<![CDATA[Designer Discussions

<![CDATA[Designer Discussions - Episodes]]>Mon, 31 Aug 2026 21:48:01 -0700EditMySite<![CDATA[Episode 174 - How Designers And Remodelers Build Instant Credibility Online]]>Thu, 27 Aug 2026 11:00:00 GMThttps://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-174-how-designers-and-remodelers-build-instant-credibility-online

Homeowners are making a trust decision about you in minutes, usually before they ever reach out. We break down what they look at first and what quietly pushes them toward a competitor: an outdated website, blurry project photos, missing reviews, and messaging that feels generic. If you want a stronger design and remodeling brand, the goal is simple: remove doubt and show proof of quality everywhere a homeowner clicks.

We start with the basics of a professional, mobile-friendly website that loads fast and actually represents who you are. Then we dig into what makes a portfolio feel credible, including recent work, before-and-after galleries, and testimonials that connect to specific services. We also talk about professional photography and why it is one of the clearest differentiators in interior design marketing and remodeling contractor marketing. When your images are crisp, well-lit, and consistent, homeowners can see the craftsmanship and the transformation without you having to “sell” it.

Next, we get into online reviews and reputation management, including why responding to every review matter and how a less-than-perfect rating can become a trust builder when you handle it professionally. We close with the bigger mindset shift: educate homeowners through your website and social posts so you are evaluated as an expert, not compared like a commodity based on price. We also share that we teach much more about this inside our academy and will have a link in the show notes. Subscribe, leave a review, and share the show with a friend, then tell us which trust signal you’re going to improve first.

Here is the link from the podcast:

https://www.kitchenandbathmarketingsolutions.com/blog/build-a-remodeling-brand-homeowners-trust/

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics.

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Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

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Links are in the footer on this page or on the contact us page

]]><![CDATA[Episode 173 - Top 10 Paid Ads Tips for Design and Remodeling Professionals]]>Thu, 13 Aug 2026 11:00:00 GMThttps://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-173-top-10-paid-ads-tips-for-design-and-remodeling-professionals

Sending paid ad traffic to your homepage is one of the most expensive “normal” habits we see in the design and remodeling world. We get it, your homepage is beautiful and it shows everything you do. But when someone clicks a kitchen remodeling ad and lands on a page packed with unrelated services, they bounce, and you still pay for that click.

We walk through the five most important paid advertising fundamentals for interior designers, design build firms, and remodeling contractors who want better results from Google Ads and Facebook Ads without lighting their budget on fire. We talk about building a dedicated landing page that mirrors the exact keyword and offer, tightening targeting with location specific keywords so you stop hearing from people outside your service area, and using retargeting pixels to bring back warm visitors who showed interest but did not convert.

We also dig into tracking: how your CRM and website tracking help you measure calls, form submissions, and lead quality so you can cut what is not working and double down on what is. Finally, we share a simple creative upgrade that often boosts conversion rate fast: using video, even if it is just a slideshow of before and after projects. If you want the other five tips, head to our site, and if you have questions, reach out. Subscribe, leave a review, and share the show with a friend who is running ads right now.

About Designer Discussions

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

]]><![CDATA[Episode 172 - Using AI to Scale a Remodeling Business with Loren Schirber]]>Thu, 30 Jul 2026 11:00:00 GMThttps://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-172-using-ai-to-scale-a-remodeling-business-with-loren-schirber

Your phone rings after hours and a perfect-fit remodeling lead leaves a voicemail and disappears. We talk with Loren Schirber, second-generation owner of Castle Building and Remodeling in Minneapolis St Paul, about the practical ways she’s using AI to stop that leak and build a stronger design-build business without losing the human side of the work.

We get into what it really takes to scale a remodeling company from a basement operation into multiple design studios with a full team: designers, project managers, and in-house carpenters. Loren shares the behind-the-scenes reality of family business succession, why systems and roles matter, and how tough decisions can protect both the company and the relationships that built it.

Then we go deep on AI in remodeling and construction. Loren explains how AI agents and a modern CRM help capture leads, summarize sales calls, and schedule consultations 24/7. We also cover AI for interior design visualization, faster renderings, and plan and spec comparison that can catch costly mistakes before they hit the field. On the marketing side, we talk digital marketing for remodelers, SEO and AEO, content like remodeling cost guides and “Remodeling 101” videos, and why PR, reviews, and even accessibility now affect search visibility as bots and language models pull from many sources.

