AI for Interior Designers™ *Podcast

EP 66: What's next for 2026 in the World of AI for Interior designers?

In this future-focused episode, Jenna skips the typical year-end recap and dives straight into what’s coming next for interior designers in 2026. Instead of dwelling on 2025, she breaks down the seismic shifts happening in AI, why so many firms are restructuring or closing, and how designers can stay not just relevant—but ahead of the curve.​
What you’ll learn in this episode
Why Jenna refuses to do “year in review” content and instead focuses on forward momentum, analytics, and what’s actually working for designers going into 2026.​
The real reasons so many small design firms are closing, and how collaboration, consulting teams, and strategic partnerships are helping others stay profitable and resilient.​
Why “free prompts for everyone” is harming the industry, and how to think more strategically about who you follow, what you support, and how you protect your expertise.​
How AI is changing from simple chat and image tools into full-on custom apps, dashboards, and systems built by designers, for designers—with workflows tailored to real design processes.​
A peek inside Jenna’s AI App Studio, including examples like proposal builders, paint schedule generators, and other tools that eliminate repetitive tasks and cut hours off your week.​
What “agentic AI” actually means in plain language, and how agents and multimodal tools (text, images, audio, video, documents) will soon be quietly embedded into almost everything you use.​
How leading studios are using AI to augment, not replace, creativity—like training models on a designer’s lifetime of sketches to rapidly generate new product ideas and prototypes.​
The critical difference between designers who let AI flatten their voice and designers who use AI to amplify their originality, storytelling, and thought leadership.​
Why 2026 is the year to take tech into your own hands, reduce bloated subscriptions, and start building (or using) bespoke tools that you own and control.​
Powerful reflection questions to ask yourself over the holiday break about your process, pricing, deliverables, ideal clients, and how AI can support the business you actually want to run.​
Key themes Jenna covers
Protecting the profession: Why Jenna gates certain content, focuses only on professionals, and refuses to hand powerful tools to homeowners in ways that undermine designer livelihoods.​
Building your own ecosystem: How an industry-owned AI app studio can help designers cancel unnecessary tools, centralize workflows, and keep data and innovation inside the design community.​
Redefining “tech person”: Why some of the best adopters of AI are self-described “non-techy” creatives who see new possibilities, not just new software.​
Owning your uniqueness: What it really means to stop following trends, set them instead, and use AI to speed up execution—not to copy what’s already all over Pinterest.​
Mentioned in this episode
Google Gemini / DeepMind and multimodal, agentic AI flows.​
Lovegrove Studio / Ross Lovegrove DeepMind case study (YouTube): https://youtu.be/lULd8fmxJC0​
AI App Studio for interior designers, including custom apps, proposal builders, paint schedules, and more.​
AI for Interior Designers™ Certificate Program (first semester beginning January 6; enrollment closing January 5)
Ready to explore further?
The DAIly – Short, searchable AI training videos and workflows for $29.99/month.
AI CEU Program- www.aiforinteriordesigners.ai 
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Episode 65: We’ve Hit the AI Tipping Point (And No, It’s Not Replacing Interior Designers)

Episode 65: We’ve Hit the AI Tipping Point (And No, It’s Not Replacing Interior Designers)
In this episode, we talk about the moment we’ve officially reached: AI is now good enough that homeowners think they can design without us. Between Gemini’s newest features, Nano Banana built into your camera roll, and an explosion of fake “AI experts,” the design industry is at a major turning point.
In This Episode, We Cover:
Why AI tools are giving homeowners a false sense of confidence
How Gemini + Nano Banana are reshaping expectations overnight
The rise of misinformation and AI-generated “sludge” on social media
Real examples from current design clients using AI (successes + confusion)
Why DIY AI remodels are about to create a huge wave of problems
How designers can position themselves as the essential “AI rescue”
The ethical issues big tech continues to ignore
Why you must become non-copyable to stay competitive
Links Mentioned
AI Tools
Nano Banana (Gemini Image Tools)Google GeminiChatGPT
Interior Design Resources
AI for Interior Designers™CEU Certificate ProgramThe DAIly™ Workshops
Podcast
Listen on Spotify
Other Mentions
Daniel House ClubIDS CharlestonBulbrite Lighting
Work With Me
Stay ahead of AI. Protect your value. Explore the CEU Certificate Program:https://aiforinteriordesigners.ai

