The McClain Method

John McClain
  • 5.0 (20)
  • ENTREPRENEURSHIP
  • UPDATED BIMONTHLY

Welcome to The McClain Method—the podcast for interior designers who are done playing small and ready to be seen. I’m your host, John McClain—designer, business mentor, author, and your go-to branding bestie. This isn’t about toss pillows or paint swatches. Around here, we dive deep into the business of design—mindset, marketing, visibility, systems, and everything in between. So if you’re ready to build a bold, profitable, and well-run business that truly reflects your brilliance... You’re in the right place. It’s time to let it shine.

  1. OCT 21

    83: 5 Proven Strategies to Build a Successful Interior Design Brand with Alena Capra

    In this episode of The McClain Method Podcast, I’m joined by nationally recognized designer, TV personality, and NKBA Person of the Year Alena Capra — a powerhouse in the world of interior design and brand partnerships. We’re pulling back the curtain on what it really takes to build a thriving design brand from the ground up — one that’s respected, recognizable, and rooted in authenticity. Alena and I dive into: 🌟 How to find your niche and use it to stand out in a crowded design industry🤝 The secret to landing brand partnerships and ambassadorships (even when you’re just starting out)🧠 Why consistency and visibility are key to building a trusted design brand💬 How to create lasting relationships with showrooms, reps, and other designers💡 What it means to evolve your brand intentionally — and how to keep your creative passion alive while doing itWhether you’re an emerging designer dreaming of partnerships with your favorite brands, or an established pro looking to grow your visibility and influence, this episode is full of insight, laughter, and real-world wisdom from two designers who’ve walked the walk. ✨ Connect with Alena Capra 🔗 Website: alenacapradesigns.com 📸 Instagram: @alenacapradesign Text Me a Message! Learn how to build a profitable, polished interior design business—without burning out. In this free training, John McClain shares the 3 secrets that took him from overwhelmed to booked out, including pricing tips, service structure, and mindset shifts that actually work. CLICK HERE to watch now at https://mcclainmethod.com/dbft-video-optin Support the show 🖥️ FREE ON DEMAND VIDEO TRAINING: How to Build a Six-Figure Interior Design Business CLICK HERE 🌟 For all things John and The McClain Method, head to: www.mcclainmethod.com https://mcclainmethod.com/ for information on coaching, memberships, & more! 📄 For Podcast Downloads & Freebies: https://mcclainmethod.com/freebies 📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://johnmcclaindesign.com/designerwithin Connect With John! YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@mcclainjohn Instagram https://www.instagram.com/themcclainmethod Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mcclainmethod LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejohnmcclain/

    1 hr

  2. OCT 4

    82: I Know AI Wrote Your Instagram Caption (Here’s How to Fix It)

    If your Instagram captions or newsletters sound like a bad Hallmark card… I hate to break it to you, but I know AI wrote them. And so does your audience. 👀 Here’s the deal: AI isn’t the problem. It’s actually a powerful tool — but if you’re handing it the mic and posting whatever it spits out, your content is going to sound robotic, generic, and totally forgettable. And luxury clients? They don’t hire forgettable. In this episode of The McClain Method, I’m giving you the tough love (and the strategy) on: ✨ Why AI-written captions often sound fake (and how your audience can spot it instantly).  ✨ The difference between free vs. paid ChatGPT — and why it matters for your brand voice.  ✨ How to train AI to sound more like YOU, not a corporate brochure.  ✨ My “Cocktail Rule” test to make sure your captions actually connect with luxury clients.  ✨ A fast action step you can do today to make your content sound authentic, magnetic, and luxury-ready. AI should be your assistant, not your replacement. This episode will show you how to stop sounding like everyone else online — and start showing up with the presence, personality, and polish that attracts the clients you actually want. 💡 DOWNLOAD MY FREE GUIDE: BRAND VOICE CHATGPT PROMPT  https://mcclainmethod.com/chatgpt-kickstart-prompt 👉 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The McClain Method — because when your brand speaks clearly, the world pays attention. 82: I Know AI Wrote Your Instagram Caption (Here’s How to Fix It) Text Me a Message! Support the show 🖥️ FREE ON DEMAND VIDEO TRAINING: How to Build a Six-Figure Interior Design Business CLICK HERE 🌟 For all things John and The McClain Method, head to: www.mcclainmethod.com https://mcclainmethod.com/ for information on coaching, memberships, & more! 📄 For Podcast Downloads & Freebies: https://mcclainmethod.com/freebies 📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://johnmcclaindesign.com/designerwithin Connect With John! YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@mcclainjohn Instagram https://www.instagram.com/themcclainmethod Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mcclainmethod LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejohnmcclain/

