Design Biz Survival Guide

Latest Episodes:

189: The Design Besties | Creative Minds Connecting with Purpose Jul 28, 2025

Show notes

Today we welcome Whitney Atkinson, Rhobin DeLaCruz, Nikki Watson, and Lori Johnson – also known as The Design Besties. In this episode, we discuss the power of community over competition and the impact that collaboration has on their design businesses, personal lives, and the wider design community. The group shares how they met, their diverse creative backgrounds, and how their supportive circle has become an unexpected game-changer in both business and life. Plus, we explore their shared passion for giving back through a philanthropic project that is transforming teachers' lounges across the country.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

The unexpected way The Design Besties met and how their connection blossomed into a supportive sisterhood.
How diversity of background and discipline enhances their collaboration and sparks creativity.
Why true collaboration often means aligning with creatives outside your direct discipline.
The impact of their first pro bono teachers' lounge transformation – and how it's evolved into a national nonprofit initiative.
How giving back to the community enriches their own lives and businesses.
Advice on forming your own creative support circle – including what to look for and what to avoid.
Their personal definitions of success and survival in the business of design.

NOTABLE QUOTES

"These are the people that I didn't know I needed. It's been the most amazing experience so far."
"I think a lot of us are doers, and we're all just cut from the same cloth."
"Part of that admission is knowing that finding the other people that do, and building relationships, is how we grow."
"Surrounding myself with the right people, that's what these three bring for me. It's life-changing."

SUPPORTING RESOURCES

SPONSOR LINKS

Design Manager — Project management and accounting software for interior designers.
Daniel House Club — Trade purchasing power and concierge services for designers.
Hooker Furnishings — Furniture, lighting, and décor for residential and commercial spaces.

REGISTER FOR DESIGN BIZ RETREAT Don't miss the 6th Annual Design Biz Retreat, October 6–7 in Newport Beach, CA. Reserve your spot now!

188: Michele Williams | Profit is a Choice Jul 14, 2025

Show notes

Today we welcome Michele Williams, CEO and founder of Scarlet Thread Consulting. Michele specializes in helping design professionals lead and scale their businesses with confidence and clarity. In this episode, Michele shares the pivotal moment that turned her hard-earned lessons and financial expertise into a consulting model that has empowered countless interior designers to build more profitable businesses. We also explore how the book Profit First influenced her approach to financial strategy, and how she helps creatives overcome money overwhelm by aligning operations with vision and values.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

Michele's journey from software development to interior design and financial coaching
How a major health event pivoted her career toward consulting
Why she believes understanding finances builds confidence in business owners
The concept of "Profit First" and its real-life application for design firms
The power of multiple bank accounts and how they support financial clarity
Common financial pitfalls designers face and how to avoid them
Why financial planning is essential for long-term growth and stability
The role of confidence and boundaries in pricing and profitability

NOTABLE QUOTES

"Profit is not something that shows up — it's something we plan for."
"When you really know your numbers, you can make decisions with confidence."
"This is the internal work. You should be able to give yourself an accounting of your own money."
"Every choice, every decision leads us toward or away from profitability."

SUPPORTING RESOURCES

SPONSOR LINKS

187: Melissa Sanabria | Creating Structure out of Ambiguity Jun 30, 2025

Show notes

Today we welcome Melissa Sanabria, principal and founder of Sanabria & Co based in Washington, DC. In this episode, Melissa shares her journey from a successful career in finance to launching her own interior design firm—and the real transferable skill that helped her thrive in a creative business. She walks us through the intentional strategies she implemented during the transition, including a three-year planning period, data-driven decision-making, and a commitment to investing in her business early on. Melissa also unpacks her top three foundational strategies and opens up about how community and peer support are key to her survival in the business of design.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

Melissa's transition from a 15-year finance career to founding her design studio
The three-year strategic plan she followed before launching her business
How her analytical mindset, not her financial degree, fueled her business success
Her top three strategies for launching a sustainable and scalable design firm
Why thinking big and investing early helped her avoid growing pains
The critical role of data tracking in achieving profitability and refining systems
Her flat-fee pricing model and how she uses time tracking for continuous improvement
Why trusted peers and a supportive design community are essential to survival

NOTABLE QUOTES

"I was very used to creating structure out of ambiguity… that to me was very clear and easy to do—sounds like a design process to me."
"If you're starting a restaurant, you're not like, 'I'm just going to be the cook and the server and the hostess.' You have to invest. You're going to take a risk."
"I just look at the value I bring and what I want to make—and that's how much I charge."
"Being successful means that I have options… that I can dial it up or dial it down, and the sky's the limit."

