Thrive In Design

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Oct 2026

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Are you a CEO, VP of Marketing, or Sales Leader at an interior product company looking to grow in the hospitality or home design markets? The Thrive In Design Podcast is your go-to resource for innovative marketing strategies, brand storytelling techniques, and sales tactics that help you stand out in a competitive, design-driven industry. Hosted by Nicole Lashae (Ben) Hall, Design Strategist and Founder of Thrive In Design, this weekly podcast offers actionable insights and expert interviews that help you position your brand, engage the A&D community, and scale your impact in the built environment. From product launch strategy to tradeshow optimization, digital marketing to dealer enablement — each episode gives you the tools to amplify visibility and drive measurable growth. 🎯 Topics we cover: - Interior product marketing and brand positioning - Sales enablement strategies for the design industry - How to increase visibility with architects, designers, and specifiers - Hospitality and residential design market trends - Leveraging podcasts, content, and events to drive demand Whether you’re launching a new collection, entering new verticals, or refining your go-to-market strategy — this podcast will equip you to lead with clarity, creativity, and confidence. 🌐 Visit our website: www.thriveindesign.co 📅 Sign up for our next live training: https://training.thriveindesign.co 💌 Subscribe to our email list: https://podcast.thriveindesign.co

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October 15, 2026Episode 238 min

S10, E2: Betting on Yourself: Building a Textile Brand with Purpose with Kim DiMarco

What does it really take to bet on yourself, build a new product brand from the ground up, and stay rooted in your values while doing it? In this episode of Thrive In Design, host Nicole Lashae Hall sits down with Kim DiMarco, founder of Somato Textiles, to explore the story behind a hospitality-focused textile company built around creativity, community, transparency, and a different approach to doing business. Kim shares how more than 25 years in the textile industry shaped her perspective—from beginning her career in Toronto and helping expand a major contract textile brand into Canada and international markets, to eventually deciding it was time to build something of her own. She explains why Somato was created specifically for the hospitality market, how the brand approaches color and pattern differently, and why creating a focused collection can be more valuable than overwhelming designers with endless choice. The conversation also goes far beyond product. Kim and Nicole discuss the realities of funding and scaling a startup, building meaningful relationships with the design community, investing in employees, creating a people-first company culture, and developing more sustainable approaches to the textile lifecycle. Kim also shares why persistence, gratitude, integrity, and simply showing up can shape not only a career, but the kind of company—and life—you ultimately build. Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Thrive In Design Nicole introduces the podcast and its mission to help interior product brands align strategy, storytelling, and systems for specification growth. 00:47 – Meet Kim DiMarco, Founder of Somato Textiles An introduction to Kim’s 25+ years in textiles, her entrepreneurial journey, and the values behind Somato. 02:56 – How Kim Found Her Way Into Contract Textiles Kim shares how a presentation during design school sparked her interest in the textile industry—and why she worked for free for four months to get her first opportunity. 04:27 – Persistence, International Sales & Building the Canadian Market Kim reflects on convincing a major textile brand to invest in Canada and later developing partnerships across Japan, China, Dubai, and Australia. 05:59 – Why Somato Focuses on Hospitality Kim explains why hospitality became the natural focus for her own company and why she wanted Somato to specialize rather than try to serve every market. 07:07 – The Meaning Behind the Somato Name Kim shares the inspiration behind the company name and its connection to the somatosensory system and the experience of touch. 07:28 – Creating a More Focused Textile Collection A discussion about designer choice fatigue, foundation fabrics, intentional color, and creating distinctive anchor patterns. 09:28 – Where Kim Finds Creative Inspiration Fashion, travel, nature, color, and Kim’s own creative instincts all influence Somato’s product development. 11:07 – Designing Beyond Trends Kim explains why she prefers timeless collections over chasing trends and how customer feedback shapes new product decisions. 12:50 – Building a New Brand and Getting Specified Kim talks about Somato’s 2024 soft launch, its official 2025 launch, early sales momentum, and the challenges of growing with a very small team. 15:53 – Spec Ready & the Changing Specification Landscape Nicole shares resources designed to help interior product brands strengthen their positioning, messaging, and sales readiness. 