How do you create a client experience that feels personal, luxurious, and effortless from start to finish? It's all about treating your clients like they're valued friends, while also adapting to their lifestyle and what they love.



In this episode of the Creative Genius Podcast, Erin Weir sits down with celebrated interior designer Tina Ramchandani to explore how to elevate every aspect of the client journey. Tina is known not only for her clean, warm aesthetic but also for the way she makes her clients feel heard, supported, and at ease throughout the design process. Her firm, Tina Ramchandani Creative, specializes in full-service interior design with a high level of attention and care. And in this episode, she shares the exact strategies that make that possible.



From the very first inquiry to the post-installation follow-up, Tina brings intentionality to every touchpoint. In the episode, she walks through her onboarding process, why she sets aside time for every client inquiry, and how she customizes proposals to reflect each client’s priorities. She also discusses the importance of building a team culture that values service and consistency, even as her business has grown.



Tina and Erin also talk about:




How to structure your intake process to screen for ideal clients.



Why consistent communication is more important than over-communication.



How to set clear expectations about timelines, budgets, and deliverables.



What Tina does to create memorable moments and build long-term loyalty.




Whether you’re a solo designer or leading a larger team, Tina’s thoughtful approach will inspire you to revisit your own client journey and even refine it in ways that leave a lasting impression.



If you're listening on your favorite podcast platform, view the full shownotes here: https://thepearlcollective.com/s13e8-shownotes



Episode Transcript



Note: Transcript is created automatically and may contain errors.



Click to show transcript
Great, so Tina, thank you so much for being here today. We're gonna be talking all about the client journey from that very first inquiry of a design client coming in, seeing if they're the right fit to the full project completion. And of course, all of the thoughtfulness, the systems, the personal touches and everything in between to create a really seamless high touch experience for a happy client.



So why don't you introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about Tina and your world in design?



Well, thank you. I'm so excited to be chatting with you as always today. My name is Tina Ramchandani. I am an interior designer based in New York City. I have a small but mighty team. We focus on warm, modern interiors that we call soulful minimalism. And the idea behind this is we like to create environments for our clients so they are surrounded.



by the things that matter so they can focus on the people that matter. So it's really building a welcoming lifestyle for them that reflects who they are and what their family represents.



I love that. All right, so let's start at the very beginning. How do your clients typically find you and what does your intake process look like?



Yeah, so our clients find us in a number of ways. Referrals are always the best. Oftentimes, they are friends of past clients. They have many times been in the homes that we've designed, whether it's for drinks or dinner or play dates. They've seen our work firsthand. We also have a great referral system. So we get a lot of leads from realtors. That's a great one for us. And

What if the best thing you could do for your business... was to step away from it?



In this special episode of the Creative Genius Podcast, Erin Weir sits down with Pearl Collective co-founder Gail Doby to explore the empowering experience of taking a sabbatical. Gail has taken multiple sabbaticals over the past five years, and in this episode, she shares why this practice is essential for visionary leaders—and how it became one of the most strategic decisions she made as a business owner.



Gail defines a sabbatical as “an extended period of time intentionally spent on something that’s not your routine job,” and breaks down the origins and misconceptions of the practice. For her, sabbaticals have ranged from deep reading and writing to moving homes and diving back into hands-on interior design. While each one looked different, every sabbatical provided a much-needed reset that sparked creativity, shifted her mindset, and empowered her team.



In this episode, you'll learn how Gail prepared for her first sabbatical nearly a year in advance, setting up systems and handing over responsibilities to her team. She reflects on how her absence pushed the leadership team to grow: “YI wanted you all to step up and show me what you have.” The experience helped her realize how critical it is to let go of control in order to grow both leaders and the business itself.



This episode also highlights:




How to prepare your team and clients for your absence



Why reading fuels Gail’s creativity (she read 21 books on her first sabbatical!)



The unexpected gift of sabbaticals: faster team development and long-term succession planning



Practical advice for business owners who think they’re “too busy” to step away




Gail encourages all leaders—especially those in the interior design industry—to find ways to recharge creatively, whether through a long weekend away, a solo retreat, or a multi-week break. As she puts it, “Your time is now. Go do it.”



If you're listening on your favorite podcast platform, view the full shownotes here: https://thepearlcollective.com/s13e7-shownotes




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hNRGClIvxKk




Episode Transcript



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Click to show transcript
Well, Gail, it is great to finally get to podcast together again. It's been a minute for our listeners since we've been on together.



Well, we both had a lot of things going on in 24 and now it's 25 and it's a new year and a new face. You're leading the podcast this year, which is great. So it's fun to be a guest for a change.



All right, well, I love it. And we've got you all set up in your new office setting. And so I'm loving your background. I'm still sticking to my very plain vanilla background for the moment, but you are inspiring me to switch up my background.



just a paint can. Oh, thank you. Yeah, they're



I will buy you a can of



I love it. love it. Okay, so let's, I want to talk today on the topic of sabbaticals. The idea of sabbaticals, how you know when it's time, what it does for you as the business owner. I just think it's such an interesting topic to uncover. And since you have done sabbaticals for a couple of years now, you're the perfect person to talk to about this.



Yeah, it's an annual event now and it's actually gonna be twice this year and maybe.



From now on, you never know.



my gosh, well,

Are you feeling disconnected from the wider design industry, or wondering how to find your place within it? Whether you're a solo designer, studio owner, or team leader, finding your community and knowing your value in the bigger picture of the design world can be a game-changer.



In this episode of the Creative Genius Podcast, host Erin Weir sits down with Jane Dagmi for a conversation about identity, community, and purpose in the interior design industry. Erin first met Jane around the time that Jane was Editor in Chief of Designers Today, and now she is Managing Director of High Point x Design (HPxD), a 501(c)6 nonprofit organization that promotes, unites and builds upon High Point, NC's unique creative ecosystem.



Jane brings a unique perspective as a writer, storyteller, editor, and industry leader. With a career that has spanned media, editorial leadership, and now her work with WithIt and High Point Market Authority, she shares thoughtful reflections on how the design world is evolving—and how designers can find connection, meaning, and impact in their work.



Throughout the episode, Jane and Erin discuss the power of community in an industry that often feels isolating. Jane shares her passion for fostering supportive networks and why organizations like WithIt play such a critical role in elevating women and providing leadership development in design. "Inclusivity is real important to us," she says. "HPxD is kind of connecting all of those steps along the way of the ecosystem and promoting it and uniting those people year-round."



Listen to the full episode to learn:




Why storytelling is at the heart of design, and how every designer has a story worth telling.



The power of vulnerability and authenticity in building meaningful client relationships and professional collaborations.