EP 64: Zero Click AI Searches- The Reason Your Website Traffic is Down

EP 64: Zero Click AI Searches- The Reason Your Website Traffic is Down
In this episode, Jenna Gaidusek dives deep into the growing crisis of zero-click search—a shift in how people find answers online that’s impacting small businesses, designers, and anyone relying on website traffic for visibility and leads. Jenna explains what zero-click search is, why it’s become a problem over the past two years, and how AI-generated summaries on platforms like Google, ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude, and Gemini are changing the rules for SEO and business growth.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
Why it’s more important than ever to understand your website analytics—and how to get started even if you’re not “techy.”
The reality behind declining organic traffic: 60% of searches now end without a click, and 25% of small business site visits have dried up.
How designers can pivot with long-form, authority-building content, FAQs, and real world case studies that set you apart from generic AI content.
The crucial role of backlinks, referrals, press releases, and partnerships for visibility in AI-driven search engines.
The new ways clients search (and find designers) using conversational AI and how you can stay competitive when AI platforms summarize your content for searchers.
Practical tips to reclaim your audience: optimizing your site for both people and machines, getting creative with collaborations, and harnessing ethical digital strategies to protect your brand.
Jenna also shares personal insights from her own Squarespace analytics, breaks down the data from industry sources like Forbes and SuperPrompt, and offers encouragement for designers to get empowered—track their numbers, embrace change, and build authentic authority to thrive in the evolving landscape.
✨ Ready to explore further?
The DAIly – Short, searchable AI training videos and workflows for $29.99/month.
AI Workshops – Hands-on, live sessions that help you apply AI in your business right away.
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Tune in for actionable strategies on defending your traffic, amplifying your expertise, and making your voice heard in this new age of search!

Ep 63: HPMKT Recap- The Power of Real Life Connections

Episode 63: High Point Market, Human Connection & The Future of AI in Design
Ever feel like you need a nap after a trade show? Same. In this episode, Jenna’s back from High Point Market with stories, insights, and a very real take on how the design world is changing—and how AI is showing up in it.
From an intimate, hands-on AI Day at Feizy Rugs to a packed Lunch & Learn with IDS and Howard Elliott, Jenna shares how these in-person events are shaping the next era of design education. It wasn’t just about apps and prompts—it was about community, connection, and remembering why showing up still matters.
She also reflects on what it’s like to build something totally new (AI education in design) without a blueprint, how she balances tech with human interaction, and what’s next for 2026.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
Why this fall’s High Point Market felt so different—and what that says about the industry
The behind-the-scenes of AI Day and what really happens when designers get hands-on with tech
How digital note-taking and AI tools can actually organize your creative chaos
The power of trade shows for real relationships (not just pretty product photos)
A sneak peek into Jenna’s plans for the next evolution of AI for Interior Designers
✨ Ready to explore further?
The DAIly – Short, searchable AI training videos and workflows for $29.99/month.AI Workshops – Hands-on, live sessions that help you apply AI in your business right away.
Tune in now and rediscover why the best ideas still happen face-to-face.
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Membership & Workshops:Membership – The DAIlyWorkshops
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EP 62: Preparing Design Students for the New Job Market with AI

Episode 62 of the AI for Interior Designers™ Podcast, hosted by Jenna Gaidusek, dives deep into the realities facing design students entering today’s job market, especially with the rapid rise of AI.
Jenna reflects on returning to teach at her alma mater and gives frank advice for students: the market is tough, reminiscent of graduating just after the 2008 recession, but now combined with accelerated industry change from AI. She emphasizes that traditional skills like rendering and drafting remain important, but AI proficiency is no longer optional; design firms increasingly look for new hires who are comfortable using AI tools like ChatGPT to boost productivity and handle tasks beyond design alone.
Jenna addresses student concerns about the environmental impact of AI and urges future designers to stay informed, ethical, and proactive. She notes the market shift: luxury clients may fare well, but the middle tier is squeezed, with firms expecting new hires to multitask and leverage technology strategically. Survival in this evolving industry hinges on demonstrating both core design skills and a readiness to use AI for efficiency and value.
Jenna also shares a candid outlook about the uncertainties ahead, the shrinking job pool for new designers, and the necessity to “bring something extra,” specifically AI fluency, to the table. She closes by encouraging students to seek continual AI training, stay adaptable, and focus on making a unique human impact that tech can’t replace.
Key Takeaways:
AI proficiency is crucial for design students entering the job market.
Core design skills still matter, but technology skills set applicants apart.
The industry is rapidly changing, and adaptability is essential.
Students should be aware of AI’s ethical and environmental dimensions.
Building a portfolio and starting to network before graduation is vital.
The human side of design, personal connection and problem-solving, remains irreplaceable.
 Resources:
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AI Day at High Point Market (register)
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EP 61: Subscription Overload- How New AI Lets Designers Consolidate

