Design with Impact

Alex Shield
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Design

Design with Impact is a podcast for interior designers who want to create beautiful, sustainable, and healthy spaces—while building a purposeful, profitable business. Hosted by interior designer and sustainability advocate Alex Shield, this show explores sustainable interior design, eco-friendly materials, and non-toxic homes, giving you practical tools to design with intention and reduce environmental impact. Each week, you’ll hear solo episodes and expert conversations covering indoor air quality, healthy materials, circular design, low-waste renovations, passive design strategies, and wellness-focused interiors—all broken down into actionable steps you can apply in real projects. You’ll also learn how to market a sustainable design business, attract aligned clients, and stand out in a growing industry focused on health, sustainability, and conscious living. Whether you’re new to sustainable design or ready to deepen your expertise, Design with Impact will help you design smarter, create healthier homes, and build a business that truly makes a difference. 🎙 New episodes weekly.

  1. 3d ago

    18. Building for Health: The 12 CORE Principles for Healthy Building Design with Brian Johnson

    Episode 18: Building for Health: The 12 CORE Principles for Healthy Building Design with Brian Johnson Description: What does it really mean to build a healthy home? In this episode of Design with Impact, I’m joined by Brian Johnson, general contractor, builder, and triple-certified building biologist and the founder and CEO of SENERGY360 and the Healthy Building Alliance. Brian brings together building science, building biology, wellness, and human health to rethink the way we design and build the places where we live. We dive into what a truly healthy home looks like—from indoor air quality and ventilation to healthy building materials, lighting, electrical systems, water quality, mold prevention, and more. If you're an interior designer, architect, builder, or other design professional interested in healthy homes, sustainable design, building science, healthy materials, and human health, this episode is packed with ideas to take into your next project. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What a truly healthy home means and why it goes beyond choosing sustainable or eco-friendly materialsThe connection between building science, building biology, and human healthBrian's 12 core systems for healthy building and how they work together as an integrated systemWhy building envelope design, insulation, air sealing, moisture management, and ventilation matter for healthy homesWhy indoor air quality and properly engineered HVAC and ventilation systems are criticalThe role of lighting, circadian design, electrical systems, and low-voltage technology in a healthy homeWhy interior designers should be involved at the beginning of a project, rather than brought in after major building decisions have already been madeHow better communication and coordination between the project team can prevent healthy design strategies from being undermined during constructionThe Element healthy home community and Brian's vision for creating homes designed around health, wellness, and connectionWhat the Healthy Building Alliance is and how it is bringing professionals across the healthy building industry togetherHow interior designers can continue learning about healthy building and connect with other professionals in the fieldConnect with Brian Johnson: Website: SENERGY360.com Instagram: @SENERGY360 Healthy Building Alliance: healthybuildingalliance.org Brian is offering Design with Impact listeners one month of Healthy Building Alliance membership for $1 using the code DesignWithImpact. Element Healthy Home Community: Visit SENERGY360.com to learn more about Element, Brian's healthy home community in Arizona. Follow Design with Impact on Instagram: @designwithimpact_ Share this episode with another interior designer, architect, or builder who wants to learn more about healthy building.

  2. Sep 22

    17. Sustainable Design, Systems & Profit: Business Lessons for Interior Designers with Rebecca Hay

    Episode 17: Sustainable Design, Systems & Profit: Business Lessons for Interior Designers with Rebecca Hay Description: What does it really take to build an interior design business that is both profitable and sustainable? In this episode of Design with Impact, I’m joined by Rebecca Hay, an interior designer, international speaker, business mentor, and founder of Designers Room. Rebecca built her interior design firm, Rebecca Hay Designs, into a seven-figure business before transitioning her focus to coaching and mentoring other interior designers. Rebecca and I talk about something that doesn't get nearly enough attention in the design industry: the connection between strong business systems and sustainable design. We explore how having the right processes in place can give designers more freedom to make thoughtful material choices, research sustainable suppliers, manage waste, and create better client experiences—without sacrificing profitability. From pricing your services and working with vintage and antique pieces to talking to contractors about waste management, this conversation is packed with practical advice for interior designers who want to build a business that works better—for themselves, their clients, and the planet. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why systems and structure can actually create more freedom and creativity in your interior design businessThe three foundational systems every full-service interior design business needsWhy a strong supplier network can help your team make more sustainable sourcing decisionsHow to balance sustainability, quality, durability, and profitability when specifying productsWhy designers need to understand their costs and price their services for profitHow strong business systems can free up time for sustainable research and better design decisionsHow the next generation of designers may approach sustainability, technology, and business differentlyRebecca's advice for designers who want to build a profitable business while creating more sustainable, meaningful spaces Connect with Rebecca Hay: Website: www.rebeccahay.com Instagram: @rebeccahaydesigns Podcast: Resilient by Design Workshops: Rebecca offers workshops for interior designers, visit www.rebeccahay.com for upcoming workshops and resources. Montreal Waste Management Companies: TriobacRamasse.caConteneurs Monstres Connect & continue the conversation: Follow Design with Impact on Instagram: @designwithimpact_Share this episode with a fellow interior designerLeave a review to help more designers discover the podcast