If you want smarter workflows, better lead conversion, and clearer positioning in a crowded market, hit play, then subscribe, share this with a builder or designer friend, and leave a review so more pros can find the show.
Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

About Designer Discussions

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

]]><![CDATA[Episode 171 - Top 10 SEO Tips for Design and Remodeling Professionals]]>Thu, 16 Jul 2026 11:00:00 GMThttps://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-171-top-10-seo-tips-for-design-and-remodeling-professionals

You do not need a massive marketing budget to start showing up on Google. We break down five high impact SEO moves that design and remodeling companies can tackle first, especially if you are tired of relying only on referrals or expensive ads. Jason shares the same practical guidance he gives other remodelers when they ask what they can do now, on their own, to build momentum with search.

We start with the foundation: your Google Business Profile. We talk about fully completing the profile, using the available space to describe services in detail, and making small but meaningful updates like holiday hours. Then we shift into local SEO strategy, including creating city pages and using location based keywords so you can compete in your real service area and improve your chances of landing in the map pack for “remodeler near me” searches.

From there, we get into content that actually differentiates you: documenting the design and remodeling journey from the first meeting through selections, demolition, installation, and the final reveal. We also cover why reviews matter for both rankings and trust, when to ask for them, and how video or detailed written feedback can help. We close with user experience tips, including mobile optimization and site speed, so your website performs well for both visitors and search engines.

If you found this helpful, subscribe, leave a review, and share the episode with a design pro who wants more qualified leads from SEO. What is the first fix you are going to make?

Find the Top 10 Tips Below:

1. Optimize for Local Search Everywhere: Focus heavily on city-specific service pages, Google Business Profile optimization, and local keywords to dominate local search results.
2. Create Project-Based Content: Showcase detailed before-and-after projects, case studies, and renovation stories to build authority and rank for long-tail searches.
3. Prioritize Google Business Profile (GBP): Consistently update photos, reviews, services, posts, and FAQs because GBP remains critical for local lead generation.
4. Use AI-Assisted SEO Strategically: Use AI tools for research, outlines, optimization, and scaling content while keeping the expertise and voice human.
5. Build Topical Authority: Create clusters of content around kitchens, bathrooms, additions, cabinetry, and remodeling topics to improve overall search relevance.
6. Optimize for Voice & Conversational Search: Write content that answers natural homeowner questions since voice and AI-assisted search continue to grow.
7. Focus on High-Quality Visual SEO: Properly optimize project images, alt text, video content, and file names because visual search is becoming increasingly important.
8. Improve Website Speed & User Experience: Fast-loading, mobile-friendly websites with strong navigation and clear calls-to-action rank and convert better.
9. Generate Consistent Reviews & Reputation Signals: Positive reviews across Google and other platforms strongly influence rankings, trust, and conversions.
10. Create Content for Every Stage of the Remodeling Journey: Develop SEO content that helps homeowners from inspiration and budgeting to hiring and project planning.

About Designer Discussions

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

]]><![CDATA[Episode 170 - The Hidden Side of Remodeling with Rodger Enters]]>Thu, 02 Jul 2026 11:00:00 GMThttps://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-170-the-hidden-side-of-remodeling-with-rodger-enters

A remodel can look perfect on paper and still go sideways the moment framing starts. We talk with residential structural engineer Roger Enters of Epong Engineering about what really protects a project: smart planning, clear communication, and getting engineering eyes on the work before assumptions turn into expensive fixes.

Roger shares why residential structural engineering is such a niche, how local licensing and building code expectations vary by market, and why professional trade organizations like NARI and builder associations can raise the standard for everyone involved. We also dig into what “legitimacy” actually means when homeowners are searching for a remodeler or trying to build the right team, plus how showing up to monthly meetings becomes real business development over time.

You’ll hear a real-world case where a sunroom addition nearly went to litigation after the wrong ridge element was used in a vaulted ceiling. Roger explains how an engineer approaches the problem, offers multiple buildable solutions, and helps keep the design intent intact while satisfying inspectors. We also break down one of the biggest homeowner questions in remodeling: removing a wall, understanding load-bearing vs lateral bracing, and why “it’s been fine for 70 years” is not a structural plan.

If you care about safer homes, smoother remodel timelines, and fewer surprises behind the drywall, hit play. Subscribe, share the episode with a builder or designer friend, and leave a review so more people can find the show.
Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

About Designer Discussions

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

]]><![CDATA[Episode 169 - Top 10 Website Tips for Design and Remodeling Professionals]]>Thu, 18 Jun 2026 11:00:00 GMThttps://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-169-10-website-tips-for-design-and-remodeling-professionals

Your website can be polished and still quietly leak leads. We see it all the time: great designers and remodelers doing strong work, but their site doesn’t show it clearly, doesn’t earn trust fast enough, or doesn’t tell visitors what to do next. So we break down five website upgrades for 2026 that make an immediate difference for the remodeling industry and design professionals who want better inquiries, better fit clients, and a stronger first impression.