16:34 – Making the Brand Experience Memorable Kim explains how Somato translates its hospitality positioning into brand touchpoints, including a price list designed like a restaurant menu and curated A&D boxes. 18:46 – Making Specification Easier Through Transparency Why straightforward pricing, easy access to information, and reducing friction matter to Somato’s customer experience. 19:07 – People, Planet & Product Kim introduces the philosophy at the heart of the company and explains how those values influence business decisions. 19:54 – Investing in Employees and Creating Opportunity Kim discusses profit sharing, developing people beyond their previous experience, and adapting systems so employees can work successfully. 21:33 – Sustainability and Textile Take-Back Kim shares Somato’s work toward taking back fabric at the end of its useful life and converting it into material that could eventually be used in carpet backing. 24:13 – Why the Design Industry Needs More Human Connection Kim reflects on the loss of in-person interaction and why creative professionals benefit from reconnecting personally, professionally, and creatively. 26:05 – Gratitude, Autonomy & Building a Meaningful Workplace A conversation about helping employees see work as an opportunity for growth, learning, independence, and long-term success. 28:49 – Integrity, Mentorship & Helping People Thrive Kim shares lessons from a 17-year experience with a former textile company and how those lessons influence the culture she wants to create at Somato. 30:18 – The Reality of Fundraising a Startup Kim discusses the difficulty of accessing capital and what she learned while exploring outside investment. 31:03 – The Creative Pitch That Got a Response Kim tells the story of sending customized Somato packages to Danny Meyer’s investment team—and how creative persistence opened a conversation. 33:01 – Why Access to Capital Remains a Major Challenge Kim and Nicole discuss the barriers small businesses face when trying to secure financing during their earliest stages. 34:20 – An Opportunity for the Design Industry to Invest in Itself Kim shares her hope that successful businesses within the interiors industry will find more ways to support and invest in one another. 35:07 – Kim’s Advice: Invest in Yourself Kim encourages professionals at any stage of their careers to embrace change, take chances, show up fully, and recognize how every experience can lead somewhere new. 36:53 – What’s Next for Somato Textiles Kim previews an upcoming outdoor collection, new fibers and patterns, and additional launches planned as the brand continues to grow. 37:48 – Closing Thoughts & Spec Ready Nicole closes the conversation and shares the next steps for brands looking to strengthen their specification strategy. Key Quotes “Anything is really possible if you invest in yourself.” — Kim DiMarco “You’re showing up for yourself, not necessarily for the business. Everything you learn from that opportunity is going to take you somewhere else.” — Kim DiMarco “Let’s just be joyful with the opportunities that come our way, and know that every experience is going to lead you somewhere else.” — Kim DiMarco “I just really believe we have to go back to connection.” — Kim DiMarco “I want to create a company that gives people great opportunities.” — Kim DiMarco Key Takeaways Kim’s story is a reminder that building a successful interior product brand requires more than a strong product. It takes clarity about the market you want to serve, a differentiated point of view, persistence in building relationships, and systems that make it easier for designers to engage with and specify your collection. Her approach to Somato also reinforces the importance of aligning the internal business with the external brand. From employee development and transparent pricing to sustainability initiatives and creative customer touchpoints, the company’s values are designed to show up throughout the experience. For entrepreneurs and emerging leaders, Kim’s message is equally clear: invest in yourself, stay open to learning, and don’t underestimate where persistence can lead. 🔗 Connect with Kim DiMarco & Somato Textiles Learn more about Somato Textiles and connect with Kim and her team through the links below. Website: somatotextiles.com Instagram: @somato.textiles LinkedIn: Somato Textiles 🔗 Connect with Thrive In Design Follow Thrive In Design for insights on design leadership, business strategy, and growth in the A&D industry: Website: https://www.thriveindesign.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thriveindesign/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thriveindesign/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thriveindesign 🚀 Go Deeper with Thrive In Design Take the SpecReady™ Assessment: https://specready.co/ Join the Thrive In Design: AI in Design Summit: https://tidsummit.com/ 👋 Connect with Nicole Nicole’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoleben

October 8, 2026Episode 126 min

S10, E1: Why Marketing, Sales, and AI Won’t Fix a Broken Specification Journey | Interior Product Brands

What happens when an interior product brand treats marketing, sales, AI, and growth as separate problems? In this Season 10 opening episode of the Thrive In Design Podcast, host Nicole Lashae Hall explores why many manufacturers struggle not because they need more activity, but because their customer and specification journeys are fragmented. From disconnected marketing and sales messaging to sales reps creating their own workflows and AI processes, Nicole explains why improving one department in isolation often fails to solve the larger business challenge. Marketing can amplify what already exists—but if the brand story, sales process, digital experience, specification journey, or follow-up systems are unclear, more marketing may simply amplify the friction. Nicole also draws on her experience as a manufacturer’s representative and on research discussed in the episode from Gartner, Microsoft, IBM, and McKinsey to examine the growing importance of coordinated commercial processes, AI governance, and end-to-end workflow design. The core question for interior product manufacturers heading into 2027 is not simply, Should we invest more in marketing? Should we hire more reps? Should we implement AI? Instead, Nicole encourages leadership teams to ask: Where is the friction in the journey that is costing us growth? She also explains how journey mapping and Thrive In Design’s approach to the specification experience can help manufacturers examine every touchpoint—from brand discovery and website visits to rep interactions, samples, technical information, procurement, trade shows, follow-up, and final installation. Before adding more people, technology, marketing, or complexity, the opportunity may be to first understand the process you already have—and identify what needs to be fixed. Timestamps 00:00 — Welcome to Season 10 Nicole introduces the new season and the Thrive In Design Podcast’s focus on strategy, storytelling, systems, and specification growth. 00:46 — Three Different Conversations, One Underlying Problem Why questions about marketing, sales reps, and growth may all point to the same issue: improving individual parts of a business without understanding the entire experience. 02:00 — Celebrating the Podcast and the AI in Design Summit Nicole reflects on the podcast’s growth, the inaugural 2026 AI in Design Summit, and what is ahead for Thrive In Design. Editor’s note: Early in the episode, Nicole references “10,000 episodes”; she meant to celebrate the Thrive In Design Podcast reaching 10,000 downloads. 03:29 — Nicole’s Experience as a Manufacturer’s Rep How Nicole’s background in interior design, design management, sales, and go-to-market strategy shaped her perspective on product brands. 04:07 — Why “Just Focus on Marketing” Is the Wrong Starting Point Marketing does not operate in isolation. Nicole explains how brand story, sales processes, digital experiences, rep messaging, websites, and trade shows all influence results. 06:28 — The Business Cost of Silos Research discussed from Gartner illustrates why inconsistent digital and sales messaging can weaken buyer confidence. 08:08 — AI in Design Summit + Spec Ready A look at Thrive In Design’s resources for helping product brands approach AI and specification strategy intentionally. 08:57 — The Rep Experience and the Strategy Gap Nicole shares what she learned during her decade working for manufacturers and why strong product training alone does not teach reps how to reach ambitious sales goals. 10:27 — How Reps Build Their Own Systems From account prioritization and follow-up to staying visible with designers, many reps are left to create their own processes. 11:28 — AI, Shadow Workflows, and Governance Nicole discusses how employees are experimenting with AI independently and why companies need visibility into how AI is being used across their organizations. 14:01 — Why AI Policy Alone Is Not Enough Before optimizing a workflow with AI, brands first need to define the workflow itself. 15:09 — Journey Mapping the Specification Experience Nicole explains her design-thinking approach to mapping the journey from brand discovery through product installation. 16:20 — What Happens When Departments Operate in Silos A real-world example of leadership teams pointing fingers instead of mapping the full process and identifying shared friction. 17:37 — Why Process Comes Before AI Implementation Research discussed from McKinsey supports an end-to-end workflow approach rather than isolated AI use cases. 18:43 — Using Spec Ready to Identify Risks and Opportunities How interior product brands can begin assessing their processes, strengths, and potential areas of friction. 19:40 — Should You Hire More Salespeople or Improve the Brand? Nicole examines two common growth strategies and explains why neither is automatically the right answer. 21:18 — Diagnose the Constraint Before Investing Growth decisions should follow a clear understanding of where the actual bottleneck exists. 22:52 — The Most Important Growth Question for 2027 Instead of asking whether to invest in marketing, reps, or AI, ask where friction in the journey is costing the company growth. 23:20 — Does the Customer Experience Feel Like One Brand? Nicole walks through the specification journey—from website discovery and product information to samples, procurement, trade shows, and follow-up. 24:29 — Looking at the Full Specification Experience Digital touchpoints, brand story, sales reps, specification materials, trade shows, internal processes, and technology must work together. 25:11 — What Should You Fix Before You Add More? Nicole closes the episode with the central theme for the mini season: rather than simply doing more in 2027, determine what needs to be fixed first. Key Quotes “Marketing really amplifies what is already going on at your company.” “Working in a marketing silo is never the answer.” “How can you improve a process with AI that you haven’t defined the process for yet?” “Process should come first in the conversation.” “Diagnose the constraint before choosing the investment.” “Where is the friction in the journey that’s costing us growth?” “What should we fix before we add more?” 🔗 Connect with Thrive In Design Follow Thrive In Design for insights on design leadership, business strategy, and growth in the A&D industry: Website: https://www.thriveindesign.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thriveindesign/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thriveindesign/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thriveindesign 🚀 Go Deeper with Thrive In Design Take the SpecReady™ Assessment: https://specready.co/ 👋 Connect with Nicole Nicole’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoleben

May 14, 2026Episode 1236 min

S9, E12: When Details Matter: The Bespoke Business of Luxury Window Treatments with Vita Vygovska

