The DesignDash Podcast

Episode 55: The Hidden Profit Potential in Time Billing for Designers

If you've ever felt like time tracking is a total buzzkill? Yeah, we get it. But what if it’s actually the secret weapon to unlocking consistent revenue and profitability in your design firm?
In this episode, Melissa and I are diving headfirst into one of the most unglamorous but essential parts of running a successful design business – time tracking and billing. We’re pulling back the curtain on our monthly time billing process, the systems we rely on, and the strategies we use to keep cash flowing.
We’re talking about why sticking to a monthly billing schedule isn’t just about getting paid – it’s about setting clear expectations with clients, staying profitable, and avoiding those dreaded, awkward “why is this taking so long?” conversations. Plus, we’re sharing our top tips for keeping your billing simple, transparent, and bulletproof – from breaking down hours by phase to crafting invoices that actually make sense to your clients.
And if you’ve ever wondered how we calculate our target profitability, we’re unpacking how we came up with that number and how it influences everything from setting billing rates to determining whether you can actually afford to hire that new designer.
Check out our website too:
https://designdash.com/
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Episode 54: How to Focus When Everything Feels Important

Okay... be honest.
How many browser tabs do you have open right now? Now add the mental tabs—your calendar’s exploding, your inbox is laughing at you, and suddenly everything feels urgent (but also kind of... not?).
Yeah, we’ve been there. In today’s episode, it’s just the two of us having a raw, honest convo about focus and why it feels nearly impossible when you’re running a business (or two), managing a team, trying to remember to eat lunch, and oh yeah—being a human with a life.
We also talk about:
Why focus is so hard when you're wearing 12 hats and running two businesses or more
The mental overload of switching between your creative brain and your business brain
Our go-to tools like Pomodoro, the “One Thing” rule, and that Eisenhower Matrix thing we actually use
What to do when your calendar says yes, but your brain says absolutely not
And why rest—yes, rest—is one of the most productive things you can do
We’re not perfect—far from it. But this episode is about sharing what’s worked, what hasn’t, and how we’re still learning to show up with intention in the middle of the madness. 
So If you’ve ever felt like you're doing all the things, but still wondering what actually matters… this one’s for you.
Check out our website too:
https://designdash.com/
Follow us on socials:
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Episode 53: Inside the Business of Interior Design with Rainey Richardson & Casey Brand

You ever meet people and instantly think: Yep. These are my people?
That’s exactly what happened when we sat down with the fabulous Rainey Richardson and Casey Brand—two Houston-based design powerhouses and co-hosts of the Reframing The Art of Interior Design podcast.
And let me tell you... this one goes way beyond mood boards and marble countertops.
In this episode, we get real about:
The not-so-glamorous (but incredibly relatable) side of interior design
How experience, empathy, and emotion fuel great client relationships
Learning the hard way (hello, flooded ceilings and pricing flops 😅)
Why the design biz can feel like a lonely island—and how community changes everything
Embracing technology (or not) in an industry built on touch and texture
We also dive into how Rainey and Casey use humor, honesty, and hard-earned wisdom to run successful design firms and launch a podcast that’s as unfiltered as it is uplifting.
Whether you’re a designer, entrepreneur, or someone who’s just tired of pretending you’ve got it all figured out—this episode is for you.
Check out our website too:
https://designdash.com/
Follow us on socials:
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https://www.tiktok.com/@designdasher
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Episode 52: How Patti Carpenter Built a Meaningful Global Design Career

