Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! Many freelance designers hit an income ceiling around $50K per year, despite putting in more hours and taking on more projects. It's not about working harder—it’s about working smarter. In this episode, you'll discover: The core mindset barriers keeping designers stuck at $50K and how to shift past them. How to stop pricing based on fear and start charging your true value. Why being a generalist keeps your income capped (and how niching...
Mar 12, 2025•27 min•Season 1Ep. 44
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! Freelancing as a designer can be an amazing career path—but let’s be real, it comes with its fair share of annoyances . Late payments, ghosting clients, unpredictable referrals, and the dreaded feast-or-famine cycle can make running your business feel overwhelming. In this episode, I’m sharing: How to confidently handle late payments (without feeling awkward). Why you shouldn’t depend on referrals for a steady income. The right way to f...
Feb 10, 2025•20 min•Season 1Ep. 43
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! Podcast Description: In this first episode of 2025, I’m diving into five different client acquisition strategies—ranked from worst to best —based on my personal experience and the successes of my students. If you’ve been relying on outdated methods to land clients or feel stuck in your outreach approach, this episode is for you. Here’s what you’ll learn: Why Facebook and Instagram may no longer be your best bet. The surprising effective...
Jan 14, 2025•16 min•Season 1Ep. 42
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! In this episode of Earning by Design , I’m diving into quarter one trends across 15 different industries and what they mean for your design business. If you’ve ever wondered why some months are booming with projects while others feel like a ghost town, this episode is for you. I’ll break down the unique rhythms of each industry in Q1, from e-commerce to fitness, education, real estate, and more. By understanding these patterns, you’ll b...
Dec 10, 2024•27 min•Season 1Ep. 41
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! In this episode of Earning by Design , I’m sharing five essential steps to help you prepare your design business for a successful 2025. These are the exact steps I take every December to reflect on the past year, set meaningful goals, and ensure my business is ready to thrive in the year ahead. Key takeaways include: Revisit Your Services and Portfolio : Learn how to audit your services and portfolio to ensure they align with your goals...
Dec 03, 2024•24 min•Season 1Ep. 40
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! In this episode of Earning by Design, I dive into some of the most common mistakes designers make when creating brand identities—and why avoiding these pitfalls is essential for delivering effective, professional work to clients. Brand identity is powerful when done right, but small errors can quickly undermine your design’s impact and longevity. Key takeaways include: Think Beyond Trends : Why following design trends can backfire in th...
Nov 12, 2024•24 min•Season 1Ep. 39
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! In this episode of Earning by Design, I tackle a question that many new designers wrestle with: Should you charge full price when you’re just starting out, or should you offer discounts (or even freebies) to get your foot in the door? It’s a tricky balance, especially when you’re eager to build your client base and establish trust. Pricing List: https://4thecreatives.com/pricing/ Key takeaways include: Finding the Sweet Spot Between Val...
Nov 05, 2024•12 min•Season 1Ep. 38
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! In this episode of Earning by Design , I explore a critical distinction that can elevate your work as a designer: the difference between brand identity and brand strategy. While both are essential to building a strong brand, they serve distinct roles, and understanding each can make you a more valuable partner to your clients. Key takeaways include: Brand Identity Essentials : Learn the key elements of a brand identity and why it’s much...
Oct 29, 2024•19 min•Season 1Ep. 37
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! In this episode of Earning by Design , I explore one of the most difficult but important aspects of running a design business—dealing with problematic clients and identifying red flags early on. As designers, we all encounter challenging clients, but with the right approach, you can protect your sanity, your creativity, and your business. Key takeaways include: The Importance of Contracts: Your contract is your safety net, protecting bo...
Oct 08, 2024•26 min•Season 1Ep. 36
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! In this episode of Earning by Design , I dive deep into one of the most crucial yet challenging aspects of a designer’s career—creating a portfolio. A portfolio is much more than just a collection of work; it’s a vital marketing tool that communicates your skills, expertise, and value to potential clients. Key takeaways include: Purpose of a Portfolio: It’s essential for showing potential clients what you’re capable of, much like review...
