PODCAST · business
Design and Prosper
by Design and Prosper
Hey! We're Kris and Donna, and we love having honest, open conversations about running a graphic design business. We've been graphic designers and educators for the past 2 decades and have both run multiple-six figure graphic design businesses. We have Experienced. It. All—the highs and the lows of success. In this space, we will share all things Graphic Design business. The do's, the don'ts, tips, secret sauces, and a whole lot more. Bottom line—we are on a mission to help Graphic Designers thrive in business.Our aim with this podcast is to provide valuable insights and strategies so you can take them and apply them to build your own successful graphic design business.If you have a graphic design business problem that you'd like us to unpack in a future episode, email us at [email protected]. We'd love to hear from you.
Episodes
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145. Closing a beautiful chapter: Reflecting on our D&P journey and what's next
Join us for episode 145, our final episode of Design and Prosper. 💛 After five incredible years, we've made the bittersweet decision to bring our podcast journey to a close. In this deeply personal episode, we share: The pivotal moments that shaped Design and Prosper The joys and challenges of...
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144. BIG CHANGES and your Academy q's answered (this will be our last round ever!)
It's official—we're opening doors to The Academy for the very last time, but, we're going out with a bang and would like to invite you to spend the entire 2025 with us! Join The Academy — it's your very last chance! https://www.designandprosper.co/theacademy We know you've got a lot to think…
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143. Designer Q&A! Sharing Personal Vulnerabilities, Demanding Retainer Clients, and Profitability Dilemma
In episode 143, we're diving into designer questions! Question 1: Should you share personal vulnerabilities with clients? We chat about the growing trend of sharing personal stories in business and whether it's something you should embrace. Question 2: How do you handle a demanding retainer…
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142. Don't know where to start? 5 foundations every design business needs
In this episode we uncover the five essential pillars every design business needs. Whether you're just starting out or have been in business for a while, it's crucial to have these foundations in place: 1. Understand your why Get clear on your core motivation for starting a design business. This...
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141. Handling Client Meetings Like A Pro
In this episode, we're diving deep into the world of client meetings. We share our best strategies for ensuring your meetings run smoothly and effectively, whether they're in-person or virtual. We cover essential preparation tips, handling pre-meeting nerves, and we run through the six types of...
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140. Designer's Guide To Print Production - Part 2
This is part 2 of a 2 part series on Print Production for Designers, so if you haven't heard episode 139, be sure to go back and listen to that! In this episode, we cover: Getting paper samples Which Pantone books we recommend The specifications we send to printers to get quotes Essential…
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139. Designer's Guide To Print Production - Part 1
Today on the Design and Prosper Podcast, we're diving into the world of print! If you're a designer, chances are you'll need to send a file to print at some point, even in this digital world. It can be daunting if you're not familiar with the ins and outs of the print world, but you're in luck...
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138. Designer Q&A! Free vs paid fonts, Changing a business name, Outgrowing old clients
This is an Ask Kris & Donna episode where we are answering designer questions: 1) When and how to invest in fonts versus using free fonts for client work 2) A designer is weighing up the pros and cons of rebranding their design business, and 3) Strategies for handling long-term clients when you...
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137. Evidence that design and branding WORKS
Do you need help convincing clients that graphic design and branding is valuable? In this episode we reveal some awesome studies and statistics you can use to confidently showcase the benefits of design & branding. Mentioned during the episode: Episode 132 - The power of case studies and how they...
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136. Can you trust your graphic design business?
The Design & Prosper Academy doors are open for a limited time! Come and join us and start building the design business of your dreams today. 🌈✨ https://www.designandprosper.co/theacademy Are you wondering how to set up your graphic design business for success? In today's episode we share the...
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135. Should you show clients your process work & concepts?
Join our free live Masterclass "Pathway to Profit" and discover 5 graphic design business models that *really* work. 🚀 https://www.designandprosper.co/masterclass This is an Ask Kris & Donna episode where we answer a question from a lovely designer, Sarah Kelly, who has asked the following...
