150 - Let's Talk About my Favourite Books and Podcasts for 2025

Send us Fan MailIn this fun, high value CEO-style episode, Laura shares her favourite business books, podcasts and AI tools that are shaping her strategy and success in 2025. Why business books matter for designersHow the right books can reshape the way you think, market, lead and sellHow to turn book insights into systems you use dailyHow AI can help implement the concepts instantlyBook #1: Building a StoryBrand 2.0 by Donald MillerWhy StoryBrand is the clearest messaging framework for 2025The shift from talking about yourself to spotlighting your client as the heroHow to rewrite your homepage, services page, bio and scripts with StoryBrandHow pairing StoryBrand with AI becomes a messaging powerhouseBook #2: The Ultimate Sales Machine by Chet HolmesThe power of focus and consistent actionWhy the Dream 100 strategy works for designersUpdated insights from Amanda HolmesHow AI can rewrite scripts, create outreach plans and build sales systemsBook #3: Scorecard MarketingHow to use quizzes to attract qualified leadsWhy scorecards reveal buying intent and segment your audienceHow AI can write your quiz, interpret results and automate follow-upLaura’s 2026 Reading ListThey Ask, You Answer by Marcus SheridanGood Strategy Bad Strategy by Richard RumeltThe Sales Playbook by Jack DalyThe 48 Laws of Power by Robert GreeneLaura’s Top Podcasts for 2025The StoryBrand PodcastThe Game with Alex HormoziDiary of a CEO with Steven BartlettAspire with Emma GredePlus bonus entrepreneurial listens for extra motivation.True Crime CornerBecause designers are allowed a little guilty pleasure too. Laura shares her current binge-worthy listens.In just one focused hour, we’ll dive into whatever you need most—pricing strategies, client management, attracting high-end clients or building repeat business. You’ll get clarity, strategy, and expert advice based on my 27+ years of running a thriving, seven-figure design firm.This is your chance to get real answers to the questions you’ve been dying to ask—from someone who’s actually been there.Book your session as you need it—no strings attached.Be sure to follow along on Instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspaces + @thorntondesign to stay up to date on what we're talking about next week. If you love our podcast, please, please, please leave us a review. If you have any questions or topic ideas OR you wish to be a guest email us [email protected] or find us on instagram @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesLaura Thornton is the  principle designer of Thornton Design Inc, located in Kleinburg, ON.  Since founding the company in 1999, Laura has been committed to creating a new kind of interior design experience for her clients. Thornton Design is an experienced team of creative talents, focused on curating beautiful residential and commercial spaces in the Toronto, Ontario area and beyond. Now sharing all the years of experience with other interior designers to create a world of collaboration and less competition. The Business of Beautiful Spaces  I @thebusinessofbeautifulspacesThornton Design                                      I @thorntondesign