Design and Prosper - podcast cover

Design and Prosper

Design and Prosperdesignandprosper.co
Hey! We’re Kris and Donna, and we love having honest, open conversations about running a graphic design business. We’ve been graphic designers and educators for the past 2 decades and have both run multiple-six figure graphic design businesses. We have Experienced. It. All—the highs and the lows of success. In this space, we will share all things Graphic Design business. The do’s, the don’ts, tips, secret sauces, and a whole lot more. Bottom line—we are on a mission to help Graphic Designers thrive in business. Our aim with this podcast is to provide valuable insights and strategies so you can take them and apply them to build your own successful graphic design business. If you have a graphic design business problem that you'd like us to unpack in a future episode, email us at team@designandprosper.co. We'd love to hear from you.
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Episodes

115. Essential Metrics for Design Business Success

In this episode we delve into the essential business metrics every designer needs to track for success. From marketing and lead generation, client project and fulfillment metrics, to business wellness (this one is especially important!) - tracking the *right* metrics will help you gain valuable insights to thrive in your design business. Much love, Kris & Donna xo P.S For transcript click here . - - - - - The Design & Prosper Academy Doors are open for a limited time! https://www.designa...

Jan 10, 202434 min

114. Ask Kris & Donna: How do I find my zone of genius?

We have a FREE live masterclass happening in January 2024! In ’Pathway to Profit: How to build a design business that *really * works, we will be sharing 5 susatinable design business models that maximise profit and minimise your time. Can't wait to meet you live! Sign up here: https://www.designandprosper.co/masterclass In this episode we answer a question from a listener named Yvette, who asked: "How would you advise going about to understanding your zone of genius?" This is such a great quest...

Jan 08, 202410 min

113. Why did you start a graphic design business?

We have a FREE live masterclass happening in January 2024! In ’Pathway to Profit: How to build a design business that *actually * works, we will be sharing 5 susatinable design business models that maximise profit and minimise your time. Can't wait to meet you live! Sign up here: https://www.designandprosper.co/masterclass In this episode, we go deep into the concept of the ’why' behind your design business. There's a lot of different motivating factors...what is yours? When you understand this,...

Jan 04, 202424 min

112. Ask Kris & Don: Overcoming design doubts and imposter syndrome

We have a FREE live masterclass happening in January 2024! In ’Pathway to Profit: How to build a design business that *actually * works, we will be sharing 5 susatinable design business models that maximise profit and minimise your time. Can't wait to meet you live! Sign up here: https://www.designandprosper.co/masterclass In this episode we answer a question from a listener named Amanda, who is new to graphic design and experiencing feelings of pride followed by shame after sharing her designs ...

Jan 03, 202412 min

111. The New Year process we NEVER skip: the power of choosing a word of the year

In this episode we chat all things 'word of the year' and how it it can be such a meaningful way to help you focus and set your intention for the year ahead. We share our word of the year for 2024 and give you tips on how to find yours! In the episode we mentioned our ’word of the year' reel which you can screenshot for inspiration. Check it out by visiting us on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/designandprosper__ Much love, Kris & Donna xo P.S For transcript click here. - - - - - h...

Dec 29, 202318 min

110. Who do you need to BE to succeed in your design business?

Welcome to the Design and Prosper Podcast! In this episode, we ask a really important question for the upcoming year: Who do you need to BE in order to make 2024 your best year yet? We really unpack this question in order to get to the heart of what might be holding you back from success. Much love, Kris & Donna xo P.S For transcript click here . - - - - - https://www.designandprosper.co/theacademy ✨ Looking to up-level your graphic design business with elevated systems, comprehensive traini...

Dec 26, 202312 min

109. Ask Kris & Don: I'm in burnout, please help 🙏

In this Ask Kris & Don episode, we are provide support and strategies for a designer experiencing the dreaded burnout. Beautiful designers, it's so important to prioritise setting boundaries and self-care, even when it feels impossible. Do you have a question you'd like us to answer on a future Ask Kris & Don episode? Head to designandprosper.co/podcast and ask away! You can be anonymous if you prefer. 🤗 Much love, Kris & Donna xo p.s for transcript click here - - - - - https://www....

Dec 20, 202320 min

108. There is NO shame in asking for sales

In this episode, we chat about a common problem where designers feeling shy or ashamed when it comes to asking for sales. We really want designers to drop the word 'shame' from their vocabulary! Remember, you are worthy and deserving of receiving money for the incredible value you provide...let's flip the script and embrace the ask! Much love, Kris & Donna xo P.S For transcript click here - - - - - https://www.designandprosper.co/theacademy ✨ Looking to up-level your graphic design business ...

Dec 17, 202328 min

107. Ask Kris & Donna: I'm pregnant and I'm scared to tell my clients!

In this Ask Kris & Don episode, we answer a question from a lovely designer who is feeling worried about telling clients she is pregnant. Do you have a question you'd like us to answer on a future Ask Kris & Don episode? Head to designandprosper.co/podcast and ask away! You can be anonymous if you prefer. 🤗 Much love, Kris & Donna xo P.S For transcript click here - - - - - https://www.designandprosper.co/theacademy ✨ Looking to up-level your graphic design business with elevated sys...

