Rainbow Reflections

Alex McGinness | Arcoíris Design Studio

Rainbow Reflections is hosted by Alex McGinness of Arcoíris Design Studio. The show dives into the magical blend of creativity, intentional living, and business insight for conscious creative entrepreneurs. Alex empowers listeners to elevate their business and personal life, weaving magic and practicality to ultimately make the world a better place. Join us to unlock your brand's potential, one episode at a time.

  1. 06/13/2024

    26: Spirit-Led Entrepreneurship with Britta GreenViolet

    “I'm here to serve the world. I'm here to serve my people, and that is also serving me. And this, I suppose, comes back to the Spirit-led, this sense of underlying unity, that what serves my people serves me, and what serves me, serves my people.” What if your business could be both spiritually fulfilling and financially stable? Our host Alex McGinness sits down with Britta GreenViolet, a revered teacher and mentor, who shares her journey of supporting leaders and creatives in creating spiritually aligned work. Britta unveils her methods for integrating mystical elements like astrology into business practices, offering a refreshing perspective on how to balance the ethereal with the material in entrepreneurship. Alex and Britta explore the essence of a spirit-led business mindset, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a sacred connection while navigating a capitalist society. The conversation delves into the practicalities of entrepreneurship, stressing the significance of serving others to serve oneself. Navigating financial stability is a key theme in the discussion, as they tackle the hurdles of hustle culture and the importance of knowing your "enough number." Drawing inspiration from the journeys of Elizabeth Gilbert and Danielle LaPorte, Alex and Britt examine strategies for maintaining spiritual integrity while employing effective business tactics. Britta also provides actionable advice on cultivating a healthy relationship with money through a blend of pragmatic tools and energetic practices, aiming to achieve a holistic sense of prosperity and peace of mind. All this and much more in this episode of Rainbow Reflections, brought to you by Arcoíris Design Studio! Key Topics: Spiritually-led Entrepreneurship, Blending the Mystical and Practical (0:01:09) Integrating Spirituality into Business and Personal Growth (0:07:57) Navigating Cultural Expectations and Finding Creative Solutions (0:14:58) Balancing Spiritual Calling with Financial Stability in Biz (0:24:05) Importance of Financial Planning for Spiritual Business (0:34:30) Releasing Attachment to Outcomes and Embracing Personal Evolution (0:40:59) Defining Prosperity as a Holistic Term (0:47:32) Cultivating a Healthy Relationship with Money through Practical and Energetic Approaches (0:54:51) Tips for Managing Finances and the Importance of Abundance Meditations (1:00:40) Tapping into Abundance and Prosperity through Mindset Shifts and Practical Actions (1:09:33) Connect with Britta: Britta’s Website Britta’s Instagram Get Britta's weekly Love Letters The Insatiable Hunger for "Enough"  Sacred Money Mastery Are you Satisfiable?  Additional Resources: Old Money Podcast Submit a Holographic Hotline Question: info@arcoiris.design Support the Show: Buy Alex a Coffee Sign Up for the Companion Newsletter: Subscribe Now Connect with Alex: Arcoíris Design Studio Website Arcoíris Design Studio Instagram Arcoíris Design Studio Resource Page Astrology Squarespace Templates The Desert Oracle Deck

    1h 19m
  2. 05/30/2024

    25: The Power of Color in Branding & Web Design

    "Visual processing happens so much faster than any other type of processing that happens in the brain. So this means that color is subconsciously processed in our brain before any conscious processing happens.” How can understanding color theory transform your design work and influence user behavior on your website? In this vibrant episode of Rainbow Reflections, our host Alex McGinness unravels the color wheel and the profound impact of color psychology. Explore the foundational elements of visual design, and discover the magic behind color harmonies like complementary, analogous, triadic, and tetradic combinations. Alex also discusses the essential properties of color—hue, saturation, and brightness—and how they can bring your designs to life. Learn why color psychology is more than just a theory, and see how colors can evoke emotions and drive actions, setting the stage for a deeper appreciation of color in branding and web design. Next, Alex shines a spotlight on the dynamic use of color in web design. Discover how strategic use of contrasting colors can boost call-to-action clicks and conversion rates, and why varying colors across your web pages can keep users engaged. Alex also discusses the critical importance of accessibility and the legal implications of ADA compliance. All this and much more in this colorful episode of Rainbow Reflections! Key Topics: Color Theory Basics (04:09) Color Psychology (07:18) Applying Color in Branding (12:34) Visual Processing in the Brain (16:08) Accessibility (19:43) Color’s Influence on Conversion Rates (21:51) Trends in Web Design and Color (22:38) Tools, Books, and Resources for Working with Color (24:29) Wrap-Up (30:01) Resources: Sigil Witchery (book by Laura Tempest Zakroff) Colors (book by Victoria Finlay) The Complete Color Harmony (book by Leatrice Eiseman) The Designer’s Dictionary of Color (book by Sean Adams) What Color is the Sacred (book by Michael Taussig) Color, Form, and Magic (book by Nicole Pivirotto) Prism Oracle Deck Color Vision Oracle Deck Color Slurp App for Mac coolors.co Submit a Holographic Hotline Question: info@arcoiris.design Support the Show: Buy Alex a Coffee Sign Up for the Companion Newsletter: Subscribe Now Connect with Alex: Arcoíris Design Studio Website Arcoíris Design Studio Instagram Arcoíris Design Studio Resource Page Astrology Squarespace Templates The Desert Oracle Deck

