It’s officially SPOOOOKY szn around here and we wanted to get a little festive. We had our listeners (you guys!) anonymously submit your scariest/most difficult client stories and we read them, react to them, and listen to what they learned from the experience. We truly believe that difficult client experiences are one of the hardest parts of running a design business, but this episode serves to remind us that we’re not alone, it happens to everyone, and what we can do to avoid those situations in the future, or deal with them in the present.This Episode’s Partners:Design Biz Mastery with Morgan RappGrow your revenue and start taking Fridays off (like Jen!) with Design Biz Mastery. Visit dbm.morganrapp.com/better to learn more, get a special bonus, and also receive access to a free training about Morgan’s 3-part framework to peacefully scale your design business towards your first or next 6-figures on part-time hours.Standout ShopifyStandout Shopify is the most comprehensive and the most supportive Shopify course for designers. Discover what it takes to be a go-to Shopify design expert, all in an engaging, beginner-friendly video format from start to launch. Visit standoutshopify.com to learn more - Oct. 27-31, 2022 is the lowest the price will ever be!Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.Connect With Us:Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.comPodcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resourcesPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

Brand photography goes hand in hand with brand design. You can’t have a solid brand without the supporting visuals. In this episode Esther chats with Adeline Nieto, a NYC-based brand photographer about how to share heart-centered stories through photography, the value and power behind photos, and how brand designers can best collaborate with photographers and our collective clients on commercial shoots.Guest Information:Guest Name: Adeline NietoGuest Business Name: Adeline ArtistryGuest Website: www.adelineartistry.comGuest Instagram: @adelineartistrystudioInbox Question:"Is brand photography important when defining your brand?” - Kristina LucierThis Episode’s Partner:Design Biz Mastery with Morgan RappGrow your revenue and start taking Fridays off (like Jen!) with Design Biz Mastery. Visit dbm.morganrapp.com/betterto learn more, get a special bonus, and also receive access to a free training about Morgan’s 3-part framework to peacefully scale your design business towards your first or next 6-figures on part-time hours.Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.Connect With Us:Our Free Facebook CommunityOur WebsiteOur Resources PagePodcast InstagramSupport us on Patreon

Burnout is a strong sign from your body that something is not working. It’s important to listen. In this episode, Jen and Esther talk about what it’s like to maintain creativity when you’re burnt out, keeping the money coming in, and personal stories of working through charred seasons.Inbox Questions:“How do you maintain your creativity without feeling burnt out?”— AJ Samson“How do you balance burnout and also keep the $$ coming in?” — Selena Nohea ConmackieLinks Mentioned:Insight Timer — Free guided meditationsThis Episode’s Partner:Design Biz Mastery with Morgan RappGrow your revenue and start taking Fridays off (like Jen!) with Design Biz Mastery. Visit dbm.morganrapp.com/better to learn more, get a special bonus, and also receive access to a free training about Morgan’s 3-part framework to peacefully scale your design business towards your first or next 6-figures on part-time hours.Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.Connect With Us:Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.comPodcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resourcesPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