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134. 5 reasons why graphic designers are unhappy in their design business and what to do about it
Join our free live Masterclass "Pathway to Profit" and discover 5 graphic design business models that *really* work. 🚀 https://www.designandprosper.co/masterclass Are you running a design business but you're feeling unhappy and unfulfilled? There are lots of reasons why this can be the case but…
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133. The power of case studies and how they can transform your graphic design business
Join our free live Masterclass "Pathway to Profit" and discover 5 graphic design business models that *really* work. 🚀 https://www.designandprosper.co/masterclass In today's episode we are talking all about case studies and why they are so powerful for graphic, web and brand designers to use as...
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132. 10 Time-Saving Systems EVERY design business needs
Do you feel pushed for time in your graphic design business? Well in today's episode we have 10 time saving systems you need to implement in your business to get some of your precious time back. We cover strategies such as batching tasks, using automation and integration tools like Zapier and...
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131. Ask Kris and Donna - How important is it to specify a niche within a graphic design business?
In this 'Ask Kris and Donna' episode we answer a question from Taylor, a graphic design business owner who is curious about whether focusing on a niche and turning away unrelated work is going to be beneficial. View the transcript here. Have a question you'd like us to answer on an upcoming...
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130. The consequences of designers charging too low
In this episode we are talking about pricing, in particular - LOW pricing. While it can be tempting to charge lower prices for your design services, (especially when you are just starting out), there can be negative consequences for you, your client and the industry at large. Let's chat about…
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129. Ask Kris & Don: A client has given me a sketch to make the design cheaper
In this 'Ask Kris & Don' episode we answer a very relatable question from Claire, who has a client who wants a cheaper design because they have provided a sketch of what they want. This is a situation that most designers dread, so we chat about ways to handle client requests for budget-friendly...
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128. Why clients need professional branding now more than ever
In this episode we are talking about how to convince your clients to invest in branding and why it's more important than ever before for businesses to invest in professional, strategic, considered branding, even in an economic downturn. We chat about some of the silly branding fiasco's that have...
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127. 7 things missing in your design estimates
Ever wonder what might be missing from your design estimates? In this episode, we explore 7 key elements that could be impacting your profit margins. We talk to designers all the time, and a common theme emerges: many valuable services and components of design projects don't get charged for. The...
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126. Ask Kris & Don: I want to do brand design but I can't draw. Does it matter?
In this 'Ask Kris & Don' quickie episode we answer a question from a designer who feels held back because they believe they cannot draw. We have strong opinions on this one! Have a question you'd like us to answer on an upcoming episode? You can submit it here. Much love, Kris & Donna xo P.S For...
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125. 20 things we would never do as graphic design business owners
Have you ever been in a pickle in your design business and wondered 'What would Kris & Don do?' Well in a slight twist to that question, in this episode we are running through 20 things that we would NEVER do as design business owners. (You get to learn from our mistakes because YES we have done...
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124. Ask Kris & Don: I'm a startup but looking for design jobs on the side as I build my business
In this Ask Kris & Don quickie episode we answer a question from a Sinéad, who has a startup graphic design business but is looking to apply for design jobs on the side. Sinéad's big question is, do I share my business portfolio with potential employers? Thank you Sinead for your great question!…
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123. Your pricing isn't the problem - why your clients aren't saying 'yes'.
If you're struggling to get clients to sign off on your design proposals and you're worried that your prices are too high, this episode is for you! Pricing design projects can feel complex and can be also fraught with emotion — listen in to hear us explore the pricing pyschology behind what...
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122. Ask Kris & Don: Do I need to learn web design to get high-value projects?
In this Ask Kris & Don quickie episode we answer a question from a Cassandra: "Hi Kris and Donna! I don't offer website design in my branding service because it's just not in my zone of genius. So how can I offer value in a higher price range without web design included? Is it possible to not…
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121. Designer Interrupted: The cost of interruptions on your design business
In this episode we are delving into the topic of 'Interruptions'. So many designers face this issue on the daily and it can significantly impact your productivity, creativity, stress levels AND profit! So we've got some strategies for how to start identifying your time sucks and to nip these...
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120. Ask Kris & Don: My client keeps asking for changes
In this Ask Kris & Don episode we answer a question from a designer who has a project being delayed due to seemingly endless 'last-minute' changes by the client. It's time to rein this project in! We talk about ways to keep projects on track, avoid scope creep and establish boundaries for...
