In this episode, Alex of Arcoiris Design Studio is back on the pod to talk all things semi-custom websites, and why it might just be the best thing for small boutique studios looking to scale without the stress.

They talk through how starting with a solid template can still lead to a high-end, unique result for clients, why not every business needs (or benefits from) a custom build, and how setting boundaries around scope and timelines can protect your time and profitability. This episode is full of helpful tips on creative direction, client communication, and finding smart ways to grow sustainably.

Whether you’re considering building a template shop, white-label web development offers, or simply want to streamline your process, this convo is full with honest insights and actionable takeaways.

Guest Information:

Guest Name: Alex McGinness

Guest Business Name: Arcoiris Design Studio

Guest Website: arcoiris.design

Guest Instagram: @arcoiris.design.studio

Links Mentioned:

S5 E23: Using Intuition in Your Design Process with Alex McGinness

Connect With Us:

Our Free Facebook Community

Our Website

Podcast Instagram

The Design Minimind

Tags: designer, design, brand design, brand identity design, design studio, design business, graphic design, brand designer, better podcast, brand designer podcast, logo design, brand identity design

In this solo episode, Jen’s chatting all about how she’s refined and streamlined her brand and web design process to better serve both her clients and her business.

She emphasizes customizing workflows to fit different client needs, cutting unnecessary steps, and focusing on high-value tasks. Key changes include reducing client calls, minimizing lengthy brand strategy, and relying on simple, effective communication tools with her clients.

Jen also shares practical tips such as live refinement sessions, unlimited revisions within a set time frame, and delivering social-media-ready assets upon off-boarding. These process shifts have saved time, allowed her to take on more projects, all while maintaining a high-quality client experience.

Links Mentioned:

S9E3: Steal My Web Design Process

S5E14: Iterating on the One-Concept Method

Connect With Us:

Our Free Facebook Community

Our Website

Podcast Instagram

The Design Minimind

Tags: designer, design, brand design, brand identity design, design studio, design business, graphic design, brand designer, better podcast, brand designer podcast, logo design, brand identity design, processes, brand and web design

In this episode, I’m chatting with Katie Higginbotham, previous minimind student of mine, designer, studio owner, creative director, and mom of three. We talk all about what it really looked like to make the leap from her established agency job to running her own studio.

With Mother’s Day just behind us, this convo feels especially timely. Katie shares how she knew it was time for a change, how she prepped for the transition, and what it’s been like balancing client work, a part-time role, and mom life all at once. We also dive into the honest truths, like mom guilt, chaotic schedules, and learning to protect the time that matters most.

Guest Information:

Guest Name: Katie Higginbotham

Guest Business Name: Katie Higginbotham Design

Guest Website: katie-higginbotham.com

Guest Instagram: @katie_higg_design

Connect With Us:

Our Free Facebook Community

Our Website

Podcast Instagram

The Design Minimind

Tags: designer, design, brand design, brand identity design, design studio, design business, graphic design, brand designer, better podcast, brand designer podcast, logo design, brand identity design