Explore the reality of growing a design firm. Chip reflects on decades of experience—what he learned the hard way, how he approaches business decisions, and what he wishes young designers knew before launching their own studios. Whether you're a seasoned principal or just beginning your career, this episode is full of actionable advice for navigating the intersection of creativity and business.
Key Topics covered:
Starting a design business: challenges and costs
Why passion needs to be paired with business acumen
How to scale without burning out
Managing people, billing cycles, and mentorship
Building trust, reputation, and referral networks