1050: Power Talk Friday: Amy Posner: How Interior Designers Can Be the Expert, Not the Order Taker

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Today With Amy Posner:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. Are you the expert in your business? The one driving conversations? Solving problems? Showing your clients how valuable you are, setting expectations, and running the ship? Or are you an order-taker, following along, being passive, and serving as a yes-man for your clients?

Today, I’m joined by Amy Posner, business coach with years of experience helping freelancers and small business owners take control and build stronger, more successful businesses–we’re diving into how to stop being an order-taker and start showing up as the expert.

LuAnn Nigara and Amy Posner’s Ah-Ha Moments

“The more that you own it and the more confident you are and you exude that, the more people are like, okay, great. You’re the expert, you’re the pro.” -Amy

“You got to do it easy breezy. Like this is what it is. Whether it’s $20 or $20,000 or $200,000. This is what it is. This is just what it is.” -LuAnn

More About Amy Posner

Amy Posner is a seasoned online entrepreneur and business coach who helps digital creative freelancers build breakthrough businesses. 

Over her 30-year career, Amy has launched six successful businesses (five of which are still in business today!) and mentored thousands of freelancers to success. Now, she focuses on empowering freelancers to grow the business they want by teaching them the skills they need to attract the right clients – something she teaches in her Complete Breakthrough Freelancer course and as co-host of the Business Badassery podcast.

Amy has been featured on Copyhackers and as a guest on several top podcasts, including The Copywriter Club, Copy Chief Radio, and The Deliberate Freelancer, among others. 

In her free time, you’ll find Amy adventuring around her hometown of Olympia, raising funds for pet cancer treatment, and enjoying Washington’s natural beauty.

Connect with Amy Posner

Website

Instagram 

Podcast: Business Badassery

LinkedIn

Breakthrough Clients

Breakthrough Sales Calls

Complete Breakthrough Freelancer

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

AudiobookThe Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Mydoma Studio – Get 20% off your first three months

LuAnn University – Registration Open!

1049: What Would Lu Do?: Celebrate Your Wins and Set Your Goals: A New Year’s Challenge

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Today With LuAnn Nigara:

As we wrap up 2024, I’m taking a moment to reflect on the lessons, challenges, and wins from this past year—and looking ahead to 2025. In this episode, I share the stories and milestones that shaped my year, the powerful insights I’ve gained from incredible people, and a challenge for you as you step into the new year. Whether you’re celebrating a big win, planning your next move, or simply seeking inspiration, this episode will leave you motivated to embrace excellence, invest in yourself, and create the success you deserve.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

AudiobookThe Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Katie Decker Erickson’s Success By Design episode: The Future of Interior Design in 2025 [The Table]

A Well-Designed Business 4-Part Docuseries

CFO2GO

LuAnn’s University

Other Shows:

AWDB #996: Power Talk Friday: Katie Decker-Erickson: Building True Confidence Through Knowledge and Experience

AWDB #790: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide- The Answer to All Your Business Questions

AWDB #774: Rick Campos: Design Biz Survival Guide Celebrates 4 Years!

AWDB #981: Jennifer Chukwujekwe: Global Collaboration with Nigerian Designer and Entrepreneur

AWDB #1010: Overheard: Developing Resilience in Interior Design Business Leadership with Antonio Deloatch Jr, Sandra Funk and Robin Burrill

AWDB #1000: 1000th Episode! LuAnn Nigara is Interviewed by Jude Charles!

AWDB #1004: Power Talk Friday: Announcing Mydoma Studio is Acquired by Studio Designer! Sarah Daniele and Keith Granet

AWDB #169: Amber Lewis- Keynote Speaker at Design Blogger’s Conference

AWDB #184: Amber Lewis – Important Business Tips to Run Your Interior Design Firm

1048: On Air Strategy Session: Melanie Lybrand: Overcoming the Fear of Raising Your Interior Design Rates

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Today With Melanie Lybrand:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business! In today’s on-air coaching session, I’m helping my guest, Melanie Lybrand, conquer an ongoing fear of raising her rates–one that’s so strong it keeps creeping back even after she’s committed to changing it.