Dec 13, 202313 min

106. The Best ChatGPT Prompts For Designers - Part 2

ChatGPT is the brainstorming buddy that is going to change your design process forever. If you're not using ChatGPT behind the scenes in your design business yet, we're here to give you the kick-start you need. We want to not only help you to get a handle on using ChatGPT in your design business but we also want to give you some prompts that are actually helpful! Here's what we cover this week: Writing Content Marketing & Lead Generation Time Management & Efficiency Business Strategy For...

Dec 04, 202342 min

105. Ask Kris & Don: Stock photography, yay or nay?

In this Ask Kris & Don episode, we answer the following question: " Hey Kris & Don! What are your thoughts on using a stock photos and illustrations etc? I had a lecturer who said no, absolutely don’t use them but I was wondering what your thoughts are about this? ” We went on a few tangents with this one and cover the pros and cons of using stock photography including the importance of understanding usage rights and protecting yourself legaly. Do you have a question you'd like us to ans...

Dec 01, 202314 min

104. The Best ChatGPT Prompts For Designers - Part 1

ChatGPT is the brainstorming buddy that is going to change your design process forever. If you're not using ChatGPT behind the scenes in your design business yet, we're here to give you the kick-start you need. We want to not only help you to get a handle on using ChatGPT in your design business but we also want to give you some prompts that are actually helpful! Here's what we cover this week: Getting ChatGPT to understand who you are Brand strategy Design Process Critiquing your work For full ...

Nov 29, 202349 min

103. Ask Kris & Don - A new lead is asking for "examples", what should I do?

In this Ask Kris & Don episode, we answer the following question: "A potential client has approached me and they said they had a bad experience with another designer. They’ve asked for “examples” before they’ll sign off on my proposal. What should I do?" Do you have a question you'd like us to answer on a future Ask Kris & Don episode? Head to designandprosper.co/podcast and ask away! You can be anonymous if you prefer. 🤗 Much love, Kris & Donna xo P.S For transcript click here. - -...

Nov 27, 202315 min

102. We got hacked – how to prevent if from happening to you

In this episode of Design and Prosper, we chat about our recent experience of having our Meta (Facebook) Ads account hacked and being locked out. It was awful, and we don't want it to happen to you! Listen in to hear how it unfolded, who is being targeted and our insights on how to protect yourselves. Much love, Kris & Donna xo P.S For transcript click here - - - - - https://www.designandprosper.co/theacademy ✨ Looking to up-level your graphic design business with elevated systems, comprehen...

Nov 24, 202325 min

101. Ask Kris & Donna - How do I know if I'm a good designer?

How do you know if you're a good designer? Is there any way you can measure this? We were asked the following question by a member of our community: "I’m self taught and I second guess myself a lot. How do I know if I’m a good designer?" Listen in for all we had to say in this Ask Kris & Don quickie episode. Much love, Kris & Donna xo P.S For transcript click here . - - - - - https://www.designandprosper.co/theacademy ✨ Looking to up-level your graphic design business with elevated syste...

Nov 17, 202318 min

100. It's our 100th episode! We share our journey so far.

OMG we cannot believe you been along for the ride with us for 100 episodes! 🎉 Without you, our podcast (and our business) wouldn't exist. In this episode, we go right back to the beginning of our careers right up until now — this is our most open and honest conversation yet. Much love, Kris & Donna xo P.S For transcript click here . - - - - - https://www.designandprosper.co/theacademy ✨ Looking to up-level your graphic design business with elevated systems, comprehensive training and ongoin...

Nov 15, 202353 min

99. Ask Kris & Donna - How can I make passive income as a designer?

This is an Ask Kris & Don espisode where we answer a question from Hannah: "What are some effective ways to make passive income as a web & branding designer. Looking to target clients rather than other designers. Thanks so much!" Thank you for your question Hannah! Do you have a question you would like us to answer on an upcoming ’Ask Kris & Don' episode? You can record an audio message or type your question into the message field here: https://designandprosper.co/podcast. You can be...

Oct 16, 202316 min

98. What to do when work goes quiet

Does it feel like the client work has dried up and there is nothing new on the horizon? In this episode we are talking all about what to do when things have gone quiet in your design business. It’s a horrible feeling and it can be so scary. But it just might be the big kick up the butt you need to shift gears and start focusing on new directions. Listen in for our big list of things to do when your business is quiet. Doors are currently open to The Design & Prosper Academy! 🎉 https://www.de...

Sep 21, 202350 min

97. Ask Kris & Don - How to get new clients when you're just starting out

In today's Ask Kris & Don episode we answer the following question from Joyce: "I’ve recently launched my design studio, and was {wonder}ing how you both would approach getting new clients in this time and age? Instagram is currently my plan for getting clients, and posting 3 times a week! 👀🤔 Thank you! Joyce" In this episode we mentioned we are hosting a new, free live masterclass in September 2023! Join us for Pathway to profit – How to build a graphic design business that *really* works...

