Shows
The McClain Method69: Get Out of Your Own Way: Lessons from LuAnn NigaraSend us a textThe 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...2025-05-091h 00The McClain Method68: Branding, Boldness & Brilliance: The McClain Method Podcast Debut Episode!Send us a text🎙️ 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, a...2025-04-2522 minThe McClain Method67: How to Create a Dream Team and Streamline Your Design Processes with Jessica HarlingSend us a text67: How to Create a Dream Team and Streamline Your Design Processes with Jessica HarlingIn episode 67 of The Designer Within Podcast, host John McClain sits down with Jessica Harling, founder of Behind the Design, to discuss the essentials of building a successful design team. They explore strategies for defining core values, setting realistic goals, and hiring the right talent. Jessica shares her expertise on the importance of a solid onboarding process, managing company culture, and establishing effective processes. The episode highlights actionable tips for new design business owners looking t...2025-04-0459 minThe McClain Method66: LIVE FROM KBIS! The Future of Luxury Baths: Tech Advances & Entrepreneurial Lessons with BainUltraSend us a text66: LIVE FROM KBIS! The Future of Luxury Baths: Tech Advances & Entrepreneurial Lessons with BainUltra.In this special live edition of the Designer Within Podcast recorded from the floor of KBIS 2025 in Las Vegas, host John McClain welcomes Jean-Michel LeBeau and Kim Frechette from Bain Ultra. Together, they discuss the fearless entrepreneurial spirit and innovation driving Bain Ultra’s focus on wellness through luxury bath products. Learn about the importance of storytelling in design, the future of the luxury bath industry, and actionable tips for integrating wellness into your des...2025-03-2143 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 DavidsSend us a textWelcome to Episode 65 of The Designer Within 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. She also covers the impacts of AI on SEO a...2025-03-081h 01The McClain Method64: How Photorealistic Renderings Can Serve Luxury Clients & Increase Your Revenue - with Mina DuqueSend us a textIn 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 th...2025-02-2147 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 PastSend us a textIn 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...2025-02-1139 minThe McClain Method62: Mastering PR, Branding, & Marketing in the Design Industry With Jocelyn HuttSend us a textIn 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 yo...2025-01-2556 minThe McClain Method61: How to Create A True Client-Centric Design with Michael MitchellSend us a textThe 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 p...2025-01-1459 minThe McClain Method60: New Year = New Priorities. Saying YES to What Serves YOU in 2025!Send us a textDesigning 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, se...2025-01-0538 minThe McClain Method59: Building a Design Showroom, Vendor Growth, & Work/Life balance with Sara Lynn Brennan (Part 2)Send us a textIn 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 di...2024-12-1342 minThe McClain Method58: The Power of Processes & The Journey to Design Success with Sara Lynn Brennan (Part 1)Send us a textIn 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 so...2024-12-0653 minThe McClain Method57: How to Incorporate Curated Art Into Your Design Business With Leonardo LedesmaSend us a textIn 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...2024-11-1647 minThe McClain Method56: 5 Proven Strategies to Enhance & Grow Your Design Business with Jennifer StonerSend us a textIn 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 You...2024-11-021h 07The McClain Method55: Designing Your Business Framework: Contracts, Negotiations, and Global Success with Christina RichardsonSend us a textIn 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 i...2024-10-1957 minThe McClain Method54: Transform Your Design Business Sustainably & Profitably with Carter AverbeckSend us a textIn 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...2024-10-041h 06The McClain Method53: Balancing Business and Life: 3 Big Lessons I Have Learned In The Past YearSend us a textBalancing 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 h...2024-09-2030 minThe McClain Method52: How to Fully Craft Your Client Journey: Part 2 with Brittany FarinasSend us a textHow 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 r...2024-07-1745 minThe McClain Method51: Brand Perception, Authenticity and Strategy: Part 1 with with Brittany FarinasSend us a textIn 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...2024-07-1037 minThe McClain Method48: How To Combine Excellent Client Communication & Creative Risks For Ultimate Success with Sarah WilsonSend us a textEver 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 ri...2024-06-111h 01The McClain Method47: Turning Consultations Into Sales: Ten Steps for Mastering the Interior Design ConsultationSend us a textCan 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 to...2024-05-3123 min