Today, we’re working through the stories she’s been telling herself and making a tangible action plan to get her over the hump that’s holding her back.

LuAnn Nigara and Melanie Lybrand’s Ah-Ha Moments

“Here’s what you do with fear. The next time you come up with a fee, I want you to come up with it and I want you to add to it. Next time you calculate, you think it’s 10,000, you are going to say $11,000, period. You are not passing go, you’re not collecting $200, do it, okay? Because here’s what I know, somebody that will pay 10 will pay 11.” -LuAnn

“If you remember nothing about sales, remember when it truly is about the other person and your actual depth of understanding that you are the answer for that person. You are now in service of them.” -LuAnn

More About Melanie Lybrand

Melanie is the owner of Happy House Interiors, based in Santa Cruz, CA. Even as a little girl she was fascinated by houses and their interiors, but it wasn’t until her 40s that it dawned on her she could make a career out of that passion. After finishing a design program she spent her first 7 years in the field as a kitchen and bath designer. Realizing she wanted to branch out and be her own boss, Melanie started Happy House Interiors in 2023, a boutique interior design firm specializing in eclectic interiors with an emphasis on historical homes.

Connect with Melanie Lybrand

Website

Instagram 

Facebook 

LinkedIn

Houzz

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

AudiobookThe Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Book a quick intro call with Duke Renders!

LuAnn University – Registration Open!

Other Shows:

AWDB #811: Power Talk Friday: Heather Hansen: You Are Your Own Advocate

1047: NeKeia McSwain: Saying No to Say Yes: Lessons on Alignment and Leadership

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Today With NeKeia McSwain:

In today’s episode of A Well Designed Business, I sit down with the inspiring NeKeia McSwain, a trailblazer in the interior design industry. NeKeia shares her journey of embracing authenticity and the importance of showing up as your true self in both personal and professional settings.

We dive deep into her experiences, discussing the challenges and triumphs she’s faced in an industry that can sometimes prioritize facade over genuine connection. NeKeia emphasizes the value of building supportive circles and the need for emotional intelligence in our interactions, whether with clients, industry peers, or brand partners.

Join us as we explore how to navigate the complexities of the design world while remaining true to ourselves. NeKeia’s insights remind us that authenticity is not just a personal mantra but a vital element in creating meaningful relationships and successful collaborations.

Tune in to discover how you can apply these lessons in your own journey and foster a community where everyone can thrive.

More About NeKeia McSwain

NeKeia ‘Keia’ McSwain is an award-winning interior designer, product designer, and Principal of NeKeia & Co., a full-service luxury design firm specializing in the marriage of functionality and stunningly custom interiors.

Her creative projects often incorporate eye-popping colors and textures that are as unique as each client’s. Born in the Southeast and based in Denver, CO, Keia has designed residential and commercial customers across the U.S. Most recently, Keia has furthered her talents in the world of product design with her inaugural collection of handmade leather artisanal lighting called ‘The NeKeia Collection’ for Ngala Trading.

She has been prominently featured across the pages of The Wall Street Journal, House Beautiful, Better Homes & Gardens, Architectural Digest, Forbes, and LUXE Magazine to name a few, and was named an Emerging Star by Architectural Digest and People to Watch by Designers Today. An activist and pioneer for diversity in design, Keia serves as the President of Black Interior Designers Inc., the nation’s largest and longest-established organization for designers of color. In this role, Keia uses her voice to elevate those who are traditionally marginalized, particularly black interior designers and aspiring design professionals, through a supportive community that exposes, encourages, and empowers black interior designers with personal and professional growth opportunities.

Connect with NeKeia McSwain

Website

Instagram

The NeKeia Collection for Ngala Trading

Black Interior Designers Network

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

AudiobookThe Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

LuAnn University – Registration Open!

