DESIGN MUSE Podcast

Bridget Santos + Melanie N. Hanna
  • 5.0 (11)
  • DESIGN
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

DESIGN MUSE is a collective of Interior Designers bringing professionals of various expertise together to share big ideas, lessons learned, and products to inspire, educate, and advocate for all things commercial interior design. Hosted by Bridget Santos and Melanie N. Hanna. 

Episodes

  1. JAN 26

    Vicarious Hospitality with Vito F. Lotta & Jon Cakert

    In this episode of the DESIGN MUSE Podcast, Vito F. Lotta and Jon Cakert explore vicarious hospitality—the power of shared experiences. Drawing from their personal journeys and leadership roles, they discuss designing for emotion and memory, the value of collaboration, and navigating challenges such as renovations, ROI, brand identity, advocacy for the hospitality industry, and ever-evolving guest expectations.  Thank you to our episode sponsor Symmons Industries! Symmons is a family-owned manufacturer of commercial and residential plumbing products who is known for their quality craftsmanship and innovation in plumbing fixtures. They are proudly approved on multiple Hotel Brand vendor lists.  Support the show Follow us on instagram at @designmusepodcast and Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/company/design-muse-podcast) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Track: Zero — Declan DP [Audio Library Release] Music provided by Audio Library Plus Watch: • Zero — Declan DP | Free Background Mu... Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/zero ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

    51 min

  2. 11/10/2025

    From Floor Plan to Flavor | The Art of Restaurant Design

    In this episode of DESIGN MUSE, Melanie Hanna and Bridget Santos pull back the curtain on the art and science of restaurant design. From spatial flow and storytelling to lighting, materials, and sensory cues, they explore how every element shapes the dining experience. Discover how collaboration between designers, consultants, and restaurateurs brings a restaurant’s vision to life — and how thoughtful design can transform a  meal into an unforgettable moment.  Support the show Follow us on instagram at @designmusepodcast and Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/company/design-muse-podcast) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Track: Zero — Declan DP [Audio Library Release] Music provided by Audio Library Plus Watch: • Zero — Declan DP | Free Background Mu... Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/zero ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

    40 min

  3. 09/11/2025

    Life of a DESIGN MUSE | The Untold Truth About Starting a Podcast

    So you want to start a podcast—but where do you even begin? In this episode, co-hosts, Bridget and Melanie, pull back the curtain on the journey of launching DESIGN MUSE —from napkin sketch ideas to a full-fledged podcast. They’re sharing the real story: what worked, what didn’t, what tech and tools helped them get off the ground, and the creative (and emotional) lessons they’ve learned along the way. If you’re dreaming of starting something of your own—especially a podcast—this episode is your permission slip to dive in scared. Muse Lesson of the Week: You don’t have to be perfect. You just have to begin. Support the show Follow us on instagram at @designmusepodcast and Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/company/design-muse-podcast) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Track: Zero — Declan DP [Audio Library Release] Music provided by Audio Library Plus Watch: • Zero — Declan DP | Free Background Mu... Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/zero ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

    44 min

  4. 08/07/2025

    Be The Artist You Are | Brand + Collaboration with Kyle Bunting

    In this episode of DESIGN MUSE, we’re joined by the Patchwork Picasso, Kyle Bunting, for a candid conversation about the power of branding, the art of collaboration, and what it really takes to stand out in the design world.  Kyle shares what fuels his creative journey and why finding your unique voice is the foundation of any successful brand. With his signature humor, he explores how a strong brand presence is built not just through aesthetics, but through adaptability, experience, and always finding joy in what you do or as he says, “never lose your chicken.” This episode dives into the often-overlooked emotional and ethical layers of the design process from managing client relationships and team dynamics to understanding how media and perception shape the industry. Kyle reminds us that design isn’t just a service — it’s a partnership, one rooted in mutual respect, vision, trust, and communication. A huge thank you to Kyle Bunting for taking the time to share his journey and valuable insights with us. We also want to give a special shout out to Tangram Interiors for allowing us to record in their Dallas Showroom and for their continued support of DESIGN MUSE Podcast and mission. What you’ll hear: Why branding matters more than everHow authentic connections lead to more meaningful design conversations Timeless insights from years of creative collaboration What it really means to be a “revendor” — and why the partnership matters The power of trust in elevating design partnerships Spilled tea on stunt rugs and memorable moments 🎧 Tune in for a refreshing take on design, brand, and staying true to yourself. #DESIGNMUSE #Brand #Collaboration #KyleBunting #InteriorDesign #Podcast #NeverLoseYourChicken Support the show Follow us on instagram at @designmusepodcast and Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/company/design-muse-podcast) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Track: Zero — Declan DP [Audio Library Release] Music provided by Audio Library Plus Watch: • Zero — Declan DP | Free Background Mu... Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/zero ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

    53 min

  5. 06/16/2025

    Mastering FF&E | Insights from Industry Experts - Bridget Santos & Melanie Hanna

    In this episode of the DESIGN MUSE Podcast, Bridget Santos and Melanie Hanna delve into the intricate world of Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment (FF&E) in interior design. They explore the multifamily, corporate, and hospitality sectors, discussing the proposal process, budgeting strategies, sourcing and procurement, and the unique challenges each sector presents. The conversation emphasizes the importance of organization, collaboration, and continuous learning in the design process, while also sharing valuable lessons learned from their experiences in the field. #FurnitureFixturesEquipment #InteriorDesign #Podcast #Inspire #Educate #Advocate #IndustryInsights #DESIGNMUSE Support the show Follow us on instagram at @designmusepodcast and Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/company/design-muse-podcast) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Track: Zero — Declan DP [Audio Library Release] Music provided by Audio Library Plus Watch: • Zero — Declan DP | Free Background Mu... Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/zero ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

