Shows
The McClain Method77: How to Sell Without Feeling Salesy: The Steve Jobs Strategy for Designers + CreativesWhat 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...2025-07-1843 min
The Darrell McClain showFloodwaters and Freedoms: A Nation at the CrossroadsSend us a textDemocracy hangs in the balance as American institutions face unprecedented challenges. In this gripping examination of contemporary crises, Darrell McClain takes listeners through the devastating Camp Mystic flood tragedy in Texas that claimed over 100 lives, revealing both the heroism of everyday Americans and the systemic failures that made this disaster worse than it should have been.The episode moves beyond partisan responses to tragedy, urging a return to our shared humanity. "Mourning is not a political act," McClain reminds us, pushing back against the reflexive grabbing of talking points and hashtags...2025-07-091h 01The McClain Method76: You’re Not Lazy—You’re Exhausted: Rethinking Productivity and Self-Worth with Katie McDonald76: 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...2025-07-071h 04The McClain Method75: The Power of Your Voice: Storytelling in the Age of AI with Jude CharlesACCESS MY FREE 5 PART PODCAST SERIES COURSE HERE! "5 Things I Would Do Differently I Were Starting My Design Business Today"https://learn.mcclainmethod.com/free-podcast-seriesEpisode 75: The Power of Your Voice: Storytelling in the Age of AI with Jude CharlesIn a world of AI-generated content and generic captions, how do you make your brand actually stand out? In this powerful episode, John is joined once again by storytelling expert and filmmaker Jude Charles for a heartfelt, thought-provoking conversation about what truly...2025-06-301h 14The McClain Method74: Brand-New Instagram Changes for 2025: Why Your Posts Aren’t Getting Seen (and What to Do Now)Episode Summary: If your Instagram posts feel like they’re disappearing into the void lately—you’re not imagining it. In this episode, I’m breaking down the just-revealed 2025 changes to Instagram’s algorithm and content strategy, based on a brand-new interview with Instagram Head Adam Mosseri on the Build Your Tribe podcast with Brock Johnson.From why hashtags aren’t helping anymore, to why Reels still matter (but only if you do this), to how Lives have lost their edge—this is your updated playbook. I’ll also share the one thing Mosseri didn’t say out l...2025-06-1816 min
The McClain Method73: How Breegan Jane Built a Bold Design Brand—and Landed 13 HGTV Shows🎙️ Episode 73 — How Breegan Jane Built a Bold Design Brand—and Landed 13 HGTV ShowsIn This Episode: If you’re an interior designer dreaming of being on television, this episode is your roadmap. John McClain sits down with HGTV star, product designer, author, and branding powerhouse Breegan Jane for an unfiltered conversation about what it really takes to get noticed by TV networks—and how building a bold, authentic brand is the key to long-term success.Breegan shares how she:Built a strong design brand that attracted casting directors (before having an agent!)Landed...2025-06-081h 01The McClain Method71: Licensing Do's & Don'ts: 3 Specific Strategies from Meredith Heron71: Exploring Color and Creativity: 3 Specific Strategies from Meredith HeronIn this episode of the McClain Method Podcast, host John McClain speaks with Canadian design powerhouse Meredith Heron. They discuss the importance of dealing with decision-makers, aligning values in business relationships, diversifying ventures, and staying true to passion and creativity. Meredith shares insights from her journey from working at Home Depot to becoming a TV host and launching a bespoke rug collection. Meredith emphasizes the significance of storytelling, authenticity, and bespoke designing in interior design. Learn about her approach to building lasting client relationships, t...2025-05-2654 min
The McClain Method70: You’ve Got the Talent—So Why Aren’t You Profitable Yet? Part 2 with LuAnn NigaraIn episode 70 of The McClain Method Podcast, host John McClain continues his insightful conversation with Luann Nigara, a leading figure in the interior design industry. They delve into key aspects of running a successful design business, including mindset, pricing, and branding strategies. Luann shares her journey, emphasizes the importance of being unapologetically yourself, and discusses the value of professional guidance. They also address common industry challenges such as client objections and effective communication. Listen in for practical advice and strategies to elevate your design business to new heights.00:00 Introduction to The McClain Method Po...2025-05-1746 minThe McClain Method69: Get Out of Your Own Way: Lessons from LuAnn NigaraThe McClain Method Podcast Episode 69: Get Out of Your Own Way: Lessons from LuAnn NigaraIn this episode of The McClain Method Podcast, host John McClain welcomes LuAnn Nigara, a pioneer in the interior design business world. They discuss LuAnn's journey from helping her husband start Window Works to becoming a celebrated media personality with her podcast 'A Well-Designed Business.' LuAnn shares how she identified the need for business education among designers, her strategies for launching and monetizing her podcast, and the vital role of having a business plan. She also touches o...2025-05-091h 00The McClain Method68: Branding, Boldness & Brilliance: The McClain Method Podcast Debut Episode!🎙️ Episode 68 is here, y’all! Say hello to the very first episode of the newly rebranded McClain Method Podcast — and let me just say… she’s bold, she’s brilliant, and she’s ready to take center stage. 💁♂️✨In this kickoff episode, I’m pulling back the velvet curtain on why I rebranded the podcast, what The McClain Method really means, and how YOU can stop playing small and start building the visible, profitable, soul-aligned business you actually want.We’re talking: 💫 Why your “backstage” (aka systems, messaging, and brand foundation) matters just as much as you...2025-04-2522 min