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119. Targeting cold leads for your graphic design business
In this episode we chat all about targeting cold leads. Do we recommend it? Are there ways to do it that don't suck? Let's chat about this! Much love, Kris & Donna xo P.S For transcript click here - - - - - https://www.designandprosper.co/theacademy ✨ Looking to up-level your graphic design...
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118. Ask Kris & Donna: My client wants me to create an ugly design!
In this Ask Kris & Don Q&A quickie episode we answer a question from a member of our community who had a client request for a design that was based off a concept made by a relative/friend. We've certainly experienced this before and we are betting so many of you can relate to this question as…
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117. 10 differences between struggling and successful designers
The Design & Prosper Academy Doors are open for a limited time! https://www.designandprosper.co/theacademy ✨ Looking to up-level your graphic design business with elevated systems, comprehensive training and ongoing support? We run our business school for graphic, web and brand designers three...
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116. Ask Kris & Don: Burning questions from graphic design business owners (rapid fire!)
The Design & Prosper Academy Doors are open for a limited time! https://www.designandprosper.co/theacademy ✨ Looking to up-level your graphic design business with elevated systems, comprehensive training and ongoing support? We run our business school for graphic, web and brand designers three...
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115. Essential Metrics for Design Business Success
In this episode we delve into the essential business metrics every designer needs to track for success. From marketing and lead generation, client project and fulfillment metrics, to business wellness (this one is especially important!) - tracking the *right* metrics will help you gain valuable...
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114. Ask Kris & Donna: How do I find my zone of genius?
We have a FREE live masterclass happening in January 2024! In 'Pathway to Profit: How to build a design business that *really* works, we will be sharing 5 susatinable design business models that maximise profit and minimise your time. Can't wait to meet you live! Sign up here:...
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113. Why did you start a graphic design business?
We have a FREE live masterclass happening in January 2024! In 'Pathway to Profit: How to build a design business that *actually* works, we will be sharing 5 susatinable design business models that maximise profit and minimise your time. Can't wait to meet you live! Sign up here:...
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112. Ask Kris & Don: Overcoming design doubts and imposter syndrome
We have a FREE live masterclass happening in January 2024! In 'Pathway to Profit: How to build a design business that *actually* works, we will be sharing 5 susatinable design business models that maximise profit and minimise your time. Can't wait to meet you live! Sign up here:...
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111. The New Year process we NEVER skip: the power of choosing a word of the year
In this episode we chat all things 'word of the year' and how it it can be such a meaningful way to help you focus and set your intention for the year ahead. We share our word of the year for 2024 and give you tips on how to find yours! In the episode we mentioned our 'word of the year' reel…
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110. Who do you need to BE to succeed in your design business?
Welcome to the Design and Prosper Podcast! In this episode, we ask a really important question for the upcoming year: Who do you need to BE in order to make 2024 your best year yet? We really unpack this question in order to get to the heart of what might be holding you back from success. Much...
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109. Ask Kris & Don: I'm in burnout, please help 🙏
In this Ask Kris & Don episode, we are provide support and strategies for a designer experiencing the dreaded burnout. Beautiful designers, it's so important to prioritise setting boundaries and self-care, even when it feels impossible. Do you have a question you'd like us to answer on a future…
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108. There is NO shame in asking for sales
In this episode, we chat about a common problem where designers feeling shy or ashamed when it comes to asking for sales. We really want designers to drop the word 'shame' from their vocabulary! Remember, you are worthy and deserving of receiving money for the incredible value you provide...let's...
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107. Ask Kris & Donna: I'm pregnant and I'm scared to tell my clients!
In this Ask Kris & Don episode, we answer a question from a lovely designer who is feeling worried about telling clients she is pregnant. Do you have a question you'd like us to answer on a future Ask Kris & Don episode? Head to designandprosper.co/podcast and ask away! You can be anonymous if…
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106. The Best ChatGPT Prompts For Designers - Part 2
ChatGPT is the brainstorming buddy that is going to change your design process forever. If you're not using ChatGPT behind the scenes in your design business yet, we're here to give you the kick-start you need. We want to not only help you to get a handle on using ChatGPT in your design business...