Episode 61: Subscription Overload- How New AI Lets Designers Consolidate
Feeling buried under a mountain of apps? You’re not alone. In this episode, Jenna pulls back the curtain on the flood of “AI for design” apps that popped up during the gold rush… and why so many of them are now vanishing. Spoiler: most were built by developers chasing profit, not by people who actually understand design.
Jenna shares her own journey (yep, hundreds of thousands invested in app development!) and explains why the future looks different now: designers themselves can start creating custom tools-  without needing a full dev team or a giant budget. Think: one streamlined app that matches your workflow instead of 10 overpriced subscriptions.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
Why cookie-cutter design apps are fading fast
How today’s AI makes it possible for designers to build their own tools
The dangers of locking into annual subscriptions too soon
Why consolidation is the next big shift for creative businesses
✨ Ready to explore further?
The Daily – Get prompts, workflows, and early access to Jenna’s AI apps for just $29.99/month. 
AI Workshops – Hands-on training sessions where you’ll learn how to actually use these tools in your business.
AI Tools for Designers – Discover the curated tools Jenna recommends to save time and spark creativity.
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Why am I paying for so many apps that only do half of what I need?” This one’s for you.
 Tune in now and start rethinking how AI can simplify (not complicate) your design business.
 
 Resources:
Programs
Events
Resources
Podcast
About
Membership & Workshops:
Membership - The DAIly
Workshops
Everyday AI Masterclass
AI Day at High Point Market (register)
Private Trainings & Speaking:
Private AI Trainings & Advisory
Speaking
Collaborations
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EP 60: Work Like a Team of 4- The New Reality for Interior Designers

In this episode, Jenna Gaidusek provides a comprehensive update on the current state of AI in the design industry. She shares a practical, updated roadmap on how interior designers can effectively use AI—from generating imagery and automating workflows to building custom apps and leveraging agentic AI to manage day-to-day tasks.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
-AI Imagery & Mockups -Instantly generate room mockups, product swaps, and material changes with Gemini’s “NanoBanana” and ChatGPT.
-Tools for creating client-ready visuals in minutes. Practical Workshops & Events -Hands-on AI Day at High Point Market: live demonstrations, workflows, and real applications you can start using.
-Details on upcoming workshops and events designed for interior designers. App Building & Process Automation
-How custom apps (in beta) can streamline client communication, notes, color selections, and project tasks in one place. Design Visualizations & Floorplans -Merging AI imagery with professional floor plans using platforms like Mydoma Visualizer
-Integrating product sourcing via Daniel House Club Agentic AI & The Comet Browser
-How tools like Perplexity’s Comet browser can handle research, admin tasks, email, and scheduling for you. Security & Best Practices
-Tips on balancing convenience vs. privacy when integrating AI into your design business. Live Learning, Support, and Community
-Virtual AI Masterclasses and The DAIly program for guided workflows, prompt packs, and ongoing support.
Events & Conferences
-Insights from the IDS National Conference and High Point Market.
-Everything mentioned is available at AI for Interior Designers™, including event registration, masterclass signups, app launches, and the latest industry news.
For specialized tools like Daniel House Club and Mydoma Visualizer, check out Jenna’s guest appearances and linked guides.
Resources and links:
AI for Interior Designers
"Everyday AI Masterclass" On Demand-https://www.aiforinteriordesigners.com/ai-masterclass 
AI Day at Fall HPMKT-https://www.aiforinteriordesigners.com/ai-day-fall-25
 https://www.aiforinteriordesigners.com/ 
 
Upcoming AI Events 
The DAIly- On Demand AI Education $29.99/mo. https://www.aiforinteriordesigners.com/thedaily 
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to stay updated with the latest tips and tools for designers! Explore AI for Interior Designers™: https://www.aiforinteriordesigners.com/