A Leveled Up Life PodcastEpisode 2. How to Increase Your Energy | Leveled Up Health Center w/ Paul McClain & Catania CalavittaFeeling drained? Struggling to keep up with your busy life? In Episode 2 of Leveled Up Health Center, host Paul McClain sits down with Catania Calavitta to uncover powerful, natural ways to boost your energy and vitality.In this episode, you’ll learn: The biggest energy drains and how to avoid them Simple daily habits to enhance focus and endurance Nutrition and lifestyle hacks for sustained energy How mindset plays a crucial role in your vitalityIf you’re ready to break free from fatigue and perform at your...2025-03-0927 minThe McClain Method65: SEO for Designers: How to Gain 1000 New Website Visitors Fast with Barb DavidsWelcome to Episode 65 of The McClain Method Podcast, where host John McClain explores the intersection of creativity and intentional design in home and life.This episode features special guest Barb Davids, a digital marketing and SEO expert from Compass Digital Strategy, who breaks down SEO in an easily understandable format for interior designers and other creatives. Barb discusses the importance of blogging for SEO, optimizing website images, the role of Google Business Profile, and basic tips for boosting website ranking. Here is a rundown of what you will learn in this action packed episode:U...2025-03-081h 03The McClain Method64: How Photorealistic Renderings Can Serve Luxury Clients & Increase Your Revenue - with Mina DuqueIn this episode of The Designer Within Podcast, host John McClain chats with Mina Duque from Duke Renders about the significant impact photorealistic renderings can have on an interior design business. They delve into Mina's journey from handling her design business to heading client success at Duke Renders and discuss the external support and benefits that outsourcing renderings can bring to designers. They cover how renderings can speed up project approvals, enhance client presentations, and even act as a powerful marketing tool. Mina highlights the importance of delegating to the right people and setting clear ex...2025-02-2149 min
A Leveled Up Life PodcastEpisode 1. Leveled Up Investments | Real Estate Wealth with Paul McClain & Guest Daniel GalanWelcome to Leveled Up Investments! In this episode, Paul McClain sits down with real estate expert Daniel Galan to uncover the secrets to building wealth through smart property investments.Whether you’re a seasoned investor or just getting started, Daniel and Paul share insider strategies on connecting with qualified people, high-return opportunities, and a new mindset to have in order to navigate the real estate game.📈 Want to take your investments to the next level? This episode is packed with expert insights you won’t want to miss!2025-02-1125 min
A Leveled Up Life PodcastEpisode 1. Leveled Up Health Center | Featuring Paul McClain & Guest Catania CalavittaWelcome to Leveled Up Health Center! In this episode, Paul McClain sits down with special guest Catania Calavitta to dive into the journey of optimal health, wellness, and personal transformation.Catania, from the Treigning Lab, shares her insights on health and wellness, offering valuable strategies to help you take your health to the next level. Whether you’re looking for ways to improve your lifestyle, open-mindedness to change, or overcome health challenges, this episode is packed with actionable advice.👉 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert insights on heal...2025-02-1159 minThe McClain Method63: Live From Italy! How to Unlock Your TRUE Creative Potential & Unchain Your PastIn episode 63 of The Designer Within Podcast, recorded LIVE as he walks the streets of ever-inspiring Italy, host John McClain shares his transformative experiences from a trade show in Verona to the picturesque streets of Florence, and finally, the bustling city of Milan on a solo soul finding trip through Italy.John reflects on much-needed inspiration and offers insights on refueling creativity, maintaining originality, and setting realistic expectations in the business world. Key lessons include the importance of stepping out of routine to find inspiration, standing firm on pricing and deliverables, and balancing creative...2025-02-1141 minThe McClain Method62: Mastering PR, Branding, & Marketing in the Design Industry With Jocelyn HuttIn episode 62 of The Designer Within Podcast, hosted by John McClain, we delve into the world of brand collaborations and PR strategies. John chats with Jocelyn Hutt, a seasoned marketing