SUPPORTING RESOURCES

SPONSOR LINKS

186: The Art & Impact of Styling with Dorothea Coelho Jun 16, 2025

Show notes

Today we welcome LA-based interior designer and stylist Dorothea Coelho to the podcast. Dorothea shares her remarkable journey from stand-up comedy to working with one of LA's top designers and ultimately creating a unique design business model that includes professional styling services. We explore the often-overlooked art of styling, from the thoughtful editing of a space to the logistics of collaborating with photographers and designers. Dorothea offers invaluable insight into the stylist's role in the design process and shares tips on sourcing, storytelling through objects, and the power of collaboration. If you're curious about how to level up your next photoshoot or are considering bringing a stylist onto your team, this episode is for you.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

Dorothea's unconventional path from comedy and acting to interior design and styling
What it's like to learn design on the job and the value of mentorship in the field
The emotional and visual impact of styling and how it enhances a space
Tips for curating vintage and second-hand items with intention
The stylist's role in a collaborative photoshoot and how it differs from a designer's
Sourcing secrets and styling staples that bring a space to life
Why kindness, collaboration, and curiosity are essential for success
Advice for designers thinking about hiring a stylist for the first time

NOTABLE QUOTES

"Every designer is a stylist, but this was like the pressure… everything had to be done. It was like being at the Olympics."
"A room is like a song. What the songwriter intended might be one thing, but how we interpret it could be another."
"Just remember that we're here to help. It's not a competition—it's a collaboration."
"You have to love your space. If you don't love it, take it out of the shot."

SUPPORTING RESOURCES

SPONSOR LINKS

Design Manager — Project management and accounting software for interior designers
Daniel House Club — Trade purchasing from 150+ vendors with exclusive pricing
Hooker Furnishings — High-quality furnishings and personalized design support

185: 7 Year Anniversary Podcast Takeover with Nicole Roe Jun 02, 2025

Show notes

Today we welcome Nicole Roe of R Nickson Interiors as our PODCAST TAKEOVER guest host! The podcast takeover is an annual tradition to celebrate another year of inspiring conversations about life and the business of interior design. In this special 7-year anniversary episode, Nicole takes the reins and puts host Rick Campos in the hot seat. Rick reflects on the podcast's journey, shares personal and professional insights, and opens up about the mission behind the mic. Plus, questions submitted by past guests Antonio DeLoatch, Jamie Gasparovic, John McClain, and Brittany Glass bring even more depth and personality to this milestone moment.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

Rick shares his transition from California to Washington state and how it's shaping his personal and professional life.
Insights into Rick's ongoing commitment to living boldly and being of service to the design community.
A behind-the-scenes look at what has surprised Rick the most over seven years of podcasting.
How vulnerability in podcast guests has become a hallmark of the show's impact.
Reflections on defining success and evolving beyond the expectations of others.
Candid updates about future plans—including goats and chickens!
The mission and transformative experience of the Design Biz Retreat.
How Rick maintains work-life balance and prioritizes health and longevity in a demanding industry.

NOTABLE QUOTES

"Living boldly is a goal, but it takes a lot out of me... because I see firsthand the impact that it has on the design community."
"My definition of success is really just, you know, being of service, being a good person and just seeing and hearing that sigh of relief or that sparkle of optimism."
"Seven years ago, I was just learning how to overcome [caring what people think], and I think these conversations have really helped me get to a place where that is no longer occupying space in my mind."
"I would love to support every cause that came my way... if I had a million dollars, I'd spend it pretty quickly doing good."

SUPPORTING RESOURCES

Learn more about the Design Biz Retreat: designbizsurvivalguide.com/retreats-for-interior-designers
Follow Nicole Roe and R Nickson Interiors: Instagram

SPONSOR LINKS

184: Nicole Arnold | Expectation of Excellence May 19, 2025

Show notes

Today we welcome Nicole Arnold of Nicole Arnold Interiors—a turnkey residential and commercial interior design firm based in Dallas, Texas. In this episode, Nicole shares how her 15+ year career in sales and marketing with Levi Strauss & Co. laid the foundation for her pivot to interior design in 2008. We explore how her corporate experience shaped the structure, culture, and client commitment in her design business. Nicole also opens up about the things she didn't know when launching her firm and how the design community became a vital source of knowledge and support. Her story is one of fearless entrepreneurship, thoughtful leadership, and an unwavering expectation of excellence.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