We start with high quality photography, because your images are your credibility. We talk about why professional project photos change how homeowners judge your craftsmanship and taste, and what to do if you’re still shooting work yourself. Then we get practical about conversion: a clear call to action that tells people to book a consultation, submit a project form, or take the next step, instead of leaving them to guess. If you’ve ever wondered why traffic doesn’t turn into leads, this is often the missing piece.

From there, we dig into trust and visibility. We explain how to use social proof the right way, including linking out to authentic Google reviews or Houzz reviews, and why third party validation beats self promotion every time. We also make the SEO case for location specific pages and detailed project pages, where you describe materials, phases, and product choices so search engines and AI search can actually understand your work. Finally, we talk video marketing for your website, even simple Canva slideshows, to increase time on page and help people stop scrolling and start picturing themselves hiring you.

If you want the other five tips, we point you to where to find them. Subscribe, share the show with a design friend, and leave a review so more remodelers and designers can find us.
Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.
About Designer Discussions

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

]]><![CDATA[Episode 168 - Why NKBA Matters with Samantha Vogt]]>Thu, 04 Jun 2026 11:00:00 GMThttps://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-168-why-nkba-matters-with-samantha-vogt

Networking can feel like small talk until you realize it can also be the strongest business development system you have. We sit down with Samantha Vogt, president of the NKBA Texas North Plains Chapter and a senior interior designer at Jay Wiley Designs, to get specific about what the National Kitchen and Bath Association really offers working designers and remodelers who want to grow with more confidence and less guesswork.

We unpack the practical benefits Samantha sees every day: education that goes beyond inspiration, market research that helps you understand shifting budgets and client expectations, and a community that can become an organic referral pipeline. Samantha breaks down NKBA certifications and specialty badges, plus the value of standards and code guidance for kitchen and bath design, from clearances to accessibility considerations. If you’ve ever wished for a clearer roadmap for professional development, this conversation lays out what’s available and how to use it.

We also talk trends and the bigger industry picture, including KBIS, the Kitchen and Bath Industry Show, where vendors, CEUs, and panel discussions can keep you ahead of materials and products your clients will ask about next. And yes, we go straight at the AI question: where AI can support your workflow, why it still can’t replace a designer, and how to stay adaptable without buying into hype.

If you want to connect with the right people, learn faster, and build a stronger design business, press play and take notes. Subscribe, share this with a design friend, and leave a review so more pros can find the show.
Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

About Designer Discussions

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

]]><![CDATA[Episode 167 - 10 Questions Design and Remodeling Professionals Ask About PR]]>Thu, 21 May 2026 11:00:00 GMThttps://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-167-10-questions-design-and-remodeling-professionals-ask-about-pr

PR can feel like a black box for designers and remodeling pros, so we’re pulling the curtain back with the 10 questions we get asked nonstop. We talk about what PR actually is (hint: it’s not just “getting into a magazine”), why earned media builds trust in a way paid ads can’t, and how to think about visibility across online publications, local outlets, trade media, podcasts, and even speaking opportunities.

We also get practical about doing your own public relations without hiring a pricey PR agency. We unpack what journalists and editors are really looking for, how to turn your projects and expertise into story-ready angles, and why generic self-praise falls flat. Then we dig into photography expectations, including when professional photos are worth the spend and when high-quality iPhone images can be enough for the right kind of coverage.

From there, we zoom out into strategy: how fast PR can work when you focus, why long-term consistency compounds, and why local press often beats national logos for generating qualified leads in your region. We also clarify the relationship between PR and marketing, explain where press releases fit today, and share a mindset shift for handling rejection so you keep pitching without taking it personally.

If you want more visibility, more credibility, and a clearer path to media coverage that supports your business goals, hit play, then subscribe, leave a review, and share the show with a friend.
Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

About Designer Discussions

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our Academy sessions and workshops:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

]]><![CDATA[Episode 166 - Top 10 Social Media Tips for 2026]]>Thu, 07 May 2026 11:00:00 GMThttps://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-166-top-10-social-media-tips-for-2026

Social media has never offered more ways to reach clients and it has never been easier to waste an entire afternoon scrolling. We break that tension down with five practical social media tips for 2026 built specifically for design professionals who need results without burning out.