    18 min

  3. SEP 19

    81: How to Avoid Common Interior Design Business Mistakes with Ronniesha Rivera

    How to Avoid Common Interior Design Business Mistakes with Ronniesha Rivera In this episode of the McClain Method Podcast, host John McClain discusses overcoming difficulties in the interior design business with guest Ronniesha Rivera, founder of Vetted By Design.  They talk about the importance of dealing with hardships, the challenges of finding good help, outsourcing effectively, and maintaining long-term profitability. They also delve into the specifics of hiring bookkeepers, accountants, and the crucial role of contracts.  Ronniesha shares her insights on delegating, managing contractor relations, and the essential role of boundaries in maintaining a successful design business. She highlights the need for robust processes and the importance of investing in oneself. Additionally, they introduce Vetted By Design, a platform created to help designers find pre-vetted industry professionals, ensuring reliable and tailored support for various business needs. 00:00 Overcoming Business Challenges 01:06 Welcome to the McClain Method Podcast 02:46 Introducing Ronniesha Rivera 04:03 The Bookkeeping Nightmare 08:34 Learning from Mistakes 11:16 The Importance of Delegation 16:58 Finding the Right Help 20:45 First Steps for New Designers 28:22 Introduction to Vetted by Design 29:33 The Need for a Centralized Platform 31:37 Vetting Process for Professionals 34:09 Advice for Struggling Business Owners 38:36 Importance of Boundaries in Business 44:01 Roles Available on Vetted by Design 49:46 Rapid Fire Round 53:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts More about Vetted By Design Text Me a Message! Learn how to build a profitable, polished interior design business—without burning out. In this free training, John McClain shares the 3 secrets that took him from overwhelmed to booked out, including pricing tips, service structure, and mindset shifts that actually work.  CLICK HERE to watch now at https://mcclainmethod.com/dbft-video-optin Learn how to build a profitable, polished interior design business—without burning out. In this free training, John McClain shares the 3 secrets that took him from overwhelmed to booked out, including pricing tips, service structure, and mindset shifts that actually work. CLICK HERE to watch now at https://mcclainmethod.com/dbft-video-optin Support the show 🖥️ FREE ON DEMAND VIDEO TRAINING: How to Build a Six-Figure Interior Design Business CLICK HERE 🌟 For all things John and The McClain Method, head to: www.mcclainmethod.com https://mcclainmethod.com/ for information on coaching, memberships, & more! 📄 For Podcast Downloads & Freebies: https://mcclainmethod.com/freebies 📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://johnmcclaindesign.com/designerwithin Connect With John! YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@mcclainjohn Instagram https://www.instagram.com/themcclainmethod Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mcclainmethod LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejohnmcclain/

    58 min

  4. AUG 29

    80: Do it Afraid: Navigating Fear and Change in Design with Katie Decker-Erickson