What makes High Point Market so magical, and how new designers can make the most of the experience.



How to balance personal growth with professional development by staying curious and connected.




Jane also reflects on her transition from being a magazine editor to becoming more deeply involved with the trade side of the industry. She talks about learning to trust her instincts and follow the breadcrumbs that led her to roles that truly aligned with her values.



This is a conversation filled with heart, insight, and inspiration—perfect for anyone who’s ever asked, “Where do I fit in?” or “How do I grow while staying true to myself?”



If you're listening on your favorite podcast platform, view the full show notes here: https://thepearlcollective.com/s13e6-shownotes




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gY7D-eAnuHo&pp=ygUQcGVhcmwgY29sbGVjdGl2ZQ%3D%3D




Episode Transcript



Note: Transcript is created automatically and may contain errors.



Click to Show Transcript
Well, Jean, welcome to the Creative Genius podcast. It's so nice to have you here today.



I'm glad to be with you. Thank you.



Yeah, do you want to just introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about what you are all about?



Okay, so I am presently the managing director of High Point by Design, also known as HPXD. But for many years before that, I was editor in chief of designers today, and that's really what afforded me to meet a ton of designers. So that's what I've been doing for the last seven years, magazines and now HPXD.



I remember when we first met, were doing designers today and you were an editor. So you have such a fascinating background as an editor,

What’s the secret to transforming a chaotic design project into a streamlined, stress-free experience for everyone involved? If you’ve ever struggled with managing client expectations, juggling trades, or keeping projects on schedule and on budget, this episode is packed with practical wisdom you won’t want to miss.



In this conversation, Erin Weir sits down with Kimberly Graff, Chief Operations Officer of Charbonneau Interiors to talk about the systems, tools, and mindset shifts that have helped her take control of her projects and create better outcomes for her clients and for herself. Kimberly opens up about her journey of learning how critical project management is to the design process, sharing lessons learned from difficult experiences and the changes she’s made to avoid those pitfalls in the future.



In this episode, you'll learn about the essential role of clear communication and documentation in keeping projects on track. Kimberly shares how she now uses a dedicated project management software to handle everything from schedules to budgets to client communication, saying, “If it’s not written down, it didn’t happen.” Erin and Kimberly also discuss the importance of onboarding processes, client education, and setting boundaries from the very beginning of a project.



You’ll also hear about:




How Kimberly creates a project roadmap to set expectations with clients.



The tools and tech she uses to stay organized.



Strategies for managing trades and subcontractors effectively.



Why tracking time and expenses is key, even if you’re not billing hourly.



What Kimberly wishes more designers knew about project management.



And the one piece of advice she’d give any designer who wants to elevate their client experience.




Whether you’re a solo designer wearing all the hats or part of a larger firm, this episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to bring more structure, clarity, and professionalism to their projects.



If you're listening on your favorite podcast platform, view the full show notes here: https://thepearlcollective.com/s13e5-shownotes



Mentioned in this Episode



Kimberly mentioned a number of software applications that she uses at Charbonneau Interiors:




Asana (project management)



Harvest (time tracking)

Forecast (project management)





Quickbooks (accounting)



Slack (instant messaging)



Google Sheets (spreadsheets)



BambooHR (human resources)




Episode Transcript



Note: Transcript is created automatically and may contain errors.



Click to Show Transcript
Well, welcome to the Creative Genius podcast, Kimberly. I'm so excited to have you here today.



Thank you for having me.



I'm going to go ahead and just let you introduce yourself. I know that we've been friends for a long time. You were one of our OG boardroom members back in the day. But please introduce yourself and tell us a little bit about what you do.



I am the COO at Charbonneau Interiors and on a daily basis my hands are involved in just all sorts of areas of the business. So I mean from human resources to finance to sales to even



connecting with the clients and giving them updates and sharing installation information with my team and chatting with vendors and subcontractors. So a little bit of everything.

What does luxury truly mean in today’s interior design industry? Is it about exclusivity, opulence, or expert craftsmanship? And more importantly, how can designers position their brand to attract high-end clients in an ever-evolving market? The definition of luxury has changed dramatically over the years, and in this episode, we explore how designers can use marketing to stand out in the luxury space.



Erin Weir sits down with Daniela Pimentel Furtado, founder and CEO of Findable Digital Marketing, to discuss the nuances of luxury marketing for interior designers. Daniela’s expertise in SEO and digital marketing for design and construction firms has given her a front-row seat to the changing trends in how affluent clients find and select designers. She shares actionable insights on defining luxury, optimizing your online presence, and attracting the right clients.



In this episode, you'll learn:




The Many Flavors of Luxury: Luxury is not one-size-fits-all. Daniela breaks it down into four main categories: premium expertise, opulent abundance, curated aesthetics, and exclusive custom work. Which one best represents your brand?



Why Affluent Clients ARE Online: Many designers assume that high-net-worth individuals aren’t searching online for services, but the data tells a different story. Daniela shares how Google Trends and research studies prove that even ultra-high-net-worth individuals rely on digital platforms, though they may be engaging in unexpected ways.



How to Make Your Website Reflect Luxury: Your portfolio is the epicenter of your marketing strategy. Daniela explains why high-quality photography, detailed storytelling, and SEO-optimized case studies are critical in positioning yourself as a high-end designer.



The Future of Luxury Branding: With Gen Z emerging as a dominant luxury consumer group, brands must evolve. Daniela shares insights on the trend of "accessible luxury" and how high-end brands like Gucci and Burberry are shifting towards openness, engagement, and unexpected collaborations.



Actionable Steps to Elevate Your Luxury Marketing: Whether you’re just starting out or have been in business for years, Daniela offers practical steps to refine your portfolio, enhance your storytelling, and make your website more findable to your ideal clients.




If you're listening on your favorite podcast platform, view the full shownotes here: https://thepearlcollective.com/s13e4-shownotes



Resources Mentioned in This Episode:




Google Trends: A free tool to analyze search trends for luxury design keywords.



SEMrush & Google Search Console: SEO tools to track how well your website ranks for luxury-related terms.



Findable Digital Marketing: Daniela’s agency that specializes in marketing for the design and construction industries.





https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AYiByqYfpsk




Episode Transcript



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Click to show Transcript
Welcome to the Creative Genius podcast. Daniella, we're so excited to have you here today. Why don't we get started and you can just tell a little bit about yourself.



Thank you so much for having me. Yeah, my name is Daniella. I own a marketing agency called Findable Digital Marketing, and that's exactly what we do. We help businesses in the design and construction space become easy to find online. So I spend a lot of my time consulting clients, running an agency, but also speaking and writing about these topics.



