A Well-Designed Business® | Interior Design Business Podcast

LuAnn Nigara
A Well-Designed Business® | Interior Design  Business Podcast

In today's world being a talented interior designer isn't enough to ensure that you have a profitable and successful business. Design school curricula doesn't always equip you with the business skills to have your interior design business be everything you imagined it would be! A Well-Designed Business® is here to fill in the gaps and give you real live business skills from some of the top interior designers. Your host, LuAnn Nigara shares her 40 years of success in the interior design industry, and she finds the most successful guests to share their interior design business best practices. This podcast is sponsored by Kravet Inc and Mydoma Studio.

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    Rachel Usher: Creating Community and Strength in the Interior Design Industry

    Today With Rachel Usher: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In this episode, I sit down with an inspiring designer, entrepreneur, and community builder to talk about resilience—both in life and business: Rachel Usher. We dive into the challenges of running a design firm, navigating industry roadblocks, and the power of creating a supportive network. From building a business that can thrive beyond its founder to overcoming personal and professional setbacks, this conversation is packed with real, honest insights. If you've ever felt like you're tackling this business alone, this episode will remind you that you don’t have to. LuAnn Nigara and Rachel Usher’s Ah-Ha Moments: "I need to tell everybody that comes into the room that we can talk about the stuff that you can't find on the internet. You know, we can ask those tricky questions and we can get a direct answer from somebody that you never really would get a one-to-one audience with." – Rachel Usher "I don’t want to come and learn a half-truth. I want to learn the whole truth so I can absolutely duplicate the thing that you already know how to do." – LuAnn Nigara More About Rachel Usher Rachel Usher is founder and Creative Director of Rachel Usher Interior Design. A successful design practice that has recently celebrated 12 years in business. From her Yorkshire studio, Rachel and her team of Interior Architects have worked on multi-million pound projects from Chelsea Pied-à-terre’s to large scale Lake Houses overlooking Lake Windermere. Rachel’s projects have been featured in Living Etc, Homes & Gardens and House & Garden magazines. With a successful career as an Interior Designer under her belt, Rachel formed The Business Of Interiors, a platform that aims to inspire, educate and build a community for Interior Designers. Rachel grows this business at the same time as running her successful design studio. With an aim to build a UK design community, Rachel also launched the If These Walls Could Talk podcast. A podcast that features Interior Designer’s and industry professionals that shares personal business journeys and guidance to its engaged, global audience. Rachel’s podcast is in the top 25% of Interior Design podcasts. Connect with Rachel Usher Website Instagram 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 "The Business Of Interiors Community Summit" Event The Table: The Future of Interior Design in 2025 - Episode 37 Other Shows: AWDB #981: Jennifer Chukwujekwe: Global Collaboration with Nigerian Designer and Entrepreneur AWDB #861: Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers AWDB #601: Darla Powell: Real Tips to Up Your Social Media Game AWDB #330: Darla Powell: Darla Powell Interiors 18 Months After Opening AWDB #203: Darla Powell – How to Launch an Interior Design Firm WTFP #255: Tim Yurek: The Critical Difference Between Exit Strategy and Succession Strategy WTFP #253: Tim Yurek: Three Disturbing Trends That Put Small Businesses at Risk

    1h 20m
  2. 5 DAYS AGO

    What Would Lu Do?: Why the World Still Needs Interior Designers; A Pep Talk for You

    Today With LuAnn Nigara: As an interior designer, at some point, someone—whether it’s a potential client, a trade partner, or even a stranger at a party—is going to question the value of what you do. They’ll say, “With the internet and so many resources, why does anyone need a designer?” And when that moment comes, are you ready to answer with confidence? In this Power Talk Friday episode, I break down exactly why the world still needs you—why your expertise goes far beyond picking out furniture, why your role is critical in creating functional, meaningful spaces, and how to educate, not defend, your value. This is the pep talk you need when doubt creeps in—whether it’s coming from someone else or from inside your own head. Because the truth is, no amount of Pinterest boards or online shopping carts will ever replace what you bring to the table. Listen in, get clear on your worth, and learn how to articulate it like a pro. 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! LuAnn’s Chairman of the Board

    13 min
  3. 28 JAN

    What Would Lu Do?: Designing Your Legacy: How to Create a Business That Stands the Test of Time

    Today With LuAnn Nigara: Your business is more than just a source of income—it’s your story, your impact, your legacy. In this episode of A Well-Designed Business, I’m helping you design a business that leaves a lasting impression. Together, we’ll explore: What legacy truly means and why it matters. How to align your mission, core values, and daily actions with your long-term vision. The building blocks of a business legacy: exceptional service, meaningful relationships, and leadership that inspires. Actionable steps you can take today to start shaping your legacy. Whether you’re just starting out or planning your next chapter, this episode is your guide to creating a business that’s remembered for all the right reasons. 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!

