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CEO Of The Set Me Free Project Podcasts

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Resilience and Relationships (R&R)

Stephanie Olson - Speaker, Author, CEO of The Set Me Free Project, and resiliency, addiction, and sexual violence expert

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Resilience and Relationships (R&R) is where we get real about life. Hosted by Stephanie Olson and joined by staff from The Set Me Free Project and guests, we’ll talk about trauma, healing, human trafficking, parenting in a tech world, and everything in between. R&R will dive into the hard stuff with honesty, hope, and a little humor. Whether you're raising kids, working with youth, or just trying to figure out healthy relationships in today’s world, this podcast is for you.
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Damn Good Interior Designer

Cheryl Kees Clendenon and Liz Lapan

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Join Cheryl Kees Clendenon and Liz Lapan, the dynamic duo behind the visionary and integrator balancing all the moving parts of a full service interior design firm in their no-nonsense and thought-provoking podcast, the Damn Good Designer. Each episode is full of damn good truths and real talk as they share invaluable insights on how to run and build a successful business while challenging the norms, the industry, each other and YOU. Emphasizing a business-savvy approach, Cheryl and Liz take ...
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402-521-3080 In this episode, Stephanie Olson and Rebecca Saunders delve into the concept of 'sharenting'—the act of parents sharing information and images of their children online. They discuss the implications of this practice, including the risks of digital footprints, identity theft, and digital kidnapping. The conversation emphasizes the impor…
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402-521-3080 In this conversation, Stephanie Olson and Rebecca Saunders delve into the complexities of addiction, exploring not only traditional substance abuse but also behavioral addictions like food and technology. They discuss the societal perceptions of alcoholism, the importance of recognizing signs of addiction, and the critical role of supp…
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Kitchen and bath design must be treated — and priced — as the high-level specialty it is. These are not "just another room" — instead, they are some of the most complex, high-stakes, and profitable part of your business if you treat it that way. Too many designers undervalue their skills, we discuss how flat fees protect both your expertise and you…
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402-521-3080 In this conversation, Stephanie Olson and Rebecca Saunders delve into the pressing issue of the sexualization of children in today's society. They explore various aspects, including the impact of dance competitions, the concept of victim blaming, the importance of dress codes, and the role of social media in shaping youth culture. The …
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402-521-3080 In this conversation, Stephanie Olson and Rebecca Saunders discuss the complexities of nonprofit organizations, focusing on how to evaluate their effectiveness, the importance of transparency in funding, and the misconceptions surrounding nonprofit salaries and profits. They emphasize the need for nonprofits to diversify their income s…
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In this Ask and Answered episode, we break down the real reasons flat fees can transform your business—and why hourly billing might be keeping you small. The mindset shift designers need to make is to stop thinking like a technician and start pricing like a CEO. Flat fees protect your time, boost your authority, and create a better experience for y…
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402-521-3080 In this powerful follow-up episode, Stephanie Olson and Rebecca Saunders dive into the messy intersection of privacy, parenting, and social media. From family vlogging to the addictive nature of online platforms, they unpack the long-term consequences of what we choose to share—especially when it involves our children. The conversation…
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402-521-3080 The conversation examines the implications of a viral incident involving a CEO and a public display of affection at a Coldplay concert, sparking discussions on privacy, social media ethics, public apologies, and the human impact of viral content. The hosts reflect on the consequences of public actions, the nature of accountability, and…
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How can you be team player without giving up your own rights? Working with contractors can be a tricky relationship when they want you to stay in your lane--BUT it doesn't have to be. Creating a team approach with positioning in your marketing, the copy that you use, the verbiage that you talk about, and how you talk about it with other people, all…
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402-521-3080 In this conversation, Stephanie Olson and Rebecca Saunders discuss the competitive nature of the nonprofit sector, particularly in the realm of human trafficking prevention. They explore the challenges of collaboration versus competition, the importance of trauma-informed care, and the need for nonprofits to specialize in their areas o…
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402-521-3080 In this conversation, Stephanie Olson discusses the complexities of self-identification among individuals who have experienced human trafficking. She shares personal stories and insights into how trauma affects one's perception of victimization and the importance of education and training in recognizing and addressing these issues. The…
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We have another asked and answered topic this week! We are talking about reframing what many designers see as “wasted” discovery calls. Just because a lead isn’t a fit for full service doesn’t mean it’s a dead end. Consider this as a chance to position your firm as a resource, build brand equity, and generate revenue—especially when you offer varie…
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402-521-3080 In this conversation, Stephanie Olson and Rebecca Saunders delve into the myths surrounding human trafficking, discussing common misconceptions, the realities of traffickers and their victims, and the importance of community awareness and education. They emphasize the need to understand the complexities of trafficking, including the vu…
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402-521-3080 In this episode of R & R Resilience and Relationships, Stephanie Olson and Rebecca Saunders discuss the critical need for trauma-informed training in schools and the challenges faced by parents when addressing inappropriate situations involving their children. They explore the mindset of denial prevalent in some private schools, the im…
