Best Francesca Maximé Podcasts (2025)

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Sustainable Brands and Affordable Beauty with Molly Carter 22:13

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2d ago22:13

22:13

In this episode, I sit down with designer and shop owner Molly Carter, whose passion for sustainability and storytelling in design is contagious. We talk about what it means to buy with your values, how she sources everything from hundred-year-old rugs to locally made candles, and why slowing down matters when you’re building a home. Molly shares t…

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Natural vs. Man Made: Why your Floors, Countertops and Walls Want Real Stone with Breda & Guy Kellner 22:13

9d ago22:13

22:13

In this episode, I sit down with Breda and Guy Kellner of Paris Ceramics to talk about their extraordinary work with natural and reclaimed stone. I’ve long admired how they honor the history and geology of each material, transforming salvaged slabs into flooring, fireplaces, and surfaces that feel both timeless and deeply alive. We talk about what …

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The Art-First Approach: Color, Pattern, and Personality in Interior Design with Natalie Papier 32:25

16d ago32:25

32:25

In this episode, I talk with Natalie Papier about her new book, “Start With the Art”. Natalie explains why the art you choose—whether it’s from a flea market, your kids, or a gallery—can and should be the starting point for designing a room. We discuss how art can shape color palettes, patterns, and materials, and why it tells the real story of a h…

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Updating Your Kitchen The Slow Style Way, Featuring Barbara Ballinger and Margaret Crane 38:15

24d ago38:15

38:15

Looking back, my kitchen has gone through many lives. It started with painted cabinets and bamboo floors on a tight budget, then evolved through a moody green phase during COVID before finally landing on a navy-and-white look inspired by the sea. Along the way, we tiled to the ceiling, swapped in a gorgeous Bertazzoni stove, shiplapped the ceiling,…

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Listener Spotlight: Global Style with Maria Resto 22:48

1M ago22:48

22:48

In this episode, I talked with Maria Resto, a longtime listener whose Chicago home reflects her love of travel, vintage finds, and evolving style. She shared how over 25 years she’s layered antiques, global pieces, bold textiles, and personal items—like a burgundy sofa and a juju hat—learning through trial and error to create rooms full of characte…

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Creating Soulful, Whole-Home Color Palettes with Francesca Wezel 36:03

1M ago36:03

36:03

This episode with Francesca Wezel is for all you design enthusiasts. Francesca is a colorist who creates stunning, one-of-a-kind colors. She shares the inspiration behind her colorful palettes, including her Himalayas palette, which was inspired by a trip to India. We also talk about her Houghton Hall and Poison into Medicine collections, which bot…

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Splurge vs. Save: The Pick 2 Principle 24:22

2M ago24:22

24:22

This week, I’m answering a listener question from Meg about how to balance style with function, especially when it comes to storage. She wants a home that looks good but also works for real life. I walk through different strategies depending on where you are in the process: whether you're starting from scratch, filling in gaps, or trying to upgrade…

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Every Wallpaper Worry Is Solved with Elizabeth Rees of Chasing Paper 39:45

2M ago39:45

39:45

In this episode of the Slow Style Home podcast, I talk with Elizabeth Rees, founder of Chasing Paper. We cover what makes her peel-and-stick wallpaper different, why it’s not just for renters, and how it holds up over time. Elizabeth shares how she built a high-quality, sustainable product that’s easy to use and doesn’t feel temporary or trendy. We…

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Plan, Connect, and Keep People Out Of Your Kitchen: Mastering the Art of Entertaining with Joseph Marini 31:05

3M ago31:05

31:05

In this episode, I talk with Joseph Marini, author of Mastering the Art of Entertaining. We cover what it really means to host, beyond the perfect table setting. Joseph shares why entertaining is about connection, not performance, and how a little planning goes a long way. We talk about what makes a good guest, how to keep people out of the kitchen…

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Fix My Room: Not Quite A Hallway, Not Quite A Room 28:57

3M ago28:57

28:57

In this edition of the Fix My Room series, I spoke with Kayla, who lives on beautiful Vancouver Island in a post-and-beam home full of character and full of wide open spaces. Her main question was what to do with the big, undefined area between her staircase and the main living space. It’s not a hallway, not quite a room, and right now it’s mostly …