We start with the foundation: consistency. If a potential client checks your Instagram or Facebook and your last post is months old, trust drops fast. We talk about what “consistent” actually looks like, why one strong post per week can be enough, and how a simple schedule keeps your brand visible while you stay focused on projects. We also share a batching workflow that takes about an hour a month, plus scheduling options like Meta Business Suite, Hootsuite, and Zoho Social so your content goes out even when you’re slammed.

From there, we get into community and content strategy for interior design marketing and remodeling business growth. We explain how joining the right groups and engaging with like minded pros helps you earn shares, comments, and long term momentum. Then we cover what makes content “relevant” in 2026: timely updates, clear education, and information that makes your audience think, save, and follow. The goal is to give people a real reason to keep coming back to your page.

We close with the part nobody talks about enough: your relationship with social media. We share how to avoid spreading yourself too thin, set a weekly engagement window, and stop the death scroll so you can stay sharp, healthy, and consistent.

Subscribe, leave a review, and share the show with a friend. See all 10 tips below:

Trust-First Content: Focus on building credibility through real projects, client experiences, behind-the-scenes content, and authentic storytelling instead of constant promotional posts.
Short-Form Video Storytelling: Short videos that educate, entertain, or explain a transformation are outperforming generic trend-based content because they increase watch time and engagement.
Authority-Based Content: Businesses that consistently teach their audience through tips, insights, FAQs, and industry expertise are attracting higher-quality leads and building stronger trust.
Local SEO + Social Integration: Social platforms are becoming local search engines, making geotags, local keywords, and city-specific content critical for visibility and lead generation.
Personal Branding for Executives & Teams: Owners, designers, and leadership teams who become visible online create stronger emotional connections and faster trust with potential clients.
AI-Assisted Content Creation: AI tools are helping businesses create content faster, repurpose videos and blogs, generate captions, and maintain consistency without sacrificing quality.
Community Engagement Over Follower Count: Engagement quality matters more than audience size, so responding to comments, starting conversations, and building community relationships are essential.
Educational Carousel Posts: Informative multi-slide posts explaining processes, mistakes, tips, or strategies are driving high saves and shares, which boosts platform reach.
Consistency Over Virality: Businesses posting consistently with clear messaging and recurring themes are outperforming brands that rely only on occasional viral content.
Content for the Entire Buyer Journey: Successful brands create content for every stage of the customer journey, from awareness and education to trust-building, conversion, and client retention.

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

]]><![CDATA[Episode 165 - Learn How to Get Found in AI]]>Thu, 23 Apr 2026 11:00:00 GMThttps://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-165-learn-how-to-get-found-in-ai

AI search is quietly reshaping how homeowners choose a designer or remodeler, and the rules are not the same as traditional SEO. If you want your business to show up when someone asks ChatGPT or Perplexity for “the best kitchen remodeler near me,” you need more than a pretty website and a few keywords. You need content that answers the questions people actually ask and signals that you’re a credible expert worth quoting.

We talk through the website moves that make you easier for large language models to understand: clear service pages, tight structure, and FAQ-style answers around the big trust questions like cost, scope, and timeline. We also explain how to share pricing without boxing yourself into a single number by using ranges and real examples that add context. If your homepage is a wall of text, we explain why that hurts both humans and AI and what “organized” really looks like.

Then we get into why PR is having a real moment. Earned media creates third-party credibility, and that validation is exactly what AI systems tend to rely on when they build answers. We break down how smaller local mentions, trade publication quotes, and smart press release distribution can put your name in more places AI looks. We also share what not to do, including publishing generic AI-written website copy that gets ignored instead of rewarded.

If you want more designers and remodeling leads from AI search, subscribe, share this with a colleague, and leave a review so more pros can find it.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://auditsky.ai (Website AI Audit)
https://answerthepublic.com/ (Find out what questions people are asking AI)

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

]]><![CDATA[Episode 164 - Modern Systems and Smarter Pricing For Remodelers with Diane Welhouse]]>Thu, 09 Apr 2026 11:00:00 GMThttps://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-164-modern-systems-and-smarter-pricing-for-remodelers-with-diane-welhouse

If your design studio feels busy but the bank account never seems to agree, it’s time to zoom out and look at operations. We’re joined by Diane Welhouse of Wellhouse Consulting Services, a certified kitchen and bath remodeler and longtime remodeling professional, to talk about what actually makes a design or remodeling business durable in a tough marketplace.