    32 min
  3. 05/16/2024

    24: All About Astrobranding

    “Astrobranding is a powerful tool for entrepreneurs and individuals seeking to differentiate themselves from others in their respective markets. We are taking elements of who you are and infusing them into the brand through your chart.” Listen in as our host Alex McGinness explores the intriguing world of Astrobranding and its transformative power in personalizing your brand and aligning with your entrepreneurial spirit. In this conversation, she unwraps the nuances of how astrology can forge strategic connections for businesses, going beyond typical sun, moon, and rising sign attributes. We get a first-hand peek inside the Arcoíris Astrobranding process, and discover the significance of natal charts in determining brand voice, color schemes, and the Midheaven's role in crafting public perception and legacy. Astrobranding is a meticulous approach to creating a brand that's as dynamic and individual as the entrepreneur behind it. Alex emphasizes the selective application of astrological elements like the Midheaven for public image, Venus for aesthetic appeal in creative industries, and how certain signs can shape communication styles. Listen in for insightful advice on how personal brands and entrepreneurs can infuse their unique characteristics into their brand identity, and why it's crucial to revisit your astrological strategy with major brand updates to ensure an enduring connection with your audience. Key Topics: What is Astrobranding? (03:08) The Arcoíris Astrobranding Process (07:19) First Steps to Integrating Astrology into Your Brand Identity (13:28) Specific Astrological Aspects for the Creative Industries (17:13) Can Astrobranding Be Applies to Any Type of Biz? (18:26) How Often to Revisit Your Astrological Brand Strategy (19:53) How to Get Started with Astrobranding with Arcoíris Design Studio! (21:03) Submit a Holographic Hotline Question: info@arcoiris.design Support the Show: Buy Alex a Coffee Sign Up for the Companion Newsletter: Subscribe Now Connect with Alex: Arcoíris Design Studio Website Arcoíris Design Studio Instagram Arcoíris Design Studio Resource Page Astrology Squarespace Templates The Desert Oracle Deck

    26 min
  4. 05/02/2024

    23: My Exact Custom Branding Process

    “This journey isn't about just creating a logo and picking some corresponding colors. It's about crafting a brand that resonates with who you truly are and transforming the impact you wish to make on the world around you.” This episode of Rainbow Reflections takes us on an enchanting journey through the Unicorn Experience - Custom Branding from Arcoíris Design Studio, where our host Alex McGinness reveals the power of intertwining your astrological makeup with your brand's identity. Navigating the design landscape is an intricate dance. Explaining the rationale behind each design choice and offering clients the space to ponder concepts at their leisure fosters an environment ripe for creativity and connection. From conjuring up dazzling brand boards to adapting your branding for user-friendly platforms, no stone is unturned in this quest to equip you with the tools needed to enchant your audience. In the next episode, Alex digs deeper into the secrets of Astro branding and beyond. Make sure to follow the podcast on your favorite listening app so you don’t miss it! Key Topics: The Unicorn Experience: Custom Branding from Arcoíris Design Studio (00:45) Astrology and Branding (05:23) Phase 1: You = The Heart of Your Brand (03:20) Phase 2: The Strategy Development Phase (08:40) Phase 3: The Design Phase (12:07) Phase 4: The Refinement Phase (21:38) Phase 5: Any Additional Collateral (29:28) Phase 6: Launch! (And Transition into Web Design, If Applicable) (35:33) Wrap-Up and Recap (38:38) Submit a Holographic Hotline Question: info@arcoiris.design Support the Show: Buy Alex a Coffee Sign Up for the Companion Newsletter: Subscribe Now Connect with Alex: Arcoíris Design Studio Website Arcoíris Design Studio Instagram Arcoíris Design Studio Resource Page Astrology Squarespace Templates The Desert Oracle Deck

