and learning to trust other designers to make decisions without giving up creative control.
How business lines of credit, credit cards, and strategic cash flow management can support growth and hiring in your interior design firm.
Mentioned:
High Point Market – The furniture and design industry market where Rebecca and Shaun are speaking on panels.
Hot Young Designers Club is brought to you by Programa. Learn more at programahq.link/hydc. Use code HYDC25 to save 25% on an annual plan.
197: Selling Vintage and Building Better Processes with Heather Peterson
09 Oct 2026
01:22:57
Vintage furniture brings character, personality, and soul to a space, but incorporating it into your interior design business comes with its own set of challenges. From sourcing one-of-a-kind pieces to navigating shipping disasters, pricing antiques, and managing client expectations, there's a lot more to selling vintage than finding a beautiful treasure. In this episode, Shaun and Rebecca welcome Heather Peterson, founder and principal designer of Minneapolis-based Heather Peterson Design, to discuss her approach to vintage sourcing, transparent pricing, and creating a client experience built on trust.
Heather shares how her background in advertising and art curation influences her eclectic, color-filled interiors and how years of hard-earned lessons have shaped her interior design business processes. From creating client education guides and navigating furniture receiving to styling photo shoots, investing in PR, and building a strong design team, this conversation is packed with practical advice for interior designers looking to streamline their operations and grow a more profitable, sustainable business. Plus, Heather shares why developing a recognizable design point of view can attract better-aligned clients and why building a successful design business doesn't always mean building a bigger one.
In this episode they discuss:
How to source, price, and sell vintage furniture and antiques while educating clients on the true value of secondhand pieces beyond potential cost savings
Heather's transparent pricing strategy, including her 35% markup on furnishings and materials and 20% markup on labor, reupholstery, and workroom services
Creating "What to Expect" client guides for vintage purchases, receiving and shipping, installations, and photo shoots to prevent surprises and build client trust
Managing vintage furniture restoration, freight complications, unexpected damages, and the realities of furniture receiving and procurement
How professional interior design photography, intentional styling, and developing a recognizable aesthetic can help attract ideal clients and increase opportunities for publication
Heather's strategy for sourcing and selling styling accessories during installations without pressuring clients to purchase everything
Building better interior design business systems, delegating responsibilities, working with a business coach, and investing in public relations to grow your studio
Why designers should define success on their own terms, embrace different seasons of business ownership, and prioritize sustainable growth over simply getting bigger
Hot Young Designers Club is brought to you by Programa. Learn more at programahq.link/hydc. Use code HYDC25 to save 25% on an annual plan.
196: Guardian of the Design: Julia Miller - Yond Interiors
02 Oct 2026
01:16:56
What does it look like to build an interior design business where creativity—not just revenue—is the driving force? Shaun and Rebecca sit down with Julia Miller, founder and creative director of Yond Interiors, to talk about protecting the creative vision of a project from the first client inquiry all the way through installation, styling, and photography.
Julia shares how Yond has built a process that allows the team to execute large-scale interior design projects across the country while delivering a high-touch client experience. They get into choosing aligned clients, setting expectations with contractors, preserving design intent, taking on private and NDA projects, and why Julia would rather turn down a lucrative project than sacrifice creative freedom. Plus, Julia explains how she has shaped her role as creative director, why she took styling back in-house, and how The Studio Table is helping other interior designers learn the systems behind Yond’s work.
In this episode they discuss:
How Julia built Yond Interiors around creativity, strong processes, and doing their best work on every project
Why Julia sees Yond as the “guardian of the design” and how the team protects design intent through construction and installation
Creating a high-touch luxury interior design experience by solving problems behind the scenes instead of handing them back to the client
How Yond evaluates potential clients, projects, contractors, timelines, and creative opportunities before saying yes
The complicated business and marketing decisions behind NDA projects, private clients, and projects that can’t be photographed or published
Why creative freedom is a bigger motivator for Julia than money—and why not every well-paying project is the right project
How Julia defines her role as creative director, collaborates with her design team, and stays involved without needing to control every decision
Why Julia brought interior styling in-house and how styling and photography have become an essential part of Yond’s creative process and brand
Hot Young Designers Club is brought to you by Programa. Learn more at programahq.link/hydc. Use code HYDC25 to save 25% on an annual plan.
195: Watch Us Turn a Spreadsheet Into an Interactive Website
25 Sep 2026
01:24:13
What if your interior design project tracker could tell you when you actually have capacity for your next client—and forecast the revenue coming with it? This week, Shaun and Rebecca are talking about owning your accomplishments, getting more intentional about the projects you want to attract, and using technology to make running an interior design business a whole lot easier.
Then Shaun shares an interactive project management and capacity dashboard he built with ChatGPT, starting with the idea of a simple spreadsheet and turning it into a custom tool for tracking project phases, scheduling, payments, cash flow, and future studio capacity. They walk through what it can already do, what they’d add next, and why tools like this could completely change how interior designers plan proposals, manage their pipeline, and make business decisions.
In this episode they discuss:
Why interior designers need to stop downplaying their accomplishments when talking about their businesses
How confidently explaining the type of design work you want can help attract better-fit interior design clients
Reframing lead qualification around the projects your studio actually has capacity for instead of simply telling prospects they don’t meet your minimums
Creating a referral network of other interior designers for leads that aren’t the right fit for your firm
Why understanding your project pipeline and studio capacity makes it easier to know when you can take on new interior design projects
How Shaun used ChatGPT to turn a basic spreadsheet concept into an interactive project management and capacity dashboard
Tracking project phases, payment milestones, design fees, procurement revenue, project coordination, installation fees, and cash flow projections in one place
How AI-powered tools could help interior designers build custom business systems without knowing how to code
Hot Young Designers Club is brought to you by Programa. Learn more at programahq.link/hydc. Use code HYDC25 to save 25% on an annual plan.
194: Are we managing the construction or the design intent?
18 Sep 2026
01:11:48
Shaun and Rebecca are getting real about the messy overlap between interior design, construction project management, and everything clients assume is included in “project management.” After catching up on home renovations, home office frustrations, and the never-ending search for furniture that actually functions, they dig into how Rebecca is refining her discovery calls to better qualify potential interior design clients and uncover what they really want from their homes.
Then, they tackle a bigger question for interior designers working on construction projects: Are we actually managing the construction, or are we managing the design intent? They talk through contractor responsibilities, client expectations, liability, job site walkthroughs, and why designers need much clearer language around what project management does—and does not—include. They also explore whether construction milestone meetings could become a defined, systematized, and profitable part of an interior designer’s scope of work.
In this episode they discuss:
Why today’s home office furniture still isn’t meeting the way people actually work from home
How thoughtful discovery call questions can uncover a client’s priorities, design style, budget expectations, and readiness to hire an interior designer
Why asking potential clients what they want their new home to give them can reveal the real problem they’re trying to solve
The difference between construction project management and managing the designer’s design intent
Why interior designers need to clearly define what “project management” means in their proposals and contracts
How contractor communication, scheduling, and client expectations can create gaps that designers often end up filling
Why defining milestone walkthroughs for framing, plumbing, electrical, tile, and other construction phases could protect the design and clarify the designer’s role
How systematizing and pricing construction site visits could turn an often-unpaid responsibility into a more intentional revenue stream
Hot Young Designers Club is brought to you by Programa. Learn more at programahq.link/hydc. Use code HYDC25 to save 25% on an annual plan.
193: Hot dogs, handbags, and high-end design - Lessons in Luxury
11 Sep 2026
01:17:28
What can Costco hot dogs and Hermès handbags teach interior designers about running a high-end design business? Quite a lot, apparently. Rebecca and Shaun dig into the wildly different business models behind Costco and Hermès and uncover surprising lessons about luxury, value, trust, vendor relationships, pricing, craftsmanship, and creating a brand clients believe in.
They also catch up on some big personal and business changes, including Shaun’s decision to leave his studio and reduce overhead, Rebecca’s adventures in home renovation and color drenching, and the importance of making strategic business decisions with trusted advisors. From cost-plus pricing and designer discounts to vintage sourcing and what actually defines a luxury client, this episode explores how interior designers can create more profitable businesses while delivering an experience that feels truly high-end.