Oct 01, 2024•26 min•Season 1Ep. 35
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! In this episode of Earning by Design, I welcome Lindsay Faller, a seasoned business strategist with over 20 years of experience helping creative entrepreneurs build successful and profitable businesses. Lindsay shares her unique approach to balancing creativity with business strategy, emphasizing the importance of protecting your creative passion while constructing a solid operational foundation around it. We delve into common challenge...
Sep 24, 2024•33 min•Season 1Ep. 34
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! In this episode of Earning by Design, we delve into the power of social selling on LinkedIn, featuring insights from LinkedIn growth strategist, Michelle J Raymond. Whether you're a designer just starting out on LinkedIn or a seasoned professional looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you stand out, build authentic relationships, and drive business growth on the platform. We'll explore th...
Aug 28, 2024•46 min•Season 1Ep. 33
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! In this episode of Earning by Design , we tackle the challenging topic of work-life balance for designers, with insights drawn from my own experiences of running a design business while managing the demands of life. Whether you're in the early stages of your career or an established professional feeling overwhelmed, this episode offers practical advice to help you achieve a healthier, more balanced approach to your work and personal lif...
Aug 20, 2024•20 min•Season 1Ep. 32
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! In this episode of Earning by Design, we dive deep into the world of LinkedIn with special guest Louise Brogan, a LinkedIn B2B video and content marketing specialist. Louise shares her expertise on how to leverage LinkedIn to grow your design business, attract ideal clients, and build meaningful professional relationships. Together, we explore the strategic approach needed to succeed on LinkedIn, emphasizing the importance of treating i...
Aug 13, 2024•39 min•Season 1Ep. 31
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! Welcome to episode 30 of the Earning by Design podcast! In this special milestone episode, we dive into five practical and achievable strategies to increase your monthly income without starting a new business or overhauling your current workflow. With the economy's ever-changing landscape, these ideas are designed to be within reach and maximize your existing skills and client relationships. Key Points Discussed: Enhancing Client Projec...
Jul 30, 2024•20 min•Season 1Ep. 30
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! In this episode of Earning by Design , I dive into the essential yet often overlooked topic of time management. As designers and business owners, we wear many hats, from creating stunning visuals to managing outreach, sales, and administrative tasks. Without effective time management, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and lose track of our goals. Join me as I share practical strategies and personal insights on how to master your time, avoid...
Jul 23, 2024•14 min•Season 1Ep. 29
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! In this episode of Earning by Design , I tackle the frustrating issue of client ghosting. From potential clients who vanish after an initial call to current clients who disappear mid-project, I share my personal experiences and offer actionable strategies to handle these situations professionally and effectively. Whether you're wondering how many times to follow up without being annoying or dealing with a client who has already paid a d...
Jul 16, 2024•25 min•Season 1Ep. 28
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! In this episode of Earning by Design , I explore the paralyzing effects of perfectionism on designers and provide actionable strategies to overcome it. From my personal experiences to practical advice, I delve into how perfectionism can hinder your progress, income, and overall success. Whether you're struggling to launch your business, finalize your portfolio, or submit client projects, this episode offers valuable insights and solutio...
Jul 09, 2024•23 min•Season 1Ep. 27
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! In this episode of Earning by Design , I dive into five crucial tips for standing out as a graphic designer, especially when you're just starting out. We'll discuss practical strategies to help you communicate your value and attract clients, even if you lack extensive experience. Whether you're new to the design field or looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with actionable insights that will help you distinguish yours...
Jun 25, 2024•26 min•Season 1Ep. 26
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! In this episode of Earning by Design , I dive deep into the art of managing tough client objections during the final stage of closing. We'll explore essential strategies for addressing common client concerns and ensuring successful deals. Even if you're an experienced designer, this episode is a must-listen! The techniques discussed here will help you build stronger client relationships, enhance your negotiation skills, and confidently ...