We start with the unglamorous stuff that changes everything: replacing outdated, paper-based workflows with modern business systems, choosing scalable technology, and building processes your team can follow. Diane explains why “mainstream” tools like QuickBooks and supported project platforms often beat proprietary setups, especially if you want to grow, hire, or eventually sell.

Then we get into pricing strategy, budgeting, and cash flow. Diane breaks down how to use real numbers, not “industry standard markup,” to set rates and margins, track billable hours, and aim for true profit. A big takeaway is reserve planning in three buckets: operating reserves for downturns, capital reserves for future investments, and “human reserves” so you can hire without fear during that 60 to 90 day ramp-up window.

We also connect operations to marketing and PR: defining your mission, values, and ideal client profile, building trust through thought leadership on LinkedIn, working with local media, and using awards plus before-and-after photos as credibility and content. Hit play, then subscribe, share the show with a friend, and leave a review so more design pros can find it.
Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

welhouseconsulting.com/

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

]]><![CDATA[Episode 163 - The Commercial Design Crossover with Marcy Sagel]]>Thu, 26 Mar 2026 11:00:00 GMThttps://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-163-the-commercial-design-crossover-with-marcy-sagel

If you’ve ever thought, “I can design a beautiful space, but commercial feels like a different language,” today’s guest is here to change that. Marcy Sagel is the founder of DesignerBank and principal of MSA Interiors, with 25 years in commercial and multifamily interiors. She helps interior designers build practical skills in Revit, Enscape rendering, and large-scale space planning using real project workflows. In this conversation, you’ll learn what truly separates residential from commercial, and how to level up fast without
guessing.

Commercial interior design can look mysterious from the outside, but once you understand the workflow, it becomes a realistic next step for residential designers who want bigger projects and a wider career runway. We sit down with Marcy Sagel, founder of MSA Interiors and Designer Bank, to unpack what actually changes when you move into multifamily and other large-scale commercial work, and what skills help you contribute fast without feeling overwhelmed.

We get specific about the tools and the expectations. Marcy explains why so many commercial teams rely on Revit, how interior designers use it inside an architectural model, and why firms often require Revit proficiency before they hire. We also talk about the real payoff: stronger job placement, more opportunities across architecture and design firms, and the career leverage that comes from production-ready software skills. On top of that, we explore why rendering matters so much for client buy-in, plus how learning lighting, materials, and presentation techniques can make your ideas land faster.

Then we zoom out to the business side of commercial interiors: working with big teams, staying aligned through schedules and phases, doing early space planning for amenities, and handling value engineering without sacrificing the look. Marcy also shares practical marketing and PR advice for designers who want to break into commercial work locally, often starting with the same residential clients who own businesses and need offices or facilities designed.

If you’re ready to expand your portfolio and design career, subscribe, share the episode with a designer friend, and leave a review so more listeners can find the show.
If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

]]><![CDATA[Episode 162 - KBIS 2026 Trends from the Show Floor]]>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 11:00:00 GMThttps://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-162-kbis-2026-trends-from-the-show-floor

Surprise: the star of KBIS wasn’t a futuristic gadget but the return of character. We dive into a wave of “what’s old is new again,” where doors get beaded and chamfered profiles, mullions and mesh come back with purpose, and stained glass quietly flexes in kitchens and baths. After years of flat fronts and white shaker, this shift doesn’t feel fussy—it feels intentional, with cleaner proportions, smarter materials, and a warmer, crafted vibe.

We break down the material story driving that warmth: rift-cut white oak, walnut, and even revived cherry, paired with natural stone that’s reclaiming space from quartz. Countertops move beyond the square edge to ogee, double ogee, and bullnose, while thin 1–2 cm slabs unlock thermoformed curves and softer geometry. We tackle the practical side too—how to maintain ergonomic heights with thinner tops and how new textured finishes manage cleanup. The room expands beyond cabinets as arches, wide crowns, paneled walls, and bold trim treatments turn kitchens into cohesive architectural statements. Color’s still surging, but now in matte appliance finishes—hot pink, mauve, navy, and leafy greens that sit comfortably next to honest wood and stone.

There’s a fresh frontier as well: luxe closets. We’re seeing full-on kitchen-level detailing in wardrobe spaces, from fluted panels and glass doors to island-grade surfaces and lighting. Tile tech adds drama with oversize “wallpaper” porcelains and custom-printed trims that match pattern and tone. And for anyone heading to a massive trade show, we share our battle-tested plan to see more, stress less, and actually capture what matters—when to walk which hall, how to avoid the mobbed booths, and how to mine your photos for early trend signals. The industry mood is upbeat, even as hiring remains tough and AI enters the chat; the real opportunity lies in pairing human craft with better tools and a sharper eye for detail.