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105. Ask Kris & Don: Stock photography, yay or nay?
In this Ask Kris & Don episode, we answer the following question: "Hey Kris & Don! What are your thoughts on using a stock photos and illustrations etc? I had a lecturer who said no, absolutely don't use them but I was wondering what your thoughts are about this?" We went on a few tangents with...
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104. The Best ChatGPT Prompts For Designers - Part 1
ChatGPT is the brainstorming buddy that is going to change your design process forever. If you're not using ChatGPT behind the scenes in your design business yet, we're here to give you the kick-start you need. We want to not only help you to get a handle on using ChatGPT in your design business...
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103. Ask Kris & Don - A new lead is asking for "examples", what should I do?
In this Ask Kris & Don episode, we answer the following question: "A potential client has approached me and they said they had a bad experience with another designer. They've asked for "examples" before they'll sign off on my proposal. What should I do?" Do you have a question you'd like us to...
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102. We got hacked – how to prevent if from happening to you
In this episode of Design and Prosper, we chat about our recent experience of having our Meta (Facebook) Ads account hacked and being locked out. It was awful, and we don't want it to happen to you! Listen in to hear how it unfolded, who is being targeted and our insights on how to protect...
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101. Ask Kris & Donna - How do I know if I'm a good designer?
How do you know if you're a good designer? Is there any way you can measure this? We were asked the following question by a member of our community: "I'm self taught and I second guess myself a lot. How do I know if I'm a good designer?" Listen in for all we had to say in this Ask Kris & Don...
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100. It's our 100th episode! We share our journey so far.
OMG we cannot believe you been along for the ride with us for 100 episodes! 🎉 Without you, our podcast (and our business) wouldn't exist. In this episode, we go right back to the beginning of our careers right up until now — this is our most open and honest conversation yet. Much love, Kris &...
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99. Ask Kris & Donna - How can I make passive income as a designer?
This is an Ask Kris & Don espisode where we answer a question from Hannah: "What are some effective ways to make passive income as a web & branding designer. Looking to target clients rather than other designers. Thanks so much!" Thank you for your question Hannah! Do you have a question you…
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98. What to do when work goes quiet
Does it feel like the client work has dried up and there is nothing new on the horizon? In this episode we are talking all about what to do when things have gone quiet in your design business. It's a horrible feeling and it can be so scary. But it just might be the big kick up the butt you need…
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97. Ask Kris & Don - How to get new clients when you're just starting out
In today's Ask Kris & Don episode we answer the following question from Joyce: "I've recently launched my design studio, and was {wonder}ing how you both would approach getting new clients in this time and age? Instagram is currently my plan for getting clients, and posting 3 times a week! 👀🤔...
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96. Why consistency is everything in your design business
Today we are talking about the importance of consistency and how it can quite literally make or break your design business. Every part of your business can and should be systemised...we truly believe this is the key to long term success. Let's take a deep dive! We're hosting a new, free live...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Hey! We're Kris and Donna, and we love having honest, open conversations about running a graphic design business. We've been graphic designers and educators for the past 2 decades and have both run multiple-six figure graphic design businesses. We have Experienced. It. All—the highs and the lows of success. In this space, we will share all things Graphic Design business. The do's, the don'ts, tips, secret sauces, and a whole lot more. Bottom line—we are on a mission to help Graphic Designers thrive in business.Our aim with this podcast is to provide valuable insights and strategies so you can take them and apply them to build your own successful graphic design business.If you have a graphic design business problem that you'd like us to unpack in a future episode, email us at [email protected]. We'd love to hear from you.
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Design and Prosper
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Design and Prosper have?
Design and Prosper currently has 146 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Design and Prosper about?
Hey! We're Kris and Donna, and we love having honest, open conversations about running a graphic design business. We've been graphic designers and educators for the past 2 decades and have both run multiple-six figure graphic design businesses. We have Experienced. It. All—the highs and the lows of...
How often does Design and Prosper release new episodes?
Design and Prosper publishes regularly with 146 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to Design and Prosper?
You can listen to Design and Prosper on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Design and Prosper?
Design and Prosper is created and hosted by Design and Prosper.
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