Pro Series with Eric Dillman

Latest Episodes:

From Greece To Staff Sergeant with Georgia Varoucha | EP. 253 Jul 10, 2026

Show notes

What does it take to build a life of service, leadership, and resilience in a new country?

In Episode 253, I sit down with Georgia Varoucha, a Staff Sergeant in the New Jersey Army National Guard, to discuss her journey from growing up in Greece to serving in the United States military.

With experience in Army National Guard recruiting, military leadership, and finance, Georgia shares how discipline, perseverance, and personal growth have shaped her career. We explore the realities of military service, leading others, overcoming challenges, building resilience, and developing the mindset required to succeed under pressure.

Whether you're interested in the Army National Guard, military careers, leadership development, women in the military, personal growth, or building resilience, this episode offers valuable insight into what it means to serve with purpose while continuously growing as a leader.

That Crystal Faucet | OFF TOPIC 154 Jul 09, 2026

Show notes

Ever notice how the same handful of things show up in EVERY grandparent's house? This episode we're going down a nostalgia rabbit hole — starting with that clear acrylic "crystal" faucet handle that squeaked in literally every bathroom in America (yes, the one with the starburst pattern — you know exactly which one), then pivoting into a real conversation about country music and why certain sounds and eras stick with us the same way certain objects do. Half design history, half music talk, all vibes. If you grew up around either of these, this one's for you.

From Enlisted to Officer with 1st Lieutenant Tyler N. Thomas | EP. 252 Jul 03, 2026

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In Episode 252, I sit down with Thomas, a First Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps, to discuss his remarkable journey through military service and leadership.

Beginning his career as an infantry rifleman, Thomas served in security forces, led Marines as a squad leader, worked as a marksmanship instructor at Parris Island, deployed to Iraq and Okinawa, earned his bachelor's degree while serving on active duty, and was ultimately selected for the Marine Corps' Enlisted Commissioning Program.

In this conversation, we explore the realities of military leadership, the discipline required to succeed under pressure, the transition from enlisted Marine to officer, and the lessons that apply far beyond the military.

Whether you're interested in leadership, personal development, military service, or building a career through hard work and perseverance, this episode offers an inside look at what it truly means to earn the title of Marine leader.

Instagram Cheat Code | OFF TOPIC EP. 153 Jun 30, 2026

Show notes

Instagram has changed—and if you're still using strategies from a year ago, you could be missing out on clients.

In this episode of the Pro Series Podcast, we're breaking down the biggest Instagram updates every interior designer, contractor, and design professional needs to know in 2026. From why hashtags no longer matter the way they used to, to the algorithm's obsession with DM shares, carousel posts, and educational content, you'll learn how to work smarter instead of posting nonstop.

We'll also discuss Trial Reels, how to use Stories to build real relationships, and why posting fewer, higher-quality posts can actually lead to more engagement and more business.

Plus, we wrap up the episode with this week's biggest country music new releases and the songs you need to add to your playlist.

Whether you're trying to grow your brand, attract better clients, or simply keep up with Instagram's latest changes, this episode is packed with actionable tips you can start using today.

Induction Hardware with Galen Bradford | EP. 251 Jun 26, 2026

Show notes

What does the next generation of kitchen design look like?

In Episode 251, I sit down with Galen Bradford, Co-Founder and CEO of Induction Hardware, to discuss the future of induction cooking, luxury kitchen appliances, and the evolution of the modern kitchen.

With more than a decade of experience in the kitchen and appliance industry, Galen shares how technology, sustainability, and performance are reshaping the way homeowners, designers, and builders think about kitchens. We also dive into the rise of electric appliances, why induction is gaining momentum, and what professionals should know about designing kitchens for the future.

Whether you're an interior designer, kitchen and bath professional, builder, architect, or homeowner planning your next renovation, this episode offers valuable insights into one of the biggest shifts happening in residential design.

