Designing Dreams: The Art of Personalization in Interior Design with Melissa Mae of Melissa Mae Design

Ted speaks with Scott Henrikson, CEO of Millesime Modern Cellars. They discuss the unique offerings of Millesime Modern Cellars, the evolution of wine culture, and the importance of innovative design in wine storage solutions. They explore the significance of wine in modern homes, the role of dealers in the industry, and the future aspirations of the company. Scott shares insights into the brand's commitment to quality and craftsmanship, as well as personal anecdotes about wine collecting and the joy it brings to social gatherings.TOPICS DISCUSSED01:05 Introduction to Millesime Wine Racks04:00 The Art of Wine Storage07:00 The Evolution of Wine Cellars and the business11:20 Innovation in Wine Storage Solutions15:15 Building a Brand in the Wine Industry16:00 The Growing Importance of Wine in Homes22:20 The Social Aspect of Wine23:05 Building Relationships with Wineries25:50 Innovations in the Wine Industry27:00 Understanding the Market Demographics28:00 Navigating Tariffs and Pricing Strategies31:50 The Importance of Physical Showrooms34:00 The Role of Dealers in the Sales Process37:00 Unique Client Projects and Designs38:45 Acquisition and Passion for the Industry41:45 Lessons from Previous Experiences43:45 Message to the younger generation CONNECT WITH GUESTScott HenriksonWebsiteLinkedInInstagramKEY QUOTES FROM EPISODE"Wine is art.""We're in 40 countries.""You need a good dealer."

Ted speaks with Walt Landi, owner of High Country Builders, who shares his journey of pursuing the American Dream through hard work and determination. He discusses the challenges he faced in the construction industry, particularly during the 2008 financial crisis, and how he adapted to overcome them. Walt emphasizes the importance of craftsmanship and innovation in his projects, particularly the Great Northern Lodge, which showcases his commitment to quality and detail. He also highlights the role of AI in transforming the design process, making it more efficient and collaborative. Throughout the conversation, Walt expresses his passion for building and his desire to inspire the next generation of craftsmen.TOPICS DISCUSSED01:10 The American Dream and Personal Journey02:25 Building a Legacy: Craftsmanship and Family05:30 Early Influences and Work Ethic12:35 The Impact of Place: Nostalgia and Growth15:40 From Ranching to Construction: A Career Shift26:30 Challenges and Triumphs in Business28:30 Resilience Through Adversity: The 2008 Crisis34:00 Rebuilding and Reinventing After the Crash38:15 The Art of Iconic Construction44:45 Embracing AI in Design50:05 The Legacy of Craftsmanship and Opportunity CONNECT WITH GUESTWalt LandiWebsiteLinkedInInstagramKEY QUOTES FROM EPISODE"I need to be challenged.""I don't give up.""I want the cool ones."

Ted speaks with Jason Herring, founder of Syzygy Global. Jason shares his journey from a young entrepreneur with various ventures to becoming a successful business leader. He discusses the importance of critical thinking, the impact of AI on business, and the cultural insights gained from living abroad. Jason emphasizes the significance of relationships in business, the challenges of competition, and his vision for the future of Syzygy Global. He also touches on the complexities of taking a company public and managing smart people effectively.TOPICS DISCUSSED01:10 Introduction to Jason Herring05:15 The Journey of a Serial Entrepreneur11:30 The Impact of AI on Business16:00 Cultural Insights from Living Abroad19:20 Building Syzygy Global22:25 Insights from Working with Celebrities and CEOs29:20 The Role of Competition in Business38:35 Taking a Company Public41:05 Managing Smart People54:45 Vision for the Future of Syzygy Global CONNECT WITH GUESTJason HerringWebsiteLinkedInInstagramKEY QUOTES FROM EPISODE"If you're chasing dollars, forget it.""You don't have to reinvent anything.""You just need to get the message out."

Ted speaks with James Dodkin, who shares his fascinating journey from growing up in Montana to studying in the UK and building a diverse career across various industries, including beauty, wine, e-cigarettes, and construction. James discusses the cultural differences between the UK and the US, the importance of sensory marketing, and how relationships play a crucial role in business success. He also highlights his current role at Montana Build, where he focuses on creating a sensory experience in luxury home building, emphasizing the distinction between value and price in consumer perception.TOPICS DISCUSSED01:05 Introduction to James Dodkin and His Journey03:30 Cultural Differences: Growing Up in Montana vs. the UK13:00 Education and Early Career: From L'Oreal to the Wine Industry25:50 Transitioning to Management Consultancy and Pet Food Marketing28:30 Getting comfortable with change30:00 Innovations in E-Cigarettes and the Impact on Smoking36:00 Transitioning to New Opportunities in Korea40:45 US based hunting company 42:40 Adapting to Challenges During COVID46:25 Changing jobs as a contractor and consultant47:40 The Unique Approach of Montana Build49:45 Creating Sensory Experiences in Home Building53:40 The Value of Experience and Honesty56:25 Cultural Differences in Success01:06:15 Understanding Price vs. Value01:09:00 The Automatic Nature of Selling Value CONNECT WITH GUESTJames DodkinWebsiteInstagramFacebookKEY QUOTES FROM EPISODE"I learned to get up to speed very quickly.""Value is a perception and price is a number.""I have them rank their spaces."

