Designed for the Creative Mind

Michelle Lynne
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Designed for the Creative Mind

Your designs are beautiful, but you’re struggling with the business of your interior design business. Join successful interior design business owner, Michelle Lynne, of ML Interiors Group each Monday morning as she shares the processes she has found useful in growing her own 7-figure design firm, interviews industry related guests, and brings her own team of designers on for lively conversations. If you aren’t happy with the performance of your interior design business, are tired of trading your time for money, and know you were made for more, this show is for you.

  1. 5D AGO

    S3 Ep.172 Email Lists And Why They Matter

    Hey, it’s Michelle Lynne, and welcome back to Designed for the Creative Mind! Today, I’m diving into one of my all-time favorite topics: email lists. I know, I know—email marketing might not sound as sexy as social media, but trust me, it’s a game-changer for your interior design business. If you’ve ever felt like you’re screaming into the social media void, this episode is for you. I’m sharing why your email list is your most powerful asset, how to build it, and why you need to stop putting all your eggs in the social media basket. I’ll also walk you through how to revive a neglected list, create lead magnets that actually convert, and serve your audience without being annoying. What we cover in this episode: Why social media alone isn’t enough to grow your business The power of owning your email list (so no algorithm can take it away) How email gives you direct access to your audience (and better conversion rates) Tips for building an email list from scratch or reviving a dormant one Why consistency in your email marketing builds trust and brings in paying clients Practical content ideas, including project updates, FAQs, and design tips How to use lead magnets effectively to attract and nurture your list My own experience with forgetting about my email list—and how I brought it back to life   If you’ve been dragging your feet on email marketing, consider this your nudge to get started. Your list doesn’t need to be huge—it just needs to be engaged. So, whether you’re reviving an old list or starting fresh, remember: consistency breeds trust, and trust brings clients. Thanks for tuning in! If you found this episode helpful, I’d love for you to share it with a fellow designer or leave a review. And if you’re ready to get serious about building your email list, head over to my website for resources and tips. Let’s make email marketing your new secret weapon   Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text BESTIE to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates.   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production

    28 min

  2. MAR 17

    S3 Ep.171 Advantage of Identity Marketing with Veronica Romney

    Welcome back to the podcast designed for the creative mind! Today, we’re diving into the world of marketing—but not in the way you might expect. If marketing has ever felt salesy, sleazy, or just overwhelming, this conversation is for you. I’m joined by Veronica Romney, a certified master marketer, keynote speaker, podcast host, and author with over 17 years of experience shaping marketing strategies for some of the biggest brands. Her book, Identity Marketing, completely shifts the way we think about attracting the right clients and customers. Instead of just selling, we’re talking about connecting—deeply—with who your audience is and who they want to become. What We Cover in This Episode: Veronica’s journey into marketing (spoiler: she thought she’d be in finance!) Why so many business owners, especially creatives, resist marketing The ethical way to persuade and attract the right clients How identity marketing makes people feel deeply connected to a brand (even enough to be buried in it—yes, really!) Why your customers don’t just want to buy something; they want to be something How interior designers (and all business owners) can use this to stand out and serve their clients in a bigger way The power of designing spaces—and brands—that align with identity Veronica completely redefines marketing, and trust me, it’s a game-changer. If you’ve struggled with feeling like you have to “sell” yourself, this conversation will help you see marketing in a whole new light.     Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text BESTIE to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates.   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production

    49 min

  3. MAR 10

    S3 Ep.170 How to Market Your Interior Design Services without a Portfolio

    Hey, hey, hey! Welcome back to the podcast designed for the creative mind. I'm Michelle Lynne, and today we’re diving into a topic that so many designers struggle with—how to market yourself without a portfolio. Whether you're tuning in from your studio, your car, or with a glass of wine in hand, I’m so glad you’re here. Because building a business by design doesn’t happen by accident. Let’s get started! What We Cover in This Episode: Why not having a portfolio isn’t the roadblock you think it is How to create an impactful online presence even without professional project photos The power of mood boards, vignettes, and renderings to showcase your style Using blog content and social media to build authority and trust Smart strategies for networking and building connections that lead to clients How to confidently communicate your expertise, even as a newer designer   Not having a portfolio is not the deal-breaker you might think it is. There are plenty of ways to showcase your expertise, build trust with potential clients, and get hired without a ton of polished project photos. Whether it’s through strategic content, networking, or simply showing up with confidence, you can market yourself successfully at any stage of your business. If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with a fellow designer who needs this encouragement! And don’t forget—DM me on Instagram at @designedforthecreativemind if you have a topic or question you’d love for me to cover in a future episode. I’d love to hear from you! Success doesn’t happen by chance—it happens by design. Keep designing your business with intention, and if you ever need support, my coaching and mentorship programs are here to help. You’ve got this! Until next time, make it a great day!   Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text BESTIE to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates.   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production