In this episode, our guest is Patti Carpenter — principal of Carpenter + Company and Global Trend Ambassador for Maison&Objet — and honestly, what a ride this conversation was.
From the bustling world of high fashion to purpose-driven design work across 60+ countries, Patti’s journey is anything but linear. She’s lived it, breathed it, and pivoted with more grace and intention than most of us could dream up. And she’s bringing all that real-world wisdom right here to the pod.
We talk about:
Why Patti left Ralph Lauren at the top of her game to follow her gut
How to build a values-led creative business in a fast-paced, trend-chasing world
What really separates a trend from a fad (this part blew our minds)
How connections, community, and curiosity fuel long-term success
The art of forecasting design trends — and what’s coming next 👀
And why it's okay to start over, even when you’ve “made it”
This isn’t just about design. It’s about building a life and a career that aligns with who you are — and trusting that your weird, wild path actually makes you better.
If you’ve ever asked yourself:
“Am I too far in to start something new?”“How do I build credibility in an industry I’m just breaking into?”“What does it look like to work with artisans across the globe and still stay true to yourself?”
Then you’re going to love every minute of this.
Check out our website too:
https://designdash.com/
Follow us on socials:
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Episode 51: Billing Methods for Interior Designers

If you’re a designer, you’ve definitely wrestled with the whole “how the heck do I charge for this?” question.
In this episode we’re opening the door wide on a topic that every design business owner thinks about way more than they admit: billing methods.
Yep, we’re diving deep into hourly vs. flat fee vs. hybrid pricing vs. the “I’ll just cut a few hours because I feel bad” method (you know who you are).
Here’s what we get into:
The biggest mindset block we see designers struggling with when it comes to billing.
Real talk about how undervaluing your time is not a flex—it’s a revenue killer.
Why hourly works for us—and why it may or may not work for you.
How to talk about money with clients without sounding awkward or apologetic.
Alternative billing methods you might not be using yet (but should consider).
And the one simple tool we use to boost confidence during new client calls.
If you've ever found yourself hesitating to hit “send” on an invoice or wondering if your pricing structure is actually working for you and not against you, this one’s for you.
We’re also gearing up for our live workshop inside the Design Dash Community where we’ll dig even deeper into all things billing. Spoiler: you’ll want to be there.
Check out our website too:
https://designdash.com/
Follow us on socials:
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Episode 50: When Fearless Design Meets Unshakeable Systems with Lori Paranjape

This week, we sat down with the one and only Lori Paranjape, the powerhouse designer behind some of the most stunning, story-driven homes in the country. Based in Nashville, Lori has built a nationally recognized interior design firm, and trust me—this conversation is a masterclass in how to build a thriving creative business without losing your authenticity along the way.
You’ve seen her work in Architectural Digest and Domino, but what you don’t see behind the scenes is just as compelling: razor-sharp systems, kind-but-direct client communication, and the hard-won lessons that took her from humble beginnings to legacy projects.
In this episode, we talk about:
The exact systems Lori uses to eliminate tummy-ache texts from clients
What actually makes a dream team—and the one interview question that says it all
Why trust (not Pinterest boards) is the real magic behind unforgettable design
The messy middle no one posts about: mistakes, growing pains, and learning to bill without flinching
This isn’t just another chat about pretty spaces—it’s a real, raw, and hilarious deep dive into the business behind the beauty. Whether you’re new to the design world or years in, Lori’s story is one that will hit home, hype you up, and remind you why you love what you do.
Trust me, this one’s got everything: heart, humor, and hard-earned wisdom.
Check out our website too:
https://designdash.com/
Follow us on socials:
https://www.instagram.com/designdasher/
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Episode 49: Behind the Scenes of High-End Interior Design with Shannon Smith

What happens when you take an international business background, mix in a love for design, and layer it with over a decade of experience in luxury interiors? You get Shannon Smith — our rockstar Director of Interior Design at Laura U Design Collective.
Melissa is off on vacation today, but I’ve got you covered! In this episode, I’m sitting down with Shannon to dive into the world of high-end interior design, from creating stunning spaces to managing client expectations and leading a powerhouse design team.
What you’ll discover in this episode:- The secret sauce behind luxury interior design—what really makes a space feel elevated- The biggest misconceptions about working with a designer - How Shannon transitioned from a career in sales to becoming a sought-after interior designer- Why delegation and leadership in a creative firm are game changers- Client horror stories (ever seen a couple actually fight over furniture?)- The role of coaching and mentorship in the design world- The one industry event Shannon never misses & where she’s traveling next
Whether you’re an aspiring designer, a homeowner dreaming of a curated space, or just someone who loves the behind-the-scenes of the design world, this episode is packed with insights, laughs, and real talk.
Check out our website too:
https://designdash.com/
Follow us on socials:
https://www.instagram.com/designdasher/
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Episode 48: How to Prepare for High Point Market: Pro Tips to Maximize Your Trip