    33 min
  4. Power Talk Friday: Ashley La Fond: How Working With a  Professional Organizer Can Transform Your Client Experience

    24 JAN

    Power Talk Friday: Ashley La Fond: How Working With a Professional Organizer Can Transform Your Client Experience

    Today With Ashley La Fond: Are you delivering beautiful spaces that truly work for your clients’ lifestyles? In this episode of A Well-Designed Business, I’m joined by Ashley La Fond, founder of Of Space & Mind, to explore how professional organizers can revolutionize your design process. We dive into the ways Ashley collaborates with designers—like helping clear spaces before a project begins, ensuring every drawer and cabinet works for a client’s unique needs, and even creating a seamless move-in experience. From maximizing function to complementing beauty, Ashley shares how her expertise can enhance your designs and create a truly elevated client experience. LuAnn Nigara and Ashley La Fond’s Ah-Ha Moments: “When beauty and function come together, that’s when clients are not just satisfied—they’re wowed.” – LuAnn Nigara “Pre-planning and clearing a space before a project doesn’t just make the renovation smoother—it helps uncover what truly matters to the client, so the design can reflect their needs.” – Ashley La Fond “Designing a space is about more than making it look good—it’s about creating flow and functionality that fit seamlessly into a client’s life.” – Ashley La Fond “A truly elevated client experience means they can walk into their newly designed home and start living without the overwhelm of figuring out where everything goes.” – Ashley La Fond More About Ashley La Fond Of Space & Mind is a home organization company founded by Ashley La Fond in 2018. Ashley has worked on more than 300 homes and businesses to design and optimize spaces including kitchens, closets, garages, basements, corporate offices, home offices and much more. She believes that a space designed with intention makes room for creativity, productivity, relaxation and wellness. She has worked with many notable clients including: Hannah Bronfman, Brendan Fallis, Mike & Lauren Sorrentino, Rachel Mansfield and Cameron Oaks Rogers. Ashley is a mom of two and currently lives in New Jersey with her family. Connect with Ashley La Fond Website Instagram 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

    56 min
  5. 21 JAN

    Naïka André: Do It Scared - A Designer's Journey Through Her First Show House

    Today With Naïka André: Today on A Well-Designed Business, I'm talking about show houses with designer Naika Andre, who just completed her first one at the Kingston Design Show House. For years at WindowWorks, I've seen what makes show houses succeed or struggle, and that's why I love Naika's transparency about the entire process. She shares everything—from the real costs and timeline challenges to how she created that stunning red bathroom that had everyone talking. Whether you're thinking about participating in a show house or working on being more authentic in your design business, Naika's journey and her powerful advice to "do it scared" is exactly what you need to hear. Today, she's here to tell us how she did it! LuAnn Nigara and Naïka André’s Ah-Ha Moments: “The power of community is huge. You never know what you can get until you ask. Some people will say no, but many will say yes,”- Naïka André More About Naïka André Principal designer, and CEO of NJA Interiors, Naïka André is an antiques curator, and a world traveler. With a Bachelor of Arts in Interior Design, she embarked on a short-term position with a design firm in India, where she immersed herself in diverse cultures and architecture. This experience laid the foundation for her unique aesthetic. With over a decade of experience working with luxury interior design firms in Connecticut, she launched her design studio. Today, under the NJA Interiors moniker, Naïka approaches every client’s project as an opportunity to discover (and tell) their unique story. She works to form meaningful connections with her clients, knowing that understanding them and how they live deeply is the key to achieving spaces that feel personal and authentic to them and that function ideally for how they live. With over 15 years of design experience, Naïka André’s colorful, edgy designs reflect her global perspective and her vibrant Haitian heritage. Based in Connecticut, Naïka works with clients throughout the US. Her style-forward work and creative design solutions have been featured in Business of Home, Domino, Good Housekeeping, The Strategist, and many more. Connect with Naïka André Website Instagram 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 Donna Hoffman's 3-Day Business Immersion Workshop Series! - Start on Jan 21st!

    58 min
  6. 17 JAN

    Power Talk Friday: Hannah Bowyer: Maximizing Efficiency: Streamlining Interior Design with Virtual Assistance

    Today With Hannah Bowyer: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! In this episode, I’m excited to dive into the world of virtual assistance and automation in interior design with the amazing Hannah Bowyer. We’re exploring how these powerful tools can help designers maximize their efficiency and elevate their client experience. I’ll share insights on leveraging a CRM to streamline your workflow and the importance of outsourcing tasks to free up your time, allowing you to focus on what you do best. Join me as we uncover the keys to success in today’s fast-paced design landscape! LuAnn Nigara and Hannah Bowyer’s Ah-Ha Moments: “Efficiency creates dollar bills.” - LuAnn More About Hannah Bowyer After spending 10 years in the service industry, Hannah decided to step out on a limb and create a business that would support the life she wanted. Initially she began in the general VA space, editing blogs and doing miscellaneous tasks. She quickly realized that interior design was the niche she wanted to be in. With a keen sense for problem solving, she got to work becoming the VDA designers needed. She now owns Hannah Bowyer and Company, a Virtual Design Assistance Agency that supports designers in various aspects of their business; from drawings and renderings, to social media and copywriting, to systems and processes. Over the years she has learned to delegate what doesn’t energize her to make space for what does. Her favorite thing is helping designers comb through the messy backend of their businesses to create clarity and direction. Hannah currently lives abroad with her husband and two children; embracing the freedom and life she’s created. Connect with Hannah Bowyer Website Instagram Resources 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 Donna Hoffman's 3-Day Business Immersion Workshop Series! - Start on Jan 21st! Other Shows: #950: Overheard: Insights on Hiring Exceptional People #1048: On Air Strategy Session: Melanie Lybrand: Overcoming the Fear of Raising Your Interior Design Rates #149: Brittanie Elms – Founder of My Design Assistant – She Could Be Your Next Employee #871: Power Talk Friday: Desi Creswell: Out of Overwhelm: Why Time Management Begins With Your Mindset