What if great design isn’t just about aesthetics—but about how people feel inside a space? In this episode of Thrive In Design, Nicole Lashae Hall sits down with Vita Vygovska to explore the deeper role design plays in wellness, emotional experience, and human connection. Known for her thoughtful and intentional approach to interiors, Vita shares how meaningful spaces are created when designers move beyond trends and focus on the lived experience of the people using them. Together, Nicole and Vita discuss the evolving expectations clients have around wellness-centered environments and why emotional intelligence is becoming one of the most valuable skills in the design industry. From hospitality-inspired residential design to sensory awareness and intentional storytelling, this conversation highlights the growing shift toward spaces that support both function and feeling. Vita also opens up about her entrepreneurial journey, sharing lessons on creative leadership, business growth, and maintaining authenticity while scaling a design practice. If you’re a designer looking to create more impactful work—or a creative entrepreneur navigating growth—this episode offers both inspiration and practical insight into designing with purpose. ⏱️ Timestamps (Key Moments) 00:00 – Introduction to Vita Vygovska + her design philosophy 02:00 – How Vita approaches emotionally driven design 05:00 – The connection between wellness and interior spaces 08:00 – Why sensory experience matters in modern design 11:00 – Designing beyond trends: creating spaces with meaning 14:00 – Hospitality influence on residential design experiences 17:00 – Entrepreneurship, leadership, and scaling a design business 20:00 – The role of authenticity in creative growth 23:00 – How designers can create stronger client connection 26:00 – Final thoughts on designing spaces that truly support people 💬 Key Quotes “Design is about how people feel—not just what they see.” “Wellness should be integrated into every layer of the design experience.” “Trends fade, but emotional connection lasts.” “The most memorable spaces are the ones that make people feel understood.” “Authenticity is one of the greatest assets a designer can have.” 🔗 Connect with Vita To learn more about Vita Vygovska and her work shaping the future of design, connect with her: Instagram: http://instagram.com/vitalia_inc Company Site: http://vitaliainc.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz-iHWBFBBQ6k9m4ZvFKbSQ Facebook: http://facebook.com/vitaliaincwindowtreatments LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/vitaliainc Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/vitalia_inc 🔗 Connect with Thrive In Design Follow Thrive In Design for insights on design leadership, business strategy, and growth in the A&D industry: Website: https://www.thriveindesign.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thriveindesign/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thriveindesign/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thriveindesign 🚀 Go Deeper with Thrive In Design Take the SpecReady™ Assessment: https://specready.co/ Join the Thrive In Design: AI in Design Summit on May 20, 2026: https://tidsummit.com/ 👋 Connect with Nicole Nicole’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoleben

May 7, 2026Episode 1146 min

S9, E11: The AI-Powered Product Developement and Marketing: What’s Working Right Now with Stacy Garcia

What does it take to turn creative talent into a globally recognized design brand? In this episode of Thrive In Design, Nicole Lashae Hall sits down with Stacy Garcia—founder, designer, and entrepreneur—to explore how she built a multi-faceted brand spanning product design, licensing, and strategic partnerships across the A&D industry. Stacy shares her journey from launching her own design studio to developing a licensing powerhouse, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how designers can expand beyond traditional service models. This conversation dives into the business mechanics of scaling creative work—covering everything from brand positioning and product development to navigating long-term partnerships with major manufacturers. Nicole and Stacy also discuss the importance of evolution in a creative career. As the industry shifts, Stacy emphasizes why adaptability, curiosity, and a clear point of view are essential for staying relevant—and how designers can create opportunities rather than wait for them. If you’re an interior designer, product designer, or creative entrepreneur looking to diversify your revenue streams, build a lasting brand, and think beyond client work, this episode provides both inspiration and practical insight. ⏱️ Timestamps (Key Moments) 00:00 – Introduction to Stacy Garcia + her impact in the design industry 02:00 – Stacy’s early career and transition into entrepreneurship 05:00 – How she built her brand beyond traditional design services 08:00 – Understanding licensing as a growth strategy for designers 12:00 – The role of partnerships in scaling a creative business 15:00 – How to position your work for long-term opportunities 18:00 – Adapting to industry shifts and staying relevant 21:00 – The mindset behind building a global design brand 24:00 – Advice for designers looking to expand their business model 27:00 – Final thoughts: creating longevity in your creative career 💬 Key Quotes “Your creativity doesn’t have to be limited to one business model.” “Licensing allows your ideas to scale beyond your time.” “You don’t wait for opportunities—you create them.” “A strong point of view is what makes your work valuable.” “Longevity comes from evolution, not repetition.” 🔗 Connect with Stacy To learn more about Stacy Garcia and her work shaping the future of design and the built environment, connect with her and Stacy Garcia Studio: Connect with Stacy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacygarcia/ Follow Stacy Garcia Studio on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stacy-garcia-studio/ Follow Stacy Garcia Studio on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stacygarciastudio Follow Stacy Garcia Studio on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stacygarciastudio/ Follow Stacy Garcia Studio on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/stacygarciainc/ Visit the Stacy Garcia Studio website: https://stacygarciainc.com/ You can also reach Stacy directly at stacy@stacygarcia.com. 🔗 Connect with Thrive In Design Follow Thrive In Design for insights on design leadership, business strategy, and growth in the A&D industry: Website: https://www.thriveindesign.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thriveindesign/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thriveindesign/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thriveindesign 🚀 Go Deeper with Thrive In Design Take the SpecReady™ Assessment: https://specready.co/ Join the Thrive In Design: AI in Design Summit on May 20, 2026: https://tidsummit.com/ 👋 Connect with Nicole Nicole’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoleben

April 30, 2026Episode 1019 min

S9, E10: Inside the AI in Design Summit: Why This Event Matters Now with Nicole Lashae Hall

