A Well-Designed Business® | Interior Design Business Podcast

Today With Maya Crowne & Price Latimer: In today’s episode, I sit down with Maya Crowne and Price Latimer, the visionary co-founders of Alkemis Paint. What started as a personal search for a healthier alternative to conventional paint turned into a groundbreaking company redefining the industry with plastic-free, plant-based, high-performance paint. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✔️ Why most conventional paints contain plastic—and how that impacts indoor air quality and the environment ✔️ How Maya and Price turned a personal frustration into a thriving business that challenges industry norms ✔️ The power of educating your clients about healthier, smarter alternatives ✔️ Actionable strategies for building a brand that aligns with your values ✔️ How to differentiate your business by identifying gaps in the market LuAnn Nigara, Maya Crowne & Price Latimers Ah-Ha Moments: "We’ve been painting our walls with plastic for decades—without questioning it. Once we realized that, we knew there had to be a better way." – Maya Crowne "If we care about clean beauty, organic food, and air purifiers, why aren’t we thinking about the air we breathe inside our own homes?" – Price Latimer "Innovation starts with frustration. I couldn’t paint my tiny apartment without suffocating—so I started asking why paint has to be this way in the first place." – Maya Crowne More About Maya Crowne & Price Latimer Maya Crowne, CEO and Co-Founder of Alkemis Paint After a successful corporate career, I felt the desire to return to my creative roots and focus on my love of color by creating a paint company that is truly all-natural, non-toxic and sustainable, with the addition of functional wellness benefits. Price Latimer, CCO and Co-Founder of Alkemis Paint Humans currently spend approximately 90% of their time in enclosed spaces. Whether in residential or public settings, we are invariably surrounded by paint products almost every minute of the day and yet are often oblivious to their deleterious aspects. Alkemis Paint was founded because we can—and we must—do better for ourselves and for the planet. It is well-established that colors, nature, and aesthetics can positively influence our mood. Connect with Maya Crowne & Price Latimer Website Instagram Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Other Shows: AWDB #32: Robin Baron – The President of ASID NY Metro Chapter Talks with us about PR and Brand Development AWDB #540: Robin Baron: Strategic Thinking on Product Development

Today With Brenda Danso: As an interior designer, you do more than create beautiful spaces—you guide clients through major life transitions, juggle countless responsibilities, and often take on an emotional load that goes far beyond design. But how do you protect your own well-being in the process? In this episode, Brenda Danso, founder of BD Interior Design and mental health expert, shares powerful insights on recognizing burnout, managing stress, and creating environments that promote emotional well-being—for both yourself and your clients. Learn how to set boundaries, navigate emotionally charged client interactions, and design a business that truly supports your mental health. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, exhausted, or like you’re constantly running on empty, this conversation is for you. Tune in now and take the first step toward a healthier, more sustainable design business. LuAnn Nigara and Brenda Danso’s Ah-Ha Moments: “Burnout doesn’t always show up as exhaustion. Sometimes it looks like resentment—toward your work, your clients, or even yourself for taking on too much.” – Brenda Danso “Your business should fit into your life, not the other way around. If it doesn’t, you have to step back and ask—what needs to change?” – Brenda Danso “Success isn’t just about how much money you make—it’s about how you feel while making it. If you’re constantly drained and stressed, is that really the business you want?” – LuAnn Nigara “Sometimes we’re so busy pushing forward that we don’t realize we’re running on empty. Taking a pause isn’t failure—it’s what allows you to keep going.” – LuAnn Nigara More About Brenda Danso Brenda Danso, the visionary behind BD Interior Design, brings a unique perspective that intertwines mental health and design. Originally from California, she seamlessly transitioned from a career in mental health therapy to pursuing her true passion for design. Brenda is widely acclaimed for her approachable nature, making her clients feel comfortable and understood throughout the design process. In addition to her design expertise, Brenda has emerged as a trusted figure in the design world. She frequently shares her insights and knowledge as a recognized expert on Cityline TV, where she delves into the intersection of design, well-being, and mental health. With her deep understanding of branding and mental health, Brenda has achieved remarkable success, becoming a source of inspiration for aspiring designers and entrepreneurs alike. Connect with Brenda Danso Website Instagram Facebook YouTube What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Other Shows: AWDB #974: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: How to Prioritize Your Well-being in Your Interior Design Business AWDB #881: Power Talk Friday: Katie McDonald: Self-Care is Key to a Thriving, Well-Designed Business AWDB #940: Christine Vroom: An Honest Conversation about Mental Health and the Interior Design Industry