If this kind of design intel fuels your work, follow along, share the episode with a colleague, and leave a quick review so others can find it. Got a favorite comeback trend or a question about specifying thin slabs, matte finishes, or closet systems? Tell us what you’re testing next.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-162-KBIS-2026-Trends-from-the-Show-Floor

https://www.designerdiscussions.com/academy.html

]]><![CDATA[Episode 161 - Listen to this before setting your 2026 Marketing Goals]]>Thu, 26 Feb 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-161-listen-to-this-before-setting-your-2026-marketing-goals

Planning your 2026 marketing but not sure where to start—or how to fix what’s not working? We break down a practical path that helps design professionals win more of the right projects without burning hours on tactics that don’t convert. It begins with the must-have foundations: a clear ideal client and a website that proves credibility in seconds. From there, we show how to get discovered locally and convert interest into consultations with a few focused moves.

We walk through the top channels we track each year for designers and remodelers, then spotlight the ones that deliver reliable lift on normal budgets. You’ll hear why Google Business Profile is the smartest entry point for local SEO, how to fully complete and optimize your listing, and how posting a couple times a month can nudge you into the map pack. We also tackle social media with a calm, sustainable plan: four strong posts a month, a clear message about who you serve, and project-driven storytelling that builds trust. No daily grind required.

You’ll learn how to turn ongoing jobs into content—before-and-afters, process snapshots, and client outcomes—and how to use a fast competitor scan to spot service gaps you can own. We touch on connected TV advertising too: when it makes sense, what it costs, and why most firms are better served mastering the basics first. By the end, you’ll have a checklist to align your message, update your proof, and focus your time where it actually moves the pipeline.

If this helped, follow the links in our show notes for the CEU replay and our social masterclass, then subscribe, share with a colleague, and leave a quick review so more designers can find the show.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/ZSwvvC5WwqxlumxrUtzv

]]><![CDATA[Episode 160 - Lessons From 37 Years In Remodeling with Jeff Russell]]>Thu, 12 Feb 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-160-lessons-from-37-years-in-remodeling-with-jeff-russell

What does it take to build a resilient remodeling business that lasts? We sit down with Jeff Russell of Russell Room Remodelers to trace a 37-year journey from a broadcasting grad to a trusted contractor serving the Twin Cities. The conversation moves from hard-won lessons on pricing and financial literacy to the everyday choices that shape trust inside a client’s home.

Jeff breaks down why many new remodelers undercharge and how to fix it with real numbers: account for every cost, include the life you need to fund, and divide by true billable hours. We dig into the difference between a P&L and a balance sheet, why the balance sheet is your scoreboard, and how those insights guide margin, markup, and cash buffer decisions. A candid story about a flooded kitchen becomes a masterclass in client communication, accountability, and turning a setback into advocacy.

On the growth side, Jeff shares how he hires for values first, uses strengths tools to place people where they thrive, and taps associations and roundtables for mentorship, shared labor, and practical frameworks. We talk about marketing that evolved from newspapers to the Remodelers Showcase, a modern website, and social content that documents real work. You’ll hear a simple shift that changes everything: aim to make marketing a vending machine, not a slot machine, and keep testing channels like Google Local Services with a clear eye on lead quality and cost.

Finally, we explore smart uses of AI—from drafting sensitive client emails to modeling compensation—while stressing verification on technical topics like codes. If you’re a remodeler, designer, or contractor looking to price correctly, hire wisely, market with intention, and communicate under pressure, this conversation is your field guide.

Enjoyed the episode? Follow and subscribe, share with a colleague, and leave a quick review to help more remodelers find the show.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/ZSwvvC5WwqxlumxrUtzv

]]><![CDATA[Episode 159 - How to Stop Random Acts of Marketing]]>Thu, 29 Jan 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-159-how-to-stop-random-acts-of-marketing

Tired of starting the year with big marketing goals and slipping back into guesswork by spring? We’re laying out a simple, durable framework to end random acts of marketing and build steady momentum into 2026, designed specifically for design and remodeling professionals who need results without burnout.

We break down the five pillars that keep your pipeline healthy: a rock-solid foundation with clear ideal client targeting and a trustworthy website, focused visibility where your clients actually are, real authority through case studies and PR, steady nurture that turns interest into action, and a clean sales process that converts projects without pressure. You’ll hear why short sprints on social, SEO, or ads rarely stick, and how a quarterly plan gives you time to execute well, measure honestly, and improve with each cycle.