How Nicole's career at Levi Strauss prepared her to run a design business
The pivotal moment that led her from corporate life to creative entrepreneurship
Building a firm from the ground up during the 2008 recession
The power of process: why consistency is non-negotiable in her business
Why she co-founded the North Texas Design Group and how it supports growth
Embracing risk and finding opportunity in times of change
Leadership lessons and how she motivates her team
The importance of continued education and coaching for personal and professional growth

NOTABLE QUOTES

"Excellence has to be our minimum standard. Mediocrity is my kryptonite."
"I'm a businessperson operating in a creative industry—not a creative trying to run a business."
"You do not have to stay in a client-designer relationship that doesn't work for you."
"If I don't believe in it, I won't sell it. But when I do, I'll sell the hell out of it."

SUPPORTING RESOURCES

Register for our Design Biz Retreat
Nicole Arnold Interiors: nainteriors.com
Nicole's Instagram: @na_interiors_dallas
Book Mentioned: Cure for the Common Life by Max Lucado
Program Mentioned: Vistage Worldwide (vistage.com)
NLP Certification: Intro to NLP

SPONSOR LINKS

Design Manager — Project management software for interior designers
Daniel House Club — Trade-only sourcing and purchasing platform
Hooker Furnishings — Versatile furnishings for residential, hospitality, and contract design

183: Erik Perez - HELLO PR, Special Industry Spotlight Episode May 12, 2025

Show notes

This special Industry Spotlight episode of Design Biz Survival Guide shines a light on brands and partners that support designers creatively and professionally. These episodes are our way of sharing valuable resources and insights with our loyal listeners.

Today we speak with Erik Perez, Principal of Hello PR Group, a full-service communications and strategic brand development firm specializing in design, lifestyle, and luxury brands. Erik shares the evolution of Hello PR, his insights on the shifting landscape of public relations, and how his team collaborates with designers to elevate their brand presence. From the importance of storytelling and media relationships to knowing when you're ready for PR representation, Erik delivers a masterclass on visibility in the design industry.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

Erik shares how his background in fashion PR pivoted into a passion for interior design communications.
The story behind Hello PR Group's founding and how it fills a gap for high-end residential design firms.
Key differences between PR ten years ago versus today—including the rise of digital media and social engagement.
Insight into what PR clients should be prepared to bring to the table, from project photography to time commitment.
How Erik and his team evaluate potential clients for strategic alignment and storytelling potential.
Why visibility through PR is more than just magazine features—it's about events, panels, and social presence.
The evolving role of social media in PR and how strategic messaging makes all the difference.
Tips for designers considering licensing deals or brand collaborations and how PR plays a vital supporting role.

NOTABLE QUOTES

"Anytime you get to speak about your brand or your firm, that's PR."
"We can tell your story, but no one will tell your story like you do."
"It's not a sprint. It's a marathon."
"We're only as good as the content we're provided."

SUPPORTING RESOURCES

Hello PR Group Website

182: Ivan Pineiro | The CONFIDENCE Episode May 05, 2025

Show notes

Today we welcome Ivan Pineiro, owner and Principal Designer of Pimell Interiors based in Las Vegas, Nevada. In this episode, Ivan shares the winding, 15-year journey that led him from retail to interior design and how a pivotal move to Las Vegas—and a push from his design community—helped him finally embrace his calling. Ivan gets candid about his struggle with imposter syndrome, the pressure to have it all figured out, and how cancer helped him reframe his priorities. This is a conversation about courage, resourcefulness, and the power of community in building a thriving design business.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

Ivan's career pivot from retail to interior design after 15 years of exploration and doubt
How moving to Las Vegas during the pandemic opened the door to entrepreneurship
The clever strategy he used to build a portfolio and visibility before booking real clients
Why building a strong design community and networking was essential to his success
Ivan's candid take on fear, confidence, and what it really takes to launch your design business
The emotional moment that made him commit to pursuing his passion for design
How volunteer leadership through IDS accelerated his reputation and connections
Why success, for Ivan, is waking up every day and owning his identity as a designer

NOTABLE QUOTES

"You don't have to have everything perfect in order to succeed in this business."
"It's better done than perfect. Just show up and do it."
"Once you realize you're amazing and you do great things, that's when the roadblocks go away."
"The future of our business is in collaboration."