    44 min

  6. 05/02/2025

    RFI Time with Jessica Collins

    In this episode, DESIGN MUSE has RFI Time with Jessica Collins. An RFI in Interior Design is formally known as a "Request for Information" which is a request for formal clarification or additional information on a project's plans, drawings, specifications, or agreements. DESIGN MUSE uses RFI Time to obtain additional wisdom from our Muse of the Month.  You won't want to miss this episode as we dive into questions regarding how you juggle being an interior design leader, defining WELL AP vs LEED Green Associate, and biggest challenges during design and construction.  We want to thank our Muse of the Month, Jessica Collins, for sharing her knowledge & defining the essence of interior design! Support the show Follow us on instagram at @designmusepodcast and Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/company/design-muse-podcast) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Track: Zero — Declan DP [Audio Library Release] Music provided by Audio Library Plus Watch: • Zero — Declan DP | Free Background Mu... Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/zero ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

    35 min

  7. 04/15/2025

    From Vision to Visibility | Defining the Essence of Interior Design with Jessica Collins, Dir. of Design, Interiors - HOK Dallas

    In this episode, DESIGN MUSE interviews Jessica Collins (the Director of Design, Interiors for HOK Dallas' Studio) and dives into the true essence of commercial interior design, the design process, neuroinclusive design, and the visibility of the interior design profession. We also discuss what a Director of Design's day to day consists of and hot topics like "the great move." We would like to thank Jessica Collins for sharing her brilliant insights and Tangram Interiors hosting Design Muse Podcast in their beautiful Dallas Showroom.  Support the show Follow us on instagram at @designmusepodcast and Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/company/design-muse-podcast) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Track: Zero — Declan DP [Audio Library Release] Music provided by Audio Library Plus Watch: • Zero — Declan DP | Free Background Mu... Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/zero ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

    55 min

  8. 04/01/2025

    RFI Time with Kristina Fischer

    In this episode, DESIGN MUSE has RFI Time with Kristina Fischer. An RFI in Interior Design is formally known as a "Request for Information" which is a request for formal clarification or additional information on a project's plans, drawings, specifications, or agreements. DESIGN MUSE uses RFI Time to obtain additional wisdom from our Muse of the Month.  You won't want to miss this episode as we dive into questions regarding common change orders in construction, how to prioritize budgets with time constraints, effective time management tools, and so much more!  We want to thank our Muse of the Month, Kristina Fischer, for sharing her insights and wisdom on her transition from a Designer role to a Development Manager.  Support the show Follow us on instagram at @designmusepodcast and Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/company/design-muse-podcast) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Track: Zero — Declan DP [Audio Library Release] Music provided by Audio Library Plus Watch: • Zero — Declan DP | Free Background Mu... Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/zero ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

    38 min

  9. 03/19/2025

    Kristina Fischer | The Journey from Designer to Developer

    In this episode, DESIGN MUSE interviews Kristina Fischer, Development and Construction Manager for Toll Brothers Apartment Living, to explore her journey from the world of design to development. Kristina shares insights on navigating early career challenges, how networking and relationships shaped her career, her transition to Multifamily Development, and valuable lessons learned along the way. We learn how developers build budgets, select design teams, manage timelines, top amenity trends, and so much more.  Support the show Follow us on instagram at @designmusepodcast and Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/company/design-muse-podcast) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Track: Zero — Declan DP [Audio Library Release] Music provided by Audio Library Plus Watch: • Zero — Declan DP | Free Background Mu... Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/zero ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

    57 min

  10. 01/29/2025

    DESIGN MUSE Intro | How We Met Our Muse

    In today's episode, Bridget Santos and Melanie N. Hanna introduce the ethos of DESIGN MUSE Podcast. They share their individual interior design journeys, how they met, and how they reconnected thirteen years later with the shared vision and passion to make a big impact on the commercial interior design industry.  They walk through upcoming episode topics such as lessons learned, documentation, storytelling through design, brand identity, contracts, and so much more. Tune in and follow DESIGN MUSE Podcast on your favorite podcast platform.  Shout outs to Cool Ass People Podcast and CREunscripted Podcast for sharing their wealth of knowledge and countless family, friends, and colleagues who supported us as we dove headfirst into the podcast world. Support the show Follow us on instagram at @designmusepodcast and Linkedin (https://www.linkedin.com/company/design-muse-podcast) –––––––––––––––––––––––––––––– Track: Zero — Declan DP [Audio Library Release] Music provided by Audio Library Plus Watch: • Zero — Declan DP | Free Background Mu... Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/zero ––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––

    1h 11m
  • 10 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

DESIGN MUSE is a collective of Interior Designers bringing professionals of various expertise together to share big ideas, lessons learned, and products to inspire, educate, and advocate for all things commercial interior design. Hosted by Bridget Santos and Melanie N. Hanna. 

Information

  • Creator
    Bridget Santos + Melanie N. Hanna
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    10
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 DESIGN MUSE Podcast
  • Show Website
    DESIGN MUSE Podcast