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Creating Palettes and Composing Rooms Through a Slow Style Lens with Jewel Marlowe 43:09

3M ago43:09

43:09

In this episode, I welcome back designer Jewel Marlowe, whose work is bold, layered, and always intentional. We dig into how she builds palettes using color, pattern, and materials—and why contrast matters just as much as cohesion. Jewel breaks down how she mixes unexpected elements (like leopard print and florals) and why visual weight and scale p…

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What We're Sold and What We Actually Want: How Trends Are Eroding Our Concept of Home with Annetta Grant 31:24

3M ago31:24

31:24

This week, I’m joined by Professor Annetta Grant, whose research examines why so many of us feel uneasy in our own homes — even after we’ve renovated them. We dive into her concept of dysplacement (yes, spelled with a “y”), and how the rise of HGTV, social media, and resale-minded design has shifted the home from a space of personal expression to a…

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What You Don’t Know About Design Books (And Why I’m Crowdsourcing My Book Tour) 19:27

3M ago19:27

19:27

In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what it really takes to market a design book—especially when you’re doing most of it yourself. This episode is all about doing things with intention, working within limits, and inviting you to help shape this journey with me. Leave Me A Message! I need your feedback on the ideas from this episode. Go…

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When To Mix and When To Match: Tailored And Soulful Design with Jade Joyner 37:50

4M ago37:50

37:50

In this episode, I sit down with interior designer Jade Joyner, co-founder of the firm Metal + Petal, to talk about how she approaches design with intention, balance, and a strong point of view. Jade is the opposite of a formulaic designer—she’s not interested in trends, matching sets, or playing it safe. Instead, she leans into mixing materials, l…

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Organizing For Joy, Not Perfection: Why Editing Beats Decluttering with Whitney English 40:18

4M ago40:18

40:18

In this episode, I talk with Whitney English—author, designer, and (as I like to call her) my organizational better half. Her new book, Organize First, Decorate Second, isn't your typical organizing manual. It’s thoughtful, deeply personal, and grounded in real life—something I immediately connected with. We explore the idea that our homes are not …

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How The Brits Create Character-ful Homes with Ros Byam Shaw 45:32

5M ago45:32

45:32

When I first discovered Ros Byam Shaw’s writing, I felt like I’d found someone who truly saw homes the way I did — not as stage sets or style statements, but as deeply personal spaces layered with time, memory, and quiet beauty. In this episode, I get to speak with Ros Byam Shaw about her work as a writer and her newest book, “ Perfect English, Sma…

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Nantucket by Design: Where Travel, History, and Home Come Together 23:31

5M ago23:31

23:31

In this episode, I explore how real-world experiences — especially travel — can deeply enrich our homes and design choices. I introduce the fourth skill of my Slow Style framework, "Enrich," and talk with Bill Richards and Marla Mullen, co-chairs of Nantucket by Design 2025. We discuss how honoring a sense of place, like the spirit of Nantucket, ca…

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How Design Can Transform Your Life: “Spatial Alchemy” with Olga Naiman 36:40

5M ago36:40

36:40

In this episode, I talk with Olga Naiman, author of Spatial Alchemy, about how design can help us move through change, break old patterns, and support who we’re becoming. Olga shares how her own journey—starting with something as simple as reupholstering a chair—led her to a deeper understanding of the connection between our homes and our inner liv…

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How To Be Purposeful With Color: Bailey Li’s Evocative Murals and Listener Q&A 25:50

6M ago25:50

25:50

In this episode, I talk with Bailey Li, a self-taught artist and interior designer known for her powerful murals and bold, emotionally driven spaces. We walk through a few of her standout projects, always shaped by what a client wants to experience, emotionally, in a room. Bailey believes design should reflect not just who you are, but who you're b…

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Fix My Room: Open Plan Living Room Edition 30:59

6M ago30:59

30:59

In this edition of the Fix My Room series, I share a one-on-one coaching call with Charlotte, we discuss how to blend her style with the house's current rustic design. We explored furniture arrangement in her large, open living area and kitchen, and tackled her concerns about a big blank wall, appropriate rug size, and making better use of a wood s…