AI is everywhere—but for many in the design industry, it still feels unclear, overwhelming, or disconnected from day-to-day work. In this solo episode of Thrive In Design, Nicole Lashae Hall pulls back the curtain on the vision behind the upcoming AI & Design Summit and why this moment represents a critical turning point for interior product brands, marketers, and sales teams. Rather than offering surface-level insights or scattered tools, Nicole introduces a structured way to think about AI through the lens of the ACE framework: Awareness, Consulting, and Execution. This methodology maps directly to the customer journey—revealing how AI is already influencing how designers discover, evaluate, and specify products. Nicole also addresses the biggest challenges she’s hearing across the industry: fear of replacement, lack of clarity on implementation, and missed opportunities due to fragmented education. From undocumented conference conversations to disconnected podcast insights, she makes a compelling case for why the industry needs a centralized, actionable approach to AI adoption. If you’re an interior product manufacturer or design professional looking to stay relevant, refine your strategy, and confidently integrate AI into your business, this episode sets the stage for what’s next—and how to take action. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome to Thrive In Design + podcast mission 01:00 – Nicole’s reflection on podcast growth and audience 02:00 – Introduction to the AI & Design Summit 03:00 – What Thrive In Design does (consulting + execution) 04:30 – The rise of AI in the design industry 05:30 – Common fears and misconceptions about AI 06:30 – The gap in how AI is currently being taught 07:30 – Why the customer journey is key to understanding AI 08:00 – Introducing the ACE Framework (Awareness, Consulting, Execution) 09:30 – How AI impacts each stage of the customer journey 11:00 – Why designers are changing how they evaluate products 12:00 – The need for a centralized AI conversation in the industry 12:30 – Overview of the AI & Design Summit (May 20, 2026) 13:00 – Keynote preview: AI and brand relevance 13:45 – Panel: AI in product development 14:30 – Session: AI, brand voice, and storytelling 15:45 – Fireside chat: implementing AI within teams 16:45 – How to attend (live or replay options) 17:30 – Bonus: new AI-powered service announcement 18:30 – Final thoughts + invitation to take action 💬 Key Quotes “AI is already impacting every touchpoint of the customer journey.” “If you’re not in the room, you’re missing the conversation.” “The sale of your product is tied to the designer’s experience.” “AI isn’t just about efficiency—it’s about relevance.” “We don’t need more information—we need structured implementation.” 🔗 Connect with Thrive In Design Follow Thrive In Design for insights on design leadership, business strategy, and growth in the A&D industry: Website: https://www.thriveindesign.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thriveindesign Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thriveindesign/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thriveindesign 🚀 Go Deeper with Thrive In Design Take the SpecReady™ Assessment: https://specready.co/ Join the Thrive In Design: AI in Design Summit on May 20, 2026: https://tidsummit.com/ 👋 Connect with Nicole Nicole’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoleben

April 23, 2026Episode 944 min

S9, E9: From Data to Deals: Using AI to Identify and Win New Accounts with Kate Rancourt

Artificial intelligence isn’t just changing how we work—it’s changing the work itself. In this episode of Thrive In Design, Nicole Lashae Hall sits down with Kate Rancourt, Director of Customer Insights & Growth at One Workplace, to explore how AI is reshaping the design industry—from sales conversations to strategic decision-making. Kate shares her journey from interior designer to insight-driven leader, revealing how her role focuses on identifying emerging market shifts and translating them into revenue-generating strategies. At the core of this conversation is a powerful idea: insight alone doesn’t drive growth—activation does. Together, Nicole and Kate unpack how AI is evolving from a simple tool into a true collaborator. They discuss the importance of using AI to enhance—not replace—human connection, and why the most successful professionals will be those who double down on what makes them uniquely human. You’ll also learn practical, real-world ways to use AI in your day-to-day work—from crafting LinkedIn content and preparing for high-stakes conversations to refining sales strategies and winning new accounts. If you’ve felt overwhelmed or unsure about where to start with AI, this episode offers a clear, grounded approach to integrating it into your workflow with confidence. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to Thrive In Design + episode overview 01:00 – Meet Kate Rancourt and her role at One Workplace 03:00 – From interior design to customer insights and growth 04:30 – What it means to connect insight to revenue 06:00 – Why insight without action doesn’t move the business 07:30 – The intersection of sales, marketing, and design 09:00 – When AI became real (not just a buzzword) 11:00 – Early experimentation with AI tools (Midjourney + beyond) 13:00 – The speed of AI and why it changes everything 14:00 – AI integration into everyday workflows 15:00 – Reframing the fear: what AI can’t replace 16:00 – Identifying the “uniquely human” parts of your role 17:00 – Internal resistance, ethics, and AI skepticism 19:00 – What a “prompt” actually is (and why it matters) 21:00 – Treating AI like a colleague, not a command tool 24:00 – Practical example: AI for LinkedIn content strategy 29:00 – Using AI to prepare for difficult conversations 33:00 – Leveraging AI for sales strategy and stakeholder alignment 36:00 – The importance of critical thinking alongside AI 37:00 – Why AI is more than just a tool 39:00 – Using multiple AI platforms strategically 41:00 – Where to connect with Kate + closing thoughts 💬 Key Quotes “Insight without activation doesn’t move the business.” “AI is not just a tool—it’s becoming a collaborator.” “The question isn’t ‘Will AI replace me?’ It’s ‘What part of my job is uniquely human?’” “Treat AI like a colleague, not a command line.” “Stay critical—and still experiment.” 👋🏻 Connect with Kate Rancourt To learn more about Kate Rancourt and her work shaping the future of design and the built environment, connect with her and One Workplace: Connect with Kate on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/katerancourt Follow One Workplace on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/one-workplace/ Follow One Workplace on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oneworkplace/ Follow One Workplace on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OneWorkplace Visit the One Workplace website: https://www.oneworkplace.com/ Listen to the ONEder Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/oneder-podcast/id1510047350 You can also reach Kate directly at krancourt@oneworkplace.com. 🔗 Connect with Thrive In Design Follow Thrive In Design for insights on design leadership, business strategy, and growth in the A&D industry: Website: https://www.thriveindesign.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thriveindesign/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thriveindesign/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thriveindesign 🚀 Go Deeper with Thrive In Design Take the SpecReady™ Assessment: https://specready.co/ Join the Thrive In Design: AI in Design Summit on May 20, 2026: https://tidsummit.com/ 👋 Connect with Nicole Nicole’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoleben

April 16, 2026Episode 829 min

S9, E8: 2026 Is a Positioning Year: Fewer Designers. Higher Influence. Bigger Stakes - with Nicole Lashae Hall

In this episode of Thrive In Design, host Nicole Lashae Hall breaks down the latest ThinkLab 2026 benchmark report through the lens of a strategist—translating research into real, actionable insights for interior product brands. Nicole explores the key industry tensions shaping the market today: shrinking workforce, tariff pressures, and rapid AI acceleration. Despite these challenges, specification power is growing—creating a powerful opportunity for brands that are aligned with how designers actually work. This episode emphasizes the importance of moving beyond surface-level marketing into research-backed strategy that drives real specification growth. Listeners will gain clarity on how designers’ influence is evolving, why being in a specifier’s “top 3–5 brands” is critical, and how generational shifts—especially the rise of Gen Z—are reshaping expectations for digital experiences and brand engagement. Nicole also unpacks how tariffs should be viewed not just as a pricing issue, but as a brand storytelling opportunity to build trust and loyalty. Finally, the episode dives into AI’s role in the design industry—highlighting why AI readiness is no longer optional and how manufacturers must optimize their digital assets to remain visible in AI-powered discovery tools. This episode is essential for interior product brands looking to stay competitive, relevant, and specification-ready in 2026 and beyond. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction To Thrive In Design And Podcast Mission 01:00 – Season Recap And Importance Of Research-Driven Strategy 02:05 – Why Branding Without Research Is A Wasted Investment 03:00 – Nicole’s Strategist Perspective And Industry Experience 05:00 – The Complexity Of Go-To-Market Strategies Across Design Segments 06:15 – Current Industry Landscape: AI, Disruption, And Change 07:14 – ThinkLab 2026 Report Overview And Key Tensions 08:00 – Tariff Pressures And Marketing Budget Challenges 09:00 – AI Acceleration And Shifting Designer Discovery Behavior 10:19 – Market Growth Vs. Disruption: Macro Vs. Micro Trends 12:00 – Specification Power Explained (Why Designers Matter More Than Ever) 13:41 – Workforce Shifts And Rise Of Gen Z Designers 15:00 – Why Brands Must Be In Designers’ Top 3–5 Shortlist 15:21 – “Position To Specify” Framework Explained 17:00 – Digital-First Expectations And Evolving Buyer Behavior 18:38 – Tariffs As A Brand Storytelling Opportunity 21:00 – Building Trust Through Communication And Transparency 23:06 – AI Is No Longer Optional: What The Data Shows 24:27 – Real-World AI Example Transforming Designer Workflows 26:00 – AI Readiness Starts With Data And Asset Quality 27:14 – Preparing For AI-Driven Product Discovery 28:27 – Final Takeaway: Fewer Specifiers, Higher Stakes 29:20 – Introduction To Spec Ready Framework And Closing Key Quotes “If you don’t have the research to back up your decisions, it’s not worth the investment.” “The brands that win aren’t the biggest—they’re the most aligned with how specifiers actually work.” “If you’re not in a designer’s top three to five brands, you’re getting cut from consideration.” “Tariffs are a brand communication opportunity, not just a supply chain problem.” “AI readiness starts with asset quality—not tool selection.” 🔗 Connect with Thrive In Design Follow Thrive In Design for insights on design leadership, business strategy, and growth in the A&D industry: Website: https://www.thriveindesign.co/ • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thriveindesign/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thriveindesign/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thriveindesign 🚀 Go Deeper with Thrive In Design Take the SpecReady™ Assessment: https://specready.co/ • Join the Thrive In Design: AI in Design Summit on May 20, 2026: https://tidsummit.com/ 👋 Connect with Nicole Nicole’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoleben

April 9, 2026Episode 746 min

S9, E7: The Brand Story Blueprint: How to Get Specified by Designers with Adam Kubryk and Brooke Taylor