Today With Peter and Alex Spalding: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. On today’s sponsored show, I’m joined by Peter and Alex Spalding, founders of Daniel House Club. Daniel House Club is a designer trade program that provides access to a vast network of vendors, offering countless product options, concierge services, and tools to simplify procurement, shipping, and admin. Peter and Alex are committed to keeping their program simple and supportive for designers—and they’ve built that goal into every step of their process. Today, they’re here to share their story and tell us how Daniel House Club can help you streamline furniture acquisition and remove headaches and hassle from your projects. LuAnn Nigara, Peter and Alex Spalding’s Ah-Ha Moments: "Let's be real, you're a designer, you should be able to design a home, not design a logistics spreadsheet." -LuAnn "What I do like about this is it has given me the ability to be profitable working at a different range. I can do a $300,000 living room for one client and still help someone furnish their home for $25,000 without losing my shirt." -Peter "We look for simple, not easy. Our goal is to make life easier for designers, even if it means things are more complicated for us on the back end." -Alex More About Peter and Alex Spalding We started out like many of you—running a design firm, juggling countless projects, and chasing slim margins. As we scaled, we noticed something surprising: the part of the business that kept our doors open wasn’t our design services—it was furniture sales. That realization changed everything. We decided to rethink the way interior designers source and sell furniture. What if we could simplify it? What if we could make it more profitable? What if we could create a platform that frees designers to focus on their craft instead of chasing vendors and managing endless logistics? That’s exactly what Daniel House Club is today. We’ve streamlined the process of acquiring and reselling furniture so you can spend less time on admin and more time doing what you do best. Whether you’re working on a single room or a full-scale project, our tools and resources are designed to make your business not only run smoother—but thrive. We’re here to make your work easier, your profits stronger, and your clients happier. Connect with Peter and Alex Spalding Website Instagram Pinterest

Today With Richard Anuszkiewicz: Welcome to another episode of A Well-Designed Business! Today, we’re diving into the world of high-end kitchen and bath design with the incredibly talented Richard Anuszkiewicz. As an award-winning designer and industry thought leader, Richard has built a name for himself through his innovative approach, brand collaborations, and unwavering commitment to excellence. In this episode, we uncover the key ingredients that set luxury design apart and explore how you can apply these principles to your own business. You’ll learn: The essential elements that define true luxury in design. How strategic brand partnerships can expand your influence and opportunities. The mindset shifts needed to position yourself at the top of your niche. Whether you’re a seasoned designer or just starting to carve out your space in the industry, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways to help you elevate your business. LuAnn Nigara and Richard Anuszkiewicz’s Ah-Ha Moments: "Luxury isn’t just about beautiful products—it’s about crafting an unforgettable experience." – Richard Anuszkiewicz "The details are what define high-end design. From materials to functionality, every element must be intentional." – Richard Anuszkiewicz "Excellence in design is about constantly pushing boundaries, staying curious, and never settling for average." – LuAnn Nigara More About Richard Anuszkiewicz Highlighted as a top industry innovator by Kitchen & Bath Design News for creative talents and business acumen, Richard T. Anuszkiewicz is a recognized North American kitchen and bath design authority. A 2019 NKBA Insider, 2018 Coverings Emerging Leader, 2017 Modenus Top 10 Design Influencer and Washingtonian Style Setter, Richard graduated from Virginia Tech NKBA accredited Residential Design program and is an alumnus of the NKBA Top 30 Under 30 program in 2013. Anuszkiewicz is a respected keynote speaker presenting nationally at premier industry events including: Dwell on Design Los Angeles, Design Chicago, Wanted Design New York, DDA Toronto, KBIS Las Vegas and Orlando. Richard has been highlighted in numerous high-profile publications, such as Vanity Fair, Architectural Digest, Traditional Home, House Beautiful, The Washington Post, The Editor At Large, Robb Report, HGTV and more. He enjoys staying up to date with trends and technologies and most recently he was abroad at Salone del Mobile in Milan, Living Kitchen in Cologne and The London Design Festival. Connect with Richard Anuszkiewicz Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by: Window Works Excting Windows! Mydoma Studio Duke Renders DTS Kravet Inc What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Join AjMadison Pro today! LuAnn University Intensives - Coming up mid-March! Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida!