  3. Sep 15

    16. What I Learned from the 30 day $30K Eco Design Challenge: Sustainable Sourcing, Materials & More

    Episode 16: What I Learned from the 30 day, $30K Eco Design Challenge: Sustainable Sourcing, Materials & More Description: What happens when you put sustainable interior design to the test? In this solo episode of Design with Impact, I’m sharing my experience taking on the 30-Day, $30K Eco Design Challenge, hosted by the Good Future Design Alliance (GFDA). The challenge was to transform a space in 30 days with a maximum budget of $30,000 while following three key principles: low waste, low toxin, and low carbon. For this project, we transformed a cold, poorly insulated master bedroom into a healthier and more sustainable space. We reinsulated the exterior walls, removed wall-to-wall carpeting, refinished the existing hardwood floors, sourced pre-loved and antique furniture, incorporated locally made lighting from recycled materials, and selected natural and low-tox materials throughout the room. But the project didn't go exactly according to plan. I’m sharing the sourcing challenges, unexpected discoveries, difficult decisions, and lessons I learned along the way—including why designing sustainably requires flexibility, patience, and a willingness to let the design evolve. If you're an interior designer looking to incorporate more low-waste, low-tox, and low-carbon practices into your projects, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what sustainable design can actually look like in practice. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: What the 30-Day, $30K Eco Design Challenge is and the three sustainability principles behind itHow we applied a low-waste, low-tox, and low-carbon framework to a master bedroom renovationWhy sourcing pre-loved furniture can make a project more sustainable—but also requires patience and flexibilityHow antique and secondhand pieces influenced the final designWhy we chose natural latex and organic cotton for the upholstered headboardHow we incorporated lighting made from recycled materialsHow we approached insulation, flooring, paint, and other building materials with health and sustainability in mindThe challenges of finding materials and products that meet multiple sustainability criteriaWhy sustainable design doesn't always mean choosing the "perfect" productWhy good design takes time, especially when sourcing pre-loved and one-of-a-kind piecesHow a low-waste, low-tox, and low-carbon framework can change and improve the design processWhy flexibility is essential when designing with sustainability in mind Free Webinar: Build Your Sustainable Supplier List If you're an interior designer who wants to make more sustainable choices but feels overwhelmed trying to find the right suppliers and materials, join my free live webinar on September 29th. I'll be sharing my framework for evaluating suppliers so you can start building a trusted sustainable supplier list that reflects your values and your business. Save your seat: Build Your Sustainable Supplier List: A Framework for Smarter Sourcing Connect & continue the conversation: Follow on Instagram: @designwithimpact_ Share this episode with another designer Leave a review to help more designers find Design with Impact

  4. Sep 8

    15. How to Build a Sustainable Supplier Network for Your Interior Design Business

    Episode 15: How to Build a Sustainable Supplier Network for Your Interior Design Business Description: If you've ever wished someone would just hand you a list of trusted sustainable suppliers, this episode is for you. As an interior designer, you already have enough on your plate. Researching every flooring, textile, furniture piece, paint, and finish from scratch can feel overwhelming—especially when you're trying to make healthier and more sustainable choices for your clients. But after years of building my own sustainable sourcing network, I've learned that it's not really about having a long list of suppliers. It's about knowing who you can trust, who has the right expertise, and who shares your values. In this solo episode of Design with Impact, I share some of the biggest mistakes I've made when building my sustainable supplier network—from assuming a familiar supplier is automatically the right fit, to taking sustainability claims at face value, to searching for the "perfect" supplier. I'll also share why relationships have become one of the most valuable resources in my sustainable design practice, and how you can start building your own trusted network of suppliers, manufacturers, reps, and other design professionals. If you're an interior designer who wants to source more sustainably without spending countless hours researching every product, this episode will give you a practical place to start. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why your usual supplier isn't always the right supplier for a sustainable projectWhy you shouldn't take terms like "eco-friendly," "natural," or "sustainable" at face valueWhy there probably isn't one "perfect" sustainable supplier or productHow to use a good, better, best approach when making sustainable selectionsHow to identify your own sustainability priorities and use them to guide your sourcing decisionsWhy relationships are one of the most valuable tools in sustainable sourcingHow suppliers, reps, manufacturers, makers, and other designers can help expand your networkWhy your sustainable supplier list should become a living, evolving resource—not just a spreadsheetHow to start building a trusted supplier network without trying to figure everything out on your own Free Webinar: Build Your Sustainable Supplier List: A Framework for Smarter Sourcing Join the free live training on September 29th to learn how to evaluate sustainable suppliers and build your own trusted supplier network. Register here: Build your List Connect & continue the conversation: Follow on Instagram: @designwithimpact_ Share this episode with a fellow designer Leave a review to help grow the movement

