In this episode of the OLISE Podcast, Bilen sits down with interior designer and founder Alex Dauley for an honest conversation about identity, ambition, and building a career with integrity. Alex shares her journey from a small village in Wales to creating a thriving design studio in London, and how she entered the industry later in life with no network, no portfolio, and a decision to back herself anyway. She speaks candidly about motherhood, the reality of “having it all”, and why boundaries, honesty, and kindness matter in an industry that is often more polished than transparent. The conversation also explores the creation of United in Design, the charity Alex founded in response to the lack of access for Black and Brown designers, and what real change looks like when the next generation is supported from education through to employment, and ultimately, ownership. Alex also reflects on her WOW!house 2025 moment, designing the first ever media room, and how it became a turning point in her confidence, creativity, and future direction. In this episode: • Growing up in Wales and finding her way to London • Entering interior design at 32 and starting a studio with no network • Motherhood, ambition, and the reality of balance • What it means to be a Black woman in the design industry • Why United in Design was created, and what it’s changing • The truth about access, networks, and “feast or famine” in design • WOW!house 2025 and designing the Date Night media room • What’s next, media, brand collaborations, and building a multi-faceted business Headline Sponsor: This episode is sponsored by Calibre Climate, specialists in bespoke climate control for high-end homes. Calibre Climate works closely with architects and interior designers to deliver quiet, beautifully integrated air conditioning solutions, creating environments that feel effortless, balanced, and considered. https://www.calibreclimate.com/ Perfect for: Interior designers, architects, students, studio founders, creative entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in honesty, access, and building a career with purpose. Listen & Watch: Full video available on YouTube Audio on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major platforms Guest Links: Alex Dauley https://www.alexdauley.com/ United in Design https://www.unitedindesign.com/ Follow OLISE Magazine: Website: https://olisemagazine.com Instagram: @olisemagazine LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/olise-magazine/