    19 min

  4. MAR 6

    S3 Ep.169 Small by Design: The Power of a Boutique Firm

    Welcome back to the Design for the Creative Mind podcast! I'm your host, Michelle Lynne, and today, I'm chatting with the incredible DeeDee DeWine Holloway, founder and principal designer of DeWine Design based in Florida. DeeDee's journey from artist to thriving interior designer is nothing short of inspiring, and I can't wait for you to hear all about it! What We Cover in This Episode: How DeeDee's background in art and graphic design led her to interior design The evolution of her business, from small design packages to a full-scale firm Her early days of refinishing cabinets and how that turned into a major part of her business The moment she realized it was time to charge what she was worth How hiring a business coach (yes, including me!) changed everything for her Her transition from specializing in kitchens and baths to full-service furnishing The game-changing impact of profit margins in furniture design Overcoming the fear of expanding into new services Her role now as a master coach, giving back to the design community DeeDee's story is a reminder that success in design is a journey, and investing in education, mentorship, and taking bold steps can transform your business. If you've ever doubted your ability to grow, this episode will show you that it's absolutely possible! Resources and Links: Learn more about DeeDee's work: DeWine Design Check out the Interior Design Business Bakery for coaching and resources Connect with me on Instagram: @MichelleLynneInteriors Thanks for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Until next time, keep designing with confidence!   Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text BESTIE to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates.   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production

    43 min

  5. MAR 3

    S3 Ep.168 Google Juice: Small SEO Steps for Big Visibility

    Hey y'all, welcome back to the podcast! It's been a hot minute since I introduced myself, so if you're new here, welcome! This podcast is all about business content tailored for interior designers who want to grow and scale. I'm Michelle Lynne, owner of ML Interiors Group, a seven-figure, award-winning interior design firm in Dallas, Texas. I help designers who have hit five figures in revenue scale to multiple six figures—profitably and without losing their sanity. Today, we're diving into SEO—or as I like to call it, "Google Juice"—and how you can optimize your online presence for big visibility. SEO is a long game, but even small steps can make a massive difference in getting your business found online. Grab your pen and paper because you'll want to take notes! What We Cover in This Episode: The importance of having a Google Business Profile and how to optimize it Why posting regularly on Google (just like Instagram!) helps with search rankings How to use keywords effectively to get found online The essentials of a high-performing website for interior designers Why "done is better than perfect" when it comes to your website The role of blogging in SEO and how to make it work for you Tools like Google Keyword Planner, Answer the Public, and ChatGPT to help with SEO How to optimize your website images (spoiler: large files slow you down!) The importance of mobile optimization for ranking higher on Google How to use alt text and internal linking to improve search visibility SEO might sound overwhelming, but trust me, you don’t have to be an expert to get started. Implementing these simple strategies can help you get found by the right clients without relying solely on social media. Resources & Links: Google Business Profile Answer the Public Google Keyword Planner ChatGPT for content assistance If you're looking for an easy way to manage social media and Google posts in one place, check out Sidemark, a tool I co-own that simplifies your content strategy.   SEO isn’t an overnight success story, but making small, consistent changes can significantly boost your visibility. Whether it’s optimizing your Google Business Profile, keeping your website fresh, or blogging regularly, each step gets you closer to attracting high-quality leads. Have questions about SEO or need a referral for an SEO agency? Shoot me a message—I’d love to help! Thanks for tuning in, and I’ll see you next time for more business-building strategies for interior designers!   Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text BESTIE to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates.   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production

    28 min

  6. FEB 24

    S3 Ep.167 Using Your Website to Increase Community, Connections, and Conversions

    Hey there! I’m so glad you’re tuning in to the podcast designed for the creative mind. Whether you’re in the car, sipping a glass of wine, or in your studio (maybe with that same glass of wine!), I’m thrilled you’re here. Today, we’re diving into a topic that every business owner should be paying attention to—how to use your website to increase community connections and boost conversions. To help us break this down, I’m chatting with Rachel Seid, a super talented Squarespace web designer who’s all about creating beautiful and functional websites. Rachel is obsessed with helping solopreneurs, small businesses, and nonprofits build sites that are not only easy to use but also act as powerful marketing tools to attract and convert dream clients. What We Cover in This Episode: Rachel’s Journey: How Rachel transitioned from event planning at a nonprofit to discovering her love for web design and digital marketing. Building a Business Through Community: The power of leveraging your existing network to gain clients, including how Rachel landed 25 leads by sending one email to 500 contacts. Choosing the Right Website Approach: From DIY options to full-service agencies, Rachel shares insights on when to build a site yourself and when to hire a pro. Squarespace vs. Other Platforms: Why Rachel prefers Squarespace for its ease of use and how it empowers business owners to manage their own sites. The Power of Personality on Your Website: How infusing your brand’s personality into your website can act like a storefront window, giving potential clients a taste of your vibe and style. The Four ‘Alities’ Framework: Rachel’s unique approach to web design through visuality, functionality, personality, and propositionality. This episode is packed with insights for anyone looking to turn their website into a community-building and conversion-generating machine. If you want to see Rachel’s work in action, check out her site at mrsbrightside.com or brightsidedesign.com—and remember, Seid is spelled S-E-I-D! I hope you found this conversation as valuable as I did. If you loved this episode, make sure to subscribe and share it with a friend. Until next time, keep building that business by design—because it definitely doesn’t happen by accident!   Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text BESTIE to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates.   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production