In this episode they discuss:
Why Shaun decided to give up his office space, reduce overhead, and make aggressive financial moves for the next chapter of his interior design business
How working with a CPA and financial advisor can help designers make smarter decisions about expenses, profitability, retirement, and long-term business goals
Rebecca’s spontaneous color-drenched hallway and the design concept of “compression and release” inspired by Frank Lloyd Wright
What the Acquired podcast’s deep dive into Costco reveals about limited product selection, strong supplier relationships, customer trust, and delivering exceptional value
How designers can build deeper vendor relationships and use purchasing power to create better pricing without making a luxury design service feel “cheap”
Whether a cost-plus pricing model can work for high-end interior design, especially when sourcing custom furniture, vintage pieces, and products from preferred vendors
What Hermès teaches us about craftsmanship, consistency, exclusivity, brand identity, and creating luxury products that clients desire beyond pure functionality
The difference between offering a luxury design service and working with a truly luxury client who values trust, access, one-of-a-kind pieces, expertise, and the finished result over price shopping
192: What story is your client is telling? Building hospitality into your business with Rick Campos
04 Sep 2026
01:19:31
What stories are your clients telling about working with you? Shaun and Rebecca welcome back Rick Campos, founder of Design Biz Survival Guide and a certified Unreasonable Hospitality coach, to explore how interior designers can create a client experience that goes far beyond great service. Drawing from Will Guidara’s Unreasonable Hospitality, Rick explains why making clients feel seen, heard, and understood can become one of the strongest differentiators for an interior design business.
They talk about identifying client-facing touchpoints, creating meaningful moments without relying on expensive gifts, and tailoring hospitality to what each individual client actually values. Rick also shares how designers can bring hospitality into difficult moments, from delivering bad news to handling installation problems, why picking up the phone still matters, and how thoughtful client experiences can generate repeat business, referrals, and the kind of word-of-mouth marketing money can’t buy.
In this episode they discuss:
The difference between client service and true hospitality—and why hospitality is about how you make people feel
How to identify client-facing touchpoints and turn ordinary parts of your interior design process into memorable experiences
Why generic gifts and branded swag often fall flat compared to thoughtful gestures based on what you’ve actually learned about your client
How listening, observing, and understanding what an individual client values can help you personalize their interior design experience
Why human connection and emotional intelligence are increasingly important differentiators for interior designers in an AI-driven world
How to use hospitality when something goes wrong, including why Rick believes in telling the truth, telling it fast, and personally delivering bad news
How respecting a client’s time, communication style, family schedule, and desired level of involvement can be a form of luxury hospitality
Why creating stories clients want to retell can lead to stronger referrals, repeat clients, and long-term growth for your interior design business
191: How Creating Connection with Clients Creates Better Work with Whitney Romanoff, Meet West Studio
28 Aug 2026
01:06:29
What happens when you build an interior design business around creativity, connection, and trusting your instincts? Shaun and Rebecca sit down with Whitney Romanoff, founder and principal designer of Meet West Studio in Fayetteville, Arkansas, to talk about her unconventional path from international relations and management consulting to running a growing interior design firm.
Whitney shares how her corporate background shaped her approach to client communication, team leadership, and difficult conversations about money, as well as why creating a genuine connection with clients leads to stronger creative work. They also get into building a design team that gives you more freedom, creating a recognizable interior design brand, finding inspiration through music and travel, making the leap into boutique hospitality design, and learning when outsourcing is smarter than doing everything yourself.
In this episode they discuss:
How Whitney left a career in management consulting and took a chance on herself to launch Meet West Studio without a traditional interior design degree
Building a six-person interior design team and transitioning longtime designers into leadership roles so Whitney can spend more time on creative direction
Why a distinctive brand, strong point of view, and unexpected references can help an interior design firm attract more aligned clients
How music, travel, storytelling, and mood boards influence Whitney’s creative process and the cinematic spaces Meet West Studio creates
Why trust, shared values, and a genuine connection with interior design clients can make both the design process and the finished work better
Giving yourself permission to see beauty and interior design as a meaningful service that can improve the way clients experience their everyday lives
What Whitney learned taking on an 88-room boutique hotel, including commercial sourcing, value engineering, and outsourcing large-scale procurement
Why investing in the right team members and an interior-design-specific financial expert can give firm owners more freedom, confidence, and capacity to pursue bigger opportunities
190: You can't use what you don't have - building capacity for greatness with Angie Wisdom
21 Aug 2026
01:18:35
What if the reason you can’t focus, make decisions, or tap into your creativity isn’t a lack of discipline—but a lack of capacity? Shaun and Rebecca sit down with executive advisor, business coach, keynote speaker, and author Angie Wisdom to talk about protecting the finite mental and emotional resources we rely on to run our businesses and our lives.
Angie breaks down why interior designers are especially vulnerable to capacity overload, how constant decisions and “search friction” drain our brains, and why pushing through burnout usually makes things worse. They also explore nervous system regulation, morning routines, habit building, self-trust, people pleasing, navigating genuinely hard seasons of life, and learning to modify your expectations instead of abandoning what matters to you. If you’ve ever wondered why you can’t seem to discipline your way into doing more, this conversation offers a completely different framework for creating sustainable success.
In this episode they discuss:
Why your brain has a finite amount of daily capacity and how to think of it like the battery on your phone
The mental, emotional, physical, and nervous system “leaks” that can drain your capacity before the workday is even over
Angie’s CAP framework—Catch, Ask, Prompt—for recognizing when you’re overloaded and choosing what you need next
Why interior designers can’t simply hustle or push through creative burnout when there’s no capacity left to access
How discipline uses valuable mental capacity and why turning behaviors into habits and identity makes them easier to sustain
How morning routines, proactive decision-making, and reducing “search friction” can protect your energy for the work that matters
Creating realistic modifications during hard seasons of life instead of waiting to “survive” them before prioritizing yourself
How self-trust, values, and intentional capacity management can make you a stronger business owner, creative, leader, and service provider
Summer is summering, and Shaun and Rebecca are feeling every bit of the chaos. They catch up on Rebecca’s daughter starting middle school, the impending disruption of a home flooring project, sensory overload, and what it looks like to raise kids who can advocate for themselves instead of having every problem solved for them. They also share an exciting update on the upcoming Hot Young Designers Club Mexico City trip, designed to give interior designers a chance to connect, explore, and actually let someone else handle the planning for once.
Then it’s time to bring back a Hot Young Designers Club classic: Just Stop. Shaun, Rebecca, and the Hotties weigh in on the interior design trends and industry habits they’re ready to see less of—from an endless supply of tiny cordless lamps and default Shaker cabinets to questionable 3D-rendering marketing, publicly dragging your competitors, and asking other interior designers to hand over their expertise for free.
In this episode they discuss:
Navigating life, work, parenting, and a home renovation when everything seems to be happening at the same time
Helping kids build independence, organization, self-advocacy, and habits that actually work for their brains
The upcoming Hot Young Designers Club Mexico City trip and creating an intimate, low-stress travel experience for interior designers
Why the design industry might officially have enough tiny rechargeable cordless lamps
Whether 3D renderings belong on an interior designer’s website or Instagram—and how to use them effectively as marketing content
Why designers can communicate their value without publicly tearing down competitors or other creatives
The case against defaulting to Shaker cabinets and how designers can help clients make more adventurous cabinetry choices
Why asking another interior designer to “pick their brain” should come with an offer to pay for their expertise and time
188: Inquiry Forms, Vendor Clickbait, and Designer Education
07 Aug 2026
01:04:59
How well is your interior design inquiry form actually qualifying potential clients? In this episode, Shaun and Rebecca explore how budget dropdowns, minimum project investments, investment guides, and consultations can shape the quality of your leads. They discuss the tension between filtering out unqualified inquiries and educating promising clients who have the money to invest but do not yet understand what furnishing and renovation projects cost.
They also unpack a viral designer post announcing a public “breakup” with furniture vendor Four Hands. The conversation expands into vendor relationships, furniture damage claims, buying power, client-facing marketing, rage bait, and whether interior designers should use their business accounts to educate other designers. Plus, they share a tariff-refund surprise, debate realistic measurement tolerances, and offer a quick update from Las Vegas Market.