1046: Jennifer Tokatyan: Building a Culture that Drives Business Results

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Today With Jennifer Tokatyan:

Today on A Well-Designed Business, I speak with Jennifer Tokatyan, leadership consultant and partner with Eileen B Hahn. With over 20 years of experience, Jennifer shares her proven 7-step framework for building strong company culture that drives team performance and business growth. Don’t miss information about her upcoming LuAnn University course, “Build an Exceptional Team that Gets Results,” starting January 2025.

LuAnn Nigara and Jennifer Tokatyan’s Ah-Ha Moments

“Culture matters the moment you have another human being you are interacting with because you are now interdependent on them to execute on the very things you are trying to deliver,” – Jennifer Tokatyan

“Once you clarify yourself as the leader and you exemplify that and are consistent, the whole team will follow. And the ones who don’t, you can show them the door,” – LuAnn Nigara

More About Jennifer Tokatyan

Jennifer Tokatyan is a leadership consultant and a consulting partner with Eileen B Hahn. Jennifer has over 20 years of experience in small and large organizations across multiple industries in public, private and nonprofit sectors. She has worked with and for Fortune 500 companies as well as fast-paced entrepreneurial start-ups and Founder-led companies including interior design, hospitality, real estate, apparel, retail, manufacturing, non-profit and more.

Jennifer provides leadership, talent optimization, organizational development, strategic HR consulting and coaching to organizations seeking to grow their people and business, deliver on their brand promise, create the culture and environment where its people flourish and achieve exceptional results. She has several active interior design clients across the United States and was on the expert panel at LuAnn Nigara’s Power Talk Friday at High Point Market in October, 2022.

Connect with Jennifer Tokatyan

Website

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

AudiobookThe Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Hiring Toolkit Bundle

LuAnn University – Registration Open!

Other Shows:

AWDB #68: Chad James- “Think Forward” – Employee Management

1045: What Would Lu Do?: Big Decisions, Bigger Lessons: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at My Process

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Today With LuAnn Nigara:

Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Have you ever faced a business opportunity that made you stop in your tracks? It’s equal parts exciting and terrifying, isn’t it? On this episode, I share a behind-the-scenes look at how I navigated one of those moments. With insights from trusted advisors like Kate O’Hara, I learned valuable lessons that can help YOU handle those big decisions in your business:

  • How to slow down, gather information, and make a thoughtful choice.
  • Why having a network of advisors is a game-changer.
  • How to balance confidence with strategy in decision-making.

Listen now for real-world strategies and actionable takeaways.

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

AudiobookThe Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

The Power Talk Friday Experts books

The Making of a Well-Designed Business: The Workshop on January 8th, 2025!

Other Shows:

AWDB #1042: In Good Company: CEO Conversations with Kate O’Hara: End-of-Year Business Strategies for Designers: Pipeline, Productivity, and Press

AWDB #1030: In Good Company: CEO Conversations with Kate O’Hara: Insights and Strategies on Successful Scaling

1044: What Would Lu Do?: Think Different: Applying Lessons from Steve Jobs to Your Interior Design Business

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Today With LuAnn Nigara:

Hi, welcome to A Well-Designed Business! Recently, I listened to Steve Jobs’ biography, and it sparked some big ideas. Steve was more than a tech innovator—he was a master of customer experience, a ruthless prioritizer, and a perfectionist when it came to excellence. In this episode, I’ll reflect on his genius and how we can apply it to our interior design firms.

From branding and systems to productivity and storytelling, we’ll cover practical strategies inspired by Jobs and blended with advice from my Power Talk Friday Experts books. By the end, you’ll have a roadmap to simplify, streamline, and succeed in your business.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

  • Why your customer experience is your brand’s story—and how to control it.
  • How to create systems that simplify your life and delight your clients.
  • Why saying “no” is the key to productivity and growth.
  • The art of storytelling to create emotional connections with your audience.
  • Why excellence is a daily choice that leads to a lasting legacy.

Grab your notebook and tune in here!

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

AudiobookThe Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

The Power Talk Friday Experts books

Sandra Funk’s Interior Design Standard

Darla Powell’s Instagram for Interior Designers

Other Shows:

AWDB #466: Power Talk Friday: Nicole Heymer: You’ve Defined Your Brand…Now What?

