Podcast

Welcome to

Success by Design - Mastering the Business of Interior Design

Are you working so hard but can’t seem to make the profit you deserve as an interior designer?

Are you missing that work-life balance? And is there always one client on your list that is driving you nuts? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Welcome to Success by Design, Mastering the business of Interior Design. Learn from my mistakes, as this is your masterclass on getting where you want to be. Whether that is elevating in your current interior design firm, starting your own firm, or moving your existing firm up on the ladder of success and profitability, this podcast is your ultimate resource.

I’m your host, Katie Erickson, with a master’s degree in business administration. I’m a seasoned commercial exterior and interior designer with nearly 20 years in the industry.

When not running my coast-to-coast multi-million dollar firm, I want to talk with you about the business of design and integrate my nearly 20 years of serving as a university professor of undergraduate and graduate business courses. We keep it real. I’m honest about the struggle and juggle as I chase my two girls around.

TUNE IN AND Get Going on your goals!

Embracing Art in Interior Design: Transforming Intimidation into Inspiration

The world of art can often seem intimidating, even to seasoned interior designers. The sheer breadth of styles, mediums, and historical contexts can be overwhelming. Yet, when approached with an open ... ...more

Blog ,Education Interior Commercial Design Entrepreneurship &Design

September 13, 2024•3 min read

How to Build & Design a Company Culture w/ Josh Dykstra

In this episode of the Success by Design podcast, Josh Dykstra is back with Katie to share how to build and design a good company culture for your firm! ...more

Podcast ,Entrepreneurship

September 13, 2024•33 min read

How to Start Your Interior Design Business: 10 Essential Steps

Starting your own interior design business can be one of the most exciting, intimidating and rewarding ventures of your career. If you have a passion for transforming spaces and a keen eye for aesthet... ...more

Blog ,Education Interior Commercial Design Entrepreneurship Finance Marketing &Management

August 28, 2024•8 min read

Standing Out as an Expert: Essential Questions Every Client Should Ask Their Interior Designer

When our clients think about hiring a professional, be it a plumber or an HVAC technician, they expect them to justify their rates with specialized training, experience, and proven results. These prof... ...more

Blog ,Education Interior Commercial Design Entrepreneurship Finance &Management

August 16, 2024•5 min read

How to Make Money as an Interior Designer with Laura Thornton

In this episode, Laura joins Katie to talk about how female interior designers can have profitable firms and businesses! ...more

Podcast ,Entrepreneurship

August 16, 2024•55 min read

Never Stop Learning: How Continuing Education Keeps Interior Designers at the Top of Their Game

In the exciting world of interior design, one thing's for sure: the adventure of learning and growing never takes a break! Whether you are just starting your career or are a seasoned professional with... ...more

Blog ,Education Industry News Interior Commercial Design Entrepreneurship &Management

July 18, 2024•4 min read

Trusting Your Gut: The Power of Intuition in Choosing the Right Clients as an Interior Designer

As an interior designer, your creativity and expertise shape the environments in which people live and work. But beyond the tangible aspects of design, there lies an often-overlooked yet incredibly po... ...more

Blog ,Interior Commercial Design Entrepreneurship &Management

June 23, 2024•3 min read

The Art of Listening: Transform Your Networking Skills as an Interior Designer

Networking isn’t just about talking and promoting your work; it’s also about listening. In fact, being an active listener can be your secret weapon in building meaningful and lasting connections. For ... ...more

Blog ,Education &Entrepreneurship

June 14, 2024•3 min read

How to Close Sales Using Body Language with Nancy Ganzekaufer

Nancy joins Katie to discuss the importance of body language in interior design sales conversations. ...more

Podcast ,Entrepreneurship

May 10, 2024•49 min read

Back to Home

Here's What listeners Are saying...

Listener Reviews

insightful conversations & super RELATABLE!

Excited for a podcast directed towards interior designers that covers the business and creative mindsets needed to run a successful firm. Throwing in life balance to every conversation makes this super relatable. Great conversations.

binge-worthy

Colorful Conversations is like having a fun chat with your artsy friend who also knows how to create success! Katie's podcast is a must-listen for folks who love design and want to make money from their creative passions. She keeps you in the loop about the latest design trends while dropping priceless tips on turning your creativity into a successful business. Whether you're a design enthusiast or a budding entrepreneur, Katie's show is a goldmine of ideas and inspiration. So, tune in and get ready to blend style and success with her friendly and informative episodes – you won't want to miss it!