Description

IN THIS EPISODE:

• How Melissa transitioned from a 20-year military career into interior design

• Why she started in home staging — and how she knew it wasn't the right fit

• The reality of building a portfolio when you don't have clients or capital

• How imposter syndrome shows up through undercharging and overworking

• Why "being busy" doesn't always mean being profitable

• The importance of developing a clear process and pricing structure

• What finally pushed Melissa to invest in business coaching

• How confidence grows when your skills, systems, and self-trust align

This conversation is for designers who know they're talented but feel stuck — overwhelmed, underpaid, and unsure of how to turn their passion into a sustainable business. Melissa's story is such a powerful reminder that confidence doesn't come before action — it's built through it. If you've ever questioned your worth, your pricing, or whether you "belong" in this industry, this episode will meet you right where you are.

Melissa Fields is the CEO and Principal Designer of Shades of Gray Design Studio, a boutique interior design firm in San Antonio, Texas. After a 20-year career as an officer in the United States Air Force, Melissa followed her passion for design and built a thriving studio known for

its elevated client experience, meticulous attention to detail, and deeply personalized approach to whole-home transformations.

Today, Melissa specializes in designing modern, livable, luxury spaces for established homeowners and empty-nesters who want to invest in high-quality, long-term design. Her unique combination of leadership, discipline, and creativity has allowed her to scale her business

intentionally while maintaining a high-end, service-driven process.

Melissa is passionate about empowering other designers—whether they're just starting out or well established—to embrace their strengths, trust their creative instincts, and build businesses that reflect their own values. She believes great design changes how people live, and that a strong, well-run design business is just as important as a beautiful final reveal.