In this episode they discuss:
How budget ranges on an interior design inquiry form can attract, qualify, or accidentally discourage potential clients
Why some high-value clients need pricing education before they are ready to commit to a six-figure design investment
Using consultations, investment guides, and automated responses to create different paths for different types of leads
When a high closing rate may signal that it is time to raise your design fees, expand your team, or increase your project minimums
Why designers should regularly audit their inquiry process, website links, lead data, and client experience
The risks of publicly criticizing a furniture vendor on a client-facing interior design account
How designer education and coaching content can confuse potential clients when it is mixed into a residential design firm’s marketing
Vendor buying power, damaged furniture, tariff refunds, realistic site-measurement tolerances, and the changing Las Vegas Market experience
187: From Reality TV to the Reality of Design with Patrick Maziarski of Beau Geste Interior Design
31 Jul 2026
01:12:14
What do reality television production and running an interior design firm have in common? More than you might think. In this episode, Shaun and Rebecca sit down with Patrick Maziarski, founder and principal designer of Beau Geste Interior Design, to trace his creative journey from growing up in Canada and working in reality TV to studying design in Los Angeles and building his own interior design business.
Patrick shares how production taught him to manage budgets, schedules, crews, and countless moving parts—skills that now help him lead complex residential design projects. They also discuss finding your voice online, building a portfolio that attracts aligned clients, conducting meaningful client programming, navigating business pivots, and Patrick’s plans for a Beau Geste rebrand, a community-facing studio, and his newest entrepreneurial idea: Trapper Coffee.
In this episode they discuss:
How Patrick’s Canadian upbringing, creative family, and early interest in filmmaking shaped his path to interior design
The transferable project management, budgeting, scheduling, and relationship-building skills he gained while working in reality television
Moving to Los Angeles, attending UCLA Extension, finding mentors, and learning the real-world side of the interior design industry
The career experiences that gave Patrick the confidence to launch Beau Geste Interior Design
Recommitting to Beau Geste after a design-build partnership changed direction and refining the firm’s identity
Why showing your personality online can attract the right interior design clients while repelling the wrong ones
Patrick’s deeply personal approach to client programming and incorporating family history, culture, lifestyle, and meaningful details into a home
Upcoming project photography, the Beau Geste rebrand, plans for a street-level studio, and the launch of Trapper Coffee in Los Angeles
186: Working Backward from Your Goals with Linette Dai
24 Jul 2026
01:09:31
Interior designer Linette Dai joins Shaun and Rebecca to share how she built Linette Dai Design by following opportunities, embracing discomfort, and working backward from the kind of business and life she wanted to create. Linette reflects on her unconventional path into interior design, from operating a boba shop and teaching English in Taiwan to helping renovate investment properties and eventually studying interior architecture at UCLA Extension.
The conversation explores what it takes to move into the luxury design market, invest in professional photography and public relations, build a collaborative team, and become more visible even when self-promotion feels uncomfortable. Linette also shares how ADHD, curiosity, meticulousness, and a willingness to ask questions have become creative superpowers that help her develop thoughtful, highly customized interiors.
In this episode they discuss:
How Linette transitioned through several careers before discovering interior design
Building an interior design business organically through referrals, freelancing, and hands-on experience
Why business partnerships require clearly defined roles, expectations, and complementary skill sets
Working backward from long-term goals to identify the uncomfortable steps required to achieve them
Why affordable luxury can be difficult to sustain and how Linette shifted toward luxury interior design
Investing time in networking, industry events, professional photography, PR, and relationship building
Turning ADHD traits, curiosity, overthinking, and meticulous attention to detail into design superpowers
Hiring freelance and hourly support, delegating tasks, and building a lean interior design team
Rebecca and Shaun catch up on the invisible work behind creative businesses and everyday life—from recovering after an intense project push to building routines that support mental health without falling into hustle culture. They explore the difference between discipline and consistency, the value of rest, emotional check-ins, and why sustainable habits often work better when they are quiet rather than performative.
The conversation moves into the realities of managing interior design construction projects, communicating renovation timelines, selecting durable terrazzo materials, and deciding what historic details can realistically be preserved. They also dream up a better inspiration platform for interior designers before spiraling into Pinterest, artificial intelligence, virtual influencers, and AI-generated music—and ultimately deciding it may be a wrap on society.
In this episode they discuss:
Recovering from burnout, “bonking,” and the guilt that can come with taking time to rest
Why consistency may be a healthier and more sustainable goal than discipline
Creating flexible morning routines that support creativity, movement, and mental health
Using emotional check-ins to communicate more clearly with clients and contractors
Managing client expectations during demolition, flooring installation, and disruptive home renovations
Choosing resin terrazzo and other durable interior design materials without sacrificing visual interest
Preserving vintage homes and architectural details while recognizing when something can no longer be saved
Imagining a curated inspiration platform for interior designers—and questioning the future of Pinterest, AI influencers, and AI-generated music
When does a productive habit stop serving you and start feeling like another obligation? Shaun and Rebecca unpack that question after Rebecca reveals she may abandon her 741-day Duolingo streak. Their conversation explores sunk-cost thinking, the pressure of maintaining streaks, and why letting go can create space for habits that genuinely improve your life and business.
Before granting Rebecca permission to break the streak, they catch up on the realities of running an interior design business—from catching a costly furniture measurement issue before production to building financial buffers for inevitable mistakes. They also discuss Programa workflows, Schoolhouse joining Hudson Valley Lighting Group, natural bark wall panels, traditional vetiver cooling screens, and how CliftonStrengths can help designers spend more time in their zone of genius.
In this episode they discuss:
Planning the Hot Young Designers Club Mexico City trip and creating meaningful community for interior designers
Catching furniture and cabinetry measurement conflicts before they become expensive installation problems
Building “oops” money into your interior design pricing, margins, and business accounts
Using Programa to organize specifications, construction documents, attachments, and purchasing responsibilities
What the Schoolhouse and Hudson Valley Lighting Group partnership could mean for product development and designer pricing
Rebecca’s 741-day Duolingo streak and recognizing when consistency has become an obligation
Escaping sunk-cost thinking and giving yourself permission to release habits, relationships, or systems that no longer serve you
Using CliftonStrengths to understand your natural talents, fill gaps on your team, and work within your zone of genius
In this episode, Shaun and Rebecca dig into the art of having, styling, photographing, and protecting beautiful interiors. They start with the emotional intelligence of delivering client news, then move into the creative direction behind Shaun’s upcoming project photo shoot and how designers can create portfolio images that feel lived-in, layered, and aligned with their brand.
They also talk about why styling budgets matter, how to help clients understand the cost of “finished,” and what happens when people want nice homes but don’t always want to invest in or care for the final details. From bookcase styling and branded client gifts to viral stories about people stealing restaurant butter dishes and basketball trash cans, this episode is a funny and practical conversation about why interior designers really can’t have nice things.
In this episode they discuss:
Why tone and emotional intelligence matter when delivering client updates
How Shaun is planning the creative direction for an upcoming interior design photo shoot
Styling interiors to feel layered, lived-in, editorial, and story-driven
Why designers may need to bring in furniture, accessories, art, and props to get the right portfolio photos
How to explain styling budgets and the true cost of a finished home to clients
Using brand strategy and ideal client profiles as a compass for photo shoots and business decisions
Creating signature client gifts, like branded floral arrangements or local treats
Why caring for beautiful things is part of the lifestyle designers are helping clients create
Shaun and Rebecca are back for a classic Hot Young Designers Club catch-up, diving into the increasingly bland world of modern branding, the tension between creative identity and trend-chasing, and how interior designers can avoid losing personality in their own brands. They talk about “blanding,” luxury fashion logos, Canva-looking design identities, and why your branding needs to support—not flatten—your creative work.
They also get deep into the operational side of running an interior design business: construction documents, redlines, return clients, spec sheets, software fatigue, and the never-ending quest for the perfect interior design tech stack. From Studio Designer and Programa to Harvest, Gusto, Dubsado, Basecamp, and client-facing systems, this episode is full of real talk about what it takes to keep projects organized as your studio grows.