 Ted speaks with Ryan and Nicole Salinas about their journey from California to Park City, Utah, and the challenges and opportunities they face in the garage door industry. They discuss the impact of COVID-19 on their business, the rising costs in the industry, and the importance of building relationships with builders and clients. The couple emphasizes the significance of quality and technology in their products and shares insights on maintaining a work-life balance while pursuing the American dream.TOPICS DISCUSSED01:05 The Move to Park City: A New Beginning08:30 Building a Business in Utah: Challenges and Opportunities09:30 Navigating Price Increases in the Garage Door Industry13:45 The difference between business in California and Utah16:45 Target market18:25 The Landscape of Construction: Builders and Relationships22:50 Embracing Technology and Quality in Garage Doors26:20 The next 5 years27:35 Relationships help you win31:00 Working with great people32:18 The American Dream and Paying it Back CONNECT WITH GUESTRyan & Nicole SalinasWebsiteFacebookLinkedInKEY QUOTES FROM EPISODE"It's been a good move for us.""You just have to go for it.""You can always change course."

Ted speaks with Gonzalo Tellez and Anthony Ortega, founders of Viotell Metal Concepts, about their innovative approach to the roofing industry. They discuss the evolution of roofing from a purely functional aspect to an art form that incorporates design and collaboration with contractors and architects. The importance of a strong work ethic, the advantages of being an immigrant in business, and the significance of creating a legacy for future generations are also highlighted. The conversation emphasizes fostering a culture of innovation and problem-solving within their team, showcasing how they have transformed their business into a specialist provider for high-end clients.TOPICS DISCUSSED01:10 Introductions03:40 Innovating the Roofing Industry07:55 The Art of Roofing11:35 The American Dream14:05 Evolving from Roofers to Specialists19:50 Fostering a Culture of Innovation23:25 The Pivotal Project: A Turning Point25:15  Risk-Taking and Personal Growth27:10 Building a Supportive Team Culture30:00 Exciting New Projects and Challenges32:00 Investing in Advanced Technology35:30 Focusing on Residential Over Commercial37:55 High-End Commercial Projects39:00 The Journey of Persistence42:30 Expanding into New Markets45:50 Trends in the Roofing Industry CONNECT WITH GUESTAnthony Ortega & Gonzalo TellezWebsiteYoutubeInstagramKEY QUOTES FROM EPISODE"Collaboration with contractors is crucial.""Failures can lead to unexpected solutions.""A mindset is lifelong."

Ted speaks with Paul Kropp of Bakes & Kropp. From navigating the depths of a recession to the pinnacles of the luxury cabinetry market, Ted and Paul recount the genesis and evolution of his partnership at Bakes & Kropp. Their story is one of synergy, born from shared ambition and forged through the trials of building a brand. Inspired by European travels and architectural marvels, they strategized their expansion, meticulously ensuring consistent excellence across each showroom. Beyond physical locations, their focus extended to cultivating a confident sales team through rigorous training. Through anecdotes of unique, handcrafted projects, they highlight the cornerstone of their success: enduring client relationships. Confronting the headwinds of European competition, their narrative underscores the constant need for innovation and a clearly articulated value proposition in the ever-evolving landscape of luxury design.TOPICS DISCUSSED01:10 The Birth of Bakes and Kropp: A Partnership Formed02:45 Navigating Business During a Recession06:35 Challenges of Expansion and Consistency09:30 Building a Brand: From Product to Identity10:35 Synergy in Business: The Power of Partnership12:45 Building a Confident Sales Culture and Training New Team Members for Success15:45 Working with High End Clients17:30 Unique Projects and Client Relationships22:15 Marketing and Brand Building in a Competitive Landscape24:45 Innovating and Adapting to Market Changes31:00 Value Proposition Against European Competition CONNECT WITH GUESTBakes & KroppWebsiteLinkedInInstagramKEY QUOTES FROM EPISODE"You learn a lot during tough times.""Good people are key to maintaining consistency.""You have to have that winning attitude."