Today With Sandra Funk: Today with Sandra Funk, we explore the transformative power of client experience in building a thriving interior design business. Sandra shares her pivotal "dark night of the soul" moment when three clients fired her in one day, and how this crisis became the catalyst for completely reimagining her approach to client relationships. We dive into her philosophy of viewing client partnerships as "mini marriages" that require clear communication, boundaries, and emotional understanding throughout the design journey. Sandra reveals the specific strategies that have made House of Funk so successful, from surprise and delight moments to avoiding nickel-and-diming clients for small changes. As The Interior Design Standard celebrates five years and 1,000 members, Sandra also shares exciting news about evolving her coaching program into a more intentional, curated community for serious designers who want to level up their businesses. LuAnn Nigara and Sandra Funk’s Ah-Ha Moments: “I started looking at it from the client’s point of view. How will it land for them instead of what works for me?” - Sandra Funk More About Sandra Funk Sandra Funk is the founder and CEO of the boutique interior design firm, House of Funk. After 20 years as a luxury designer, Sandra is now a business strategist deeply rooted in empowering and educating design entrepreneurs. With her turnkey approach, she welcomes designers into her inner circle, sharing her proven process for a balanced, joy-filled and wildly profitable design firm. Connect with Sandra Funk Interior Design Standard Interior Design Standard Sneak Peek How to Start an Interior Design Business Interior Design Pricing What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Other Shows: #520: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: The Interior Design Standard is Here! #660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard” #753: Sandra Funk: How to Grow a Thriving Luxury Interior Design Business #801: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: How Mistakes and Obstacles Led to Growth & Transformation #845: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Stop Apologizing and Start Communicating #1010: Overheard: Developing Resilience in Interior Design Business Leadership with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill

Today With Ashley Ross: In this episode of A Well-Designed Business, I sit down with Ashley Ross, the self-taught designer and founder of Muse Noire, to discuss her journey of building a business that defies traditional expectations. Ashley shares how she confidently navigated her second career, blending creativity with strategy to create a design firm that thrives on relationships, bold risks, and staying true to her vision. You’ll learn how to: Build a business with confidence, embracing your unique journey. Focus on the importance of relationships and trust in growing a business. Take bold, aligned risks to create meaningful growth and success. Whether you're a new designer or looking to revamp your approach to business, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiration to help you confidently step into your full potential. LuAnn Nigara and Ashley Ross’s Ah-Ha Moments: “Sometimes when people are having their second act, they fumble around in the beginning, not realizing that they have transferable skills.” — Ashley Ross “You can’t be successful until you have defined what success means to you.” — LuAnn Nigara “Business is about relationships. It’s about how you show up for your clients, how you connect, and how you build trust.” — Ashley Ross “Take your transferable skills and transfer them immediately. Don’t waste time.” — Ashley Ross More About Ashley Ross Muse Noire is a full service design firm with offices in both North Carolina and Texas, yet serving clients throughout the US. We are dedicated to curating contemporary global homes that celebrate culture. Led by founder and principal designer, Ashley Ross, the firm journeys clients to the intersection of their own cultural heritage and Muse Noire’s palatable script of interior wellness. Established in 2019, Muse Noire was born out of Ashley’s desire to create spaces that embrace people of color and make them feel whole when they return home. Recognizing the sacrifices individuals make to fit societal norms, Ashley believes in immersing high-performing BIPOC executives in a timeless and tactile environment where they can truly be seen and heard. Connect with Ashley Ross Website Instagram A Big THANK YOU to Today’s Podcast Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by: Window Works Excting Windows! Mydoma Studio Duke Renders DTS Kravet Inc What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design LuAnn University Intensives - Coming up mid-March! Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Other Shows: AWDB #986: Power Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things AWDB #803: Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: Productivity is Personal – How to Create Systems that Will Work for You! AWDB #1040: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: 5 Steps to an Exceptional Hire