Sep 14, 202324 min

96. Why consistency is everything in your design business

Today we are talking about the importance of consistency and how it can quite literally make or break your design business. Every part of your business can and should be systemised...we truly believe this is the key to long term success. Let's take a deep dive! We're hosting a new, free live masterclass in September 2023! Join us for Pathway to profit – How to build a graphic design business that *really* works. Can't wait to see you in our zoom room! https://www.designandprosper.co/masterclass ...

Sep 13, 202343 min

95. Ask Kris & Donna - Should my pricing be based on the size of my client's business?

It's ask Kris & Don time! In today's episode we answer the following question: "Hi Kris and Don, I have a question regarding project pricing for different sized clients, small mid-sized and large should my hourly pricing change depending on the size of my client's business?" Do you have a question you would like answered on a future Ask Kris & Don episode? Click here to submit your question. In this episode we mentioned our free Premium Pricing training - it's GOLD - go check it out here...

Sep 08, 202312 min

94. Graphic Design Startup – 10 things to have in place before starting your business

Starting a graphic design business can be overwhelming and it's easy to get distracted by all the shiny things you * think* you should have in place before you take on clients. In this episode we're diving into a list of things you would ideally have in place before taking on clients. But please don't stress — remember, done is GOOD. With love, Kris & Don xo For transcript click here . - - - - - - https://www.designandprosper.co/theacademy ✨ Looking to up-level your graphic design business w...

Sep 06, 202334 min

93. Should I share personal problems with clients?

Hello! In this ’Ask Kris & Donna’ quickie episode we answer the question: Is it okay to share personal problems with clients?’ 🤔 This is such a good question and we know that other designers will want to know this too! Do you have a question you would like us to answer on an upcoming ’Ask Kris & Don' episode? You can record an audio message or type your question into the message field here: https://designandprosper.co/podcast. You can be completely anonymous if you prefer. 🤗 Looking fo...

Aug 31, 202310 min

92. How to nurture clients so they keep coming back for more

Hello! In this episode we take a look into the world of nurturing clients so that they become long-term clients and great referral partners. For transcript click here . Do you have a question you would like us to answer on an upcoming ’Ask Kris & Don' episode? You can record an audio message or type your question into the message field here: https://designandprosper.co/podcast. You can be completely anonymous if you prefer. 🤗 Looking forward to hearing your questions! With love, Kris & ...

Aug 29, 202330 min

91. Ask Kris & Don: Mockups - what are your favourite resources?

This is an Ask Kris & Don episode where we are answering the question: "Where are some of your favourite places to find mockups?" And of course we couldn't just leave it at that, this turned into a juicy chat about best practices when it comes to mockups to help you get a full body ’yes!’ from clients. For transcript and full list of mockup resources mentioned in the episode click here . Do you have a question you would like us to answer on an upcoming ’Ask Kris & Don' episode? You can r...

Aug 23, 202314 min

90. Should graphic designers be brand strategy experts?

In this episode we chat about whether or not graphic designers need to be brand strategists in order to be successful. With all the buzzwords and confusion surrounding ’branding’ and ’brand strategy’, it's understandable that many designers feel overwhelmed and unclear about their role in all of this. We want you to know that as a designer, you don't have to be everything to everyone. You can still be successful and charge higher prices without becoming a brand strategist. It's about finding the...

Aug 22, 202315 min

89. Ask Kris & Donna - my business is changing, how do I transition without scaring clients away?

In this ’Ask Kris & Donna’ quickie episode, we tackle a question from Bec, who is changing her business from VA services to graphic design services. Bec wants to know how to smoothly transition clients from one business model to another, so that she doesn't scare them away? We share lots of tips, not only for Bec but for any designer who is navigating a business change. Do you have a question you would like us to answer on an upcoming ’Ask Kris & Don' episode? You can record an audio mes...

Aug 17, 202312 min

88. How to maximise profits with formula based design

Have you heard of formula based design? We've used this for many years to provide a lower entry price point for clients with smaller budgets — without negatively impacting your profit! Listen in to hear how we do it. Do you have a question you would like us to answer on an upcoming ’Ask Kris & Don' episode? You can record an audio message or type your question into the message field here: https://designandprosper.co/podcast. You can be completely anonymous if you prefer. 🤗 Looking forward t...

Aug 15, 202320 min

87. Ask Kris & Donna – we are answering your design business questions!

It's Q&A time and Kris & Donna are answering your design business questions! Here's the Q's we unpack in this episode: 1. Should I use ’I’ or ’we’ in my messaging? 2. How do I deal with negative comments from others about my business? 3. How can I stay professional when I've got a lot of personal things going on in my life? If you have a question you would like us to answer on an upcoming episode, head to https://designandprosper.co/podcast. You can record an audio message (we LOVE heari...

Aug 10, 202334 min

86. 20 ways you transform your client's business as a graphic designer

We believe graphic designers are amazing. Do you realise the transfomation you provide to your client's businesses? Grab your pen and paper...we've got 20 ways you can communicate the value of what you do in your messaging. With love, Kris & Don xo For transcript click here . - - - - - - https://www.designandprosper.co/theacademy ✨ Looking to up-level your graphic design business with elevated systems, comprehensive training and ongoing support? We run our business school for graphic, web an...

Aug 04, 202344 min
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