AWDB #660: Sandra Funk: Level Up Your Business Through Mentorship, Coaching, and Classes. Sponsored Show: “Interior Design Standard”

AWDB #803: Power Talk Friday: Amber De La Garza: Productivity is Personal – How to Create Systems that Will Work for You!

AWDB #861: Power Talk Friday: Darla Powell: Instagram for Interior Designers

1043: Kristin Bartone: Pivoting Your Interior Design Business When Life Throws You Curveballs

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Today With Kristin Bartone:

Welcome to a Well-Designed Business. What would happen to your business today if something happened with you or a family member that uprooted everything in your life? Would you be able to continue your work.

The truth is that even a well-designed business can struggle in life circumstances. My guest today, Kristin Bartone, knows all about that.

She’s here to share a story of handling the unexpected—and how she kept her business afloat even when her personal life demanded her entire focus.

LuAnn Nigara and Kristin Bartone’s Ah-Ha Moments

“Trying to focus on the family and being together and repairing the family unit, you know, is really important to all of us. So we’re just focusing on that and then just trying to keep things chugging along.” -Kristin

“You’ve had to get more efficient to do it from a distance. And that’s never gonna be a bad thing. The business is never gonna be like, dang it, you made me more efficient!” -LuAnn

More About Kristin Bartone

Kristin has been around design and home remodeling her entire life. Growing up in a family of seven, she experienced first hand how home renovations improved the quality of life for her and her family! Kristin’s namesake firm, Bartone Interiors, is located in Richmond, Virginia and services clients across the country. 

Kristin is an experienced leader and advocate for sustainable, timeless design solutions that take a holistic, regenerative approach to space and the idea of home. She champions the idea that every designer should create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible, restorative and inclusive. Her approach ensures that each project looks great and feels amazing; reflecting her commitment to creating enduring spaces that resonate with all who experience them.

Connect with Kristin Bartone

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

Blog

Sustainable Living Magazine (sign up)

Bartone Interiors Mission for Sustainable, Restorative Design

Bartone Interiors Portfolio

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

AudiobookThe Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Mydoma Studio – Get 20% off your first three months!

LuAnn University – Registration Open!

1042: In Good Company: CEO Conversations with Kate O’Hara: End-of-Year Business Strategies for Designers: Pipeline, Productivity, and Press

1042 In Good Company Ceo Conversations With Kate O Hara End Of Year Business Strategies For Designers Pipeline Productivity And Press Thumbnail.png

Today With Kate O’Hara:

In this episode of A Well-Designed Business, we sit down with Kate O’Hara, CEO of O’Hara Interiors, to discuss effective end-of-year business strategies for designers. As the holiday season approaches and client activity slows, Kate shares actionable tips on optimizing workflow, reconnecting with past clients, creating engaging holiday content, and thoughtful gifting strategies. Whether you’re a solo designer or leading a team, this conversation is packed with insights to help you set your business up for a successful new year.

More About Kate O’Hara

Kate O’Hara grew up in the world of design. After a decade with the company, she stepped into the role of CEO + Creative Director, expanding the family design firm into new regions of the U.S. When she isn’t traveling between our Minnesota and Texas offices, you can find Kate speaking at conferences, working with our design team, and connecting with new clients and furniture lines.

Connect with Kate O’Hara

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Pinterest

Houzz

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

AudiobookThe Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

LuAnn University – Registration Open!