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The Strategic Use of Color: Transforming Builder-Grade Spaces with Gabriela Eisenhart 35:48

6M ago35:48

35:48

My guest today for our “Think Like A Designer” series is Gabriela Eisenhart, founder of Silo Studio Design. We cover a lot of bases in this conversation: finding inspiration for a “wow” moment in a kitchen; how to use color in a mostly neutral living room; mixing heavy and light layers to create a serene bedroom; what to do with that empty area you…

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What Does Your Entryway Say About You? Barrett Oswald On Personalization And Impact In Design 27:17

6M ago27:17

27:17

In this episode of the Slow Style Home podcast, I sit down with designer Barrett Oswald to examine the thought process behind her stunning, layered interiors. We explore the power of color, the role of texture, and how composition can transform a space—whether it’s a grand entryway or a cozy nook. Barrett shares insights from her work on both histo…

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African Design Legacy Goes Global: Nasozi Kakembo's Guide to Authentic Decorating 29:30

7M ago29:30

29:30

In this episode, I interview Nasozi Kakembo, author of 'African Decor Edit,' who shares her experiences traveling across Africa meeting artisans, and creating home accessories. Nasozi's book underscores the importance of understanding the cultural context behind African decor, highlighting 16 significant objects and how they are artfully incorporat…

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6 Design "Rules" for an Anti-Generic Home 30:46

7M ago30:46

30:46

Last week, I interviewed a designer who strongly follows and advocates for design rules, and while that method works for some, I advocate for a different, more personal approach to home design. I discussed various design rules, their origins, and how they can be broken to create a unique, joyful space that reflects individual style. I categorized d…

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Fast or Slow? Which Decorating Approach is Right For You? with Betsy Helmuth 36:26

7M ago36:26

36:26

In this episode, I sit down with Betsy Helmuth, a professional designer known for her fast-paced, rule-based approach, which contrasts with my slow style method. While I emphasize self-exploration and taking time to layer a home, Betsy's clients prioritize efficiency and clear guidelines to avoid mistakes in their design decisions. Betsy shares how…

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Maximalism Doesn’t Mean Cluttered: How to Add Layers and Make an Impact with Danielle Balanis 32:30

8M ago32:30

32:30

In this episode, I had a delightful conversation with Danielle Balanis, a Birmingham-based designer known for her bold, layered, and mixed aesthetic. Danielle's designs exude joy, abundance, and energy, adhering to the principles of the Slow Style philosophy. She emphasizes developing an aesthetic rather than adhering to strict style categories, fo…

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Fix My Room: Basement Bar Edition 30:04

8M ago30:04

30:04

Today I'm sharing a 1:1 coaching call from a listener who wanted help with his basement bar. It's a small area that he felt could use a big update. And he wanted to use his recent trip to Germany as a jumping off point. If you're watching this on YouTube, you'll see photos of his bar and some shots I pulled from German taverns for inspiration. Want…

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Fix My Room: Small changes make a big impact in a living room 26:28

8M ago26:28

26:28

In this first episode of my new "Fix My Room" series, I take you behind the scenes of a real-life design coaching session with Kathleen. Join me as I help her transform a frustrating living room into a peaceful, light-filled space by focusing on what truly brings her joy. We'll explore how a few strategic changes—removing heavy curtains, relocating…

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Slow Style in an Italian Farmhouse: How to Start a New Life with Barbara Boyle 32:34

8M ago32:34

32:34

In this episode, I sit down with Barbara Boyle, author of 'Pinch Me: Waking Up in a 300 Year Old Italian Farmhouse.' Barbara shares her journey from a successful advertising career to renovating and living in an old Italian farmhouse. Her initial inspiration came during a honeymoon trip to Europe where she fell in love with a small Italian town. Sh…

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Intentional Interiors: A New Year’s Guide to Home Transformations 16:11

9M ago16:11

16:11

Happy 2025! I love the new year and the sense of starting over it brings. In this episode, I steer clear of trends and focus on a slow style approach to interior design. Instead of overwhelming yourself with big changes, I suggest sitting in each room of your home to take stock of what makes you happy and what doesn't. I encourage you to use inspir…