Today With Abby Fitzgerald: Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! In today's on-air coaching session, I'm helping my guest, Abby Fitzgerald of Fitz Haus Interior Design, master the seasonal ebbs and flows of her business–a challenge that every designer faces but few plan for effectively. Today, we're diving deep into creating a strategic roadmap for her year, tackling everything from revenue planning across quarters to building those crucial financial reserves. After years of managing WindowWorks through seasonal cycles, I'm sharing exactly how to prepare for slower months while maximizing the busy ones. If you've ever worried about those predictable slow seasons or wondered how to structure your year for consistent success, this episode is your blueprint for action. LuAnn Nigara and Abby Fitzgerald’s Ah-Ha Moments: "The difference between success and failure with a proven idea isn't about being first - it's about being the one who actually takes action. Success goes to the person who hears the idea and does something with it." - LuAnn Nigara "In business, don't waste time deciding what others are doing. Stay in your lane, build your business with respect, maintain the right cadence, and operate from a genuine place. Don't be a pain in the butt - just do your work authentically." - LuAnn Nigara More About Abby Fitzgerald Fitz Haus is a full-service interior design studio dedicated to bringing beauty, style, and functionality into your home serving clients in Central Pennsylvania. Fitz Haus Interior Design was founded by me, Abby Fitzgerald, with the intention of creating beautiful spaces while providing a first-class customer experience. I have always had a love for design and had the opportunity to design and build my family home, which sparked my creativity and allowed me to showcase my design skills. I have a unique background in marketing, sales and public relations. I spent years in the corporate world before taking the leap to open my own business and pursue my true passion. My husband Kerry and I reside in the small town of Carlisle, Pennsylvania with our three children Ryann, Liam and Ava Grae. When we're not travelling or running to and from soccer games we love spending time at home together. Connect with Abby Fitzgerald Website Instagram  Facebook What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design 2025 Business of Interiors Community Summit - June 23rd and 24th! LuAnn University Intensives - Coming up mid-March! Other Shows: AWDB #453: Carolyn Flannery: Impact Your Pipeline With This One Strategy AWDB #683: Jessica Matteson: The Client Experience Is #1 in Design AWDB #1010: Overheard: Developing Resilience in Interior Design Business Leadership with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill

Today With Eryn Oruncak: Meet Eryn Oruncak, founder of Elan Design | Interior Design & Fine Art. As one of the first designers to achieve SIDC certification in neuroaesthetics, Eryn is leading the way in showing how this cutting-edge science can transform both our industry and our clients' lives. In this episode, Eryn breaks down how neuroaesthetics - the science of how our environment and artwork affect our brain and nervous system - can help designers articulate their value and create more impactful spaces. She shares powerful insights about how our brains process environments, why custom pieces matter on a neurological level, and how understanding these principles can help you win client trust and defend your design decisions. LuAnn Nigara and Eryn Oruncak’s Ah-Ha Moments: "Neuroaesthetics is the way our environment and artwork affect our brain and nervous system." - Eryn  "Neuroesthetics marries your environment to your person." - Eryn “Lighting is a huge element in a room. Light is life…Light makes you pay attention.” - Eryn "You don't have to convince 10 people of this. You don't even have to convince anybody. You just have to let the people know who are already thinking this way, already open to it, that you're the answer." - LuAnn More About Eryn Oruncak Eryn Oruncak, founder of Elan Design | Interior Design & Fine Art, is known for her presentation of fine art paintings and evocative spaces. Eryn believes that the home is the foundation for your life, your work, and your family. One of the first in the design industry to achieve the SIDC Certification, Oruncak applies neuroaesthetic and biophilic principles to her well-crafted rooms and original artwork. The customized residences and offices she designs for her clients result in their enhanced performance and optimized health. As a go-to expert, Oruncak is a global speaker on the subject of neuroaesthetics, the science of how our environment and art affect our brain and nervous system, and is an interior design advisor to trade associations on this relatively new discipline. Her work and expertise have been featured in several publications and media outlets around the world. Connect with Eryn Oruncak Website Instagram LinkedIn Blog What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design LuAnn University Intensives - Coming up mid-March! Free Zoom Annual Conference Preview - February 27th! Exciting Windows! 21st Annual Conference - April 16th-18th in West Palm Beach, Florida! Other Shows: AWDB #569: PTF: Mike Peterson: Leveraging Design’s Influence on Health & Wellness to Increase Your Value Proposition WTFP #260: Disruptor Alert: Life Was Never Meant to Be A Struggle – The Role Window Treatments Play in Our Unconscious Minds