  5. Jul 14

    14. Designing for Longevity: Sustainable Furniture, Local Manufacturing & Circular Design

    Episode 14: Designing for Longevity: Sustainable Furniture, Local Manufacturing & Circular Design Description:What does sustainable furniture actually mean—and how can interior designers confidently source pieces that align with their values? In this episode of Design with Impact, Alex sits down with Méghane Delorme, co-founder of Fabrique Allwood, a Quebec-based furniture manufacturer that's redefining sustainable furniture through local production, zero-waste manufacturing, and timeless craftsmanship. Méghane shares how Fabrique Allwood transformed its production process to eliminate wood waste, developed partnerships within the circular economy, and built a business around creating furniture that's designed to last for generations—not landfills. If you're an interior designer looking to make more sustainable sourcing decisions, this episode is packed with practical advice on choosing local manufacturers, asking better questions, and understanding what truly makes furniture sustainable. What You'll Learn in This Episode:Why locally made furniture is one of the most impactful sustainability decisions designers can make.What "sustainable furniture" really means beyond marketing claims.How Fabrique Allwood developed a zero-waste manufacturing process.The role thoughtful product design plays in reducing manufacturing waste.How wood offcuts are repurposed through schools, artists, makers, and community partnerships.Why circular economy principles create opportunities for collaboration across the design industry.How reusable shipping blankets dramatically reduce packaging waste during local deliveries.Why investing in high-quality, solid wood furniture is more sustainable—and often more economical—than replacing fast furniture every few years.Why visiting local workshops and manufacturing facilities can strengthen client trust and improve your sourcing decisions. Connect with Méghane DelormeFreebie: Free sample box for interior designers + Lunch & Learn sessions Website: https://fabriqueallwood.com Instagram: @fabriqueallwood Other Resources: Vivi Lamarre - Creating wood handles from offcuts Mirabuches - Creating fire logs from wood dust Connect & continue the conversation: I am creating resources and trainings for interior designers who want to learn more about sustainability and I need your input! I would be so grateful if you would take a few minutes to give me your feedback here: SurveySign up for our newsletter: Newsletter Sign-upFollow on Instagram: @designwithimpact_Share this episode with a fellow designerLeave a review to help grow the movement

  6. Jul 7

    13. Beyond Beautiful Spaces: Why Sustainable Art Matters in Interior Design

    Episode 13: Beyond Beautiful Spaces: Why Sustainable Art Matters in Interior Design Description:Artwork is often the finishing touch that brings a space to life—but have you ever stopped to consider its environmental impact? In this episode of Design with Impact, Alex sits down with Jenny McCarty, founder of Sage Leaf Studio, to explore what makes artwork truly sustainable. With a unique background in ecology and water resource management, Jenny combines science, conservation, and creativity to create beautiful wildlife-inspired art while minimizing environmental impact. Together, they discuss how interior designers can make more thoughtful art selections, what questions to ask artists, and why artwork deserves a place in every sustainable design conversation. From eco-friendly materials and low-tox finishes to packaging, shipping, and conservation, this episode offers a fresh perspective on specifying art with intention. What You'll Learn in This Episode:How Jenny's background in ecology shaped her journey into sustainable art.Why sustainability should extend beyond furniture and finishes to include artwork.What makes a piece of artwork truly eco-friendly.The environmental impact of traditional art materials and packaging.How Jenny built a values-driven art business using recycled materials, sustainable packaging, and conservation initiatives.Why perfection isn't necessary when building a sustainable business—and why progress matters more.How asking manufacturers and suppliers better questions can create industry-wide change.Why original artwork creates more meaningful, lasting interiors than mass-produced décor.Practical questions interior designers can ask artists before specifying artwork.Encouraging trends in the art industry, from eco-friendly pigments to reduced packaging.How art can inspire conservation and become a catalyst for positive environmental impact.Connect with Jenny McCarty:Freebie: Sustainable Art Sourcing Checklist Website: www.thesageleafstudio.com Instagram: @sage_leaf_studio Connect & continue the Conversation:I am creating resources and trainings for interior designers who want to learn more about sustainability and I need your input! I would be so grateful if you would take a few minutes to give me your feedback here: SurveyJoin the conversation: Design with Impact Community on SKOOLSign up for our newsletter: Newsletter Sign-upFollow on Instagram: @designwithimpact_Share this episode with a fellow designerLeave a review to help grow the movement