Jun 11, 2024•20 min•Season 1Ep. 25
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! In this episode of Earning by Design, I dive deep into the world of finding your first design client. We will explore 15 powerful strategies you can use to get started, whether you're an introvert or an extrovert. Even if you've already secured your first client, this episode is a goldmine! The strategies I talk about in here go beyond just landing your initial project. You'll discover powerful tactics to build a steady stream of high-q...
Jun 03, 2024•27 min•Season 1Ep. 24
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! In this episode of Earning by Design, I dive deep into the art of crafting the perfect elevator pitch. Discover how a simple, concise description of what you do can transform your business interactions and lead to a cycle of referrals and new clients. I will also shares personal anecdotes, actionable tips, and examples tailored for various design niches to help you create an engaging and effective elevator pitch. Key Points: Introductio...
May 28, 2024•23 min•Season 1Ep. 23
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! In this episode, we dive into the world of creative freelancing with our special guest, Barney Abramson. Barney shares invaluable insights on overcoming creative blocks, maintaining mental health, and finding inspiration outside the usual work environment. Whether you're a freelance designer or working in-house, this conversation is packed with practical tips to help you thrive in the creative industry. We spoke about : The importance o...
May 20, 2024•45 min•Season 1Ep. 22
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! In this episode of Earning by Design, I will tackle a common question from freelance designers: Should you charge the same as an in-house designer? Join me in this episode to discover the differences in expenses, responsibilities, and expertise that should justify higher rates for freelance designers. Learn why it's essential to value your skills appropriately and gain the confidence to set prices that reflect your true worth. Additiona...
May 13, 2024•15 min•Season 1Ep. 21
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! In today’s episode, we’re diving into the critical reason why freelancers give up, as well as how to generate client referrals and recurring business, which are pivotal indicators of your business’s maturity. I’ll share my insights on how to cultivate relationships that not only last but also help propel your business forward through consistent income and client loyalty. If you feel your job isn’t delivering what you expected, and you w...
May 06, 2024•20 min•Season 1Ep. 20
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! Embarking on my own business adventure, I faced the classic conundrum many freelance designers encounter—choosing between the singular "I" or the collective "we" to describe my business and services. In this episode, I share the evolution of my brand, from the solo-run Elyse Designs to Principium Studio, and how this choice impacted not just branding but also client interactions. My personal journey underscores the importance of alignin...
Apr 29, 2024•9 min•Season 1Ep. 19
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! In this episode of Earning by Design, Lauren delves into crucial questions surrounding the graphic design industry's value and profitability. Joined by her husband and business partner Rodrigo, they explore strategies for graphic designers to enhance their market value and profit beyond basic design skills. From understanding the importance of experience and skill diversification to discussing the effectiveness of advertising for design...
Apr 22, 2024•33 min•Season 1Ep. 18
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! In this episode, I had the opportunity to interview a seasoned designer with over 30 years of experience who has turned into a full-time graphic design educator. This educator is helping the next generation of graphic designers gain real-world experience as part of their high school curriculum. David shares wisdom for new and seasoned designers based on his extensive career. Connect with David: The Design Rescue Program: https://www.edh...
Apr 15, 2024•30 min•Season 1Ep. 17
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! Niching is a very scary subject for many! But in this episode, I break down many different ways you can niche and 5 points you must think with before deciding on the niche you will choose. Key Highlights: The Power of Niching: Understand why defining your niche is crucial for effective marketing and attracting the right clients. Building Client Connections: Discover how niching helps create deeper, more meaningful relationships with you...
Apr 10, 2024•31 min•Season 1Ep. 16
Text us your questions, and we'll address them in the show! Instead of talking about going freelance, sometimes it is the right time to transition away from freelance into a full-time in-house or agency role. And for this topic, I brought on my friend Jamie Roberts from Rock That Creative Job, an experienced Creative Career Coach to guide you on this journey with actionable tips that will place you at an advantage in the hiring process. In this episode we dive into: How freelancers can effective...
Mar 25, 2024•46 min•Season 1Ep. 14