Well,

Do you dream of seeing your interior design projects in top-tier publications? Are you confused about the difference between PR and marketing, or unsure how to craft a compelling pitch that grabs an editor’s attention? If so, this episode is a must-listen!



On this episode of The Creative Genius Podcast, Erin Weir sits down with PR and marketing expert Dawn Brinson to explore the ins and outs of publicity for interior designers. With years of experience helping creatives build their brands and gain recognition, Dawn shares invaluable insights on how to navigate the world of PR, from crafting the perfect pitch to handling media inquiries like a pro. Dawn is currently the CEO of A New Day Creative Communications and Marketing, an agency which she founded.



Dawn breaks down the fundamental differences between PR and marketing and how the two work together to elevate a designer’s visibility. She explains that PR is all about shaping public perception and influencing action, whether through media features, industry awards, events, or speaking engagements. But, as she notes, “Marketing is the overarching discipline…PR is one of the tactics that we put under marketing typically.”



In this episode, you’ll learn:




How to research and target the right editors and journalists for your work



What makes a pitch stand out (hint: it’s all about being concise, clear, and unique!)



Why it’s crucial to have high-resolution images, project details, and headshots ready before reaching out to media outlets



The biggest mistakes designers make when pitching their work and how to avoid them



What to do if you get rejected or don’t hear back from an editor




Dawn also shares why it’s essential to be patient when pursuing media coverage. PR isn’t an overnight success story. It’s a long-term investment that requires strategy and persistence. She recounts a story of a client who waited nearly a year for their project to be featured, showcasing that sometimes the best opportunities take time.



As the media landscape continues to evolve, Dawn provides practical advice on leveraging digital platforms, social media, and owned content (like blogs and newsletters) to attract press and build an audience. Instead of waiting for an editor’s approval, you can “create so much dynamic demand in what you are doing on your own sites that editors and journalists and freelancers and others come to you and say, would you give us some of this?”



Whether you’re new to PR or looking to refine your publicity strategy, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you gain recognition and build a lasting brand.



To keep up with what Dawn is doing, follow her on Instagram.



If you're listening on your favorite podcast platform, view the full shownotes here: https://thepearlcollective.com/s13e3-shownotes




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fhZ-Mq4D2KU




Episode Transcript



Note: Transcript is created automatically and may contain errors.



Click to show transcript
Well, Dawn, I'm so excited to have you, my good friend Dawn Brinson on the Creative Genius podcast today. Thanks for joining me.



Thanks so much for having me.



the area and I really do appreciate it.



Yeah, well, let's go ahead and get started and just share a little bit about yourself and what you do.



Sure, sure. My company is called A New Day. It's creative communications and marketing. I work with all sorts of creative entrepreneurs that ar...

Are you running your interior design business, or is it running you? Between managing clients, tracking expenses, handling purchasing, and keeping up with tax filings, the financial side of an interior design firm can be overwhelming. But what if you could streamline your processes and free up time to focus on what you do best: designing beautiful spaces?



In this episode of the Creative Genius Podcast, host Erin Weir sits down with Corey Greenburg, Director of Sales and Marketing at DesignerAdvantage, to discuss the essential financial systems that interior designers need to succeed. With over a decade of experience helping designers optimize their bookkeeping, purchasing, and business operations, Corey shares valuable insights into how designers can run a more profitable and efficient business.



Corey shared a wealth of knowledge about running your business, including bookkeeping. “The key is to have a system, and that system may look different for every designer out there, but you need to establish that strong system and stick to it.” Corey emphasizes that whether you use QuickBooks, Studio Designer, or another software, consistency is crucial. From falling behind on bank reconciliations to neglecting sales tax filings, Corey outlines the most common financial missteps and how to avoid them.



Corey also discussed:




How to make time tracking work for you: Whether you bill hourly or use flat fees, tracking your time effectively can help you identify inefficiencies, improve profitability, and scale your business. Corey suggests tools like Harvest and time-blocking strategies to make the process easier.



The power of outsourcing: “A designer’s hours are precious,” Corey explains. He shares how outsourcing administrative tasks like bookkeeping, purchasing, and even social media can free up time for designers to focus on higher-value activities.



How to build strong vendor relationships: Interior designers rely heavily on vendors, and Corey explains why treating them as partners rather than just suppliers can lead to better pricing, improved service, and a more seamless design process.



Scaling your business the right way: Corey shares a real-world success story of a designer who went from $300,000 in annual revenue to over $10 million by streamlining her operations and leveraging outsourcing to scale her firm.



Mindset shifts for financial success: Many designers are comfortable with the creative side of their business but hesitant about the numbers. Corey explains why viewing financial management as a tool for growth (rather than a dreaded task) is a game-changer for long-term success. "If you run the business right, interior design can be extremely profitable.”




To book a call with Corey, you'll find his calendar link here.



If you're listening on your favorite podcast platform, view the full shownotes here: https://thepearlcollective.com/s13e2-shownotes



Resources Mentioned in This Episode:




Studio Designer, QuickBooks, Harvest: Software tools for financial tracking and time management



Eat That Frog by Brian Tracy: A book on productivity and prioritization



Financial Masterclass at Pearl Collective: A quarterly workshop to help designers master their finances. Check out our events page to see if we're hosting one soon.





https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sj7hvbZrBp8&pp=ygUYcGVhcmwgY29sbGVjdGl2ZSBwb2RjYXN0




Episode Transcript



Click to show transcript
Well, Cory, thank you so much for being with us today. Welcome to the Creative Genius Podcast.

Why do some teams thrive while others struggle despite having talented individuals? The answer is often team culture. A strong, well-defined culture can make or break an organization, affecting not just performance but also employee engagement, accountability, and overall job satisfaction. But how do you create that kind of culture in your own business, and leverage it for business success?



In this episode of the Creative Genius Podcast, Gail Doby talks with team-building expert and leadership coach Sean Glaze. Sean shares his insights on what it takes to cultivate a winning culture, drawing from his experience as a basketball coach and now as a speaker and consultant. His practical, no-nonsense approach helps leaders build environments where their teams can thrive.



Sean Glaze started this path as a basketball coach, using culture to lead several programs to new heights of success. With two decades of experience creating stronger cultures in locker rooms, Sean is now a team-building speaker and works with organizations to solve their team issues. He earned his Bachelors Degree in English at Georgia Southern University then a Masters and Specialist Degrees from Jacksonville State University. He has written several books, some of which are linked in the resources below.



What You’ll Learn in This Episode:




The Five Pillars of a GREAT Team Culture – Sean explains his "GREAT" acronym, which breaks down the essential components of a strong workplace culture: Goals, Relationships, Expectations, Accountability, and Thankfulness.