Alright, let’s be real—High Point Market is A LOT. It’s exciting, it’s overwhelming, and if you’re not careful, it will chew you up and spit you out with sore feet, an overpacked schedule, and a camera roll full of blurry photos you don’t even remember taking.
But guess what? We’ve been there. We’ve made the mistakes so you don’t have to. And in this episode we're breaking down exactly how to do High Point the right way.
Here’s what we’re diving into:- How to plan your market schedule so you don’t feel like you’re missing out - Why bringing your team (or at least a backup camera person) can be a game-changer- When to book showroom appointments—and when to just explore- The secret to making lasting connections (hint: it starts with networking + the right tours!)- Our can’t-miss events—including a brunch with the one and only Thom Filicia (yes, you read that right!)- High Point survival tips—from parking hacks to the real MVPs: comfortable shoes
Whether it’s your first market or your fifteenth, this episode is packed with insights to help you hit the ground running and make the most of every minute. And if you’re coming to High Point, we want to meet you! Come hang out with us at Vanguard and join one of our guided showroom tours.
Check out our website too:
https://designdash.com/
Follow us on socials:
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Episode 47: Navigating High-End Home Projects: Expert Advice from Erin Stetzer

In this episode, our guest is Erin Stetzer—an absolute force in high-end homebuilding.  As the founder of Stetzer Builders, Erin has built a rock-solid reputation by delivering luxury homes with integrity, transparency, and an obsession for details.
If you’ve ever been involved in a home build or renovation, you know how quickly things can spiral. The process is slow, overwhelming, and full of unexpected challenges that can leave even the most seasoned professionals questioning their sanity. That’s exactly why we wanted Erin on the show—because she’s built her career on navigating the chaos and delivering homes that don’t just look beautiful, but actually stand the test of time.
Erin is a Graduate Master Builder, a former D1 basketball player, and someone who understands that success in this industry isn’t just about talent—it’s about collaboration, communication, and making the right calls under pressure. She’s spent decades mastering the art of running high-level projects while keeping her team, clients, and partners aligned—which, let’s be honest, is a rare and underappreciated skill in this business.
In this conversation, we’re pulling back the curtain on what really makes a project work. Tune in!
Check out our website too:
https://designdash.com/
Follow us on socials:
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Episode 46: The Power of Intentional Branding with Kali Edwards

Hey Design Dashers in this episode we are sitting down with Kali Edwards—branding genius, website magician, and the creative mind behind June Mango Design.
And let me tell you… this conversation is a breath of fresh air for anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed by branding, stuck in analysis paralysis over their website, or convinced that “niching down” means leaving money on the table.
Kali’s whole approach? Intentional, strategic, and refreshingly no-BS. She’s the type of person who can build an entire website in just five days—yes, you read that right—while most businesses drag it out for months (or worse, years!). She’s got a process that’s fast, focused, and, honestly, kinda mind-blowing.
And, of course, we get into the real talk. Like… should you really trust your gut when making branding decisions? Are you holding yourself back because you're afraid to pivot? And—let’s be honest—are you constantly rebranding just because you’re bored of your own website?
If you’ve ever questioned your brand, your website, or your entire business strategy, this episode is going to hit home.
Check out our website too:
https://designdash.com/
Follow us on socials:
https://www.instagram.com/designdasher/
https://www.tiktok.com/@designdasher
https://www.facebook.com/DesignDasher