Other Shows:

AWDB #130: Kate O’Hara -Director of Marketing & Business Development for Martha O’Hara Interiors

AWDB #215: FaceBook Coaching Sessions- Show #1 with Kate O’Hara of Martha O’Hara Interiors

AWDB #958: Overheard: What I Wish I Knew Then: With Kate O’Hara, Erika Ward, Jennifer Stoner, and Alex Alonso

AWDB #939: Power Talk Friday: Amy Flurry: From Creating Media Opportunities to Creating a Product line; Aloka Home

AWDB #323: Amy Flurry: How to Pitch Press and Build Relationships

AWDB #108: Power Talk Friday- Amy Flurry-How To Pitch and Get Press For Your Interior Design Firm

WTFP #40: Linda Holt: Learn to Take Expert Photographs of Your Window Treatments From Your Smartphone

1041: Megan Atkinson: Leveraging Relationships with Trades to Build a Strong Business

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Today With Megan Atkinson:

Today with Megan Rose Atkinson of MEGANROSE Interiors, we’re discussing one of the most critical aspects of running a successful design business — vendor relationships. Megan shares her journey from wearing a tool belt with leather pants to building a thriving design firm with locations in Michigan and Arizona. With a “cheetah mindset” and philosophy of “whatever you are, be a good one,” she breaks down exactly how she approaches these crucial industry partnerships.

Megan shares specific strategies for building vendor networks in new territories, managing tough budget conversations, and maintaining strong relationships while staying in your lane. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to strengthen your existing vendor partnerships, Megan’s practical approach to collaboration offers valuable insights for every stage of business growth.

LuAnn Nigara and Megan Atkinson’s Ah-Ha Moments

“I’d rather have one hard conversation than 10 million terrible conversations along the way.” – Megan

“Whatever you are, be a good one.” – Megan

More About Megan Atkinson

Founder and principal designer of MEGANROSE Interiors, Megan Rose Atkinson is an entrepreneur driven by a passion for home. With an established career in real estate, Megan launched her interior design company in 2020 at the beginning of a global pandemic. At a time when most were closing their doors, Megan was looking to open a new door into the construction and design world. As Principal Designer, Megan oversees all design projects from concept to completion. Megan’s design approach lies in her devotion to creating reflective spaces based on clients’ lifestyles.

Megan splits her time in Novi, Michigan with her husband and their three young children and their family home in Scottsdale, AZ. In Megan’s free time she can be found on the soccer sidelines cheering on her kids, browsing a dusty antique store, or teaching at her beloved barre studio.

Connect with Megan Atkinson

Website

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

What’s new with LuAnn Nigara

The Power Talk Friday Tour

Watch the Docuseries!

https://www.luannnigara.com/cob

Get The Goodies!

For checklists, resources, and extra goodies from A Well-Designed Business sign up for free here. To Get on LuAnn’s Email List, text the word designbiz to 444999!

Purchase LuAnn’s Books Here:

Book 1: The Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

AudiobookThe Making of A Well – Designed Business: Turn Inspiration into Action

Book 2: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts

Book 3: A Well-Designed Business – The Power Talk Friday Experts Volume 2

Connect with LuAnn Nigara

LuAnn’s Website

LuAnn’s Blog

Power Talk Friday

Like Us: Facebook | Tweet Us: Twitter | Follow Us: Instagram | Listen Here: Podcast

Other Resources:

This podcast supports the Savvy Giving Design Coalition. Learn more about it here!

AWDB #717 Susan Wintersteen: Interior design firm standards in a nonprofit passion project

AWDB #164: Susan Wintersteen- Savvy Giving by Design

Other Shows:

986 Talk Friday: Sandra Funk: Boundaries and Expectations are a Few of My Favorite Things

#878 Throwback Tuesday: Brad Leavitt: A Builder’s Perspective on the Design Build Process

#681 Paul Dashevsky: A Proven Process for Vetting Contractors

#953: Power Talk Friday: Raj Banyopadhyay: Connecting With Your Audience Through Personal Branding Photography

#14: Malene Barnett Success Secret – Build Relationships

#703: Leyden Lewis: The Road to AD100 and Elle Decor Top 125 Requires Innovation and Authentic Creativity

#635: Beth Diana Smith: Refining Process in Your Interior Design Business

#439: Beth Diana Smith: Client Expectations, Contracts, and Hard Conversations

#370: Kesha Franklin: A Different Path to a Career in Interior Design

#967: Breegan Jane: The Gift of Transitioning, Turning Risks into Success

#614: Dennese Guadeloupe Rojas: Creating Another Revenue Stream for Your Interior Design Business