SUPPORTING RESOURCES

Pimell Interiors Website: https://www.pimellinteriors.com
Pimell Interiors Instagram: @pimellinteriors
IDS (Interior Design Society): https://interiordesignsociety.org

SPONSOR LINKS

Design Manager: https://www.designmanager.com
Daniel House Club: https://danielhouse.club/pages/dbsg
Hooker Furnishings: https://www.hookerfurnishings.com

181: Jenny Slingerland | Surround Yourself with Greatness Apr 21, 2025

Show notes

Today we welcome Jenny Slingerland, Founder & Principal Designer of Black Ink Interiors based in Scottsdale, Arizona. In this episode, Jenny shares her unique journey into design, from working as a labor and delivery nurse to launching her own thriving interior design firm. We dive into her transition from healthcare to homebuilding, the pivotal moments that shaped her business, and how her greatest weakness—understanding the financials—evolved into her biggest strength. Jenny's story is a testament to the power of surrounding yourself with experts, staying curious, and building a business that supports your personal values and family goals.

SHOW HIGHLIGHTS

Jenny's path from nursing to interior design, and how she paid her way through design school by delivering babies.
How working for top custom home builders gave her a strong foundation in construction and technical design.
The importance of asking "why" on job sites and the impact of curiosity on professional growth.
Why Jenny and her husband decided to team up in business and how his financial and construction background supports their success.
How COVID prompted a re-evaluation of business goals and led to a lifestyle-driven pivot in her firm's structure.
Jenny's transformation from financially overwhelmed to financially empowered through business coaching and "Finance Fridays."
The critical role of time tracking in profitability and project efficiency.
Her advice on establishing systems and processes before growing your team.

NOTABLE QUOTES

"You can be the most talented designer in the world and your business can fail because you're not watching your numbers."
"We all have our zones of genius. Hire the people that you specifically need."
"Just because you know your business is doing great doesn't mean that something doesn't come up—you have to keep learning."
"Success is no longer about crazy financial goals. It's about supporting my family and creating a lifestyle we love."

SUPPORTING RESOURCES

Black Ink Interiors Website
Black Ink Interiors Instagram
Michelle Williams (Business Coach): Scarlet Thread Consulting
Time Tracking Tool: Timely App
Book: Profit First by Mike Michalowicz

SPONSOR LINKS

180: Emily Campbell | A Student's Perspective Apr 07, 2025

Show notes

Today we welcome Emily Campbell, principal designer of Emily Jean Interior Design based in Portland, Oregon. In this episode, Emily shares her fresh perspective on the business of design as a student and entrepreneur. We discuss the pivotal moment that prompted her transition from fashion to interiors, her experience of balancing design school with launching a business, and how she's building a foundation for long-term success by combining technical skills with real-world networking. Emily also shares how her entrepreneurial spirit, fearlessness, and commitment to community are shaping her journey.

Show Highlights:

Emily shares her creative roots in fashion and how her design interests evolved toward interiors after building and renovating her own home
She explains why she chose to return to school to learn the technical side of design, despite already having a strong foundation in textiles, color theory, and branding
Emily discusses the importance of choosing a program that focuses not just on skills, but also on networking and building real-world relationships
She talks about the entrepreneurial spirit that runs in her family and how it's influenced her desire to start her own business
Emily opens up about the role of mentorship in her career development and how working alongside seasoned designers is helping her learn faster and more confidently
She reflects on the transferable skills she gained from fashion trend forecasting, like overcoming shyness, building confidence, and approaching people fearlessly
Emily emphasizes the importance of getting out of the classroom to network, visit showrooms, and engage with the design community early and often
She shares advice for students in design programs: ask questions, stay curious, and embrace the learning process
Emily offers her personal definition of success: focusing on the process of creating something meaningful rather than the outcome

Notable Quotes:

"Hold on to a beginner's mind and never let yourself feel like you know it all."
"It's okay to fail. Redefine what failure means to you."
"Just because you can see the vision doesn't mean the client can—you have to be able to show them."
"The classroom and showrooms are where you should be asking the questions."

Supporting Resources:

Emily Jean Interior Design Website Follow Emily on Instagram

Sponsor Links:

Design Manager — Project management, accounting, and purchasing built for interior designers Hooker Furnishings — Versatile furniture, décor, and designer support Daniel House Club — Sourcing from over 150 vendors in one place with trade pricing and concierge service

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