In this episode they discuss:
Why so many major brands are moving toward minimal, sans-serif “blanding”
How interior designers can keep their branding from feeling generic or disconnected from their work
The value of happy accidents during drafting, renderings, and creative collaboration
Why construction documents, redlines, and spec sheets can feel so mentally demanding
The benefits of working with return clients who already trust your process
How Shaun and Rebecca are evaluating software, systems, and tech stacks for interior design businesses
The challenge of creating a client-facing hub that keeps invoices, proposals, action items, and project documents organized
Early plans for a potential Hot Young Designers Club group travel experience
In this episode, Shaun and Rebecca catch up on summer schedules, parenting, old photos, and the strange feeling of realizing how much of our lives has been documented somewhere. That leads them into a bigger conversation about memory, storytelling, and how interior designers can capture the deeper meaning behind the homes they create.
They also dig into industry changes, including Pooky Lighting being acquired by Visual Comfort, the challenges of buying from vendors as interior designers, and why designers need to keep educating clients on craft, quality, and the human story behind furnishings. Then, in true Hot Young Designers Club fashion, they build an entire new client experience idea in real time: a project “yearbook” or home storybook that documents the process, the people, the sourcing stories, the funny renovation moments, and the emotional history of a finished project.
In this episode they discuss:
How summer schedules, parenting seasons, and changing family dynamics affect work and daily life
Why documenting homes, childhood rooms, and personal spaces can become meaningful later
The weird nostalgia of old party photos, VHS tapes, club photographers, and early internet documentation
Pooky Lighting’s acquisition by Visual Comfort and what corporate ownership can mean for beloved design brands
Why interior designers need vendors, trade programs, and manufacturers that actually support the design industry
How storytelling helps clients understand the value of custom furniture, vintage pieces, traditional upholstery, and artisan-made goods
The idea of creating a project yearbook, home storybook, or client keepsake after a design project wraps
Why local design communities, regional magazines, and city planning should pay more attention to residential interiors and creative industries
180: Hema Persad Is Uncompromising About Mediocrity in Her Life and Her Design Business, Sagrada Studio
12 Jun 2026
01:07:21
In this episode, Shaun and Rebecca sit down with Hema Persad, founder and principal designer of Sagrada Studio, a Los Angeles-based interior design firm creating layered, personal, and highly intentional residential and commercial spaces. Hema shares how she moved from law to celebrity styling to interior design, and how each chapter shaped the way she runs her studio today.
Hema gets candid about building a luxury interior design business, creating tiered service offerings, managing client expectations, outsourcing strategically, working with contractors, and refusing to tolerate mediocrity in her team, her process, or her life. This conversation is packed with honest interior design business advice for designers who want stronger boundaries, better systems, and a more profitable studio.
In this episode they discuss:
How Hema transitioned from attorney to celebrity stylist to founder of Sagrada Studio
Why outsourcing CAD drawings and low-value tasks can help interior designers focus on higher-level work
The difference between full-service interior design, consultations, and smaller client offerings
How Hema is building a three-tier design business with The Expert, in-studio consultations, and white glove full service design
Why showing too much behind-the-scenes process can undermine a luxury client experience
How designers can manage client expectations around delays, procurement, contractors, and scope creep
Why people pleasing does not serve clients, teams, or interior design business owners
How Hema structures her team around design, procurement, and project execution to improve accountability
179: Stay the Course, Focusing on the Right Projects
05 Jun 2026
01:17:40
In this episode of Hot Young Designers Club, Shaun Crha and Rebecca Plum talk about what it really looks like to stay committed to the business changes you’ve made, even when the right interior design projects take time to show up. From refining inquiry workflows to trusting your instincts with potential clients, they dig into the behind-the-scenes decisions that help interior designers build more profitable and sustainable businesses.
They also discuss how client proposals, payment processes, and service boundaries evolve as your design business grows. Shaun shares how he’s testing new proposal systems for full-service interior design clients, while Rebecca talks through lead qualification, Dubsado workflows, wire transfers, and why choosing the right projects often means saying no to the ones that no longer fit.
In this episode they discuss:
Updates on a potential HYDC designer retreat or inspiration trip in 2027
How Rebecca is navigating summer schedules, family changes, and her husband’s upcoming retirement
Using Dubsado to manage interior design inquiries, client onboarding, canned emails, and scheduling
The difference between consultation-only leads and full-service interior design prospects
Why reviewing proposals live with clients can build trust and uncover objections early
How to stay the course when you’ve changed your services, pricing, or ideal project type
Why designers should prepare professional wire transfer instructions for larger client payments
The importance of choosing projects that align with the type of interior design business you actually want to run
178: Someone needs to start a Design Detail Database
29 May 2026
01:09:00
Shaun and Rebecca are back with a winding, very Hot Young Designers Club conversation about mindset, merch, aging textiles, sleep pillows, old design magazines, and the eternal hunt for better interior design inspiration. What starts as a chat about energy, time, and side quests turns into a bigger discussion about how interior designers can find more original references outside of Pinterest, Instagram, and the current design algorithm.
In this episode, they explore why designers need a better way to collect and share the tiny design details that make a project special: trim profiles, upholstery edges, tile miters, cornices, window casings, and all the little construction and styling details that rarely make it into portfolio photography.
In this episode they discuss:
Using mindset shifts to feel less trapped by time and business owner overwhelm
Rebecca’s Studio Plumb merch side quest, including custom note cards, tote bags, and hats
How vintage sellers, rug makers, and designers use sun fading, patina, and age as part of the design story
Why Shaun is pulling back from Pinterest and looking for older, less current design inspiration
How old shelter magazines, travel photos, architecture books, and nature references can lead to more original interior design concepts
The problem with Pinterest search, ads, and algorithms when designers need very specific detail references
Their dream for a searchable design detail database full of trim, upholstery, tile, millwork, window treatment, and construction inspiration
Rebecca’s upcoming home projects, including reworking her daughter’s closet, flooring, hallway, doors, and possible wallpaper moments
Shaun and Rebecca are catching up on the very real emotional, practical, and slightly chaotic sides of running an interior design business. Rebecca shares the time stress of trying to balance work, family, installs, and all the little business decisions that add up, while Shaun reflects on the power of delegating, building support, and choosing the work that actually matters.
They also unpack the viral response to a clip from Caroline Turner’s episode about who gets to call themselves an interior designer, the value of design school versus lived experience, and why designers need to communicate their unique skills clearly in their marketing. From comparison traps and phone detoxing to restorative spaces, project installs, California permitting, and the dream of a future HYDC design travel experience, this episode is all about finding more intention, connection, and a little magic in your business.
In this episode they discuss:
Rebecca’s current season of time stress, overbooking, and learning where she needs more support
The viral Instagram reel from Caroline Turner’s episode and the ongoing designer versus decorator debate
Why interior design education, experience, technical skill, and creative instinct all matter in different ways
Using your background, training, and point of view as a marketing strength
How comparison on social media can affect creativity, confidence, and mental health
The importance of real designer friendships and honest conversations behind the scenes
In this episode Shaun and Rebecca catch up after their latest travels and dig into what those experiences revealed about creativity, mindset, wellness, and the way interior designers structure their businesses. Rebecca shares takeaways from the Design Field Retreat in Charleston, including lessons on Enneagrams, journaling, morning routines, and learning from successful design leaders.
Shaun and Rebecca also talk about the power of being opinionated in your interior design business, especially when it comes to positioning, investment guides, and helping clients trust your expertise. From “design domming” clients who want confident direction to building a business that can support travel, remote work, and a stronger team, this episode is a reflective conversation about designing a business that actually supports the life you want.
In this episode they discuss:
Rebecca’s experience at the Design Field Retreat in Charleston
How Enneagram types show up in creativity, leadership, and decision-making
Creating healthier morning routines and reducing phone reactivity
Why journaling and mindset work can help interior designers reconnect with their values
How Shaun updated his investment guide to better reflect his brand voice and ideal client
Why some interior design clients want stronger opinions and confident direction
The difference between local and remote design projects, and how strong processes support out-of-state work
Building a design business with the right team, support, and creative freedom
175 REHEATED: Caroline Turner Confesses Why She Doesn't Like Referrals
08 May 2026
01:23:53
In this episode, we're sitting down with Caroline Turner of Caroline Turner Interiors and Confessions of an Interior Designer to talk about running a design business, building a waitlist, handling referrals (or not), and using social media for client growth. Caroline shares her unfiltered thoughts on why she’s not a fan of referrals, how she sets project minimums, and the major shifts she’s made in her business to improve workflow. Plus, we get into her viral TikToks, the future of AI in design, and her juicy behind-the-scenes confessions from working in the industry. If you’ve ever had to tell a contractor to “suck your dick” (or wanted to), this episode is for you!