Why Talent Alone Isn’t Enough – Strategy and skills matter, but without the right cultural foundation, even the best employees will struggle to perform at their highest level.



The Role of Leadership in Shaping Culture – Leaders set the tone, and Sean dives into how you behavior, communication, and decision-making can either strengthen or weaken your culture.



How to Hold Your Team Accountable Without Conflict – Many leaders struggle with enforcing accountability. Sean provides a framework for setting expectations and maintaining high standards in a way that fosters trust and respect.



Common Hiring Mistakes That Hurt Culture – Learn how to identify candidates who align with your company’s values and why hiring for culture fit is just as important as technical skills.



How to Engage and Retain Your Best Employees – Employee loyalty isn’t just about paychecks. Sean shares the key "loyalty anchors" that keep top talent committed to your organization.




Sean also discusses why founders and business owners need to reflect on their leadership style and ask themselves, “What part of my leadership led to that response or that behavior?” This question that can be a game-changer for those looking to improve team dynamics and performance.



If you're a business owner, manager, or team leader looking to create a more engaged, high-performing workplace, this episode is packed with actionable insights you won’t want to miss.



If you're listening on your favorite podcast platform, view the full shownotes here: https://thepearlcollective.com/s13e1-shownotes



Resources Mentioned in This Episode:




Sean Glaze’s Books:

Rapid Teamwork – A guide to building a more cohesive and productive team.



Staying Coachable – A roadmap for personal and professional growth through continuous learning and adaptability.





Sean Glaze’s Website: Great Results Team Building




For more leadership tips and strategies, follow Sean on LinkedIn.

Not that long ago, interior designers who wanted to get their projects or profiles published had just a few options—mainly newspapers and magazines. Today, the digital revolution has created a plethora of new media hungry for content. How to decide where and what to publish with whom?



In this episode, Gail talks with publishing and public relations expert Kelly Peterson. Kelly has over 40 years of experience in advertising sales and marketing initiatives. Among other publications, she worked at Meredith Publishing on Better Homes and Gardens. Having retired from the Hearst Corporation after 22 years, she now serves as a consultant and public speaker.



Gail asked Kelly which is better for interior designers, to get published in print or in digital media. Kelly said it depended on what goals the designer had for their business and for getting published. Digital media are very effective for building brand awareness and engaging with prospective clients. Print media is where you want to be to show off your design talents and expertise, as well as to gain prestige as a top designer.



Kelly provided a step-by-step approach to getting published, in whatever medium.




Decide the audience you want to target and what your business goals are in targeting them.



Do your research to find out which are the publications or media outlets that serve that audience. Which are likely to be the best fit for your purposes and your designs?



Determine what you want to include in your pitch, such as a project, a story, advice, product review, images, etc.



Choose 3 to 5 outlets to pursue. Review their media kit, if they have one. Find out who to contact regarding submitting materials. Start following them to see what kind of content they are looking for.



Decide how you are going to engage with them. Develop a relationship over a period of time. Contact them multiple times, at least five or more, periodically. Don’t be discouraged if you get no response right away or have your pitches rejected at first. Persistence pays off.




Kelly also shared her insights into what editors want from a pitch, how to submit, and when it is worthwhile for a designer or design firm to hire a publicist. For all the details, listen to the entire podcast.



If you're listening on your favorite podcast platform, view the full shownotes here: https://thepearlcollective.com/s12e10-shownotes



Mentioned in This Podcast



If you would like to connect with Kelly, you will find her on LinkedIn, or you can send her an email at kpeterson@hiptmktng.com.




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9ZTsHa-d7Lg




Episode Transcript



Note: Transcript is created automatically and may contain errors.



Click to show transcript
Welcome to the Creative Genius Podcast, Kelly. So great to have you.



Thank you, Gail. It's delightful to be here. I really appreciate it.



Well, I'm looking forward to our conversation. Everybody talks to me about PR all the time. And before we do that, let's talk about how you got into the industry and how long you've been doing all of this.



You know, I got into the industry actually kind of out of a habit stance in that as a child, I'm severely dyslexic and was actually back in the sixties when you were dyslexic, you were put with mentally retarded children and then had to work my way out of that back into mainstream school. And when I was in high school, I started selling ad space for the choir directory.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is still in its infancy. But already its impact is being seen in how people work, create content, search for information, and interact online. Only a fraction of the interior design industry is currently using AI on a regular basis. In the not-too-distant future, however, AI will be integrated into almost everything designers and their clients do.



In this episode, Gail talks with Douglas Robb, creator of Interior DesignHer and founder and editor of Interior Design Toronto. Douglas also assists his wife Nicole with her interior design business, Robb and Company, based in Toronto, Ontario. He is the host of the podcast The Interior DesignHer Podcast.



Gail, who uses an AI tool called Granola almost daily, was interested in how Douglas was using AI in his and his wife’s businesses. Douglas said he is still learning how to use AI and how to get the best results from it. At present he mostly uses it for searching information, content creation (text and visual), and to work out ideas.



Douglas mentioned several AI-driven online tools he currently uses on a regular basis: Chat GBT, Claude, Dall-E (an image-generator program), Perplexity, Gemini, and a third iteration of Google’s image generator called Imagen 3. They are all free and fairly easy to use for those who want to begin exploring what AI can do for them.



In order to help interior designers more quickly become accustomed to using AI, Douglas has created a guide on how to prompt an AI program on design-related topics. He recommends for beginners to spend some time having a conversation with the AI interface, playing with images and image generation, and creating some basic content, perhaps for a blog. Gradually, he said, you will learn to fine tune your prompts to get better quality results.



Gail asked Douglas how he envisioned AI being used in the interior design industry in the future. On the business side, he said, it will allow designers to operate faster, cheaper, better and more efficiently. On the design side, it will enhance designers’ ability to present design concepts, generate images and plans, and present their design ideas to clients with more visual impact.



He added that what AI won’t do is replace creativity, the relationships designers develop with their clients and suppliers, and the level of caring that goes into their projects.



“Creatives are positioned to succeed fantastically with AI,” he said. Designers who want to stay competitive need to become comfortable with using AI in their businesses and design work.



Gail and Douglas also talked about the benefits of podcasting. For that and more, listen to the entire podcast.



If you're listening on your favorite podcast platform, view the full shownotes here: https://thepearlcollective.com/s12e9-shownotes



Mentioned in This Podcast



To learn more about Interior DesignHer, which aims to help interior designers build better businesses, and the many resources it offers, including The Interior DesignHer podcast, go to the firm’s website at www.interiordesignher.com.



For additional resources and advice on improving your interior design business, check out Interior Design Toronto at www.interiordesign.to. The site includes a directory of recommended interior design products.