and PR expert, about effective brand partnerships, storytelling in design projects, and the importance of both regional and national PR. Jocelyn shares invaluable tips for designers and creatives on how to elevate their projects and visibility, emphasizing the importance of high-quality photography, detailed product shots, and the power of in-person connections. Whether you're a design professional aiming to grow your business or someone interested in be...2025-01-2558 minThe McClain Method61: How to Create A True Client-Centric Design with Michael MitchellThe Designer Within Podcast Episode 61: How to Create A True Client-Centric Design with Michael MitchellIn this episode of the Designer Within podcast, host John McClain discusses the art of creating client-centric designs with Michael Mitchell. They explore Michael's approach to blending diverse styles, his extensive sourcing trips, and the importance of understanding clients' unique stories. Michael shares insights on managing client expectations, the power of intentional mix-and-match decor, and the value of transparency in the design process. The episode also highlights Michael's philanthropic efforts and his philosophy of giving back to the c...2025-01-141h 01The McClain Method60: New Year = New Priorities. Saying YES to What Serves YOU in 2025!Designing Your Best Year: Embracing Purpose, Progress, and Peace in 2025In this episode of the Designer Within Podcast, host John McClain explores the crucial difference between being busy and being productive. He introduces the concept of aligning tasks with one's goals through a decision filter focusing on purpose, progress, and peace. John explains the revamped podcast format, which will now cater to interior designers, homeowners, and general listeners, offering insights for improving both personal and professional lives. The episode emphasizes the importance of intentionality, self-care, and thoughtfully selecting commitments that tr...2025-01-0540 minThe McClain Method59: Building a Design Showroom, Vendor Growth, & Work/Life balance with Sara Lynn Brennan (Part 2)In Episode 59 of the Designer Within Podcast, host John McClain continues his insightful conversation with Sarah Lynn Brennan. They delve deeper into the creation and ongoing success of Sarah's design showroom, 'All Things Home,' located in North Carolina. Sarah shares the unplanned journey of opening her showroom, how strategic partnerships played a vital role in its development, and the innovative business model designed to make luxury design accessible. The discussion also covers practical advice for interior designers looking to build strong brand partnerships, understanding market needs, and creating diversified revenue streams. Tune in...2024-12-1344 minThe McClain Method58: The Power of Processes & The Journey to Design Success with Sara Lynn Brennan (Part 1)In this episode of the 'Designer Within' podcast, John McClain interviews Sara Lynn Brennan, a successful interior designer who transitioned from being a middle and high school science teacher to running her own multi-million dollar design business. Sara shares her early business mistakes and emphasizes the importance of establishing structured processes and having hard conversations with clients. She discusses her journey from DIY projects to handling large-scale renovations, the evolution of identifying luxury clients, and the significance of clear, value-driven client communication. Sara also highlights the pivotal role of social media in maintaining visibility and at...2024-12-0654 minThe McClain Method57: How to Incorporate Curated Art Into Your Design Business With Leonardo LedesmaIn this episode of The Designer Within podcast, host John McClain chats with Leonardo Ledesma, founder of Art Seen, an art advisory and curatorial service based in Los Angeles. Leonardo shares his journey from studying architecture to creating a successful art advisory firm that caters to designers, architects, and collectors. They discuss the organic growth of Art Seen, the importance of engaging and personalized client relationships, the role of technology in the art business, and the evolving demands of both residential and commercial art projects. Leonardo also offers insights into selecting art for different spaces...2024-11-1648 minThe McClain Method56: 5 Proven Strategies to Enhance & Grow Your Design Business with Jennifer StonerIn episode 56 of the Designer Within Podcast, host John McClain interviews acclaimed interior designer Jennifer Stoner. Jennifer shares her journey from practicing law to becoming a renowned designer with 24 years of experience. She discusses the importance of continuous education, networking, and building trust with clients. Jennifer also reveals her innovative use of QR codes for project management and her post-project concierge services aimed at sustaining client relationships. Tune in for actionable insights on blending business acumen with creative design.00:00 Opening Thoughts & Welcome: Always Be Educating Yourself00:19 Welcome to The Des...2024-11-021h 08The McClain Method55: Designing Your Business Framework: Contracts, Negotiations, and Global Success with Christina RichardsonIn this episode of The Designer Within Podcast, host John McClain and interior designer