In this episode, we discuss:
How Caroline built her business and team structure
The benefits of creating a waitlist for projects
Why she doesn’t love getting referrals—and how they can cause problems
Setting minimum project investment amounts and how that changed her business
Learning to fire clients (and how some refused to be fired!)
The role TikTok has played in her business growth
The impact of AI on the design industry and why designers need to be cautious
Her experience taking over a project after another designer was let go
The challenges of working with contractors and standing firm on budget conversations
How she launched Confessions of an Interior Designer and what it’s really like running a podcast
174: My steak is too juicy, and my lobster is too buttery
01 May 2026
01:09:47
Shaun Crha and Rebecca Plum are back with a classic Hot Young Designers Club catch-up episode full of interior design business advice, creative tangents, client presentation stories, and a few pop culture detours. Rebecca shares the high of a nearly fully-approved presentation for a colorful, personality-filled project, while Shaun talks about the joy of working with clients who trust you enough to take bigger creative swings.
They also dig into what it feels like when your interior design work starts attracting the right kinds of clients, how creativity shows up whether you are working or trying to rest, and why client presentations are really a form of improv. Plus, Rebecca shares a new AI tool she is experimenting with for custom rugs and home products, and they wrap with a reminder about the Loyal Hotties Patreon community.
In this episode they discuss:
Why finding clients who trust your creative vision can completely change the energy of your interior design business
How Shaun and Rebecca approach client presentations, from preemptive strikes to choosing the room that gets the first big “yes”
The reality of last-minute tweaks, presentation prep, and the pressure designers put on themselves before big client meetings
Why having a strong creative practice can make it hard to fully “turn off,” even on vacation
How consultations and retail design experience can sharpen your quick-thinking design skills
Rebecca’s colorful formal living room project with a red fireplace, playful fabrics, and unexpected details
Using AI as a translation tool between a designer’s creative ideas and custom makers or manufacturers
The value of design community, mastermind-style conversations, and celebrating wins inside the Loyal Hotties Patreon
173: Who pooped at the dinner party & other floor plan adventures
24 Apr 2026
01:14:13
Shaun and Rebecca catch up on spring travel, allergic reactions, editorial photoshoots, and the realities of balancing rest with productivity as interior designers. Rebecca shares the behind-the-scenes story of her Texas project being selected for a magazine cover and what it was like working with a full editorial team on location.
They also dive into the importance of showing your design work online, how editors discover interior designers, the ethics of using other designers’ photos on social media, and why clear floor plans and thoughtful presentations matter so much in an interior design business. From art lending libraries to powder rooms opening into dining rooms, this episode is full of hilarious tangents and practical lessons for designers trying to communicate their value clearly.
In this episode they discuss:
Rebecca’s spring break trip to Palm Springs and navigating a scary allergic reaction at Nobu
Planning international travel around food allergies, family preferences, and long-haul logistics
Rebecca’s Texas project being photographed for a magazine cover and full home tour
Why sharing your interior design projects online can lead to editorial opportunities
Shaun’s reflections on vacation, rest, productivity, and breaking the reward-based mindset
The Octopus Initiative at MCA Denver and the idea of borrowing museum-quality art for your home
The ethics of using other designers’ work in social media content and design education posts
Why floor plan reviews, construction documentation, renderings, and client presentations are so important
172 REHEATED: Why Kate Lester Swears by Hourly Fees
17 Apr 2026
01:17:38
How should you respond to clients when you really don’t want to do the project? How do you set boundaries in your business and train others how to respect them? Should you stop charging a flat rate and start charging by the hour?
In this episode, Rebecca and Shaun speak with Kate Lester of Kate Lester Interiors, to discuss:
Why Kate quit her six figure job in corporate America to become an interior designer
Working in a home office before you start paying for an office outside the home
All the things design school failed to teach her
How to teach people to respect your boundaries
Charging an hourly rate - it is the only way to go
Why you need to run a profit and loss statement at the end of every project
How Kate was able to buy and store vintage pieces
Leaning into your style and who you are
A story of how staying true to one’s process leads to better business in the long run
171 REHEATED: Trusting your instincts during times of growth and change with Ali Faulkner of AEF Interiors
10 Apr 2026
01:12:54
This replay episode brings back a great conversation with Ali Faulkner of AEF Interiors about what it really looks like to grow an interior design business with intention. Ali shares how she built her firm by leaning into process, trusting her instincts, and making thoughtful investments in support before the results were fully visible.
Rebecca and Shaun talk with Ali about balancing strategy with gut instinct, using Instagram as both a marketing and educational tool, and why community matters so much when you are scaling a design business. From hiring help for social media to building referral relationships with other designers, architects, and builders, this episode is packed with practical insight for designers navigating change and growth.
In this episode they discuss:
Why trusting your instincts can be just as important as relying on the numbers when making growth decisions
How Ali positioned AEF Interiors around process instead of aesthetic alone
What happened when she invested in social media support and why Instagram became a major lead source
Why organic content can attract both ideal clients and fellow interior designers
How networking with architects, builders, realtors, and other designers can create long-term opportunities
The importance of hiring people who are better than you in their specific roles
Why tracking your time is essential for pricing, hiring, and understanding what it costs to run your business
How community and designer-to-designer relationships can support both your business growth and emotional health
170: What got you here, won't get you there with Brooke Stoll
03 Apr 2026
01:17:09
In this episode, Shaun and Rebecca are joined by Brooke Stoll, an operations and profitability strategist who helps interior designers build stronger, more profitable firms through better systems, clearer processes, and more confident leadership. What starts as a cozy robe-clad conversation quickly turns into a deep and practical discussion about the real skills designers need as their businesses grow.
Brooke shares why the scrappy mindset that helps you start a design business is not always the same mindset that helps you lead a team, manage profit, or scale sustainably. Together, they unpack everything from project management tools and onboarding workflows to gross profit benchmarks, ideal clients, confidence, leadership, and building a business that actually supports your life.
In this episode they discuss:
Why confidence is one of the biggest differentiators between designers who stay stuck and those who grow
What Brooke means by “people, processes, and profitability” and how those three areas shape a successful design firm
Why what got you here in business may not be enough to get you to the next level
How designers can stop running their firms on vibes and start understanding key numbers like gross profit, net profit, and operating costs
The difference between managing a business and truly leading a growing team
Why simplifying your systems and choosing tools that actually fit your brain can make a huge difference
How getting clearer on your ideal client makes discovery calls, proposals, and decision-making so much easier
Why community, support, and honest conversations with industry peers can help designers build confidence faster
Shaun and Rebecca catch up on the real-life highs and lows of running an interior design business, from factory tours and studio refreshes to client communication stress and the emotional weight of construction-phase hiccups. They also get candid about creative experimentation, shifting business priorities, and the ways designers quietly improve their clients’ daily lives.
This episode moves between funny, personal, and deeply relatable conversations about what it means to build a design business that actually supports your life. From limewash mishaps and freight increases to career transitions at home and the power of saying no to the wrong projects, this one is full of honest insight for interior designers navigating growth, boundaries, and ambition.
In this episode they discuss:
Shaun’s upcoming Norwalk Furniture factory tour in Ohio and what designers can learn from seeing large-scale upholstery production up close
Rebecca’s idea to turn fabric remnants into studio-made pillows and possibly host an open house sale at her office
How stressful client messages can feel during construction, especially when something like a specialty paint finish goes wrong onsite
The difference between handling client feedback during the design phase versus when money has already been spent and installs are underway
A creative brainstorm around transforming a discontinued leather chair into an art piece with tattoo-inspired work from local artists
Why global events, fuel costs, and freight increases continue to affect furniture pricing, lead times, and client expectations
Rebecca’s reflections on her husband’s upcoming retirement and how that may shift the balance of home life and career priorities
The importance of protecting your business model, qualifying better-fit clients, and leaving room for the projects that are truly aligned
168: Our Seniors Are the Gateway Drug to Accessibility with Maegan Blau of Blue Copper Design
20 Mar 2026
01:21:31
Rebecca and Shaun are joined by Maegan Blau, owner of Blue Copper Design in the Phoenix area, for a conversation about accessibility, aging in place, and why thoughtful design should support people through every stage of life. Maegan shares how her lived experience as a wheelchair user shaped her design perspective and why accessibility has become such a central part of her business.
