Welcome to The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast. My name is Kady Sandel, and this podcast was brought to you by Aventive Academy – an online business education platform that helps brand, graphic, and web designers get more clients, increase their pricing, and build a profitable design business. You can find out more about starting and growing your freelance design business at aventiveacademy.com
Most designers think that working more means earning more, but what if the opposite were true? In this episode, I’m sharing how I cut my work hours, take two months off every year to travel, and STILL make more money than when I was hustling 24/7. If you’re stuck in the grind and feeling burnt out, this episode will show you how to shift your mindset, optimize your pricing, and create systems that let you work smarter—not harder.
You will learn:
Grab your notes and get ready to rethink how you run your design business!
Aventive Academy’s Resources:
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
Mockup Magic: https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/
BrandGuidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit
Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f
The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator
When you try to appeal to everyone, you end up appealing to no one. Specializing in a specific niche or service can transform your design business, making you the go-to expert for your ideal clients. In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer, I’ll show you how narrowing your focus leads to higher-paying clients, better referrals, and easier marketing.
You will learn:
Aventive Academy’s Resources:
Mockup Magic:https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass:https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
Brand Guidelines Template:https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/
Client Portal for Designers:https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/
The Wealthy Client Blueprint:https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers:https://aventiveacademy.com/profit
Join My Weekly Newsletter:https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f
The Creative CEO Accelerator:https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator
Most designers think their portfolio is all about showcasing stunning visuals, but that’s not what lands you clients. Your potential clients aren’t designers - they care about how your work solves their business problems. In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer, I’ll show you how to turn your portfolio into a client-magnet by focusing on strategy, results, and the stories behind your designs.
You will learn:
Grab a cup of coffee, your notes, and get ready to redefine how you run your design business!
Aventive Academy's Resources
Mockup Magic: https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/
Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit
Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f
The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator
Selling doesn’t have to feel pushy or uncomfortable. In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, I’m breaking down the psychological tricks that make selling design services feel natural. From building trust to framing your services as solutions, these strategies will help you connect with clients and inspire confidence without feeling like you’re forcing the sale.
You will learn:
Take notes and learn how to guide clients toward choosing you, effortlessly!
Aventive Academy’s Resources:
Mockup Magic: https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/
Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit
Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f
The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator
Feedback is one of the most powerful tools for growing your design business - not just from clients who say yes but also from those who say no. In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, I’ll show you how to use client feedback to refine your designs, improve your sales process, and build better relationships. Whether it’s understanding why a client went with a competitor or asking better questions about your work, these insights will help you run a more efficient and successful business.
You will learn:
Take notes and discover how feedback can drive your design business forward!
Aventive Academy’s Resources:
Mockup Magic: https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/ $12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/
Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit
Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f
The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator
Scammers are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and as design business owners, it’s essential to protect ourselves from falling for their tricks. In this episode of The Profitable Graphic Designer Podcast, I’m sharing how to identify red flags, common scams targeting designers, and the steps you can take to verify potential clients. By the end of this episode, you’ll feel confident in handling inquiries and safeguarding your business against scams.
You will learn:
Stay one step ahead and protect your business with these strategies!
Aventive Academy’s Resources:
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/
Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit
Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f
The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator
Struggling to impress clients with your designs? Mockups might be the missing piece to elevate your presentations and simplify your process. In this episode, I’m sharing all the details about my course, Mockup Magic, which helps you create stunning, photorealistic mockups in minutes using AI tools. Whether you’re tired of spending hours in Photoshop or want to deliver polished visuals that wow your clients, this episode is packed with actionable tips and insights to help you work smarter and charge more confidently.
You will learn:
Let’s take your design presentations to the next level – one mockup at a time!
Mockup Magic with AI - https://aventiveacademy.com/mockup-magic/
Having a solid client onboarding process is critical for success as a brand designer. It’s more than just paperwork – it’s about creating a professional first impression and ensuring every project starts on the right foot.
In this episode, I’ll walk you through my step-by-step onboarding process, covering everything from setting expectations to delivering organized final files.
Whether you’re working with a startup or a high-profile client, this process will help you streamline your workflow and create a seamless client experience.
You will learn:
I hope these tips inspire you to refine your process and make your next onboarding experience even better!
Aventive Academy’s Resources:
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/
Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit
2025 is here, and it’s time to attract the high-paying design clients you’ve been dreaming of. If finding clients has felt overwhelming or inconsistent, I’m sharing three powerful strategies to help you stand out and build a thriving design business this year. These proven methods will help you connect with the right people, showcase your expertise, and create a steady pipeline of clients who value your work.
You will learn:
This is your year. Grab your notebook, and let’s transform the way you find clients in 2025!
Aventive Academy’s Resources:
Free Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/
Free Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit
Proposals are more than just documents—they’re your ticket to landing high-paying clients. If your proposals feel generic or aren’t getting the results you want, it’s time to rethink your approach. I’m breaking down exactly what to include in a winning proposal, from crafting a compelling executive summary to confidently presenting your pricing. With clear structure, strong messaging, and polished design, you’ll be able to create proposals that close deals and attract the clients you really want to work with.
You will learn:
Grab your laptop and let’s transform the way you craft proposals!
Aventive Academy’s Resources:
Free Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/
Free Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit
Tired of feeling like your design business would collapse if you stepped away for even a week? I’ve been there, and I’m here to tell you it doesn’t have to be that way. In this episode, I’m sharing exactly how I automated my branding agency, hired a team I trust, and took an entire month off—without losing clients or momentum. I’ll walk you through the tools, systems, and mindset shifts that made it possible for me to work just 15 hours a week when I’m in the office and confidently step away when I’m not. If you’ve been wondering how to scale your business while actually creating more freedom for yourself, this episode is for you.
You will learn:
Take a moment for yourself, grab your favorite drink, and let’s get started on building a business that truly works for you!
Aventive Academy’s Resources:
Free Brand Guidelines Template: https://aventiveacademy.com/brand-guidelines/
Free Client Portal for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/client-portal/
$12k Client Attraction Masterclass: https://aventiveacademy.com/attract-clients-workshop/
Join My Weekly Newsletter: https://aventive-academy.ck.page/0fc86a336f
The Wealthy Client Blueprint: https://aventiveacademy.com/wealthy-client/
12-Week Business Program for Designers: https://aventiveacademy.com/profit
The Creative CEO Accelerator: https://aventiveacademy.com/accelerator