Today With Anna Nelson: Today I'm joined by Anna Nelson, a Gallup and ICF certified strengths coach who helps entrepreneurs unlock and unleash their hidden superpowers. Through her diverse background as a marketer, saleswoman, project manager, and business owner, Anna discovered a fundamental truth: success and happiness come from building your business around your authentic strengths. Now she dedicates herself to helping others do the same. In this illuminating discussion, I get my own CliftonStrengths assessment analyzed by Anna as she breaks down how understanding your natural talents can transform client selection, team building, and business operations. Having worked with many interior designers from our community, Anna brings unique insights into how you can leverage your strengths to create a more profitable, enjoyable business. LuAnn Nigara and Anna Nelson’s Ah-Ha Moments: "Don't ever say yes to being on a panel that you don't know your stuff with that thing, because it's just not necessary. You don't serve yourself." - LuAnn "The more confident people doing the things that they are extremely good at, we need that. This world is so hard right now and we need people who are really confident, really good at what they do and who can go out and make a difference in someone's life." - Anna "If you can do your life's work living in your strengths, I mean, that is the home run, right? That is the home run." - LuAnn More About Anna Nelson Anna Nelson is a Gallup and ICF certified strengths coach, who works with entrepreneurs, executives, working professionals, to unlock and unleash their hidden strengths. But that’s not where she started—not even close. She’s been a marketer, a saleswoman, a project manager, and an MBA student. She’s owned multiple businesses, including a boutique handmade undergarment service. (Yes, really. And she can still whip up one heck of a custom bra.) But one day, she realized a hard truth: If you don’t build your career, business, and life around your authentic, natural strengths, there will always be a ceiling on your success…and your happiness. And her natural strength? It's helping other people find theirs, so they can confidently move forward in any area of life. She works with her clients to identify and unleash the superpowers that they didn’t even know they had so they find the confidence, clarity, and affirmation they need to take that next big step forward in life—whatever it may be. Connect with Anna Nelson Website Instagram LinkedIn What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Other Shows: #1040: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: 5 Steps to an Exceptional Hire #901: Power Talk Friday: Anna Nelson: The Power of Being a Strengths-Based Entrepreneur #892: Sharon L. Sherman: Decoding Personality Types for Successful Client Outcomes #589: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Scaling from 2 Million to 5 Million #363: Power Talk Friday: Eileen Hahn: Building An Exceptional Interior Design Team

Today With Abigail M. Horace: Join me this week as I sit down with Abigail M. Horace, founder of Casa Marcelo. As a Black Latina designer, Abigail found herself surprised and frustrated to repeatedly see a lack of representation in the industry, even within a diverse area like New York City. She founded her firm in part to break away from stereotypes and biases—but she also had to navigate significant challenges along the way. Tune in to hear Abigail share her story and her insights on how to thrive and build success in an industry that doesn’t always offer a level playing field. LuAnn Nigara and Abigail M. Horace’s Ah-Ha Moments: “Others need to see people like them doing these things, right? The 10th grader and the 5th grader needs to see designers of color and architects of color and gay architects and all of the things so that they go, ‘oh, there's a place for me here.’” -LuAnn “I feel like we're always silenced in being ourselves or being confident. And so that's something that I'm kind of working on right now—being more confident and being more straightforward with people.” -Abigail More About Abigail M. Horace Abigail M. Horace embarked on her Interior Design journey during her teenage years, inspired by shows like Extreme Makeover: Home Edition. After obtaining her Bachelor’s Degree in Interior Design from the New York Institute of Technology in 2010, she embarked on a distinguished 10+ year career in high-end residential design in New York City. In 2020, Abigail founded Casa Marcelo as a response to creative burnout and a lack of representation and work-life balance in the NYC Interior Design industry. As she transitioned into entrepreneurship, Abigail reignited her passion for Interior Design, infusing her work with boundless creativity and a commitment to superior customer service. Her favorite aspect of design lies in envisioning the potential of a home through meticulous sourcing, particularly at the inception of a project. Abigail draws inspiration from various sources including nature, historical architecture encountered during her travels, and her family. A dedicated wife and mother to two young sons, aged 6 and 2, she cherishes moments spent with her family, indulges in travel, relishes 'me-time', and delights in discovering new music. Connect with Abigail M. Horace Website Instagram  Facebook  Pinterest What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob Get The Goodies! For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999! Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here: Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Audiobook: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2 Connect with LuAnn Nigara LuAnn’s Website LuAnn’s Blog Power Talk Friday Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast Other Resources: This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here! AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design Mydoma Studio: get 20% off your first three months! Jessica Bantom’s book: Design for Identity Black Artisans and Designer’s Guild Lab (BADG) Cooper Hewitt Exhibition Other Shows: AWDB #908 Jessica Bantom: How to Be a Culturally Competent Design Activist & Why You Want to Be One (Part 1) AWDB #912 Jessica Bantom Continued: Take Action With the Six Habits of Culturally Competent Designers