They dig into the misconceptions that keep homeowners and designers from planning ahead, from the belief that accessibility is only needed “later” to the idea that it has to look clinical or cost dramatically more. Along the way, they also talk about designing for seniors, the future of accessible interiors, social media hot takes, and a few delightfully chaotic sidebars only this club could deliver.
In this episode they discuss:
Why Maegan believes seniors are often the best entry point for conversations about accessibility and aging in place
Common misconceptions around accessible design, including the idea that it is ugly, overly expensive, or only necessary after a crisis
How designers can make homes more flexible with features like curbless showers, wider doorways, blocking for future grab bars, and hybrid cabinetry
The difference between accessible design, ADA guidelines, universal design, and aging-in-place planning in residential interiors
Why waiting until an injury, illness, or mobility change happens is usually too late for smart and seamless home updates
How Maegan is using social media to educate both designers and homeowners about accessibility in a more practical and relatable way
The challenge of building a design business that serves an underserved population while still sustaining a luxury service model
A mix of industry chatter on portfolios, newsletters, design process tools, celebrity house features, and the realities of sharing opinions online
Rebecca and Shaun meander their way through beauty routines, personal style, creativity, books, and the importance of staying curious as creative people. What starts as a conversation about video backgrounds and ChatGPT turns into a thoughtful reflection on how curiosity shapes not just personal style, but design work, aging, and creative fulfillment.
In this episode, they talk about using AI as a practical life tool, from building skincare routines to experimenting with fashion and body-type analysis. They also explore how inspiration often arrives when you have the space to receive it, leading into a fascinating discussion about spirit houses, cultural research, and why staying open to new ideas is essential for designers and humans alike.
In this episode they discuss:
Rebecca’s recent ChatGPT experiments, including using it to organize her skincare routine and help define her personal style
Color analysis, Kibbe body types, and the evolving relationship between fashion, self-expression, and “flattery”
Preparing for new brand headshots and how styling, clothing, and environment all shape visual identity
The tension between buying statement pieces versus building a lived-in wardrobe with quality staples
Creative inspiration through books, music, and storytelling, including a moving conversation about the novel Theo of Golden
How curiosity, rest, and mental bandwidth help creatives reconnect with ideas and inspiration
Shaun’s deep dive into Cambodian spirit houses and how one small design question can open an entirely new creative rabbit hole
Why staying curious as you age matters, both for your design work and for staying connected to culture and people
166: Life is a Highway and I’m Gonna Ride It All Night Long
06 Mar 2026
01:02:39
Rebecca and Shaun are back with a classic HYDC catch-up episode—covering everything from creative ruts and tile inspiration to mattress upgrades and the strange ways we all unwind after long design days. If you’ve ever found yourself doom-scrolling design materials, obsessing over the perfect bed, or wondering why your brain suddenly works differently after 40… this one’s for you.
The hosts dive into tile sourcing adventures, experimenting with creative practices outside of work, and the surprising ways designers recharge. From Japanese-inspired tile showrooms to the economics of custom beds and the eternal quest for better sleep, this episode wanders delightfully through the real-life thoughts and distractions of running a design business while staying creatively inspired.
In this episode they discuss:
Shaun’s hunt for Japanese-inspired tile and the unique glazes, textures, and shapes showing up in specialty tile lines
How experimenting with low-pressure creative practices (like sketching or figure drawing) can help reignite inspiration
The challenges of specifying custom furniture and understanding manufacturer pricing structures
Why designers should deeply learn the product lines they specify to avoid costly mistakes
The surprising role beds, sleep setups, and nighttime routines play in maintaining creative energy
How trends like tobacco browns and layered neutrals are showing up in current design palettes
The hosts’ evolving perspectives on aging, creativity, and the shifting priorities that come with experience
Shaun’s mission to finally get new headshots that better reflect his brand and personality
165: We're not in the business of decorating assholes with Heather KW Styles & Studio Laloc
27 Feb 2026
01:36:23
In this episode, Shaun and Rebecca are joined by returning favorites Heather of Heather KW Styles and Lauren of Studio Laloc for an unfiltered designer roundtable. What starts as a chat about Danish hardware and custom furniture quickly spirals into tariffs, turning down nightmare projects, presentation strategies, ideal clients, and—yes—an unforgettable handyman story.
From navigating red flags on discovery calls to debating whether we’d decorate a Miami Vice mansion for the right price, this episode is equal parts business strategy and design therapy. If you’ve ever questioned a client fit, struggled with pricing under tariffs, or wondered how other designers hold their boundaries, this one’s for you.
In this episode they discuss:
Why presenting one strong design concept can lead to fewer revisions and stronger client trust
How tariffs are impacting pricing, sourcing, and designer-client conversations in real time
When it’s smart (and necessary) to turn down a high-paying project
The red flags that show up during discovery calls—and how to handle them professionally
Why ideal clients often have collections, strong opinions, and shared values
Flat fee vs. hourly structures and how that affects presentation strategy
The power of designer friendships and creative accountability groups
A truly unhinged handyman story that proves vetting referrals matters
164: Not every piece can be the Beyoncé (but you need at least one)
20 Feb 2026
01:04:37
In this episode, Rebecca and Shaun cover everything from skunk-induced wake-up calls to the realities of private equity in the design industry—before diving deep into the creative growing pains that come with leveling up your interiors. If you’ve ever felt burnt out on tile, uninspired by beige beds, or frustrated that nothing “off the rack” feels special enough, this one’s for you.
The big takeaway? Not every piece in a room can be the Beyoncé—but you do need at least one showstopper. Rebecca shares her current tile spiral, Shaun vents about the sea of neutral beds, and together they unpack why customization (even in small ways) is often the difference between basic and brilliant.
In this episode they discuss:
The recent acquisition of The Expert by Havenly—and what it signals about private equity’s growing influence in the interior design world
Feeling creatively boxed in by your own standards (aka: when you’ve trained clients to expect “cool tile” every time)
The struggle to source interesting, textured, and affordable tile that doesn’t feel overdone or Instagram-familiar
Why most beds on the market feel painfully beige—and how to push upholstery vendors toward better, more customized solutions
Smart ways to customize without going fully bespoke (split finishes, special applications, COM, trim details, and reupholstering standard pieces)
The value of handling complex details—like hardware specifications and mixed finishes—to prove your worth as a designer
Rebecca’s evolving brand pillars: cool, collected, layered, lived-in, and delightfully different—and how they function as a creative filter
The core philosophy: not every piece can be the Beyoncé, but every piece deserves intention—and at least one moment in the room must steal the show
163: Write It in Your Diary, Not on Facebook | Claire Jones, Etch & Ivy Design
13 Feb 2026
01:32:57
In this episode, Rebecca and Shaun welcome back their friend Claire Jones, founder of Etch & Ivy Design in Sacramento. From quarter-life crisis to full-time interior designer, Claire shares how community, boundaries, and a recent business retreat reshaped the way she approaches her design firm.
The trio dives deep into mastermind dynamics, defining your ideal client (hint: it’s not based on Diet Coke preferences), setting minimums, managing anxiety in your workflow, and the power of surrounding yourself with designers who challenge and inspire you. It’s honest, hilarious, and full of real talk about leveling up without losing yourself.
In this episode they discuss:
How one brave lunch invitation led to a thriving design community and the creation of Happy Hour Design Collective
The evolution of Etch & Ivy Design and what it looks like to grow a business around your life (not the other way around)
Why defining your ideal client is about boundaries, not beverages
Setting design fee and purchasing minimums—and actually sticking to them
Time blocking, capacity limits, and how anxiety shows up differently for every designer
The value of retreats, masterminds, and getting outside your bubble to avoid stagnation
Why you don’t have to do business like everyone else (goodbye, unnecessary automations)
A spicy Facebook rant about $100K kitchens—and why some thoughts belong in your diary
162: Getting out of our own way and other business goals
06 Feb 2026
01:13:24
In this kickoff episode for 2026, Shaun and Rebecca get real about what’s holding them back in their design businesses—and what they’re doing about it. From car accidents to calendar overhauls, they unpack how they’re using systems and mindset shifts to create smoother, more profitable operations. This solo episode is filled with behind-the-scenes insights into the messy middle of implementing new processes and prepping for growth.
