EP 411 | Lessons on Process, Marketing & Confidence from Interior Designers Kristin Apicerno & Dane Austin

January 14, 2025

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Experience is one of the most valuable teachers in business—especially when it’s shared honestly. In this episode, Dane Austin hosts a candid conversation with fellow long-time Business of Design® member Kristin Apicerno, covering the real lessons learned from years of running design firms.

From the importance of mentorship and process development to committing to consistent marketing and financial habits, Dane and Kristin discuss what actually makes a design business work over time. They also explore why collaboration beats competition, how to identify your strengths, and why practicality matters just as much as perfection.

If you’re looking for grounded advice from designers who’ve learned by doing, this conversation offers perspective, reassurance, and plenty of encouragement.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

  • Why learning from experienced professionals accelerates growth
  • How a strong design process streamlines work and elevates results
  • Why scheduling time for marketing and finances is non-negotiable
  • How clear contracts set expectations and prevent issues
  • How to identify and leverage your unique strengths
  • Why practicality matters more than perfection in design
  • How putting yourself out there leads to opportunity

 

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About Dane Austin

Dane Austin is recognized as one of New England’s most influential interior designers. His elevated yet deeply personal approach to design has cultivated a loyal and discerning following. He believes that if we live in homes that are beautifully designed and in alignment with our definition of comfort and wellness, our lives feel complete. This philosophy is the foundation of his design firm, Dane Austin Design.

www.daneaustindesign.com

Instagram | Facebook

About Kristen Apicerno

With an eye for color, balance and scale, Kristen specializes in creating modern classic interiors with an edge. To nurture her long-time passion for luxury spaces built for real life, she began her design career in marketing with one of the nation’s foremost interior designers and HGTV and Food Network television host, With a strong entrepreneurial spirit and a dedication to helping clients live better in their homes, she founded her own firm in 2020 and rapidly grew the business and her portfolio. Kristen’s commitment to a crystal-clear project experience, coupled with her penchant for creating warm, sophisticated interiors embody the Glass House Design Group mission.

www.glasshousedesigngroup.com

Instagram | Facebook

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Legal Disclosure | This podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be used for any legal decisions. Kimberley Seldon Design Group, Kimberley Seldon Productions Inc., Kimberley Seldon Design and Media, Inc., Business of Design™, or any of its affiliated companies or staff is not responsible for any errors or omissions effecting accuracy in any content, and they will not be held liable for the use or misuse of information, facts, details or any other aspects should there arise any defects, errors, omissions or perhaps inaccuracies. Extensive research has been conducted to put this podcast together for the purpose of educating our industry in order to better serve the public. Care has been taken to acknowledge ownership of copyrighted material. The advice and strategies contained herein may not be suitable for every situation. This work is offered with the understanding that we do not render any legal, accounting or other professional advice. Seek the advice of a lawyer and/or other competent professional person in all matters of law. Further, listeners should be aware that internet websites mentioned may change or disappear between when this was recorded and when it was listened to.

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