What does it really mean to be the principal of an interior design firm?

In this first episode of The Art of Being the Principal, Michelle Lynne and Katie Decker-Erickson join forces to have the candid conversations most design business owners need—but rarely hear. No fluff. No trendy buzzwords. Just honest discussion about what it takes to lead a profitable, sustainable interior design business.

Together, they explore the transition from designer to CEO, why so many firm owners get stuck operating instead of leading, and how systems, processes, and strategic hiring create the freedom to focus on what you do best.

Whether you're running a six-figure firm, building toward seven figures, or simply trying to create a business that works for you instead of the other way around, this conversation will challenge you to think differently about leadership, delegation, and your role as the principal.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

• Why Michelle and Katie created The Art of Being the Principal

• The difference between being a business owner and actively "CEOing"

• Why most interior design firms are still very small businesses—and the unique challenges that creates

• The three pillars every successful firm must master:

• Marketing

• Operations

• Finance

• Creating dedicated CEO time in your weekly schedule

• How systems and processes protect your creativity

• Moving from business operator to business owner

• Why your first hires shouldn't necessarily be assistant designers

• The importance of buying back your time strategically

• Hiring people who are smarter than you in their area of expertise

• Building a culture where mistakes can be acknowledged and corrected

• How to know when someone is in the wrong seat on the bus

• The power of finding team members who consistently give "the extra 5%"

• Why leadership requires discomfort, self-awareness, and difficult conversations

• The connection between leadership, motherhood, and personal growth

• The importance of "winding the clock" and creating space to think strategically

Key Takeaways

CEOing Is a Verb

Owning a business and leading a business are two different things. Successful principals intentionally set aside time to focus on leadership, marketing, finances, and growth—not just project execution.

Systems Create Freedom

When processes are documented and repeatable, your business becomes less dependent on you. That creates more room for creativity, strategic thinking, and growth.

Protect Your Time

Time is your most valuable asset. Every task you continue doing yourself should be evaluated through the lens of ROI and whether someone else could do it better.

Hire for Expertise

The goal isn't to be the smartest person in the room. Strong leaders surround themselves with specialists who challenge their thinking and elevate the business.

Growth Requires Letting Go

What helped you reach six figures won't necessarily get you to seven. Scaling requires delegation, trust, and a willingness to shift from doing the work to leading the people who do the work.

Wind the Clock

Leadership isn't just about doing more. Sometimes the most important work happens when you slow down, reflect, connect with peers, and intentionally decide where you're headed next.

Mentioned in This Episode

• The upcoming Art of Being the Principal Live Event (August 24 in the Dallas/Fort Worth area)

Connect With Us

Michelle and Katie want to hear from you:

• What challenges are you facing as the principal of your firm?

• Which pillar do you struggle with most: marketing, operations, or finance?

• What topics would you like covered in future Art of Being the Principal episodes?

• And settle the debate: Should it be called a Summit or a Retreat?

Leave a review, send a DM, or connect with us on social media.
Katie: @successbydesign_coach_podcast
Michelle: @by_michelle_lynne

Remember: Your business should be working for you—not you working for it.