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Public relations isn’t just about getting published—it’s about what you do after the feature goes live. We thrilled to welcome our special guest who we have been working with for over a year. Alex Abramian, founder of The PR Collaborative, talks with us about the evolving landscape of PR for interior designers. With years of experience as a writer …
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402-521-3080 In this conversation, Stephanie Olson, CEO and founder of the Set Me Free Project, discusses the evolution of her organization and its new podcast, focusing on resilience and relationships. She shares insights into the project's origins, its educational curriculum aimed at youth, and the impact of COVID-19 on their operations. The conv…
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Another Asked & Answered segment today and our very own Liz going solo! One of the biggest balancing acts designers face is pairing creativity with structure. Your vision is what SELLS the client, but your process is what DELIVERS on that promise. Clients remember the feeling, not the portal or the lists or the emails—but having strong systems behi…
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We believe one of the most underrated parts of a client journey is the intake process. This isn’t about a boring list of preferences like if they prefer black over blue or which kitchen they like best. Instead, it's about asking the right questions to uncover how clients live, communicate, and make decisions. Our unique and customized client questi…
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There’s no one right way to run a design business—but there is often a better way. This is not to say if something is working for you—great. Keep going. But if you're stuck or wondering why the same problems keep popping up? It might be time to challenge the models you’re using. How can you challenge the traditional business models, such as cost pl…
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Social proof from your clients is important for building trust and credibility in a business. Reviews and testimonials from happy clients, while also being mindful of how and when, can be used to showcase the success and unique offerings of your business. This not only helps attract the right clients, but also addresses common pain points and frequ…
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You can't lead clients from survival mode---well you can, but not well and not for extended periods of time. how How you feel directly impacts how you lead, sell, and scale. The mindset shift I have to use is to keep my business steady is the "attitude of gratitude." This "Asked and Answered" topic this week is slightly more personal but a question…
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This week we are answering questions from our audience--first up is one of my FAVORITE hills to die on and what I consider one of the most damaging things you can do for your business. It is not a smart business practice to sell blocks of time as a designer because this is not an effective way to market and value creative brilliance. Selling based …
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Sometimes the simplest of truths is what is going to move the needle and this begins with understanding who you are and your own weaknesses. We all have them right?? If you have a team, or even if you are a solopreneur, you are still consistently working with others and there are always going to be challenges of working together. However, being abl…
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Your marketing dollars are important. There are many elements to successful marketing and it starts with becoming part of the DNA of your business. This week we met with Denise Grothouse, the founder and CEO of Perfect Six Marketing, a company specializing in marketing strategies for the kitchen and bath design industry. In this episode we discuss …
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Optics matter. Client's trusting you know how to manage money--matters. Understanding there is no free lunch--matters. Here is the drum roll take away. It takes money to make money. Ta da! Professional designers understand that it costs money to travel to market to learn about the products they specify ( and usually sell for a profit) -- or how imp…
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I am PASSIONATE--and if you have gotten my weekly newsletter the past two weeks then you would know all those years ago in college my young professor's advice stuck. So we are re-releasing one of our most popular episodes and trying to reignite the flame in those that may feel it dwindling! Are you giving clients the yearning for more? Showing pass…
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Happy New Year! What better way to start off the year than with my top 5 marketing strategies for small business owners grow their businesses. Marketing is a mindset and not just an activity, and it takes time and effort to see results. This is not simply a standalone entity, it is ingrained in the essence of any business. Every interaction, from t…
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The process of procurement in a busy design firm is NO joke. You are not running popsicle stand, you are running a firm with various moving parts and you have to be able to have a way to track what is coming and going through your business. This is where checks and balances come into play to avoid costly mistakes and keep the firm running smoothly.…
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Cheryl is going solo this week while Liz takes a well-deserved little vacation. Cheryl is discussing managing client expectations and making sure you are not keeping them in the dark--you need them to trust the process! There is a level of professionalism that comes with the importance of managing clients' expectations during their project. Setting…
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402-521-3080 In this heartfelt episode, Stephanie Olson reflects on the profound impact of small, kind gestures in everyday life. Sharing a personal story about a chance encounter with a discouraged elderly man, Stephanie explores how a simple smile, a kind word, or a moment of encouragement can transform someone's day—and perhaps even their life. …
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How can you be team player without giving up your own rights? Working with contractors can be a tricky relationship when they want you to stay in your lane--BUT it doesn't have to be. Creating a team approach with positioning in your marketing, the copy that you use, the verbiage that you talk about, and how you talk about it with other people, all…
  continue reading
 