In this episode of Thrive In Design, host Nicole Lashae Hall sits down with Brooke Taylor and Adam Kubryk, co-founders of Vendor Bootcamp, to unpack what it truly takes for hospitality vendors to stand out, get specified, and stay relevant in an increasingly competitive market. Drawing from decades of combined experience across design, branding, and global sales, Brooke and Adam reveal why most vendors struggle to differentiate—and how shifting from product-first thinking to strategic storytelling can transform your business. They break down the “Brand Story Blueprint,” offering actionable insights on how to align your messaging with what designers, purchasing agents, and owners actually care about. The conversation dives deep into common industry misconceptions, including why vendors should stop “selling to designers” and instead empower them as an extension of their sales team. You’ll also learn how process, not just product, plays a critical role in brand perception—and why simplifying your messaging (“say less, look better”) can dramatically improve your chances of being specified. Whether you're new to hospitality or looking to scale your brand presence, this episode delivers practical strategies to help you move from scattered efforts to intentional growth. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Thrive In Design and episode overview 01:00 Meet Brooke Taylor & Adam Kubryk + Vendor Bootcamp origin story 03:29 Industry frustrations and the gap in vendor-focused conversations 06:06 Why vendors must align messaging with real buyer questions 07:00 The power of dual perspectives: design vs. sales 11:00 Inside Vendor Bootcamp: process, advisory board, and insights 14:16 Market realities: differentiation vs. commoditization 18:20 Case study: building a brand story that scales globally 22:00 What designers actually need from vendors 24:00 Differentiating in crowded categories (especially custom products) 28:27 Tactical advice: stop selling to designers 30:30 Understanding ROI and where your product fits in the value chain 35:37 AI in hospitality: tools vs. strategy 42:02 What vendors must unlearn to stay relevant 45:00 Final thoughts and where to connect with Vendor Bootcamp Key Quotes “Stop selling to designers—they’re not your buyer. They’re your sales team.” “If you’re not differentiated, you’re invisible.” “Say less. Show your best. That’s what gets specified.” “Your process matters more than you think—it’s what people remember.” “If you don’t understand how your product impacts ROI, you’re just selling something.” 🔗 Connect with Adam Kubryk and Brooke Taylor To learn more about Adam Kubryk and Brooke Taylor and their work shaping the future of design and the built environment, connect with them and Vendor Bootcamp: Connect with Adam on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adam-kubryk-12003539 Connect with Brooke on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brookentaylor Follow Vendor Bootcamp on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vendor-bootcamp/ Visit the Vendor Bootcamp website: https://vendorbootcamp.com/ You can also reach them directly through their email below: Adam’s Email: adam@vendorbootcamp.com Brooke’s Email: brooke@vendorbootcamp.com 🔗 Connect with Thrive In Design Follow Thrive In Design for insights on design leadership, business strategy, and growth in the A&D industry: • Website: https://www.thriveindesign.co/ • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thriveindesign/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thriveindesign/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thriveindesign 🚀 Go Deeper with Thrive In Design • Take the SpecReady™ Assessment: https://specready.co/ • Join the Thrive In Design: AI in Design Summit on May 20, 2026: https://tidsummit.com/ 👋 Connect with Nicole • Nicole’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoleben

April 2, 2026Episode 641 min

S9, E6: Inside the Shifts Reshaping Design, Manufacturing, and Brand Trust with Amanda Schneider