Christina Richardson delve into the critical aspects of contracts and negotiations crucial for a successful design business. Christina shares her unique transition from mining to design and how her diverse background empowers her practice. They explore the importance of clear contracts covering scope, price, and liabilities, strategies to avoid scope creep, and effective negotiation techniques. Key highlights include insights on international agreements, leveraging technology like VR and SketchUp, and the benefits of niching and networking in the industry. Tune in for actionable advice o...2024-10-1958 minThe McClain Method54: Transform Your Design Business Sustainably & Profitably with Carter AverbeckIn this episode of 'The Designer Within' podcast, host John McClain discusses sustainable practices in interior design with Carter Averbeck of Omforme Design. Carter shares his journey to sustainability, how the industry has evolved, and practical steps for integrating eco-friendly practices into design businesses. He emphasizes transparency with clients, the growing demand from younger generations, and the innovative use of secondary markets. The conversation also touches on the importance of historical restoration and overcoming misconceptions about sustainability. Carter offers valuable tips for designers looking to start sustainable practices, showcasing the ways smaller steps can make...2024-10-041h 08The McClain Method53: Balancing Business and Life: 3 Big Lessons I Have Learned In The Past YearBalancing Business and Life: Lessons Learned as an Interior DesignerSeason 2, Episode 53In this episode of 'The Designer Within' podcast, host John McClain welcomes listeners back for the second season. John discusses the importance of evaluating the profitability and time commitment of projects. He shares personal reflections on taking a summer break to recharge and cope with the loss of his dog Jax. John emphasizes the necessity of slowing down to avoid burnout, setting personal deliverables, and ensuring life/work balance. He talks about making significant changes to his business structure, encouraging listeners to s...2024-09-2032 minThe McClain Method52: How to Fully Craft Your Client Journey: Part 2 with Brittany FarinasHow to Fully Craft Your Client Journey: Part 2 with Brittany FarinasIn the concluding episode of Season 1, John McClain celebrates the one-year anniversary of 'The Designer Within' podcast and shares exciting plans for Season 2. John then dives into part two of his insightful interview with Brittany Farinas. Brittany emphasizes the importance of maintaining direct client communication, effective project intake processes, client expectation management, and the integration of custom furniture. They also discuss business scaling strategies, outsourcing procurement, and the critical role of client vetting to ensure the right match between designer and client. B...2024-07-1747 minThe McClain Method51: Brand Perception, Authenticity and Strategy: Part 1 with with Brittany FarinasIn this engaging episode (Part 1 of 2) of the Designer Within Podcast, host John McClain welcomes Brittany Farinas, CEO, and Creative Director of House of One, to discuss her journey in the interior design world. Together, they delve into Brittany's early career challenges, the importance of professional branding, and key business strategies that have propelled her to success. Highlights include insights into Brittany's investment in PR, the dual role of personal and professional life in her brand, and practical tips on custom furniture, client onboarding, and much more. Get ready for an inspiring conversation about merging passion with business acumen.2024-07-1038 minThe McClain Method48: How To Combine Excellent Client Communication & Creative Risks For Ultimate Success with Sarah WilsonEver wondered how a background in IT could transform the world of interior design? This episode of The Designer Within Podcast with John McClain promises an engaging exploration of career transitions with our inspiring guest, Sarah Wilson, the owner and principal designer of Chansaerae Designs. Sarah’s incredible journey from the structured environment of IT to the creative realm of interior design is a must-hear. She openly shares her experiences of returning to design school as an adult, leveraging her technical skills to streamline her business operations, and taking bold creative risks that set her apart in th...2024-06-111h 03The McClain Method47: Turning Consultations Into Sales: Ten Steps for Mastering the Interior Design ConsultationCan you imagine transforming every client consultation into a surefire sales opportunity? That's exactly what you'll learn in this episode of the Designer Within Podcast with me, John McClain. We explore the essential strategies for mastering successful consultations in sales-driven businesses, especially for creative entrepreneurs. By embracing consultations as crucial sales calls, you’ll discover ten actionable steps that have driven my own business success. From setting clear legal expectations and leveraging online scheduling systems to delivering valuable insights during the meeting, this episode will empower you to turn consultations into a powerful tool for winning clients and closing de...2024-05-3124 min