For information about Robb and Company, which specializes in residential design and decoration, go to the firm’s website at www.robbandcompany.com.



Douglas mentioned several AI-driven programs he currently uses:




ChatGPT



Claude



Dall-E

What are you struggling with at the moment? A business issue? A design issue? A personal issue? Whatever the matter, rather than struggle alone, seek out advice from someone who can help you resolve it. You will learn something new, gain a new perspective, and be able to return to a more balanced, productive state of mind.



In this episode, Gail talks with Mike Agugliaro, founder of FuDog Group, an online firm focused on accelerating personal growth and mind growth. After starting, growing and selling several businesses, Mike decided to draw upon his own life and growth experiences to pursue his aim of helping others to remove suffering and to have life, business and wealth by design.



A self-made entrepreneur, Mike told Gail that he discovered early on that the way to resolve issues he was confronting, either personal or in his business, was to formulate a question about that issue and then ask it of someone smarter about the subject than he was. Be persistent and seek out the best experts you can find. Don’t let yourself get distracted by other matters until you get the issue resolved.



“If you ask the right question of the right people, the life that you desire is not that far away,” he said. Learn from someone else and get back to happiness as quickly as possible.



Gail asked Mike what his definition of success was. He replied that for him success is not what you achieve or acquire, rather it is a mental state. “Success is getting to the point of no matter what you want or what you desire, you can sit in a state of grace and be excited to be alive.”



From his years of experience coaching people, Mike said he has found two major reasons why people are struggling needlessly. Often, most of their pain and suffering is either old trauma, guilt and shame that they are still living with. They need to work toward letting go and living in the present. Also, a lot of people are struggling in their mind because they see only the downside when things go wrong. They should consider the upside of the downside. What is the opportunity being presented to them?



During the wide-ranging conversation, Mike and Gail also talked about the difference between knowledge and wisdom, what to consider when selling a business, and the importance of maintaining balance in your life in all things. For those insights and more, listen to the entire podcast.



If you're listening on your favorite podcast platform, view the full shownotes here: https://thepearlcollective.com/s12e8-shownotes



Mentioned in This Podcast



To learn more about Mike and the services offered by the FuDog Group, go to the firm’s website at fudoggroup.com.



Mike mentioned his book, Mind Power: The 17 Secrets Of Using Your Thoughts To Powerfully Accelerate Every Area Of Life. It’s available from online booksellers.



Mike also recommended two books: Three Feet from Gold: Turn Your Obstacles into Opportunities! Think and Grow Rich by Sharon L. Lechter and Greg S. Reid. Acres of Diamonds by Russell Conwell. Both are available from online booksellers.




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9R1HM5dE1xc




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Mike, welcome to the Creative Genius podcast. I've been looking to our conversation for quite a while and you are up on the East Coast and hopefully safe from all the hurricane issues that are going on. Yeah, very safe and excited to be here, Gail. Well, it's our pleasure. So thanks for being here. I was thinking back, you and I met, my gosh, 2015.

When builders and interior designers work together, magic happens. A well-built and well-designed home is a win-win for the builder and the homeowner. If you've never worked on a new construction project, you may be wondering how to tap into the high-end luxury home market. Start by educating yourself about what a builder needs and the value you bring as a designer.



In this episode, Gail talks with Brad Leavitt, president of AFT Construction in Scottsdale, Arizona. Founded in 2013, AFT Construction specializes in custom luxury homes. A key selling point for their properties is their meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of the home.



Given that some designers have found some high-end luxury clients have become more demanding and more difficult to work with post-pandemic, Gail asked Brad what his experience has been with this type of client. Brad said that by and large their clients tend to be collaborative, but there are some who are very demanding and want to be in control of the project. He attributed some of that to the fact that projects nowadays take longer to complete and at a higher cost. Clients want to be sure the end result lives up to their expectations.



Gail asked Brad if his firm works with interior designers. Brad replied absolutely. “I won’t do a project unless there’s an interior designer,” he said. “There’s a value the designer brings to the look of the home, to the feel of the home.” Usually it is the client who hires the designer, but Brad said his company has also sought out designers to work on projects.



For designers who are interested in working on new construction projects, Brad said they should start by building a relationship with the builder over a period of time. This could involve some face-to-face meetings and sharing some tips or industry information as a way of demonstrating your value. Get to know what the builder’s pain points are and how you can alleviate them.



Brad also talked about some of the technology he has introduced into his firm to streamline processes, improve document control, and facilitate coordination between the builder, designer and architect working on a project. He has found QR codes to be especially effective.



Wrapping up, Brad offered three pieces of advice he received when he was younger and which have guided him throughout his career:




Generosity precedes prosperity.



Chase experience, not money.



Leave things better because you were there.




For more details and insights, listen to the entire podcast.



If you're listening on your favorite podcast platform, view the full shownotes here: https://thepearlcollective.com/s12e7-shownotes



Mentioned in This Podcast



For more information about Brad and ATF Construction, go to the firm’s website at www.aftconstruction.com.



Brad mentioned a construction management software his firm uses, called Buildertrend. Among other functions, the software can produce the QR codes his firm uses for document control.



Another construction management software Brad mentioned is Bluebeam. Bluebeam helps construction teams connect office and field through an easily accessible single source of information that can be updated on the fly.




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uK9PqNg-6UE




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Welcome to the Creative Genius podcast, Brad. I am so excited to have this conversation with you today.

You don’t last 20-plus years in the interior design industry without learning a few valuable lessons along the way. While every interior design firm is unique, the principles of sound business management and marketing still apply. You can learn them the hard way, or you can learn them from others who’ve learned the hard way. The latter path is less of a steep and bumpy road to long-term growth and success.



In this episode, Gail talks with Katie Decker-Erickson, principal with Color Works Design, a company she founded in 2007. Although she started out focused solely on designing with color, clients kept asking her to include an ever-increasing number of interior design services. After working in residential design for several years, she came to realize she preferred commercial projects. Today, with a team of between 15 and 20, her firm specializes in hospitality, senior living, university facilities and housing, and multifamily housing.



Gail asked Katie what are some of the lessons she’s learned over the years about how to operate and market her business. Katie said first and foremost, you have to let go and be comfortable delegating work to others. To grow, she said, you need a vision and a team to execute on that vision. “It’s all about letting go to the right person for the right reason. You can’t do it all on your own.”



Furthermore, she said, “Figure out who is your target market and go hard. If you’re trying to be everything to everyone, you’re nothing to no one.” Take care of the clients you have, she added. They can become clients for life. Also, take care of your team and they will stay with you over the years.