In this episode of Thrive In Design, host Nicole Lashae Hall sits down with Amanda Schneider, Founder and President of ThinkLab, to unpack what it really takes to build a purpose-driven product brand in today’s evolving design industry. Amanda shares the origin story behind ThinkLab and how her journey—from product design to research leadership—revealed a critical gap between manufacturers and designers. Backed by powerful data, she explains why designers hold up to 140x the recommendation power of the average consumer—and why brands can no longer afford to ignore that influence. The conversation dives deep into the state of the design industry heading into 2026, including the shifting balance between sales and marketing, signs of industry maturity, and the growing awareness of how physical spaces impact human experience. Amanda also explores how hybrid work, generational shifts, and digital transformation are forcing brands to rethink outdated systems and embrace new strategies. If you're a manufacturer, marketer, or design leader looking to stay relevant, align your teams, and future-proof your brand, this episode delivers both strategic insight and actionable direction. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Thrive In Design & episode overview 01:00 Meet Amanda Schneider & the mission behind ThinkLab 02:29 The origin story: bridging the gap between product brands and designers 04:00 Why designers hold massive influence (40x–140x buying power) 06:00 Evolution of ThinkLab & scaling through acquisition 08:50 Gen Z, the future of work, and redefining workplace expectations 10:30 The 3 biggest industry shifts heading into 2026 11:00 Sales vs. marketing imbalance in a hybrid world 13:30 Industry maturity, consolidation, and market decline signals 15:00 A new opportunity: human awareness of physical space 17:30 Why sales and marketing silos are hurting brands 20:30 The alignment gap: leadership vs. frontline teams 22:30 Why there’s no “quick fix” for industry transformation 25:30 Generational gaps and the future workforce 30:00 Digital-first vs. analog-first thinking across generations 33:00 The importance of soft skills and change management 35:00 Shrinking attention spans and the new rules of communication 37:00 The evolving role of reps in a digital-first world 38:00 Amanda’s new book Work for What’s Next 39:00 Final thoughts: why this is a defining moment for the design industry 💬 Key Quotes “Designers have 40 times the recommendation power of the average consumer—and up to 140 times at the top level.” “You either disrupt your own business… or you will be disrupted.” “The industry didn’t just evolve—the systems changed.” “15 minutes is the new hour when it comes to sales conversations.” “The brands that win will align human capital with digital tools—not replace it.” 👉 Learn more about Amanda To learn more about Amanda Schneider and her work shaping the future of design and the built environment, connect with her and ThinkLab: Connect with Amanda on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandajeanschneider Follow ThinkLab on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thinklab-design/ Visit the ThinkLab website: https://thinklab.design/ Listen to the Design Nerds Anonymous podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/design-nerds-anonymous/id1534887549 You can also reach Amanda directly at aschneider@sandowdesign.com. 👉 Pre-order Amanda’s upcoming book, Work for What’s Next Amazon (affiliate link): https://amzn.to/4c1azOY Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/work-for-whats-next-amanda-schneider/1149016023?ean=9781394390885 🔗 Connect with Thrive In Design Follow Thrive In Design for insights on design leadership, business strategy, and growth in the A&D industry: Website: https://www.thriveindesign.co/ • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thriveindesign/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thriveindesign/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thriveindesign 🚀 Go Deeper with Thrive In Design Take the SpecReady™ Assessment: https://specready.co/ • Join the Thrive In Design: AI in Design Summit on May 20, 2026: https://tidsummit.com/ 👋 Connect with Nicole Nicole’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoleben

March 26, 2026Episode 520 min

S9, E5: From Concept to Contract: A Go-To-Market Sales Playbook for Interior Product Brands with Nicole Lashae Hall

In this episode of Thrive In Design, host Nicole Lashae Hall breaks down a critical misconception holding interior product brands back: confusing a product launch with a true go-to-market strategy. While many brands excel at creating beautiful, innovative products, far fewer understand how to effectively commercialize them for long-term specification success. Nicole explains why most product failures aren’t due to poor design—but rather a lack of strategic alignment across marketing, sales, and product teams. She highlights how siloed workflows, unclear messaging, and lack of sales enablement lead to missed opportunities, even for high-quality products. Drawing on industry research and real-world experience, she emphasizes that designers often make the majority of their decisions before ever speaking to a sales rep—making early-stage clarity and positioning essential. You’ll also learn the difference between a “launch moment” and a sustainable go-to-market system. Nicole introduces a practical five-step framework that guides brands from market clarity to conversion, ensuring momentum doesn’t drop off after the initial reveal. This episode is a must-listen for interior product brands ready to move beyond reactive marketing and build a repeatable, strategic path to growth. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to Thrive In Design Podcast Overview of the show’s mission and focus on aligning strategy, storytelling, and systems. 01:00 – The Core Problem: Launch vs. Strategy Why most product failures stem from weak go-to-market strategies—not poor design. 02:00 – Industry Insight: Great Products, Weak Commercialization How interior product brands excel at creation but struggle to bring products to market effectively. 04:00 – The Danger of Siloed Teams How misalignment between product, marketing, and sales creates confusion and lost opportunities. 06:00 – What the Data Says Key research insights: buyer behavior, decision-making timelines, and revenue impact of alignment. 08:00 – Why Product Launches Lose Momentum The drop-off after launch and lack of post-launch structure. 10:00 – Launch vs. Go-To-Market Explained Understanding the difference between a one-time event and an ongoing system. 13:00 – The 5-Step Go-To-Market Framework Market clarity, positioning, sales enablement, momentum building, and conversion strategy. 16:00 – Sales Enablement Gaps Why reps often lack the tools and direction needed to succeed. 17:30 – Building Momentum Before Demand How belief, education, and confidence drive early interest. 18:00 – Turning Interest into Specification Why the first order matters and how to create consistent conversion pathways. 19:00 – Final Takeaways & Reflection Questions Key questions to evaluate your current go-to-market strategy. Key Quotes “Most products don’t fail because they’re poorly designed—they fail because they’re launched without a real go-to-market strategy.” “A launch is a moment. A go-to-market strategy is a system.” “Great design is only half the job—the other half is how the market experiences it.” “Designers don’t sell your products—they justify them.” “The fastest-growing brands aren’t improvising—they’re executing a plan.” 🔗 Connect with Thrive In Design Follow Thrive In Design for insights on design leadership, business strategy, and growth in the A&D industry: Website: https://www.thriveindesign.co/ • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thriveindesign/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thriveindesign/ • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thriveindesign 🚀 Go Deeper with Thrive In Design Take the SpecReady™ Assessment: https://specready.co/ Join the Thrive In Design: AI in Design Summit on May 20, 2026: https://tidsummit.com/ 👋 Connect with Nicole Nicole’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoleben

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