The Profitable Graphic Designer

Kady Sandel
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The Profitable Graphic Designer

Welcome to The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast. My name is Kady Sandel, and this podcast was brought to you by Aventive Academy – an online business education platform that helps brand, graphic, and web designers get more clients, increase their pricing, and build a profitable design business. You can find out more about starting and growing your freelance design business at aventiveacademy.com

  1. 20 HR AGO

    133 How I Turned My Side Hustle into a Thriving Design Agency

    When I charge $25k for a branding project, I’m not just picking a number - I’m showing clients the level of transformation and expertise I bring. This confidence in pricing doesn’t just impress clients; it signals that you know your worth. Think about it: every time you set a price that genuinely reflects your work's value, you’re establishing a standard for the clients you want to attract. In this episode, I’m guiding you through the steps to develop that same confidence in your pricing so that clients trust in your value from the start. You will learn: How to shift your mindset and embrace the value you bring to clients. The importance of setting a minimum base rate and how to calculate it. Strategies to adopt value-based pricing and charge for outcomes, not hours. Tips for presenting your prices confidently to clients, even during tough conversations. How to handle objections without feeling pressured to lower your rates. Grab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to redefine how you run your design business! Aventive Academy’s Resources: Free Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/ Free Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/ $12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/ Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f The Wealthy Client Blueprint: https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/ 12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator

    26 min

  2. 5 NOV

    132 FREE Brand Guidelines for Brand Designers – Elevating Your Visual Identity Skills

    If you think your job ends after you design the logo, you’re missing out on a huge opportunity. In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, I’m sharing why brand guidelines are essential for brand designers who want to elevate their craft, charge higher rates, and secure more client referrals. I’ll show you how these comprehensive brand books not only improve your design process but also set you apart as a designer who thinks strategically and long-term. Whether you’re new to brand design or have been doing this for years, this episode is all about becoming a designer who delivers real value and builds stronger client relationships. You will learn: Why creating brand guidelines boosts your professionalism and helps you charge higher rates Key elements every brand designer should include in a brand book How guidelines ensure consistency and longevity for your client’s brand Tips for positioning brand guidelines as an essential service, not just an add-on Ways that working on guidelines can make you a better designer overall Settle in, grab a pen, and get ready to take your design skills - and your business - to the next level. Free Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/

    21 min

  3. 29 OCT

    131 From Zero Leads to Fully Booked: My Client Magnet Method

    Ever wondered why some designers seem to have clients flocking to them while others struggle to get a single inquiry? I’ve been there, staring at my inbox and waiting for leads that never came. That was until I discovered the power of my Client Magnet Method, which took me from zero leads to fully booked. In this episode, I’ll share the exact steps I used to attract clients without the constant hustle. You'll get an insider look at how SEO and blogging can bring clients to you on autopilot, why LinkedIn is more than just a place to post, and how networking events can lead to lasting connections. You will learn: How to use SEO and blogging to attract high-quality leads even when you’re not actively marketing Ways to optimize your LinkedIn profile and build relationships with your target clients Tips on choosing the right networking events and how to follow up effectively The three strategies that work together to bring clients to you consistently Practical steps to implement the Client Magnet Method and transform your design business Get comfortable, grab your favorite drink, and let’s get you fully booked with clients who can’t wait to work with you! Aventive Academy’s Resources: Free Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/ Free Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/ $12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/ The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/ 12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit

    26 min

  4. 22 OCT

    130 Why Most Designers Struggle with Consistent Income (and How to Fix It)

    Many designers face the dreaded feast and famine cycle, where one month you’re on top of the world with a big project, and the next, you’re scrambling for clients. I’ve been there, and I know it’s exhausting. But predictable income isn’t just a dream—it’s a necessity for building a sustainable design business. By creating steady revenue streams, mastering lead generation, and diversifying your client base, you can transform your business into a consistent, thriving operation. Let’s break free from the feast and famine trap together. You will learn: How to shift your mindset from freelancer to business owner for reliable income Effective lead generation techniques to ensure a steady stream of clients The importance of diversifying your client base to reduce financial risk Strategies to automate and streamline your sales process for growth Pour yourself a coffee, grab a notebook, and get ready to change how you approach your design business! Aventive Academy’s Resources: Free Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/ Free Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/ $12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/ Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/ 12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit

    24 min

  5. 15 OCT

    129 How I Doubled My Income by Saying No to Clients

    Have you ever wondered how saying “no” could actually double your income? It may sound strange, but turning down clients has been one of the most transformative strategies in my design business. When I stopped taking on projects that didn’t align with my goals or respect my worth, I opened the door to more profitable, fulfilling opportunities. In this episode, I share my journey of learning to say no and how it skyrocketed my business, giving me more freedom and better clients along the way. You will learn: How to spot red flags and avoid clients who undervalue your expertise Why setting boundaries can boost both your income and your creative energy The long-term benefits of focusing on quality over quantity Real-life examples of how saying no can lead to high-paying projects Settle in with your favorite drink, grab a pen, and get ready for this super valuable episode!   Aventive Academy’s Resources: Free Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/ Free Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/ $12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/ Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/ 12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit

    27 min

  6. 8 OCT

    128 How to Position Your Design Business for Premium Clients

    Ready to position your design business for premium clients and elevate your brand to the next level? I’m breaking down exactly how you can identify your ideal clients, stand out in a crowded market, charge what you’re truly worth, and build a portfolio that attracts the kind of high-paying clients you’ve been dreaming of. If you’ve been struggling to make the leap from just another designer to a sought-after creative partner, this episode is for you. You’ll learn: How to pinpoint and connect with your ideal clients who are ready to invest in quality design. Strategies for crafting a unique value proposition that sets you apart from the competition. The key elements of a premium portfolio that showcases your best work and results. Pricing techniques that reflect the true value of your services and attract high-end clients. Ways to enhance the client experience, making your business the go-to choice for premium services. Grab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to redefine how you run your design business! Aventive Academy’s Resources: Free Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/ $12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/ Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/ 12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit

    32 min

  7. 1 OCT

    127 Marketing Strategies for Freelance Designers with Kiri Mohan

    If you’ve ever wondered how to take your design business from freelance to something more sustainable, today’s episode is for you. I had a great conversation with Kiri Mohan, who helps women freelancers with corporate backgrounds grow their businesses and regain more time for themselves. We touched on everything from finding higher-paying clients to achieving a better work-life balance, and there are so many helpful takeaways. Whether you’re in the process of scaling or just looking for ways to refine your business, you’ll find some valuable insights here. You will learn: Key steps for transitioning from corporate life to a thriving freelance design business. How to attract high-paying clients and position yourself as a premium service provider. Strategies for setting and raising your rates confidently, without losing clients. Tips on maintaining work-life balance while scaling your design business. Mindset shifts that help freelancers break past income plateaus and avoid burnout. Grab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to redefine how you run your design business! About Kiri: Kiri Mohan helps women freelancers who have a background in the corporate world take their contractor business from surviving to thriving. Her Corporate2Contract Core and Collective programs guide women growing their freelance business to set them up for success, earn an income over six figures and get more time back in their day. Kiri knows that there is a way to have a career, a flexible schedule, and get paid what you deserve, and her framework teaches you to do that. When not working on her courses or leading women, she is podcasting (Freelance to Freedom Podcast) drinking tea and reading books. Website: www.corporate2contract.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thekirimohan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirimohan/ Money mapper - https://corporate2contract.thrivecart.com/money-mapper/ Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/her-balanced-hustle-scale-your-business-with-work-life/id1634211553 Aventive Academy’s Resources: Free Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/ The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/ $12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/ Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f 12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit

    54 min

  8. 24 SEPT

    126 How to Sell Your Design Services Without Feeling Pushy with Tyler Archer

    Selling your design services shouldn’t feel overwhelming, but for many designers, it does. That’s why I’m excited to introduce you to Tyler, New Zealand’s top online sales coach, who’s here to help you shift your mindset around sales and close more deals with ease. With over 15 years of experience, Tyler has guided countless solopreneurs and creatives to success through simple, actionable sales techniques. Together, we’re diving into what’s holding you back from landing more clients, charging what you’re worth, and confidently closing deals that fuel your business growth. You will learn: How to overcome the fear of selling and build confidence Proven techniques for having effective sales conversations that convert Strategies to communicate the value of your design services without feeling pushy How to attract premium clients who see the value in what you offer Ways to consistently generate leads in the design industry Grab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to redefine how you run your design business! About Tyler Tyler is New Zealand’s most trusted online sales coach with 15 years of experience in sales. His extensive experience in corporate roles has set the foundation for his successful coaching business. Tyler specializes in helping online coaches and solopreneurs increase their sales by understanding the psychology of selling and building compelling offers and packages.   He empowers his clients with the confidence and skills to sell with ease, without feeling uncomfortable or forcing the sale. Living in a beautiful small town on the North Island of New Zealand with his wife and two young boys, Tyler enjoys cooking and occasionally playing online games with his son in his spare time. Connect with Tyler: https://offers.tylerarcherconsulting.com/sales-objections-made-easy https://www.instagram.com/thetylerarcher/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerarchersalescoaching/   Aventive Academy’s Resources: Free Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/ $12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/ Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f The Wealthy Client Blueprint: ⁠https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/ 12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator

    58 min
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Welcome to The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast. My name is Kady Sandel, and this podcast was brought to you by Aventive Academy – an online business education platform that helps brand, graphic, and web designers get more clients, increase their pricing, and build a profitable design business. You can find out more about starting and growing your freelance design business at aventiveacademy.com

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