After a transformative retreat with business coach Renee Bush and other design peers, they share what they’re focusing on to get out of their own way this year. It’s part therapy, part strategy session, and fully relatable for anyone building a creative business while juggling life’s curveballs.
In this episode they discuss:
Rebecca’s recent car accident and the unexpected upside of letting go of an old vehicle
Why Rebecca is ditching instant discovery call booking for a more thoughtful intake process
How Shaun is proactively blocking time off and reorganizing his weekly calendar
The emotional load of proposals and how better forecasting is changing everything
Building systems to hire help and delegate without micromanaging
Setting and communicating clear project minimums without sounding like a jerk
Vetting clients with automation tools like Dubsado
Making space for life and business to coexist with better boundaries and clarity
161: 2025 Reflection, it wasn't as bad as we thought
19 Dec 2025
01:29:47
Shaun and Rebecca are back to wrap up 2025 with their annual year-in-review tradition—and it turns out, it wasn’t all bad! In this episode, they share a candid look at the highs, lows, and the messy middle of running their interior design businesses this year. From surviving slowdowns and personal challenges to celebrating wins like tightened brand messaging and more aligned client projects, they prove that progress isn’t always loud, flashy, or Instagram-worthy.
They revisit the goals they set at the beginning of the year (in Episode 138) and dig into what worked, what didn’t, and why sometimes just holding steady is a success worth celebrating. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or new to the business, this episode offers inspiration and validation that your growth is happening—even if it’s slower than you expected.
In this episode they discuss:
Why looking back—even when you don’t feel like it—is essential to growth
How Shaun’s business remained resilient during a personally challenging year
Rebecca’s experience finally finding the right bookkeeper and getting her finances dialed
Their evolving relationships with designer on-call services and how to better qualify leads
Why having fresh portfolio photography changed Rebecca’s marketing game
How Shaun refined his brand voice and simplified his services for more aligned clients
The value of investing in professional development through retreats and workshops
The systems and automations they put in place to support bigger goals in 2026
Shaun and Rebecca sit down with guest Renée Biery of deVignier Design and host of the podcast Only Girl on the Jobsite. With a career spanning over 30 years, Renée has worked on complex construction‑heavy design projects (in New York, then now from Delaware) and now teaches interior designers how to confidently navigate construction, scope, budgets, and roles on site. She and the hosts dive into how designers can claim their role on job sites, manage relationships with contractors, and build business models that protect their value and their peace of mind.
In this conversation they discuss:
What it’s like being “the only girl on the job site” and how gender dynamics still shape design + construction relationships.
How Renée built her career—from design school at New York School of Interior Design to AD 100 firms, then launching her own firm—and how that experience informs her teaching today.
Why integrating large‑scale construction projects (not just decorating) gives designers business resilience, and how she targets ~70 % construction/30 % decorating in her annual mix.
Entry‑points for designers who want to add more construction management to their services (but feel intimidated)—Renée shares practical advice on framing your first job, setting expectations, and charging appropriately.
How designers can take control of the budget on construction projects—especially by scrutinizing “allowances”, managing procurement, and protecting the furniture/decor budget.
The “pretty proposal” trap: Why verbose, beautifully‑designed decks might cost you jobs (and profits), and how clarity and scope define professionalism.
How to manage scope creep, addenda, and contract clarity—so you don’t end up working for free or losing value because someone assumed something was included.
How to position your business model for sustainability—flat fees versus hourly, discovering what parts of your business you enjoy (and which parts you don’t), and building systems so you don’t carry all the friction yourself.
159: The Beef and the Bear — are you incorporating luxury hospitality practices into your design business?
21 Nov 2025
01:07:54
Shaun and Rebecca explore how interior designers can borrow luxury‑hospitality practices (think boutique hotels, high‑end resorts) and apply them to their own design businesses. They dig into the idea that service isn’t just about furniture or finishes–it’s about how you make your clients feel, and how you structure your process, your purchasing, your hiring, and your client‑experience to reflect that elevated standard. Along the way they share candid business talk about shifting models, hiring help, market tiers, and positioning.
In this conversation they discuss:
The recent Facebook designer‑group debate about trade discounts vs deep pricing and what that means for profitability.
How going up‑market and leveraging stocking dealer accounts can open room for margin (and why that old‑school model still has relevance).
The concept of hospitality—drawn from the book Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect by Will Guidara—and how it applies to interior‑design business beyond restaurants. (Unreasonable Hospitality)
Practical low‑starts for elevating client experience (handwritten notes, snack trays at presentations, anticipating needs) and the hard part: sustaining it over a full project.
Shaun’s and Rebecca’s personal experiences: one signing a new project at a ‘lowest point,’ website copy finally working for leads, and the bravery of hiring operations/ procurement help.
The shift from being “just a furniture order‑taker” to being a concierge, experience architect, and partner—and how that reframes your value proposition.
The emotional and operational reality of hiring: knowing when you’re doing too much, needing to delegate, whether you’re ready to manage people (or handlers), and the fear of burning out or falling behind.
158: Why You Shouldn't Photograph Every Project with Jessica Burke
07 Nov 2025
01:01:36
In this episode of the Hot Young Designers Club, Rebecca and Shaun welcome interior‑photographer turned editor and marketing strategist Jessica Burke to unpack when and why designers should not photograph—or publish—every single project. Jessica shares her transition from the wedding industry into shooting editorial interiors, how to evaluate when a project is worth photography, how to structure the relationship between designer and photographer (especially contracts/licensing), and how to strategically use imagery to attract your ideal clients and press.
In this friendly, candid conversation you’ll hear stories of photo‑shoot challenges, licensing headaches, and practical business strategies that interior designers can apply right now.
In this episode they discuss:
How Jessica moved from wedding photography into interior design marketing and then interior‑shoot work — and the lessons she brought with her.
Why shooting every project is not only expensive but may hurt your brand if the work doesn’t align with your vision.
How to decide which spaces to shoot (and publish) and which to leave out or hold for later.
Why building a trusted long‑term photographer‑designer relationship matters (and how it benefits both sides).
Key contract and licensing issues designers should ask photographers before a shoot — e.g., copyright, vendor use, third‑party licensing.
Growing a photography business and the parallel to growing a design firm: scaling, handing off work, outsourcing editing/licensing.
How social media, PR, and vendor/product‑licensing have changed the interior‑photography landscape—what designers should watch out for.
Jessica’s favorite (and least‑favorite) rooms to shoot, how to manage shoot stress and logistics, and her advice on working with a stylist and assistants.
In this episode, Rebecca and Shaun dive into everything designers need to know about attending Las Vegas Market — from travel logistics to strategy, networking, sourcing and setting up your post‑market follow‑up. Whether you're a veteran or preparing for your first market, they share hands‑on tips on planning, navigating the show, maximizing your time, and turning the experience into content and business wins.
In the discussion they cover how to approach the show grounds, how to be intentional rather than overwhelmed, how to balance work + enjoyment on the trip, and how to make sure your investment (time, money, travel) pays off once you’re back at your studio.
In this episode they discuss:
How Rebecca and Shaun view Las Vegas Market as a “work trip that doesn’t feel messy” — accessible, fun, efficient.
Pre‑registration, badge scanning, hotel & shuttle logistics so you’re not wasting time checking in.
Apparel, shoes, bags, and what to bring (or leave behind) so you’re functional while sourcing.
Planning your showroom visits: when to make appointments (and when not to), how to use the show app and preview guide.
How to use the show as both business sourcing and content creation (photos, videos, trend‑spotting).
Tips for managing time, energy, and collaboration if you bring a team or assistant.
Post‑market hustle: organizing your photos/videos, documenting expenses, leveraging new vendor contacts, and keeping the momentum alive.
Networking and social aspects: dinner reservations, meeting designer friends, and making the most of the “fun” side of market.
Trend‑watching tactics: walking the floors with a mindset, capturing patterns, using the market as a source of inspiration for both client work and social content.