    41 min
  5. 04/18/2024

    22: Why You Need Branding Before You Need a Website

    “Branding is your lighthouse, it is how you will shine amongst other people doing the exact same thing as you. Branding distinguishes you from your competitors, highlighting what makes your business unique. Whether it's your approach, your values, or the way you solve problems, your brand showcases your new unique selling points.” Have you ever felt lost in the vast digital landscape, trying to make your brand's voice heard? Our host Alex McGinness breaks down her seven transformative years (and counting) in design that taught her the undeniable power of branding in web design. Branding goes much deeper than color schemes and logo designs; Alex digs deep into the strategic bedrock that supports them: understanding your audience, defining your business mission, embracing your core values, and fine-tuning your brand voice. Branding is the heartbeat of your online presence, and your business as a whole. Discover how a well-crafted brand strategy can be your lighthouse, guiding your business through the competitive ebb and flow, and cementing your place in the market with a unique selling proposition. Alex shares compelling stories and provides actionable advice, aiming to turn the casual browser into your most devoted client, and how strategic groundwork, not visual design, should be the first stroke of your digital paintbrush. Join in for a riveting discussion that will change the way you think about branding and help you leave a lasting legacy beyond the aesthetics. Key Topics: Why You Need Branding Before You Need a Website (01:22) Breaking Down the Elements of Branding (03:59) Branding: Visual Identity, Communication Style, Differentiation, and Emotional Resonance (07:12) The Importance of Branding for Businesses in Today’s Digital Space (13:13) Brand Strategy Development (19:19) Aligned Branding for Your Business Growth (26:16) Submit a Holographic Hotline Question: info@arcoiris.design Support the Show: Buy Alex a Coffee Sign Up for the Companion Newsletter: Subscribe Now Connect with Alex: Arcoíris Design Studio Website Arcoíris Design Studio Instagram Arcoíris Design Studio Resource Page Astrology Squarespace Templates The Desert Oracle Deck

    35 min
  6. 04/04/2024

    21: The Arcoíris Approach to Creativity

    “I really treat design like a science experiment. It's not just a one-and-done type thing.” Have you ever paused to ponder where creativity truly begins? Today, on Rainbow Reflections, our host Alex McGinness walks us through her design process and the possibility that originality, as we know it, might be nothing more than a seductive myth. Alex pulls inspiration from Kirby Ferguson's riveting documentary "Everything is a Remix" to spark a conversation that challenges the very core of our creative beliefs. This episode is not just a journey through the design process, but a deep dive into the ethics of creativity and the blurred lines between homage and outright imitation. Alex shares tales from her personal treasure trove of design experiences, where the magic often emerges from a mix of patience, unexpected inspiration, and those serendipitous moments that all creators crave. She dissects the notion of creative copying, its role as a stepping stone in learning, and the subsequent leap toward true creative innovation—a leap that defines our integrity and value in the ever-evolving tapestry of the design world. Key Topics: Intro and Updates! (00:11) Nothing is an Original Idea (04:25) Kirby Ferguson & Everything is a Remix (05:53) Walkthrough of How a Design Project Works at Arcoíris (07:25) Remixes Upon Remixes of Other Ideas in the World (12:50) The Mood Boarding Phase (13:14) Inspiration vs. Copying and Letting Ideas Ideas Marinate (15:55) Giving Space for Ideas and Creativity to Bloom (18:45) Technology and Blatant Copying (22:13) Wrap-Up (24:33) Resources: Rainbow Reflections Episode 6: 4 Lessons to Learn From Creating The Desert Oracle Deck Kirby Ferguson: Everything is a Remix Submit a Holographic Hotline Question: info@arcoiris.design Support the Show: Buy Alex a Coffee Sign Up for the Companion Newsletter: Subscribe Now Connect with Alex: Arcoíris Design Studio Website Arcoíris Design Studio Instagram Arcoíris Design Studio Resource Page Astrology Squarespace Templates The Desert Oracle Deck

    28 min
  7. 03/21/2024

    20: Rainbow Reflections is Back!

    "I feel like for a long time, I've kind of veered away from leaning on my expertise, I really have a hard time acknowledging how much I know about the things I know. And for a while, I didn't want my podcasts to be about branding and web design. But that is what I know. So why isn't it about that?” Embark on a journey with our host, Alex McGinness of Rainbow Reflections where authenticity in entrepreneurship shines bright and personal growth takes center stage. Alex unveils a treasure trove of insights from her own evolution, the new direction of the podcast, and a brand-new companion newsletter that's set to bring these stories to life like never before. With bi-weekly episodes, this season is a dedication to the authentic pulse of your business’ heart. Alex recounts a season of recharging, filled with screen-free escapades and strategic planning under the Capricorn sign's industrious influence. From her engagement anniversary to Valentine's Day, we’re reminded how life's moments can invigorate our professional journeys. Welcome to this new, reimagined season of Rainbow Reflections! Key Topics: Podcast Updates and the New Companion Newsletter (00:10) Personal Updates and Happenings in Alex’s World! (03:24) Taking Breaks, Capricorn Season, and Personal Growth (09:40) Astrology as it Relates to Business and Networking (15:43) Business Intentionality and Profitability (22:34) Wrap-Up and Working with Alex (24:53) Submit a Holographic Hotline Question: info@arcoiris.design Support the Show: Buy Alex a Coffee Sign Up for the Companion Newsletter: Subscribe Now Connect with Alex: Arcoíris Design Studio Website Arcoíris Design Studio Instagram Arcoíris Design Studio Resource Page Astrology Squarespace Templates The Desert Oracle Deck

    28 min

About

Rainbow Reflections is hosted by Alex McGinness of Arcoíris Design Studio. The show dives into the magical blend of creativity, intentional living, and business insight for conscious creative entrepreneurs. Alex empowers listeners to elevate their business and personal life, weaving magic and practicality to ultimately make the world a better place. Join us to unlock your brand's potential, one episode at a time.