Your business should not become a burden. “Your business should work for you, not you work for it.” Do some self-introspection, she advised. Figure out where is your happy place—i.e., what fulfills you and gives you joy—and pursue that. Let others do the other stuff. 



Over the years, Katie and her firm have experienced some good times and some not-so-good times. Just accept that these are normal business cycles. “Don’t be afraid to let your business expand and contract,” she said.



Gail and Katie also talked about how AI might impact the interior design industry and how Katie is using it now in her firm. They also discussed the importance of curating your firm’s culture. For those insights and more, listen to the entire podcast.



If you're listening on your favorite podcast platform, view the full shownotes here: https://thepearlcollective.com/s12e6-shownotes



Mentioned in This Podcast



For more information about Katie and her firm, go the website at colorworks.coach.




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ogr-1u_8e8I




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Welcome to the podcast, Katie. I have a special guest today, Katie Decker Erickson, and I am so excited to have a conversation with you today. You and I had a good chat not too long ago and you've been doing interior design for a while now and I'd love to know about how you got into it.



That's so kind of you, Gail. I'm so honored to be here. And yeah, I don't know a while that's like a kind way of saying someone is seasoned, right? Which is code for old. And we're now at the age where we're giving back in our industry. Yeah. You know, it's funny. My journey to design was very unique. it wasn't traditional. Like I woke up my junior year of high school and decided I should do interior design. And that is what I love. And I'm going to go pursue that in college. I actually didn't come to interior design until I w...

Interior design is demanding work, involving thousands of detailed decisions, project challenges and competing personalities. That can give rise to a lot of friction and stress. While you can’t eliminate every stressor, you can minimize them by establishing good project management practices and cultivating mental fitness.



In this episode, Gail talks with mental fitness coach Janine Aurichio. A self-titled “Joy Master,” Janine offers an approach she calls Life Styling that trains interior designers to build the capacity to respond to life’s challenges with a positive mindset rather than getting stressed or upset for breakthrough results in their life and business. “I believe our true nature and essence is joy,” she says.



Gail asked Janine why she chose to focus on working with designers. She said that after working in the industry for twenty years she has come to admire what designers do and bring to the world. “What they do is part science and part magic,” she said, adding “beauty is my core value.”



Janine said that from what she’s seen in her practice the biggest challenges for many designers are twofold. They have an internal challenge of maintaining command over their mind and mindset, in part because they have many demands on themselves and many distractions. In addition, they have an external challenge because they lack or do not utilize a well-oiled process for managing their projects and other aspects of their business operations.



“Good project management leads to more and better projects, more profit and more peace of mind,” she explained. It should be core to every interior design business.



As well, Janine identified what she sees as the three biggest mistakes designers make when managing their projects. A major one is that they think of the client as the center of the project rather than of the project itself. They are afraid to communicate truth to the client for fear of being reprimanded or even fired. They don’t have a plan for executing the project, or they have one but don’t follow it.



Janine went on to talk about how designers can better deal with their internal challenges by learning to manage their mindset. She described a four-step process that she teaches to rewire negative ways of thinking in order to develop positive intelligence. The goal, she said, is to achieve mental fitness, which she defined as your capacity to handle life’s challenges with a positive response or mindset.



Gail and Janine also discussed why good project management is so crucial to the success of a design business, the major types of “saboteurs” that contribute to negative thinking, and the steps designers can take to improve their mental fitness and boost creative flow. Get all the details by listening to the entire podcast.



If you're listening on your favorite podcast platform, view the full shownotes here: https://thepearlcollective.com/s12e5-shownotes



Mentioned in This Podcast



Download the Drama-Free Projects Guide PDF here: https://www.yes2yum.com/drama-free



You'll also find other resources that Janine mentioned on the podcast on her website.




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mdo1KPg4GJw




Episode Transcript



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Today we have Janine Arricchio on our podcast and her superpower is managing design projects. And her zone of genius is the inside job of managing your mindset for peak performance, thriving relationships, and maximizing happiness. And today we're going to explore the outside in and inside out ways of creating drama-free...

It seems like everyone nowadays has a podcast. So why not you? Although one might argue that there are far too many podcasts, they are extremely popular ways of consuming information. Like blogs and videos, different podcasts attract different audiences, offering something for everyone. That makes them a great medium for marketing and building brand awareness if you tap into the right niche.



In this episode, Gail talks with Nicole Lashae Ben, CEO and founder of Thrive in Design, a web-based firm that specializes in empowering exceptional design-focused brands to tell their stories through impactful product launches and podcasts. A seasoned expert in the interior design industry with over 17 years of experience working in firms and with manufacturers, Nicole found her true calling in helping interior design firms and product companies boost brand awareness and revenue by telling their unique stories.



Gail asked Nicole why interior designers might want to consider podcasting. She said, “You should be podcasting if you want to establish yourself as an expert and authority in whatever it is that you are doing.” Podcasts are an effective way of building brand awareness, broadening audience reach, and giving value to clients and prospective clients.



Before diving into podcasting, advised Nicole, think about who the audience is that you’re trying to attract and what your goal is in attracting them. “Your podcast is a marketing tool, a sales tool,” she said. “Think about what call to action you want people to take as result of listening to the podcast.”



Whether you choose a video or only an audio format, realize that producing a podcast takes a fair amount of time and resources. You have to develop topics or themes for your individual podcasts. You need to identify, invite and schedule time with guest participants. You have to record and edit the podcast. Once in its final form, you have to upload the podcast to the various platforms that distribute podcasts. Usually, this requires a team of support and technical folks to make it manageable. However, the results can be quite rewarding.



Nicole also talked about what kind of content to develop for your podcast, how to get the most from your investment by repurposing your content in various ways, and some of the tools she uses to prepare and distribute her podcast. For all that and more, listen to the entire podcast.



If you're listening on your favorite podcast platform, view the full shownotes here: https://thepearlcollective.com/s12e4-shownotes



Mentioned in This Podcast



For more information about Nicole and Thrive in Design, go to the firm’s website at www.thriveindesign.co.



Gail and Nicole mentioned Zoom and several other software programs useful for podcasters:




Klap - This is an app used to create short videos from longer videos for use on TikTok, Instagram and other social media platforms. More information at klap.app.



Riverside - This is an online studio for high-quality podcast and video recording and editing. You can use it for live video events as well as for editing text, audio and video. More information at riverside.fm.



Garage Band - This is Apple’s video editing app. It comes standard on Apple smartphones, tablets and computers.



Pod Bean - This is an app for recording, editing, publishing and distributing podcasts. More information at www.podbean.com.