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How To Make New Year’s Resolutions The Slow Living Way With Stephanie O’Dea 20:06

10M ago20:06

20:06

In the final episode of the Slow Style Home podcast for 2024, I talk to Stephanie O'Dea, the author of 'Slow Living: Cultivating a Life of Purpose in a Hustle Driven World.' We dive into how her book provides actionable steps for reorienting one's mindset towards a purposeful life, away from societal pressures. Stephanie explains the concept of slo…

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You Can’t Develop Your Style Without First Making Bold Commitments with Nina Watson 35:36

10M ago35:36

35:36

In this episode, I had the absolute joy of sitting down with Nina Watson, a designer whose thoughtful and intentional approach to her home perfectly embodies the Slow Style principles I teach. As we talked, her stories brought these principles to life, offering real-world examples of how they can transform not just our spaces, but the way we live i…

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From Mass-Produced to Masterpiece: The Radical Power of One Authentic Item with Walter G 25:46

10M ago25:46

25:46

When I sat down with Lauren Emerson and Genevieve Hewson of Walter G., I was transported into the world of block printing, where craftsmanship and soul meet. We spoke about the philosophy behind 'slow style,' emphasizing the importance of handmade and artisan products and the ethical considerations of their creation. We discuss the unique tactile a…

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Design Plot Twists: Using Unexpected Combinations To Tell Your Story with Schuyler Sampterton 39:56

10M ago39:56

39:56

Schuyler Samperton and I talk about incorporating inherited items, mixing styles and eras, and creatively using dark wood. We highlight the importance of scale, inventive textile applications, and using light fixtures as focal points. Schuyler also goes behind the scenes with her own fabric and wallpaper lines and provides tips on mixing and matchi…

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Traveling With Design In Mind 36:33

10M ago36:33

36:33

In this solo episode, I explore a popular topic: handling mementos and tchotchkes from travel. I share my thought process, from pre-trip preparations to what I buy and how I integrate those items into my home. Travel fuels home design with life and energy, inspiring us with new ideas and color palettes. I offer a deep dive into the Slow Style Frame…

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Trailer: What The Slow Style Home Podcast Is All About 4:51

11M ago4:51

4:51

The Slow Style Home podcast is about the process of creating a beautiful, one-of-a-kind home without hurting the planet or your wallet to get there. Slow Style is an antidote to fast-paced micro trends and disposable decor and the pressure we've been feeling to live in this instantaneous, perfect home. My name is Zandra Zuraw and I'm really excited…

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Is the “Tiny House” Lifestyle For You? Michael Bartz Finds Freedom in 175 Sq. ft. 29:48

11M ago29:48

29:48

In this episode of the Slow Style Home Podcast, I sat down with Michael Bartz, a homeowner who built and lives in a tiny home with his partner and three cats. Michael's journey to sustainable living began in 2015 after a life-changing breakup, leading him to question traditional housing and embrace the tiny house lifestyle. He built his 175-square-…

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What's "Visual Tension" And Why You Need It with KOBEL + Co 35:49

11M ago35:49

35:49

In this episode of the Slow Style Home podcast, I interview Mallory Robins and Elizabeth Bennett, founders of KOBEL + Co. We explore their design philosophy, which includes the use of 'ugly' pieces to add tension, balance, and serendipity. They explain how incorporating antiques and avoiding matchiness can make spaces more interesting and welcoming…

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Step 3 for Room Makeovers: What To Buy and When 18:22

12M ago18:22

18:22

In this solo episode, we will explore step three of my Slow Style framework, which is all about executing your vision for a room makeover. I'm here to guide you in thoughtfully connecting your design choices to the personal visions and values that matter most to you. I emphasize the importance of resisting impulsive shopping and instead carefully s…

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Using High-End Inspiration For Smaller Budgets with Samantha Stathis Lynch 28:58

12M ago28:58

28:58

In this episode of the Slow Style Home podcast, I sit down with Samantha Stathis Lynch of Samantha Ware Designs to explore her rich background in art authentication and interior design. Samantha shares her journey from galleries to working at the prestigious De Gournay, and how she incorporates her deep understanding of art history into accessible …