    Do it Afraid: Navigating Fear and Change in Design In this episode of the McClain Method Podcast, host John McClain speaks with Katie Derek Erickson, founder of Success by Design.  They discuss the importance of grit, perspective, and intuitive decision-making in business. Katie shares her journey from flipping houses to leading a multimillion-dollar commercial design firm and emphasizes the significance of sustainable design. The episode also touches on overcoming fear, the power of celebrating small wins, and the impact of having a defined 'why' in business.  14:18 Celebrating Success and Finding Joy 18:12 Remote Teams and Effective Hiring 27:11 The Power of Systems and Processes 36:04 The Importance of Marketing Processes 36:53 The Need for Structured Task Management 44:38 Building Strong Relationships with Tradespeople 53:40 Handling Business Challenges and Burnout 01:00:32 The Power of Knowing Your 'Why' 01:05:44 Rapid Fire Insights and Conclusion More On Katie and her program and podcast: Success by Design Website: https://successbydesign.coach/ LISTEN HERE to John on Katie's Podcast: https://successbydesign.coach/podcast-library/b/attracting-luxury-interior-design-clients-with-john-mcclain Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/successbydesign_coach_podcast/?hl=en **** Text Me a Message! Learn how to build a profitable, polished interior design business—without burning out. In this free training, John McClain shares the 3 secrets that took him from overwhelmed to booked out, including pricing tips, service structure, and mindset shifts that actually work.  CLICK HERE to watch now at https://mcclainmethod.com/dbft-video-optin Learn how to build a profitable, polished interior design business—without burning out. In this free training, John McClain shares the 3 secrets that took him from overwhelmed to booked out, including pricing tips, service structure, and mindset shifts that actually work. CLICK HERE to watch now at https://mcclainmethod.com/dbft-video-optin Support the show 🖥️ FREE ON DEMAND VIDEO TRAINING: How to Build a Six-Figure Interior Design Business CLICK HERE 🌟 For all things John and The McClain Method, head to: www.mcclainmethod.com https://mcclainmethod.com/ for information on coaching, memberships, & more! 📄 For Podcast Downloads & Freebies: https://mcclainmethod.com/freebies 📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://johnmcclaindesign.com/designerwithin Connect With John! YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@mcclainjohn Instagram https://www.instagram.com/themcclainmethod Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mcclainmethod LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejohnmcclain/

    1h 13m

  5. AUG 15

    79: Clutter-Free Life: How Clearing Your Space Can Transform Your Mindset with Helen Sanderson

    Episode 79: Clutter-Free Life – Transform Your Space, Transform Your Mindset with Helen Sanderson In today’s episode of The McClain Method Podcast, we’re diving into the powerful connection between your home environment and mental wellness. I’m joined by Helen Sanderson, the UK’s leading expert on the psychology of clutter and the author of The Secret Life of Clutter.  Helen is here to show us how to clear the physical clutter in our spaces—and how doing so can lead to a clearer, more intentional mindset. Helen, known as "The Clutter Therapist," shares her unique approach that blends psychotherapy with interior design to help people declutter not only their homes but their lives. This episode explores: Why clutter is more than just physical stuff – it’s about what’s going on inside your head.How clutter can be a mirror for your mental state, and how clearing it can help you tap into your potential.The emotional journey of decluttering, from attachment to guilt to personal growth.Tips for interior designers on how to gently help clients face the clutter in their own homes without overstepping.The powerful role of mindset in design and how to create spaces that support both mental and physical wellness.Helen gives insightful advice on the Clutter Shift and the importance of compassionate guidance through the decluttering process. If you’ve ever struggled with the clutter in your home—or in your mind—this episode is for you! Resources Mentioned: Helen Sanderson’s Text Me a Message! Learn how to build a profitable, polished interior design business—without burning out. In this free training, John McClain shares the 3 secrets that took him from overwhelmed to booked out, including pricing tips, service structure, and mindset shifts that actually work.  CLICK HERE to watch now at https://mcclainmethod.com/dbft-video-optin Learn how to build a profitable, polished interior design business—without burning out. In this free training, John McClain shares the 3 secrets that took him from overwhelmed to booked out, including pricing tips, service structure, and mindset shifts that actually work. CLICK HERE to watch now at https://mcclainmethod.com/dbft-video-optin Support the show 🖥️ FREE ON DEMAND VIDEO TRAINING: How to Build a Six-Figure Interior Design Business CLICK HERE 🌟 For all things John and The McClain Method, head to: www.mcclainmethod.com https://mcclainmethod.com/ for information on coaching, memberships, & more! 📄 For Podcast Downloads & Freebies: https://mcclainmethod.com/freebies 📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://johnmcclaindesign.com/designerwithin Connect With John! YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@mcclainjohn Instagram https://www.instagram.com/themcclainmethod Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mcclainmethod LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejohnmcclain/