Izotope - This is an audio mixing and mastering software. More information at www.izotope.com.





https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bbX4CeNkQW8




Episode Transcript

All designers aim to create environments for their clients that will improve their lives and support their health and wellness. In the execution of those designs, that often focus on functionality and aesthetics, other areas of wellbeing may get overlooked. Taking a broader, more holistic approach to client needs and the connection of the space to the natural environment can produce additional benefits.



In this episode, Gail welcomes back to the podcast Matthew Tenzin, principal designer with Joe McGuire Design, with offices in Aspen, Boulder and Denver, Colorado. Previously Matthew appeared in an episode with the firm’s founder and partner, Joe McGuire. A former Buddhist monk, Matthew has had a lifelong love for creativity and interconnectivity with spirituality and the natural world.



In 2017, Joe and Matthew launched a Holistic Design Consultancy, now known as Home Within, where they focus on offering the healthy, sustainable and energy-balancing aspects of their design process. Matthew explained that their method is to examine the project in the context of five levels of holistic wellbeing in the home, taking a top-down approach. Those are the spiritual and/or sacred level, a wellness vision, symbolic or meaningful level, sensory level and functional level.



Matthew said that normally the energetic level in the home is not addressed in traditional building and design. He explained that spaces contain residual energies from previous inhabitants that can affect the current residents, either for good or for ill. From an energy perspective, the space may be out of balance and require cleansing before any other work is undertaken.



Connectivity is also central to their process. Matthew urged designers to make more of an effort to connect with their clients. “If only the designer could just breathe and slow down for a minute to connect with client, it’s amazing what can come out of that,” he said. Connecting to the natural environment is also essential. “If we can’t connect to the planet and the whole from our home, where are we going to do that?” he noted.



Matthew also talked about how the firm is using a new wellness space they opened up next to their studio and their work with indigenous communities in the rain forests of South America.



Listen to the entire podcast for more details and insights from Matthew.



If you're listening on your favorite podcast platform, view the full shownotes here: https://thepearlcollective.com/s12e3-shownotes



Mentioned in This Podcast



For more information about Matthew and Joe McGuire Design, go to the firm’s website at www.joemcguiredesign.com.



For more information about their wellness consultancy, Home Within, go to the firm’s website at www.homewithin.com.



Listen to the previous podcast with Matthew and Joe discussing ways designers can break out of the cycle of constant business ups and downs.




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-ZgO8K21sU




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Welcome to the Creative Genius podcast, Matthew. You've been with us before, but our listeners might not have heard that episode. So we're gonna dive right in. So how did you become a designer? Tell us about that. Well, hi, Gail. Thanks for having me back. Of course. It's wonderful. I always love chatting with you and I'm excited to get to talk a little more with your listeners. So yeah, I became an interior designer in a little bit of an unusual way.



didn't go to design school, my background was more,

Many interior designers are uncomfortable with the idea of selling their services to a client. For them, the word “selling” carries a connotation of persuading someone to buy something that maybe they don’t want or can’t afford. There are other ways to approach a sale, however. Keep in mind that prospective clients are looking for help from you, the expert. Explain to them what you have to offer and explore whether you are a good fit for each other.



In this episode, Gail talks with Shannyn Lee, managing director of Win Without Pitching, based in Kaslo, British Columbia, Canada. Shannyn stated the firm seeks to help people in the interior design industry and others to learn to sell more professionally.



Shannyn stressed that designers need to accept that “it’s okay to sell and price like the experts they are.” She said a professional sales approach is a combination of understanding the client’s mindset and then giving them a framework for the different conversations that happen during the sales process. Let them know they have choices and options.



From the designer’s perspective, said Shannyn, think of the discussion with the prospective client not as an opportunity to pitch a sale but as a qualifying conversation. Leave room for the client to open up and talk about what they want, what’s motivating them to make a change. You’re looking to see if you’re a good fit for each other. You may find that you have reservations about taking on this project or working with this client.



“It’s okay to have power in the sale,” said Shannon. She advises that before meeting with the prospective client that designers repeat a helpful mantra: “I am the expert. I am the price to be won. I am on a mission to help. I will only be able to help you if you let me lead. All will not follow, and that is okay.”



For many designers, Shannyn said, it’s a matter of getting “comfortably uncomfortable” with selling. They just need to shift their mindset that it’s okay. “When you have the right mindset, typically the correct behaviors follow.” Keep in mind it takes a lot of practice to build up your confidence. Work on your skills and give it time.



Shannyn noted some common mistakes designers make when selling or pitching a project. She also discussed why the better option for some designers might be not to sell but rather to hire a business development person to handle that side of the business.



For all that and more, listen to the entire podcast.



If you're listening on your favorite podcast platform, view the full shownotes here: https://thepearlcollective.com/s12e2-shownotes



Mentioned in This Podcast



For more information about Win Without Pitching, including the many resources they have available, go to the firm’s website at www.winwithoutpitching.com.




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJv3Ji76LhY




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Welcome to the podcast, Shannon. I am so excited to have you on here. Thank you, Gail. I am too. I've been looking forward to this, so thanks for having me on. it's my pleasure. Well, we met in a mastermind, and it has been a lot of fun. And I have found out what great expertise you have in an area that I think will be great for our listeners today, which is sales, especially for people in the services business. Yes.



I can't wait to talk about that. But first, I have to ask you a few questions that are a little bit personal, and I would love to hear about these. And we asked this question about what your biggest life lesson was.

Sometimes a designer latches onto a particular period or style and builds their career around it. It may appeal to their sense of aesthetics or taste. Or it may speak them in more profound ways. They look for clients who also respond to that style and adapt when possible to meet that client’s needs.



In this episode, Gail talks with Christopher Kennedy, principal, Christopher Kennedy in Palm Springs, California. Christopher has a B.A. in architecture and an MBA in finance. He has been labeled an architectural designer but considers himself an interior designer, not an architect. He designs interiors, not buildings. He is the author of California Modern and Making Mid-Century Modern.



Christopher related his journey of how he eventually found his way to becoming an interior designer. He said that from a young age he was interested in creating positive environments for people. Although he is perhaps best known for his revival of mid-century modern design, he stressed that above all he thinks about how his clients will be impacted by the spaces he designs.



As designers, he said, “we’re not like selling a chair or a pillow. We’re really creating the home where someone is going to live out their human drama.”



Gail asked Christopher about his own books and what books he’s been reading lately. He mentioned a few titles and added that he basically reads three types of books, those on healing, spirituality and business.



In addition to his interiors work, Christopher has also developed a furniture line and currently has a number of licensing agreements with various manufacturers. In the future, he said, he would like to try his hand at designing fabrics, lighting and perhaps some smaller accessories, such as mirrors.