Do you ever think you’re not really doing anything “substantial” as a designer because you’re not saving lives and “just” designing logos and websites. Well we’re here to change that mindset! You can make an impact in the world as a designer in so many ways — both tangible and intangibly. Your skillset allows peoples’ businesses to grow and connect with people, bring joy, improved life, and touch the planet. In this episode we walk through ways to make your mark on the planet in positive, regenerative ways — like the list we talk through below!You could…Donate a percentage of your work to a cause you’re passionate aboutOffer up spaces in your time to do pro-bono work or discounted rate projects.Direct your clients to sustainable and ecological sites to order their designed printed materials and packaging.Do the research to find which companies reduce their carbon footprint (through printing, shipping, etc.) + understand circular design.Teach your clients the importance of using multicultural, size-inclusive, LGBTQ+ photography and promoting diversity.Improve your design for visually impaired people by testing your color system contrast and accessibility.Continue questioning everything about your process. Continue learning, growing, and evolving to be better than you were yesterday!Links Mentioned:“Profit First” by Mike Michalowicz“Company of One” by Paul Jarvis“Hey Whipple, Squeeze This” by Luke SullivanKutoa ProjectStella’s VoicePS Print — has options to use recycled paper and soy-based inkNoissue — sustainable packaging that is eco-friendlyHex Naw — color tester for accessibility“Finding BIPOC and LGBTQ+ Stock Photography” by Sereth DesignThe Circular Design GuideInbox Question:"How can a designer convey the value of brand design to a client with numerical evidence? Can they?” — Joshua HillThis Episode’s Partner:Design Biz Mastery with Morgan RappGrow your revenue and start taking Fridays off (like Jen!) with Design Biz Mastery. Visit dbm.morganrapp.com/betterto learn more, get a special bonus, and also receive access to a free training about Morgan’s 3-part framework to peacefully scale your design business towards your first or next 6-figures on part-time hours.Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.Connect With Us:Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.comPodcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resourcesPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

Jen and Chaitra have a soul chat about how motherhood changed their lives and businesses in this episode! Chaitra walks us through exactly how she hit 6 figures in the first year after her 18 month maternity leave, her best lead generation strategies, and her mindset around business growth, motherhood, and setting (and achieving!) your goals.Guest Information:Guest Name: Chaitra RadhakrishnaGuest Business Name: Pinkpot StudioGuest Website: https://www.itspinkpot.com/Guest Instagram: https://instagram.com/pinkpot.studio?igshid=ODBkMDk1MTU=This Episode’s Partner:Design Biz Mastery with Morgan RappGrow your revenue and start taking Fridays off (like Jen!) with Design Biz Mastery. Visit dbm.morganrapp.com/better to learn more, get a special bonus, and also receive access to a free training about Morgan’s 3-part framework to peacefully scale your design business towards your first or next 6-figures on part-time hours.Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.Connect With Us:Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.comPodcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resourcesPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

Curious about what being an intern at Cosmo was like? Jen chats through not only her time working in NYC at the print versions of Cosmo and Women’s Health Magazine, but also design lessons she learned from those experiences that she uses in her web process today! You’d think there’s not a lot of shared principles between a print magazine and a website, but Jen challenges that in this episode!Links Mentioned:Real Simple MagazineInbox Question:"How do I know how to position my brand with the design itself?” - Desiree CarilloThis Episode’s Partner:Design Biz Mastery with Morgan RappGrow your revenue and start taking Fridays off (like Jen!) with Design Biz Mastery. Visit dbm.morganrapp.com/better to learn more, get a special bonus, and also receive access to a free training about Morgan’s 3-part framework to peacefully scale your design business towards your first or next 6-figures on part-time hours.Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.Connect With Us:Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.comPodcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resourcesPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

The sales call is one of the hardest parts of running a business, and rightfully so. There’s a lot of pressure around it because it’s ultimately what brings in those clients. In this episode we talk through our personal sales call structures, favorite questions to ask prospective clients, and our blended approach to pricing. We also share what we include in our proposals + how we both set them up differently. You won’t want to miss this episode jam-packed with really meaty details on our process and approach!This Episode’s Partner:Design Biz Mastery with Morgan RappGrow your revenue and start taking Fridays off (like Jen!) with Design Biz Mastery. Visit dbm.morganrapp.com/better to learn more, get a special bonus, and also receive access to a free training about Morgan’s 3-part framework to peacefully scale your design business towards your first or next 6-figures on part-time hours.Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.Connect With Us:Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.comPodcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resourcesPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