    55 min

  6. AUG 1

    78: How Instagram’s Search Engine Update Can Help You Get Found and Grow Your Business

    Episode 78: How Instagram’s Search Engine Update Can Help You Get Found and Grow Your Business Hey y’all, welcome back to The McClain Method Podcast! Today, I’m bringing you some amazing information from my YouTube channel and adapting it for the podcast. If you haven’t subscribed to my YouTube yet, check out https://www.youtube.com/@mcclainjohn for more content with visuals! In today’s episode, we’re diving into a game-changing shift happening on Instagram: it’s becoming a search engine. Instagram isn’t just for scrolling photos anymore—it’s a powerful discovery tool for businesses, products, and services. I’m going to walk you through how Instagram’s search features have evolved, what this means for your business’s visibility, and how you can optimize your content to make sure you’re showing up in those search results. Plus, with AI now pulling from Instagram, your posts could show up in AI search results too! You’ll learn how Instagram’s search engine evolution can increase your visibility and grow your business. I’ll share practical tips for optimizing your profile, captions, and hashtags, and explain why Instagram’s object recognition and alt text are key to getting discovered. So, stay tuned and get ready to leverage Instagram’s search engine evolution to boost your audience reach. Don’t forget to share this episode with a friend or business owner who needs to know this! TO DO: After listening, take 15 minutes to audit your Instagram: update your bio, optimize a post’s caption, and add location t Text Me a Message! Learn how to build a profitable, polished interior design business—without burning out. In this free training, John McClain shares the 3 secrets that took him from overwhelmed to booked out, including pricing tips, service structure, and mindset shifts that actually work.  CLICK HERE to watch now at https://mcclainmethod.com/dbft-video-optin Learn how to build a profitable, polished interior design business—without burning out. In this free training, John McClain shares the 3 secrets that took him from overwhelmed to booked out, including pricing tips, service structure, and mindset shifts that actually work. CLICK HERE to watch now at https://mcclainmethod.com/dbft-video-optin Support the show 🖥️ FREE ON DEMAND VIDEO TRAINING: How to Build a Six-Figure Interior Design Business CLICK HERE 🌟 For all things John and The McClain Method, head to: www.mcclainmethod.com https://mcclainmethod.com/ for information on coaching, memberships, & more! 📄 For Podcast Downloads & Freebies: https://mcclainmethod.com/freebies 📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://johnmcclaindesign.com/designerwithin Connect With John! YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@mcclainjohn Instagram https://www.instagram.com/themcclainmethod Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mcclainmethod LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejohnmcclain/

    30 min

  7. JUL 18

    77: How to Sell Without Feeling Salesy: The Steve Jobs Strategy for Designers + Creatives

    What do interior designers, creatives, and wellness founders have in common? Most of them hate selling—but still need to do it daily. In this episode, John sits down with Christopher Francis, engineer-turned-entrepreneur and founder of Home Plunge, the world’s first cold plunge designed for your home bathtub.  Drawing inspiration from Steve Jobs and his own experience bridging product design with human connection, Christopher shares how to sell without being pushy, pitchy, or fake. Inside this conversation: ✔ How to guide clients who “don’t know what they want” ✔ The art of showing—not telling—your expertise ✔ What every creative can learn from cold plunges and consumer feedback ✔ Why authenticity is your best sales strategy ✔ The power of solving real problems beautifully If you’ve ever second-guessed your prices, held back a bold idea, or felt icky about closing the deal—this episode is for you. More on HomePlunge: WEBSITE: https://www.thehomeplunge.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homeplunge/ To get your NOW $300 Discount using code: MCCLAIN Text Me a Message! Learn how to build a profitable, polished interior design business—without burning out. In this free training, John McClain shares the 3 secrets that took him from overwhelmed to booked out, including pricing tips, service structure, and mindset shifts that actually work.  CLICK HERE to watch now at https://mcclainmethod.com/dbft-video-optin Learn how to build a profitable, polished interior design business—without burning out. In this free training, John McClain shares the 3 secrets that took him from overwhelmed to booked out, including pricing tips, service structure, and mindset shifts that actually work. CLICK HERE to watch now at https://mcclainmethod.com/dbft-video-optin Support the show 🖥️ FREE ON DEMAND VIDEO TRAINING: How to Build a Six-Figure Interior Design Business CLICK HERE 🌟 For all things John and The McClain Method, head to: www.mcclainmethod.com https://mcclainmethod.com/ for information on coaching, memberships, & more! 📄 For Podcast Downloads & Freebies: https://mcclainmethod.com/freebies 📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://johnmcclaindesign.com/designerwithin Connect With John! YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@mcclainjohn Instagram https://www.instagram.com/themcclainmethod Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mcclainmethod LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejohnmcclain/