Christopher is a strong believer in giving back. Some years ago he created the Christopher Kennedy Compound showhouse in Palm Springs and helped to establish a Modernism week celebrating local design. Showhouses are not for everyone, he acknowledged, but there are many other ways designers can contribute to their communities. “We all have ways that we can give,” he said.



To learn more about Christopher and his work, listen to the entire podcast.



If you're listening on your favorite podcast platform, view the full shownotes here: https://thepearlcollective.com/s12e1-shownotes



Mentioned in This Podcast



To learn more about Christopher and to read his blog, go the firm’s website at www.christopherkennedy.com.



Christopher’s book, Making Mid-Century Modern, is available from online booksellers. His other book, California Modern, is currently out of print but available from used booksellers.



Gail asked what Christoper was currently reading, He said,




Unreasonable Hospitality: The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect by Will Guidara



You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life by Jen Sincero



Forever Strong: A New, Science-Based Strategy for Aging Well by Gabrielle Lyon




He also said he was reading various writings by Abraham Hicks, who writes about manifesting and related topics.



Gail mentioned the book, Areté: Activate Your Heroic Potential by Brian Johnson. She called it inspiring.




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ac-6UZBkbQo&pp=ygUYcGVhcmwgY29sbGVjdGl2ZSBwb2RjYXN0




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Interior designers deal with hundreds, if not thousands, of details every day. It only takes one slip-up to jeopardize a project and potentially lose a client. Being well organized can help prevent mistakes from happening or deadlines falling through the cracks. You need someone on your team with top-notch project management skills.



In this episode, Gail talks with Kathleen DiPaolo, founder and CEO of Kathleen DiPaolo Designs, based in Newport Beach, California. Kathleen also operates a website and a blog called Return on Interiors dedicated to helping designers take control of their businesses. For the past several years she has been living abroad and attributes her ability to keep operating her design business remotely to being well organized.



Kathleen recounted that she has been obsessed with being well-organized since she was very young. “It gives me a sense of calm and frees up space in my mind to do what I need to do,” she said.



Over time, Kathleen also has found that it is a competitive advantage for her business. As a client, she said, “you want to have the organized designer working for you.” In her experience, clients have greater respect and confidence in you as a designer. They also will pay more because they trust you will save them time and money.



For an interior design firm, a key component of being organized is having top-notch project management. Kathleen defined project management as organized processes. Usually these are processes that are frequently repeated. Standardizing them makes the business more efficient and effective by helping to prevent mistakes, avoiding duplicating routine work, and improving communication among members of the team and with clients.



“We’re creatives, but you have to keep the machine going, even when you don’t want to,” she said. She suggested designers who can’t afford to hire or outsource someone to do project management start with a simple project, such as setting up a digital file structure for documents, to begin to get better organized. As a next step, she recommended “taking something that’s repeatedly a roadblock or time suck, and building a better process around it.” Begin to develop a repository of these processes.



In her conversation with Gail, Kathleen also talked about her experiences living abroad and some of the challenges and life lessons she’s picked up along the way. Listen to the entire podcast to get all the details.



If you're listening on your favorite podcast platform, view the full shownotes here: https://thepearlcollective.com/s11e10-shownotes



Mentioned in This Podcast



For more information about Kathleen and her design firm, go to the website www.kathleendipaolodesigns.com.



To learn more about Kathleen’s Return on Interiors time savings and organizational tactics system, and to read her blog, go to www.returnoninteriors.com.




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SotGamHTIys




Episode Transcript



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Welcome to Creative Genius. Kathleen, it's so great to see you. So where are you living these days? Gail, I'm so happy to be here. Thank you for inviting me. Of course. am here in London right now. So I've been here for about two years now, believe it or not. my gosh. You have been on quite the journey. As long as I've known you, you started, I believe, in India? Yes. When I first knew you. And then from there, you went to?



Budapest I was there for four and a half years and then moved here. So I was in India for two years too.

In his 2020 account of his 15 years as CEO of the Disney empire, The Ride of a Lifetime, Roger Iger proclaimed the maxim, "Innovate or Die". It quickly became a mantra for business executives and would-be executives hoping to emulate Disney’s phenomenal success. Whether or not you share the same sense of passion and urgency for innovation as Iger does, the fact is that some degree of innovation is needed for any business to maintain competitiveness and move forward. Knowing how to apply innovation to your business can be a strategic advantage.



In this episode, Gail talks with consultant Jeff Standridge, based in Conway, Arkansas. Jeff also teaches in the College of Business at The University of Arkansas. He is the author of The Innovator's Field Guide: Accelerators for Entrepreneurs, Innovators and Change Agents and The Top Performers Field Guide: Catalysts for Leaders, Innovators and All Who Aspire to Be.



Innovation, as Jeff defines it, is “planned change directed at better ways than we are currently doing things today.” He identified three types of innovation that occur in businesses: incremental, breakthrough, and disruptive. Innovation, he said, is happening exponentially in today’s businesses. Much of it is driven by new technologies, such as the digital revolution and AI.



Gail asked Jeff how owners can apply innovation to their businesses. He said designers already have expertise in one of the main tools for innovation, design thinking. Beyond that, he said, first learn what innovation is and how it can impact a business, utilize an innovation process, conduct quantitative and qualitative research to determine what things in your business could be done better than how they’re being done today. Having identified those things and confirmed that they are things that are negatively impacting the business, develop solutions and implement them.



Gail also asked Jeff what key messages from his book he would like to share with listeners. He offered the following:




Sustained success comes from the ability to balance results and relationships.



Failure is only failure if you quit.



The only thing required for innovation to occur is a constraint.




To hear why Jeff believes innovation and leadership are inseparable and other insights, listen to the entire podcast.



If you're listening on your favorite podcast platform, view the full shownotes here: https://thepearlcollective.com/s11e9-shownotes



Mentioned in This Podcast



To learn more about Jeff and to contact him, go to the firm’s website at jeffstandridge.com.



You will also find information about his books and a page with a list of his podcasts and videos. You can also message Jeff through his page on LinkedIn.



Jeff recommended the book The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable by Patrick Lencioni. Both Jeff and Gail recommended another book by the same author, The Advantage: Why Organizational Health Trumps Everything Else in Business. Both are available from online booksellers.



Gail mentioned the book The Obstacle Is the Way: the Timeless Art of Turning Trials into Triumph by Ryan Holiday.



In speaking about their use of AI, Gail and Jeff mentioned a couple of AI tools they are currently using. Gail mentioned one called Granola, a self-described AI notepad for meetings. Jeff recommended a site called Auxigen, a library of AI-driven tools that bills itself as the “the world's first Entrepreneurial Support Platform.”




https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2SCaDSkYCPs




Episode Transcript