Designing a Joy-Filled Life as a Creative Entrepreneur w/ Melissa Griffin

What happens when a future doctor becomes a bold interior designer instead? In this episode, we peel back the layers of what it really looks like to build a creative business that reflects who you are—color, chaos, courage, and all.Melissa Griffin shares her unexpected journey from medical school aspirations to founding her design studio, Indigo Ink Interiors. We talk about how art, grief, motherhood, and therapy all played a role in shaping her work and the life she’s designed around it.This conversation isn’t just about beautiful spaces. It’s about identity, joy, and giving yourself permission to pivot. Whether you're a creative entrepreneur or just craving more meaning in your work, this one is for you.🎙️ Topics we explore:How Melissa shifted from science to designThe emotional roots of her bold, layered styleCreating a business that fits your life (not the other way around)Navigating motherhood, grief, and growth as a founderWhat it really means to design with joy and intentionEpisode Highlights:Pivoting with PurposeDesigning with Duality Motherhood as Motivation Creating Joy Through ColorSaying No to Fit the Yes Chapters:00:00 - “From Medicine to Design: The Unexpected Pivot”04:40 - “Blending the Analytical & the Artistic”10:00 - “Motherhood, Loss & Starting a Studio”15:30 – “Bold Color, Maximalism & Design Identity”21:10 – “Time Freedom, Business Ownership & Priorities”27:00 – “Running the Back‑End: What Designers Don’t Talk About”32:20 – “Designing Joy, Finding the Right Clients & What’s Next”Connect with Melissa:Instagram https://www.instagram.com/indigoinkinteriorsWebsite https://indigoinkinteriors.com/This podcast is brought to you in partnership with Liz Chapman & COUpcoming Events:Napa Retreat - October 5-8, 2026 - https://laurennajar.myflodesk.com/cetj223rsrGrowth & Connect Events - https://laurennajar.myflodesk.com/hb2a0mwbqwSave 25% with Flodesk - https://flodesk.com/c/OR8VKLLet’s Stay Connected: → Follow Lauren on Instagram: www.instagram.com/laurennajar → Learn more or work with me: www.laurennajar.com → Follow Business Over Cocktails on IG: www.instagram.com/businessovercocktails → Attend Growth & Connect retreats & events: www.instagram.com/growthandconnect🎧 Subscribe & Review: Love the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with a friend who needs a business boost and a good chat over a cocktail.