Ted speaks with Alexander Rokoff of Rokoff Studio who shares his artistic journey, influenced by his family's artistic background and his father's legacy. He discusses his transition from cartooning to fine art, the impact of European art on his perspective, and the challenges he faced pursuing art as a career. Alexander emphasizes the importance of passion in art, the role of travel in shaping his work, and his current ventures in Hawaii, highlighting the significance of reinventing oneself as an artist. and the pride he takes in his work.  TOPICS DISCUSSED01:10 Introduction to Alexander Rokoff and His Artistic Journey02:05 The Influence of Family and Early Artistic Development05:05 Transitioning from Cartooning to Fine Art07:25 Finding Success in Jewelry and Art11:00 The Impact of European Art on Alexander's Perspective15:10 Reinventing Oneself as an Artist17:35 Overcoming Adversity: The 2008 Economic Crisis19:20 Rediscovering Passion and Purpose in Art21:30 The Role of Travel and Cultural Exposure in Art26:15 Current Ventures and Future Aspirations in Hawaii27:30 Artistic Influences and Limited Palettes29:00 Life in Hawaii: A New Artistic Journey30:40 The Beauty of the Big Island's Landscapes34:30 Personal Reflections: Art and Family Legacy36:30 Creating Art with Pride and Purpose36:35 Participatory Art: Engaging Clients in the Process47:30 Buying Art: Trusting Your Instincts50:15 Future Aspirations: Large-Scale Projects in Hawaii CONNECT WITH GUESTAlexander RokoffWebsiteFacebookInstagramKEY QUOTES FROM EPISODE"Art is an addiction.""I never left the easel.""What would you do if nobody paid you?"

Ted speaks with Jon Wood and Dave Wilkins from Glacier Stone Supply, discussing their experiences in the stone business and the unique qualities of Montana stone. They explore the allure of Montana, the journey of Glacier Stone, and the artistry involved in stone installation, emphasizing the importance of resilience and creativity in their industry. In this engaging conversation, Ted, Dave Wilkins, and Jon Wood explore the intricate world of stone design and craftsmanship. They discuss the architectural masterpieces created using unique stones, the journey from quarry to installation, and the importance of storytelling in their industry. The conversation delves into the significance of building trust with clients, fostering a strong company culture, and the passion that drives their work. They also touch on the high-end market, future growth opportunities, and the essential skill of listening to clients to ensure successful projects.TOPICS DISCUSSED01:10 Introduction and Backgrounds03:00 The Impact of marketing and video content08:10 Montana's Allure and Its Influence on Business11:00 The Unique Qualities of Montana Stone12:00 The Journey of Glacier Stone and Its Founders17:15 The Art of Stone Installation and Its Challenges24:30 Architectural Masterpieces: The Art of Stone Design27:15 The Journey of Stone: From Quarry to Home34:05 Building Trust: The Client-Contractor Relationship36:50 Creating a Lasting Culture: Mentorship and Team Dynamics37:50 The Passion for Craft: What Drives Us39:30 The High-End Market and Future Visions48:50 Listening to Clients: The Key to Success CONNECT WITH GUESTDave Wilkins and Jon WoodWebsiteFacebookKEY QUOTES FROM EPISODEWe bought out the assets of a defunct stone business here because I had that opportunity.You don't find a stone like this anywhere.There's a design continuity that people are striving for and the stone is a critical component to that.

Ted speaks with Dustin Mizell of Environment Design Group in Palm Beach, FL. They discuss Dustin's career in landscape architecture, including the challenges he's encountered and how his firm has evolved. Their conversation covers the Palm Beach market, balancing historical preservation with modern design, and the importance of patience and expertise in the field. They also explore the impact of climate change, client relationships, and COVID-19 on the industry, as well as innovative tree transplanting techniques, major projects, and mentorship.TOPICS DISCUSSED01:10 Introduction to Environmental Design Group02:25 Navigating Change: The Impact of Loss04:15 Rebranding and Market Positioning08:25 The Journey to Landscape Architecture10:10 Misunderstood Professions: Landscape Architecture12:45 The Unique Market of Palm Beach17:00 Balancing History and Modern Design18:55 Creating Spaces for Generations23:00 The Importance of Patience and Expertise25:45 Evolving Perspectives and Post-COVID Lifestyle Changes29:15 Innovative Tree Transplanting Techniques34:45 Mentorship and Navigating Client Expectations37:00 Balancing Historic and Contemporary Designs38:40 Community Projects and Legacy Designs40:45 Navigating Business Challenges and Opportunities46:40 Future Trends in Landscape Architecture CONNECT WITH GUESTDustin MizellWebsiteInstagramFacebookKEY QUOTES FROM EPISODE"Climate change is the biggest thing.""COVID saved golf.""People really don’t understand what a landscape architect does."