20. Leading with Heart: Kristen Thomas on Building a Firm That Lasts

In this episode of Founders and Friends, host Ronniesha Rivera sits down with Kristen Thomas, founder and principal designer of Studio Thomas, for an inspiring conversation on building a design firm rooted in integrity, education, and heart.Kristen shares how her journey began with a desire to provide for her family and a love of design inspired by her late father. She opens up about the early challenges of balancing motherhood and business ownership, the evolution from working with investors to leading a luxury interior design studio, and the mindset shifts that helped her scale with intention.From formal education and business systems to integrity, billing structure, and leadership growth, Kristen offers a transparent look at what it truly takes to grow a firm “brick by brick.”If you’re a designer or creative entrepreneur navigating growth, leadership, and longevity in business — this episode is a must-listen.This Episode was brought to you by Vetted by DesignIf you are looking to outsource anything in your design business check out Vetted by Design to find some amazing highly vetted pros you can trust to help you grow your business.www.vetted-bydesign.comhttps://www.instagram.com/vettedbydesign/Connect with all things Founders & Friends on our Facebook Group & InstagramFounders & Friends InstagramFounders & Friends FB group*Only for interior designers & pro's who serve the industry