  7. Jun 30

    12. How I Built a Sustainable Interior Design Business (Without Having It All Figured Out)

    Episode 12: How I Built a Sustainable Interior Design Business (Without Having It All Figured Out) Description:In this solo episode of Design with Impact, I’m sharing my personal journey into sustainable interior design—how a childhood shaped by reuse and resourcefulness, a project installation filled with waste, and a powerful documentary completely changed the way I think about design. If you’ve ever felt called to incorporate sustainability into your business but worried it would be too complicated, too expensive, or too overwhelming, this episode is for you. I’m sharing the pivotal moments that led me to build a business centered around healthy homes and sustainability, the challenges I faced along the way, and my advice for designers who want to create more meaningful impact through their work. Because I didn’t build a sustainable design business overnight—it evolved one decision, one project, and one conversation at a time. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:The early experiences that shaped my values around sustainability and resourcefulnessHow seeing the amount of waste generated during a project installation changed my perspective on interior designThe documentary that completely transformed the way I think about consumption and the products we buyWhy sustainability is about more than just materials—it's also about people, waste, and end-of-lifeThe challenges of transitioning into sustainable interior designWhy you don't need to know everything before getting startedHow small decisions can create meaningful impact over timeThe importance of aligning your business with your valuesWhy sustainable design is the future of our industryEncouragement for designers who are just beginning their sustainability journeyResources available to help you confidently incorporate sustainable design into your business Connect & continue the conversation: Join the conversation: Design with Impact Community on SKOOLSign up for our newsletter: Newsletter Sign-upFollow on Instagram: @designwithimpact_Share this episode with a fellow designerLeave a review to help grow the movement

  8. Jun 23

    11. What’s Really Inside Your Sofa? The Truth About Healthy, Natural Furniture

    Episode 11: What’s Really Inside Your Sofa? The Truth About Healthy, Natural Furniture In this episode of Design with Impact, Alex sits down with Christine Sintermann, co-founder of Biosofa, to explore what’s really hiding inside the upholstered furniture we bring into our homes. After discovering the amount of plastic, petroleum-based foam, and synthetic materials used in conventional sofas, Christine and her husband set out to create a different kind of furniture—one built around natural materials, repairability, and circular design. Together, they unpack the health and environmental impacts of conventional furniture, the problem with greenwashing in the industry, and why interior designers need to look beyond aesthetics and start asking what’s inside the products they specify. If you’ve ever wondered how to source healthier furniture, avoid misleading sustainability claims, and create spaces that support both people and the planet, this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Christine’s journey into sustainable furniture beganWhat’s inside a typical mass-market sofa—and why it mattersThe health and environmental concerns surrounding petroleum-based foam and synthetic materialsWhy furniture waste and microplastics are becoming a growing issueWhat you would actually find inside a Biosofa, including natural latex, jute, certified wood, and natural fibersWhy repairability and end-of-life should be considered when specifying furnitureWhy vague terms like “eco,” “green,” and “conscious” aren't enoughWhy transparency matters and what questions designers should be asking manufacturersWhere designers should focus first when creating healthier homes: furniture, walls, and floorsWhy sustainable design doesn't have to be perfect—and why better choices add up over timeChristine’s vision for the future of the furniture industry and product transparencyConnect with Christine Sintermann:Freebie: Natural Home Guide Website: https://biosofa.com/ Instagram: @the_biosofa Reference to video (Natural vs. Synthetic fibres on fire): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87hAnxuh1g8 Connect & continue the conversation:I am creating resources and trainings for interior designers who want to learn more about sustainability and I need your input! I would be so grateful if you would take a few minutes to give me your feedback here: Survey Join our newsletter: Newsletter Sign-upFollow on Instagram: @designwithimpact_Share this episode with a fellow designerLeave a review to help grow the movement

See All (19)

Ratings & Reviews

About

Design with Impact is a podcast for interior designers who want to create beautiful, sustainable, and healthy spaces—while building a purposeful, profitable business. Hosted by interior designer and sustainability advocate Alex Shield, this show explores sustainable interior design, eco-friendly materials, and non-toxic homes, giving you practical tools to design with intention and reduce environmental impact. Each week, you’ll hear solo episodes and expert conversations covering indoor air quality, healthy materials, circular design, low-waste renovations, passive design strategies, and wellness-focused interiors—all broken down into actionable steps you can apply in real projects. You’ll also learn how to market a sustainable design business, attract aligned clients, and stand out in a growing industry focused on health, sustainability, and conscious living. Whether you’re new to sustainable design or ready to deepen your expertise, Design with Impact will help you design smarter, create healthier homes, and build a business that truly makes a difference. 🎙 New episodes weekly.

Information

  • Creator
    Alex Shield
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    19
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Alex Shield

You Might Also Like