Today Jen chats with Olivia Austin from Current Design Studio all about hiring - when to think about it, how to know you’re ready, and how to navigate the hiring and interview process. We approach the hiring conversation from the perspective of knowing your studio values and adding team members who share those values.Guest Information:Guest Name: Olivia AustinGuest Business Name: Current Design StudioGuest Website: https://currentdesignstudio.com/, https://byoliviaaustin.com/Guest Instagram: https://instagram.com/current.designstudioLinks Mentioned:GustoClickUpNotionMotive Affirmation DeckInbox Question:“Should I list multiple package/price options on the proposal? My gut is telling me not to, because they will go with the lower price package even though they really need more.” — Chelsea LevinsonUpcoming Events:Patreon-Only LIVE Quarterly Q&A Call on September 12 at 11am Eastern (10am Central, 9am Pacific) — As we always do, we’ll be holding our chat where our Patrons can come hang out with us and get some personal time to ask questions, chat about what’s happening in your own biz. Become a Patron before then by going to www.patreon.com/betterpodcast so you can get the call info!This Episode’s Partners:Design Biz Mastery with Morgan RappGrow your revenue and start taking Fridays off (like Jen!) with Design Biz Mastery. Visit dbm.morganrapp.com/better to learn more, get a special bonus, and also receive access to a free training about Morgan’s 3-part framework to peacefully scale your design business towards your first or next 6-figures on part-time hours.The Shopify code(x)If you want to learn how to grow from just a brand designer to a full-service studio that can create custom high quality Shopify stores, The Shopify code(x) is for you. Visit shopifycodex.com/better to get $300 off by using code: BETTERat checkout.Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.Connect With Us:Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.comPodcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resourcesPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

OK, we KNOW - everyone has a different ideas on how to run your business and be successful! There’s loads and loads of how-tos out there, what to do and what not to do, and we have some HOT takes. Join us as we go through some potentially controversial (though, not in any highly politicized ways) opinions. SPOILER: Jen and Esther have some differing opinions! And that’s what makes it fun and interesting…Inbox Question:“I’m trying to get my brand design packages set up and priced and I see lots of different packages/pricing examples. But I’m curious, as someone who could potentially offer a lot of additional services in a brand identity package, how do you decide what services/deliverables work best in one package compared to another? Or if you do it based on client/project needs, how do you market your services without including package details or price?” - Shelby DelbridgeThis Episode’s Partners:Design Biz Mastery with Morgan RappGrow your revenue and start taking Fridays off (like Jen!) with Design Biz Mastery. Visit dbm.morganrapp.com/better to learn more, get a special bonus, and also receive access to a free training about Morgan’s 3-part framework to peacefully scale your design business towards your first or next 6-figures on part-time hours.Upcoming Events:Patreon-Only LIVE Quarterly Q&A Call on September 12 at 11am Eastern (10am Central, 9am Pacific) — As we always do, we’ll be holding our chat where our Patrons can come hang out with us and get some personal time to ask questions, chat about what’s happening in your own biz. Become a Patron before then by going to www.patreon.com/betterpodcast so you can get the call info!Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.Connect With Us:Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.comPodcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resourcesPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast

Get ready for a soul chat! We talk this week about parts of our business that we both really struggle with and coach each other through those tough spots. Jen brings up feelings of scarcity mindset and Esther talks through finding an organic marketing strategy that feels authentic to her brand (and works). We hope this chat encourages anyone who feels similar to us!Inbox Question:“As a brand designer, should we target our services to a specific market segment, or is it better to enter all markets?” — Titus HarumOur partners:Design Biz Mastery by Morgan RappGrow your revenue and start taking Fridays off (like Jen!) with Design Biz Mastery. Visit dbm.morganrapp.com/better to learn more, get a special bonus, and also receive access to a free training about Morgan’s 3-part framework to peacefully scale your design business towards your first or next 6-figures on part-time hours.The Shopify code(x)If you want to learn how to grow from just a brand designer to a full-service studio that can create custom high quality Shopify stores, The Shopify code(x) is for you. Visit shopifycodex.com/better to get $300 off by using code: BETTER at checkout.Special thanks to our producer Jon from Wayfare Recording Co.Connect With Us:Our Free Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/betterbranddesigner/Podcast Website: https://www.betterbranddesigner.comPodcast Resources Page: https://www.betterbranddesigner.com/resourcesPodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betterpodcast/Support us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/betterpodcast