Together we map practical examples you can copy: polishing your home, services, and portfolio pages; keeping Google Business Profile fresh with reviews and updates; setting a weekly rhythm on one primary social channel; turning finished projects into pitchable case studies; and launching a simple monthly email that educates and builds trust. We also dig into intake scripts, proposals that set expectations, and the accountability systems that protect your marketing time when client work gets busy.

If you’ve tried before and stalled, you’re not alone and you’re not done. Steal the quarterly structure, apply the five pillars, and give each tactic enough runway to compound. Subscribe, share this with a colleague who needs a sane plan for 2026, and leave a quick review to tell us which pillar you’ll focus on first.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-159-How-to-Stop-Random-Acts-of-Marketing

https://app.gohighlevel.com/v2/preview/ZSwvvC5WwqxlumxrUtzv

]]><![CDATA[Episode 158 - Talking with Marlon Stepp]]>Thu, 15 Jan 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-158-talking-with-marlon-stepp

What happens when a remodeling company is born from service instead of sales? We sit down with Houston’s Marlon Stepp to unpack how a volunteer effort after floods and hurricanes became a design-build firm trusted by homeowners, hospitals, gyms, restaurants, and neighborhood nonprofits. The throughline is simple and rare: show up first, do what you say, and put displaced families at the front of the schedule. That relentless focus on people fueled referrals, opened doors to commercial projects, and shaped a brand that leads with integrity.

We talk about the early days of small repair jobs and how consistent delivery led to bigger tables and better conversations. Marlon breaks down how his team grew by tapping classmates and long-time friends with deep trade experience, building a bench of subcontractors who are as reliable as they are skilled. When disaster strikes, they flex timelines to get families back home, and that compassion turns into future work. On the business side, we map the shift from painful downtime to a steady pipeline through raw social video, a clear website, and reviews that travel further than any pitch deck.

Community impact sits at the center. From outfitting outreach kitchens to installing mini libraries in underserved neighborhoods, Marlon’s crew treats service as part of the job—not a marketing afterthought. We dig into why those stories resonate with media and why PR is a natural next step. Then we look ahead: short-term rentals, flips, and a move toward ground-up development that creates housing, supports local needs, and positions the company as a go-to partner when crises hit.

If you’re a remodeler battling slow seasons, a designer eyeing commercial work, or a property owner who values character as much as craftsmanship, this conversation offers a roadmap. You’ll hear how to document your process without overproducing, how to build trust at scale, and how to turn experience on job sites into smart investments and long-term resilience. Enjoy the story, take the tactics, and if it sparks ideas for your own practice, subscribe, share with a colleague, and leave a review to help others find the show.
If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-158-talking-with-Marlon-Stepp/

About Designer Discussions

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.
Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

Learn more: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

SUBSCRIBE NOW
Links are in the footer on this page or on the contact us page

]]><![CDATA[Episode 157 - What's Next for Designer Discussions Podcast in 2026]]>Thu, 01 Jan 2026 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-157-whats-next-for-designer-discussions-podcast-in-2026

A new year calls for a smarter format. We’re kicking off 2026 by opening the studio doors to the people building design and remodeling businesses every day—so you hear what’s working, what isn’t, and how to fix it without guesswork or gimmicks. Think of it as a workshop you can return to, with clear steps, practical tools, and honest stories that help you create momentum in your marketing.

We share a big update: Maria is shifting from weekly co-host to recurring expert, bringing focused segments on AI and fast-moving tech that actually help designers save time, refine strategy, and tell stronger stories. No hype—just what to use, what to skip, and how to apply it to PR, social, email, and search. Alongside that, we’re expanding guest features from design and remodeling pros who walk through their journeys, the channels they bet on, and the lessons they learned when campaigns missed the mark.

You’ll also hear two new formats built for action. First, Business of the Month: candid conversations with firms about positioning, lead flow, and marketing choices, followed by targeted next steps you can adapt to your own studio. Second, Fix My Marketing: you send real challenges—flat engagement, messy websites, cold PR outreach—and we respond with specific fixes you can try this week. We’ll keep host-led episodes tighter and more tactical, focusing on the essentials: better pitches, clearer offers, content that converts, and simple analytics that guide smart decisions.