Who doesn't love an install day!? Sure, it can be hectic and exhausting but this is where you get to see the fruit of your labor come together. Cheryl went solo this week talking about In Detail's top tips for a successful install day! Having a team in place for installation that understands the logistics and are able to convey it to your movers AN…
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How important is project management in interior design? Bottom line: Very. Because it saves your client money in the long run! This starts with having a clear and cogent scope of work to be able to refer back to when issues arise within the project. Project management, how it is handled and why you do it can make or break a project. This means bein…
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Have you ever stopped to think where your time is spent vs your energy output? The truth is we could be sabotaging ourselves and our capacity to work if we are not managing our energy. We all have relentless demands and unexpected challenges we deal with on the daily and we all tend to slip into negative emotions—the fight-or-flight mode—often mult…
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402-521-3080 Stephanie Olson discusses the challenges of starting and sustaining a nonprofit. Most people have great intentions when wanting to start a nonprofit, but do most people have what it takes to sustain a nonprofit. If you have ever been interested in starting a nonprofit, this is the podcast for you! Support the show Everyone has resilien…
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This week was a bit of a whirlwind coming home from High Point! We had the pleasure of having Jude Charles as a guest and we got to meet in person while we were attending Market. Jude Charles is a filmmaker and for over 18 years and has been producing documentaries for entrepreneurs. He has produced stories for Google, Steve Harvey, LuAnn Nigara, R…
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How good of a partner are you to your vendors? Strong vendor relationships are a secret to success! Many designers do not think about their vendors until there is a problem. This approach does not allow to maximize the partnership. Getting to know your reps, your customer service people, and marketing team can enhance your bottom line and the custo…
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Cheryl and Liz are exploring five key roadblocks to bringing a new client on board and signing that contract. By showing your expertise to the client earlier than later, you remove many difficulties from the sale itself and you set yourself up for being able to deliver your best work. You cannot rely on the lead to peruse every detail of your websi…
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402-521-3080 Stephanie Olson, CEO and founder of the Set Me Free Project, discusses resilience in life and leadership, emphasizing its importance in overcoming challenges. She shares her personal journey, including her work in preventing human trafficking and her experiences as a survivor of sexual and domestic violence. Stephanie highlights the si…
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Are your clients receiving and perceiving what you say to them properly? What you say, how you say it, and why you say it is vital to communicate the value and professionalism your firm offers through strategic and consistent positioning. This means understanding and committing to your target audience, being aware of how you position your firm, and…
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If you have known me for a while you may have heard my "Top 12 Truths for Being a Shopkeep" and one of my faves that I stand by is "Retail is not for sissies!" And I know that our special guest, Christina Van Blake of Home Design Dover feels the exact same way. Christina, or as some call her Christi, is the own and prominent designer serving the Ma…
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402-521-3080 Stephanie Olson discusses her journey to peace after trauma, starting from her early life marked by her father's abuse and abandonment. She recounts her struggles with self-esteem, eating disorders, and alcoholism, and her experiences of sexual violence and domestic abuse. Stephanie emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, both for ot…
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Listen up folks--we all have a love-hate relationship with social media right? Yes we do! It is a changing animal, and if you don't keep up with it you may be missing out on amazing leads because you are not staying relevant in our industry. Liz is off handling projects and Cheryl seized the opportunity to speak with a pro podcaster and social medi…
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What should you do when a client starts sending you items to evaluate? In this episode we discuss handling changes that the client initiates in design projects and the importance of respectfully evaluating items that the client provides to ensure they fit the design plan and overall project goals. We recently had a similar client experience (yes, w…
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What is the #1 marketing asset of your business? Your website! It is a living breathing entity of our firm. Join us with our special guest Victoria Marcouillier, owner of Brandwell and host of the Branding Business School podcast, as we discuss the importance of branding, the value of marketing throughout the client relationship lifecycle why your …
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It is never too late to start over. This week we have a wonderful special guest from New York! I have known and coached Diane Bianchini of Dream Interiors NY for a number of year and she is here to talk with us this week about her path to becoming a designer with a background in Aeronautical engineering--talk about weathering the seasons of change …
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Are you hiring too late? What I have found is that most designers do not hire soon enough! Hiring a team challenges and helps elevate your business to a level where sustainable growth and scalability are achievable. When we look to hire we are looking to cater to some bonus projects and also the way that our current team is developing in terms upwa…
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Are you facing new challenges or going through a season of change? We are--yes we are in the trenches with you, really! Weathering the seasons of change is unpredictable and it is in these moments where we find out how resilient and adaptable we are. If you are not not prepared, then one of these events such as maternity leave, death in the family …
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The legal aspects of a business are super important to me as a business owner. We will always face project delays, especially in the last couple years, and we must be thinking about how we can protect ourselves. In my world, clients have to recognize the delays in executing are unrelated to our performance and we must get new bids/pricing or get th…
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Cheryl is passionate about what she does and loves seeing other small business owners and creative entrepreneurs succeed. We often get to hear success stories and want to be able to share this with others while also focusing on the unique market, business and experience other designers have around the country. This week we are starting a "DESIGNER …
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