156: Melissa Oholendt, Oho Interiors — Using your signature style to attract your dream clients
10 Oct 2025
01:09:37
In this episode, Shaun and Rebecca sit down with Melissa Oholendt of Oho Interiors to dig into how she built a high‑end residential design firm rooted in her signature “cottage‑traditional with a European/English influence” aesthetic — and how that clarity has helped her attract the clients she wants. Melissa shares what it took to scale from one person to a team across two states, how she shifted her pricing model, and why strong processes and trust are cornerstones of her business.
They also explore the emotional side of design work: how homes affect mental wellness, the tension of leading a team vs. being the face of the brand, and what growth looks like when you lean into your style instead of trying to adapt to external trends.
In this episode they discuss:
Melissa’s journey from finance/PR/photography into interior design and why she finally said yes to doing what she loves.
How she made the decision to be in two states (Minnesota and Colorado), the trade‑offs, and how that changed her business structure.
Why she moved from flat‑fee pricing to hourly billing, and the importance of having historical data to price confidently.
How Melissa builds trust with prospective clients before they even hire her — via Instagram, transparency around cost, and showcasing results.
Her team structure, leadership style, and how she’s learning to delegate, let go, and empower senior and associate designers.
How rising build costs and other recent industry shifts have forced process changes and ways to ensure feasibility earlier (so design work isn’t discarded due to budget surprises).
What she feels most confident about (processes! systems!) and what’s still evolving for Oho Interiors.
Melissa’s future goals: expanding influence, exploring product partnerships or retail, and building what she calls a modest “empire.”
155: Mixed Bag, Design Retreats, AI Agents, and Bare Feet in Brand Photos
26 Sep 2025
00:56:22
In this episode, Rebecca and Shaun catch up on life, business, and creative growth. Rebecca just returned from a design retreat at a beautifully designed cabin (by Form & Field), where she worked on brand strategy and made tangible progress on her website. They also dive into frustrating vendor experiences, the evolving role of AI agents in design work, and a hot take on whether being barefoot in brand photos is ever appropriate.
In the second half of the episode, they debate the ethics, emotional labor, and financial risks that come with sourcing, receiving, and delivering furniture—especially when imperfections, shipping issues, and miscommunications arise. They also explore how one small branding detail like footwear in photos can signal so much about professionalism, identity, and client expectations.
In this episode they discuss:
Rebecca’s design retreat: goals, structure, productivity, and what she accomplished (brand strategy guide, website refresh)
The importance of having external accountability (“show and tell” among designer friends) to push projects forward
Challenges working with vendors and receiving warehouses: damaged goods, imperfect manufacturing, inspection failures, and the cost (financial & emotional) of fixing them
Why healthy project and product margins are non-negotiable in design to absorb unexpected costs
The rise of AI agents in business: potential, limitations, risks (data access, automation gone wrong)
The debate on brand photo styling: barefoot vs shoes, what each choice communicates about professionalism and personal brand
Reflections on aging, style evolution, and gaps in the market (e.g. men’s clothing quality and age-appropriateness)
154: You can be creative and profitable with Jamie Young Co
12 Sep 2025
01:01:43
In this episode of Hot Young Designers Club, Shaun and Rebecca sit down with Jamie Young of Jamie Young Company. They dive into the wild and wonderful journey of launching their design brand nearly 28 years ago, sketching a story that blends art school daring with entrepreneurial grit—from concrete lamps to elevated, organic, globally inspired lighting, mirrors, and accent furniture. Jamie shares candid insights on balancing creativity and profitability, navigating manufacturing challenges across continents, and staying true to a brand founded on casual luxury and exceptional design.
This episode unpacks the emotional and practical realities of running a design-forward business in today’s turbulent global climate. Whether you’re a designer, design enthusiast, or entrepreneur, Jamie’s reflections on mistakes, margins, and maintaining a unique aesthetic offer both inspiration and grounded wisdom.
In this episode they discuss:
Jamie and her husband, David’s, leap into business—starting with mixing cement lampshades and launching with just three lamps while parenting their first child.
The aesthetic evolution: organic, understated luxury, working with natural materials, bespoke glazes, metals, and ceramics shaped by travel and craftsmanship.
The lengthy and intricate product development process—from sourcing in South Asia, to sampling, inventory, and ensuring products are trade‑ready fast.
Manufacturing challenges: product failures, warped mirrors, sampling issues, production hiccups, and how transparency and communication matter.
How tariffs and global sourcing shifts act like a game of "whack-a-mole," and how Jamie Young Co. has adapted by diversifying materials and production countries.
The often-overlooked truths about profitability in creative work: pricing for value, building team support for finance and operations, and maintaining creative boundaries.
The importance of ego management, client-designer relationships, expectations, and the balance between being right and being done.
153: Leading Projects, Be the Driver, Not the Passenger
29 Aug 2025
01:02:42
Rebecca’s rewatch of Girls sparked a spirited metaphor that drives this episode: Interior designers need to stop being the passengers in their own projects and take the wheel. Shaun and Rebecca dive deep into what it really means to be the leader, not just in process but in energy, communication, and confidence. From preemptive client education to handling those take-the-wheel clients, this episode is packed with actionable strategies for setting—and keeping—control.
In this episode they discuss:
How process, confidence, and language establish you as the leader
Setting expectations early through investment guides and onboarding materials
Identifying when you’ve slipped into the passenger seat—and how to get back in control
Using confident and concise language with clients to assert expertise
Managing collaborative clients without losing creative authority
Establishing milestones and updates to reduce client uncertainty
Avoiding long, justifying emails and replacing them with direct, proactive communication
Building flexibility into your process while maintaining leadership energy
152: Judi Lee-Carr of Jubilee Interiors, The power of saying yes: embracing opportunities
15 Aug 2025
00:59:20
In this episode, Shaun and Rebecca welcome Judi Lee‑Carr, the Singapore‑born, self‑taught interior designer behind Jubilee Interiors, a boutique firm in Westlake Village, California. With a background in visual merchandising and a journey that has taken her through Singapore, Jakarta, London, Paris, and now Southern California, Judi has built a thriving design business grounded in her ethos of Organic Modern Living: sleek lines, layered textures, and earthy palettes that feel both intimate and timeless. Her story isn't just about design—it’s about the courage to embrace opportunities, say “yes,” and turn uncertainty into momentum.
In this episode, they discuss:
How a chance moment in a luxury retail store in Singapore—touching up a window display—led to Judi’s first interior design project and how that led to her first 18‑month contract in Jakarta
Embracing saying “yes”: Judi’s experiences of interning unpaid, commuting long distances, and leaning into mentorship to grow her skills and presence
The transition from custom residential work to serving developers with model homes, multifamily, and amenity design, adapting her signature style for sales‑driven environments
The challenges of navigating immigration, motherhood, postpartum mental health, and team transitions—all while rebuilding and recalibrating her business to sustain both her creative and personal life
The current and future vision for Jubilee: undergoing a rebrand, expanding her team, and manifesting her dream project—a ground‑up custom home she’s designing from the ground floor up
Mentioned:
Judi interned with JAC Interiors as her first opportunity when moving from Singapore to the US - https://jacinteriors.com/
151: Just Stop: Hotties Strike Back, We're Taking Your Submissions
01 Aug 2025
01:00:16
In this episode, hosts Shaun and Rebecca kick off another round of the beloved Just Stop series—this time inviting submissions directly from their listener community. With a few listener submissions already in hand, they dive into some trends and pet peeves in the world of interior design branding, communication, and business practices. Expect their signature blend of candid humor, designer insight, and practical takeaways.
They explore key topics such as professional branding tropes (we're looking at you, barefoot headshots), generational social cues, the ethics of pricing design services, and creative integrity in design feedback culture.
In this episode they discuss:
Why it may be time to just stop using barefoot photos in your professional branding—it can feel unprofessional or performative.
The concept of the “millennial pause” in video content and why editing it out matters for audience engagement.
Exploring the buzzword ethos in branding: why it might be overused, vague, or feel pretentious.
How taking intentional summer breaks—especially July in the design industry—can support mental health and long-term business sustainability.
Strategies for silencing notifications, reducing digital micro‑stress, and reclaiming control over your attention and productivity.
The pitfalls of underpricing design services: why charging too little hurts individual designers and the broader community.
Why the term timeless design is misleading, and what a more realistic approach to longevity and quality might look like.
Common spelling mistakes in design terminology—such as principal vs. principle, loose vs. lose, and stationary vs. stationery.