If you want useful tactics, a community of peers, and guidance shaped by what’s happening on the ground, this is your year with us. Subscribe, share with a friend who needs a nudge, and join our newsletter to get resources tied to each topic. Got a success story or a stubborn roadblock? Apply to be featured and let’s solve it together.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-157-Whats-Next-for-Designer-Discussions-Podcast-in-2026

]]><![CDATA[Episode 156 What Worked this year in 2025]]>Thu, 18 Dec 2025 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-156-what-worked-this-year-in-2025

A year of experiments revealed a simple truth: design businesses grow faster when they trade constant posting for consistent systems. We open our playbook and revisit the strategies that delivered real results—using social more strategically, running an email newsletter that actually brings referrals, and treating PR as a core engine rather than a nice-to-have. Along the way, we unpack what we learned from KBIS so you can talk trends with clients even if you skipped the show floor, and we share a step-by-step plan for staying visible when inquiries slow.

One highlight you’ll love: a designer from our academy set a bold goal and landed Architectural Digest by following a clear PR routine—tight stories, strong images, and calm, timely follow-up. That story anchors a bigger shift we’re seeing across search. As AI-driven platforms source answers from trusted outlets, media placements now do double duty: they win client confidence and help search engines understand and elevate your expertise. We connect the dots between E-E-A-T signals, local visibility, and how a single placement can ripple through your website, newsletter, and proposals.

If you’ve felt stretched thin by social, we lay out a low-burn approach: fewer channels, batched content, and posts aligned to real business goals. For slower markets, we map a 90-day “momentum sprint” that refreshes your site, activates past clients, and turns one helpful email per send into booked consultations. We also touch on our reintroduction—who we are, what we teach, and how we support designers and remodelers with marketing that respects your time and protects your energy.

If this resonated, tap follow, share it with a colleague who needs a calmer plan, and leave a quick review to help more design pros find the show. Then tell us: which 2025 episode was your favorite and what should we dig into next?

About Designer Discussions

Transform your marketing with Designer Discussions Academy. In weekly face-to-face sessions, we equip busy business owners with cutting-edge PR strategies, marketing insights, and time-saving tools to not just work in your business, but on your business. Join us to outshine competitors and elevate your business.

Join us for our weekly live sessions and workshops: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

Designer Discussions is an educational interior design podcast on marketing, PR and related business topics. We also provide in-depth, actionable products in the Marketing Studio including time-saving templates and guides to help design professionals grow their businesses.

Download our FREE Client Avatar Guide https://designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/store.
Designer Discussions is a partnership of three experts: Jason Lockhart, CEO of KABMS; Maria Martin, founder of DesignAppy; and Mirjam Lippuner, founder of Get Ink DIY

Learn more: https://www.designerdiscussionsmarketing.studio/pages/academy

SUBSCRIBE NOW
Links are in the footer on this page or on the contact us page

]]><![CDATA[Episode 155 - How to stop doing random marketing in 2026]]>Thu, 04 Dec 2025 12:00:00 GMThttps://www.designerdiscussions.com/episodes/episode-155-how-to-stop-doing-random-marketing-in-2026

If your marketing swings from frantic bursts to total silence, you’re not alone—and you’re not broken. We’ve seen the same pattern in studios and remodelers for years: a few social posts, a one-off newsletter, a trade show, then disappearing when jobs heat up. The result is a lead drought that shows up right when you’re busiest. We’re changing that with a straightforward, design-first framework that turns scattered tasks into a system you can run even on a packed calendar.

We break down the five pillars every design or remodeling business needs: foundation, visibility, authority, nurture, and sales. Foundation starts with your website as the hub you control, supported by practical SEO and a complete Google Business Profile so you’re visible in local search. Visibility is about consistent presence where homeowners and builders already look. Authority builds trust through PR, media mentions, and awards that shorten sales cycles and raise perceived value. Nurture keeps relationships warm with value-first emails and thoughtful check-ins that turn single projects into repeat work and referrals. Sales ties it all together with a clear path from inquiry to signed agreement, backed by simple steps and follow-ups that convert.

You’ll hear real stories that prove small changes move fast. A designer who lived on Facebook rebuilt their foundation after a six-week shutdown and stabilized lead flow. An academy member who felt intimidated by PR landed a Forbes mention within a month once they focused. A celebrated interior designer revived “dead” email by switching to an 80-20 value mix and watched opens and conversions climb. We finish with a quick-start plan for 2026: pick one pillar for Q1, set one action you can complete, and choose one person to keep you accountable. No 60-page plan. Just momentum you can feel.

Ready to ditch random marketing and build a system that holds up under real-world workload? Listen now, then subscribe, share with a colleague, and leave a quick review to help more design pros find us. Want deeper support? Grab the link in the show notes to join our live masterclass and map your 12-month plan together.

If you would like to get the links and show notes for this episode, click on the link below:

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