    44 min

  8. JUL 7

    76: You’re Not Lazy—You’re Exhausted: Rethinking Productivity and Self-Worth with Katie McDonald

    76: You’re Not Lazy—You’re Exhausted: Rethinking Productivity and Self-Worth 📝 Episode Description / Show Notes: What if the real problem isn’t your motivation, your to-do list, or your morning routine? What if you’re not lazy—you’re exhausted? In this powerful conversation, John McClain sits down with wellness expert and founder of bnourished, Katie McDonald, to challenge everything we’ve been taught about productivity, hustle culture, and tying our worth to output. 👂 In this episode: How self-care became another task on your list—and what to do about itWhy rest is the ultimate power move (yes, really)The real reason you keep falling to the bottom of your own priority listHow to stop measuring your worth by your productivityJohn and Katie’s personal routines that actually work for ambitious creatives✨ You’ll walk away with practical tips, fresh perspective, and permission to care for you—the person behind the brand. 🔗 MORE ABOUT KATIE MCDONALD: Learn more about Katie: https://www.bnourished.comFollow Katie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_bnourished/🎧 Listen now and remember: your worth isn’t measured by your output. It's time to thrive on your terms. Text Me a Message! Learn how to build a profitable, polished interior design business—without burning out. In this free training, John McClain shares the 3 secrets that took him from overwhelmed to booked out, including pricing tips, service structure, and mindset shifts that actually work.  CLICK HERE to watch now at https://mcclainmethod.com/dbft-video-optin Learn how to build a profitable, polished interior design business—without burning out. In this free training, John McClain shares the 3 secrets that took him from overwhelmed to booked out, including pricing tips, service structure, and mindset shifts that actually work. CLICK HERE to watch now at https://mcclainmethod.com/dbft-video-optin Support the show 🖥️ FREE ON DEMAND VIDEO TRAINING: How to Build a Six-Figure Interior Design Business CLICK HERE 🌟 For all things John and The McClain Method, head to: www.mcclainmethod.com https://mcclainmethod.com/ for information on coaching, memberships, & more! 📄 For Podcast Downloads & Freebies: https://mcclainmethod.com/freebies 📕 Order a signed copy of John's book: The Designer Within (or purchase anywhere books are sold!) https://johnmcclaindesign.com/designerwithin Connect With John! YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@mcclainjohn Instagram https://www.instagram.com/themcclainmethod Facebook https://www.facebook.com/mcclainmethod LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejohnmcclain/

    1h 4m
See All (83)

5
out of 5
20 Ratings

About

Welcome to The McClain Method—the podcast for interior designers who are done playing small and ready to be seen. I’m your host, John McClain—designer, business mentor, author, and your go-to branding bestie. This isn’t about toss pillows or paint swatches. Around here, we dive deep into the business of design—mindset, marketing, visibility, systems, and everything in between. So if you’re ready to build a bold, profitable, and well-run business that truly reflects your brilliance... You’re in the right place. It’s time to let it shine.

Information

  • Creator
    John McClain
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2025
  • Episodes
    83
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 The McClain Method
  • Show Website
    The McClain Method

You Might Also Like