    49 min

  7. FEB 17

    S3 Ep.166 From Social to Searchable: How to Get Found by More Clients

    Hey, hey, hey! Welcome back to Designed for the Creative Mind. I'm Michelle Lynne, and today we’re diving into something that can seriously level up your Instagram game—SEO-optimized captions and hashtags, specifically for interior designers.   If you’ve ever wondered how to make your posts more discoverable (without spending hours on social media), this episode is for you! I recently went down a major rabbit hole on Instagram SEO, and I’m sharing everything I’ve learned. From keywords in captions to using hashtags strategically, this is the kind of episode you’ll want to take notes on. So, whether you’re listening from your studio, your car, or with a glass of wine in hand—let’s get into it!    What We Cover in This Episode: - How Google indexes Instagram posts and why that matters for your visibility - Four tips for writing SEO-friendly captions that attract your ideal clients - The difference between broad and niche hashtags (and why you need both) - Why location-based hashtags are a *must* for local interior designers - A step-by-step example of a high-performing Instagram caption + hashtag strategy    I know this can feel like just one more thing on your already full plate—I feel you! But trust me, with a little strategy, your Instagram posts can do a lot more heavy lifting for your business. And if you’re feeling overwhelmed, I’ve got you covered! DM me the word BUNDLE on Instagram @DesignedForTheCreativeMind https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind  and I’ll send you my $9 Email & Social Media Bundle—a step-by-step guide for creating content that actually works for your ideal clients. And hey—if you loved this episode, don’t keep it to yourself! Share it with a fellow designer who could use a little marketing magic. Oh, and don’t forget to leave a review—it truly helps more designers find the podcast. See you next time, and remember—success doesn’t happen by chance, it happens by design!   Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text BESTIE to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates.   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production

    18 min

  8. FEB 10

    S3 Ep.165 Boost Your Google Juice: 5 Easy SEO Tips for Interior Designers

    Hey, hey, hey y’all! Michelle Lynn here, and today we’re diving into something every interior designer needs to focus on—marketing. Specifically, how to show up in searches so more dream clients can find you. If your business has slowed down in 2024 (you’re not alone!), this episode is for you.   I’ve been in the interior design game for a while—running my own award-winning seven-figure firm, ML Interiors Group, and mentoring designers since 2018. So trust me when I say SEO is still one of the best ways to bring in consistent leads. And guess what? You don’t have to hire a fancy agency to get started. I’ve got five simple steps you can take right now to boost your online visibility!    What You’ll Learn in This Episode: - Why your Google Business Profile is a must-have (and how to optimize it for maximum visibility) -How to use keywords effectively on your website without overcomplicating things -The power of blogging (even if you hate writing, I promise it’s worth it!) - Why internal linking matters and how to keep visitors on your site longer -A tiny but mighty SEO hack- using image descriptions to rank higher in searches   And listen, I know marketing can feel overwhelming, but I promise these steps are doable—even if tech isn’t your thing. You’ve got this, my friend! Being an entrepreneur isn’t always easy, but you don’t have to do it alone. I’ve got your back. Now, go out there and be great today—heck, be great every day! Hit play, take notes, and let’s get your business back on track. See you inside the episode!   Podcast Website and Resources: Get more info about our year-long mentorship and coaching program: https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/business-bakery   Text BESTIE to 855-784-8299 for business tips, encouragement, and all our DFCM updates.   SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. Sidemark is an all-new, all-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location. Join mysidemark.com to help grow your interior design business. Stay in touch with Michelle Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/designedforthecreativemind/  Join our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad  Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide   Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact   A Podcast Launch Bestie production

    15 min
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    4.7
    out of 5
    46 Ratings

    About

    Your designs are beautiful, but you’re struggling with the business of your interior design business. Join successful interior design business owner, Michelle Lynne, of ML Interiors Group each Monday morning as she shares the processes she has found useful in growing her own 7-figure design firm, interviews industry related guests, and brings her own team of designers on for lively conversations. If you aren’t happy with the performance of your interior design business, are tired of trading your time for money, and know you were made for more, this show is for you.

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