Closets, Closets, Closets with Jenna Shock | EP. 250 Jun 22, 2026

Show notes

In Episode 250, I sit down with Jenna Shock, award-winning closet designer, Principal Designer, and President of the Association of Closet and Storage Professionals, to talk about the growing importance of custom closet design, home organization, and storage solutions in today's homes.

With more than 14 years of experience, Jenna shares how thoughtful closet organization systems, personalized storage planning, and human-centered design can improve daily routines, reduce stress, and maximize the functionality of a home. We also discuss industry trends, the evolution of the closet design industry, and why organization is becoming one of the most valuable investments homeowners can make.

Whether you're a homeowner looking for closet design ideas, an interior designer interested in storage solutions, or a professional in the home organization space, this conversation offers practical insights into creating spaces that work better every day.

Well This Is Trash | OFF TOPIC EP. 152 Jun 17, 2026

Show notes

How are we still building brand-new kitchens without a dedicated place for trash?

In this episode, Eric shares one of the most common design misses he's noticed while touring new construction homes: the lack of a trash pullout or even a cabinet that could easily be adapted for one. It's a small detail that has a huge impact on how a kitchen functions every day.

Then we shift into a marketing conversation for interior designers and kitchen & bath professionals. If you're struggling to create content, one of the easiest ways to demonstrate your expertise is by showing the problems you've solved. We discuss how to use past projects, design decisions, before-and-after examples, and planning challenges to create content that educates potential clients while highlighting your value as a designer.

Finally, Eric shares his favorite new country music releases, artists, and songs that have been on repeat this week.

Topics include:

Why trash pullouts should be standard in kitchen design
The biggest function-first mistakes in new construction
Creating problem-and-solution content as a designer
How past projects can become your best marketing tool
New country music releases and weekly favorites

Whether you're a homeowner, designer, remodeler, or country music fan, there's something in this episode for you.

The Missing Piece in Design with Natalie Dunlap | EP. 249 Jun 12, 2026

Show notes

What separates a smooth, successful project from one filled with delays, budget overruns, and frustration?In Episode 249, Natalie Dunlap, founder of Curated & Co., shares the behind-the-scenes work that keeps high-end residential and multimillion-dollar projects moving forward.Drawing on nearly 30 years of experience in construction and design, Natalie discusses sourcing, procurement, vendor relationships, project oversight, and the critical details that often determine whether a project succeeds or fails.This conversation offers a unique look at the operational side of the design industry and why thoughtful planning, communication, and execution are just as important as great design.To learn more about Natalie and Curated & Co., visit her website and reach out directly.https://www.curatedcopartners.com/

Followers Don't Equal Talent | OOF TOPIC EP. 151 Jun 11, 2026

Show notes

Does a designer with 100,000 followers automatically deserve more respect than a designer with 1,000? Not even close.

This week on Off Topic, Eric dives into the growing obsession with follower counts and why social media numbers alone don't determine talent, experience, or success in the design industry. From homeowners searching for the right designer to creatives trying to build their brands online, Eric shares his thoughts on the balance between great design work and personal marketing.

He also discusses why designers can't afford to stay hidden in today's digital world. While follower count doesn't define your abilities, showcasing your work and putting yourself out there is more important than ever.

Plus, Eric breaks down the latest country music releases, shares his favorite songs of the week, and highlights what's been on repeat lately.

Luxury Vacation Home Design with Jessica Duce | EP. 248 Jun 05, 2026

Show notes

Why do some short-term rentals stay fully booked while others struggle to attract guests?

In Episode 248, Jessica Duce, one of the nation's leading short-term rental designers, breaks down the design strategies that help properties stand out in an increasingly competitive market.

Working with investors and property owners across the country, Jessica has transformed everything from beach houses and boutique motels to luxury retreats, creating spaces that drive bookings, improve guest experiences, and increase profitability.

Named a Top 50 Power List Interior Designer in 2025, Jessica shares what today's guests are really looking for, the biggest mistakes property owners make, and how thoughtful design can become a property's greatest competitive advantage.

Whether you're a real estate investor, designer, property manager, or Airbnb host, this episode offers valuable insight into the business of creating unforgettable spaces.

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