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Minimalism vs. Maximalism? Why You Don't Have To Choose with Abi Dare 26:11

12M ago26:11

26:11

In this episode of the Slow Style Home podcast, I talk with Abi Dare, author of 'The Soft Minimalist Home' and the 'These Four Walls' blog. We discuss her unique take on minimalism, which is not just about having fewer things but about making space for what truly matters. Abi explains that minimalism is an approach rather than a rigid style, and ho…

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Why Your Home Needs A Kitchen Garden with Nicole Johnsey Burke 33:03

1y ago33:03

33:03

In this episode of the Slow Style Home podcast, I chat with Nicole Johnsey Burke, founder of Gardenary and author of Kitchen Garden Revival, about optimizing outdoor spaces —be it a large yard or a small balcony— for growing vegetables. Nicole shares her personal journey from overcoming food addiction to becoming a garden expert and discusses how g…

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Money, Relationships, and Home: Navigating the Challenges with Rebecca West 31:46

1y ago31:46

31:46

My guest today is my friend and fellow podcaster, Rebecca West. Her book, “Happy Starts At Home,” is in its second edition and therefore giving me the opportunity to share it all with you. Her book will give you tons of thoughtful exercises to help you think through big decisions when it comes to designing and decorating your home. In this conversa…

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Why You Should Be Fearless in Your Decor (and why it's SO good for you!) with Jo Berryman 28:12

1y ago28:12

28:12

In this episode of the Slow Style Home podcast, I host designer Jo Berryman, who discusses her book 'Expressive Interiors.' Jo encourages homeowners to be fearless and bold in their design choices, emphasizing the importance of expressing one's true self through their living spaces. We explore various design principles such as harmony and discord, …

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Step 2 for Room Makeovers: How To Save Money And Build Confidence 21:01

1y ago21:01

21:01

Today is the second episode in my series about the Slow Style Framework, a method I use to teach people how to create meaningful, beautiful homes one room at a time. The first episode covered step one, Envision, and today's episode focuses on step two, Experiment. This episode emphasizes the valuable lessons learned from experimenting with items yo…

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Designing for Human Connection with Liz Bell Young 33:59

1y ago33:59

33:59

In this episode, I interviewed Liz Bell Young, the author of 'Let There Be Havens.' Liz is a multi-talented individual whose work spans across essays, poetry, and creative thinking, all aimed at fostering deeply felt human connections. We discussed the concept of 'havens,' not just as physical spaces but also as any place or interaction that provid…

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A Masterclass in Eclectic Design with Julia Chasman 33:56

1y ago33:56

33:56

In this episode of the Slow Style Home Podcast, I have an inspiring conversation with Julia Chasman, who transitioned from a 30-year career in the feature film industry to becoming a home designer. Julia shares how industry changes and her growing disinterest in film led her to renovate historic homes in Los Angeles. She highlights her approach to …

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Step 1 for Room Makeovers: The Magical First Step You’ve Been Skipping! 23:12

1y ago23:12

23:12

In this solo episode, I dive into the concept of 'Slow Style,' a thoughtful approach to home design that emphasizes developing your signature style over time. I discuss my personal love for tinkering with home decor and how it reflects my evolving needs and inspirations. The episode offers actionable advice on creating a deeply connected vision for…

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Fall Deeply In Love With Your Home With Haskell Harris 33:38

1y ago33:38

33:38

My guest today is Haskell Harris, the style director at the lifestyle magazine Garden and Gun and author of her first book, 'The House Romantic.' In our conversation, we explore Haskell's philosophy on creating a meaningful and beautiful home, which aligns closely with my Slow Style philosophy. Haskell shares insights from her book, emphasizing the…

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Mastering the Mix of Colors, Patterns, and Heirlooms with Maggie Dillon 25:43

1y ago25:43

25:43

In this episode of the Slow Style Home Podcast, I chat with Maggie Dillon, an interior designer featured in House Beautiful, about her unique design approach. Maggie discusses how she gently pushes clients out of their comfort zones by incorporating bold patterns and colors. She shares stories of successfully integrating unconventional elements lik…