    1h 3m
  7. 14 JAN

    Jessamy Tsoris: Navigating the Design Landscape: A Journey to Full-Service Interior Design

    Today With Jessamy Tsoris: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Today I'm thrilled to share my heartfelt conversation with Jessamy Tsoris, an inspiring interior designer who transformed her career after facing unexpected challenges in the graphic design world. Jessamy opens up about her journey from sitting at a desk for hours to discovering her true passion in interior design. We delve into the importance of truly listening to clients, the creative flow that comes when you're in your element, and how to bring your best self to every project. Whether you're contemplating a career change or looking to elevate your design practice, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Join us as we explore Jessamy's story and what it means to show up for our clients with enthusiasm and authenticity! More About Jessamy Tsoris Jessamy is the founder of Color Zen interiors. She launched Color Zen in 2009 with intentions to simply offer paint color consulting but much to her delight, the business grew steadily into full-scale interior design. Currently, Jessamy works with a wide variety of local and remote clients on residential and commercial interiors, exteriors and color consulting projects. Fueled by a lifelong, undying love for feel-good design and ambience, Jessamy lives to create transformative spaces for a vast range of style requests and personality types. She has learned so many human lessons from connecting and listening intently to clients and also observing patterns in behavior throughout the interior design process. These observations have sparked laughter, tears, personal reflection and really great conversations with friends. She would love to share some takeaways with you. Connect with Jessamy Tsoris Website Instagram  Services Contact 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 Join Donna Hoffman's 3-Day Business Immersion Workshop Series! - Start on Jan 21st!

    1h 10m
  8. 10 JAN

    What Would Lu Do?: Decide to Be Excellent: Goal Setting for a New Year!

    Today With LuAnn Nigara: Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! This week, my wonderful friend, productivity coach, and the host of the Small Business Straight Talk podcast, Amber De La Garza, will kick things off with a heartfelt introduction. In this episode, I will guide you through one of our most popular discussions from 2022: focusing on goal setting and the importance of starting the new year with intention. We’ll dive into practical strategies and my personal stories that emphasize excellence in everything you do. Whether you're a long-time listener or tuning in for the first time, this episode is packed with insights that will inspire you to set meaningful and achievable goals for 2025. So, grab your notebook, and let’s get ready to kick off the year on the right foot! Enjoy the show! What’s new with LuAnn Nigara The Power Talk Friday Tour Watch the Docuseries! http://www.luannnigara.com/cob IGNITE Your Interior Design Business Success! Join Donna Hoffman's 3-Day Business Immersion Workshop Series! 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’s University - Register Now! Other Shows: #463: Sara Lynn Brennan: Package Your Design Services for Profit and Clarity #514: Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Investing in Your Success #524: Power Talk Friday: Sara Lynn Brennan: Showing Up is Not Enough #150: Power Talk Friday – Krista Coupar is Back! 5 Steps to Make 2017 Successful! #81: Power Talk Friday- Krista Coupar: Build Your Story and Your Brand #60: Power Talk Friday – Krista Coupar: Managing Work-Life Balance (The Key Questions to Ask Yourself) #607: Project Management with Specific Deliverables and Deadlines #236: Shea McGee of Studio McGee Joins Me Today!!!! #270: Shea & Syd McGee: Building a Design Empire Involves a Lot of Hustle #169: Amber Lewis- Keynote Speaker at Design Blogger’s Conference #184: Amber Lewis – Important Business Tips to Run Your Interior Design Firm #515: Jaclyn Marie: Build an Authentic Instagram Following #687: Demetrius Robinson: Show Up & Do The Work #292: Power Talk Friday: Summer Tannhauser – How to Leverage Pinterest for Your Interior Design Firm #397: Power Talk Friday: Where Are They Now?: Cheryl Luckett: Dwell By Cheryl #573: Cheryl Luckett, #BLM: See Something, Say Something

    22 min

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

In today's world being a talented interior designer isn't enough to ensure that you have a profitable and successful business. Design school curricula doesn't always equip you with the business skills to have your interior design business be everything you imagined it would be! A Well-Designed Business® is here to fill in the gaps and give you real live business skills from some of the top interior designers. Your host, LuAnn Nigara shares her 40 years of success in the interior design industry, and she finds the most successful guests to share their interior design business best practices. This podcast is sponsored by Kravet Inc and Mydoma Studio.

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