EP 59: Confessions of AI Designer Nerds: Behind the Screens & Scenes

Episode 59: Confessions of AI Designer Nerds: Behind the Screens & ScenesWith Jessica Nelson and Stephanie Lindsey
Podcast Episode Summary:In Episode 59 of the AI for Interior Designers Podcast, Jenna Gaidusek sits down with kindred spirits Jessica Nelson and Stephanie Lindsey—fellow designers, innovators, and co-hosts of the AI for Interiors and 100 Lunches podcasts. This lively, candid roundtable explores how designers are slowly—and strategically—welcoming AI into their workflows. From automating emails and leveraging tools like Gemini or Fixer, to custom budgeting GPTs and design visualization with apps like SketchUp, ArchSynth, ProAI, and NanoBanana, the trio peel back the curtain on their real-world, day-to-day—and game-changing—AI automations.They also discuss building your own tools, the impact of AI on business backends (goodbye, repetitive admin work!), ethical use of images in proposals, the subscription glut, and the evolving narrative of AI in design social media. Most importantly, they champion authenticity, transparency, and using tech as a tool—not as a replacement for creativity.
AI Designer Nerds Unite!AI in design isn’t just about fancy renderings or another shiny tool to add to your ever-growing subscription list. In this episode, two kindred spirits/tech nerds, Jessica Nelson and Stephanie Lindsey, join Jenna to roll up their sleeves and talk about what’s actually working for designers using AI on the DAIly.You’ll hear honest conversation about:
Why so many designers are still nervous or skeptical about AI (we get it–but here’s why you shouldn’t be)
How mundane admin tasks can finally be delegated (bye, calendar invites and endless email threads)
The subscription chaos and why we keep, ditch, or trial new apps constantly
Authentically communicating your use of AI with clients (spoiler: most are impressed, not freaked out)
The tools we love and those we’ve…cancelled
If you’ve ever nerded out over a new workflow, wished you had more time for actual design, or wondered who else is up at 2am building their own apps, this one’s for you.
Guest Info & Links
Jessica Nelson & Stephanie Lindsey: Etch Design Group & AI for Interiors
100 Lunches Podcast: 100 Lunches & AI for Interiors
Featured Programs & Resources
AI for Interior Designers aiforinteriordesigners.com
The Daily- Your up-to-date- AI training program: www.aiforinteriordesigners.com/thedaily

EP 58: AI for Interior and Architectural Photography with Brian Berkowitz

In episode 58 of the AI for Interior Designers *Podcast, Jenna Gaidusek sits down with renowned photographer Brian Berkowitz to explore the intersection of AI, photography, and interior design. Brian, a second-generation photographer with 30 years of experience, shares stories from his career working with luxury brands like Gucci, Rolex, Louis Vuitton, and top designers, as well as insights on how AI is streamlining business practices behind the scenes. Jenna and Brian also discuss their collaborative work teaching AI to photographers and the vital role of authenticity in social media, blogs, and digital presence. This episode is essential listening for anyone in the creative industries seeking practical, real-world applications of AI to boost efficiency and creativity while staying true to their brand voice.Guest Bio: Brian BerkowitzBrian Berkowitz is a New York-based photographer specializing in high-impact imagery for retail, architectural, and interior design projects. He works with global names such as Gucci, Rolex, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel, delivering crisp, creative visuals that capture brand intent and design excellence. A member of the IDS Long Island chapter, Brian also produces the IDS Long Island Podcast and frequently travels for projects across North America. He is known for his collaborative, professional approach and his expertise in integrating new technologies—including AI—into the creative workflow.
Website: brianberkowitzphoto.com
Instagram: @brianberko
IDS Podcast Host & Producer: IDS Podcast Page
LinkedIn: Brian Berkowitz
Relevant Links & Resources
Main AI for Interior Designers Site: aiforinteriordesigners.com
The Daily Jenna Gaidusek: aiforinteriordesigners.com
IDS Long Island: IDSPodcast.com
IDS Podcast on Apple: Apple Podcasts
Brian’s IDS LI Interview with Jenna: How AI for Interior Designers Has Evolved
Follow Brian Berkowitz
Portfolio: brianberkowitzphoto.com
Instagram: @brianberko
IDS Podcast: IDSPodcast.com
IDS Long Island & Podcast
IDS Long Island Official: IDSPodcast.com
IDS Podcast (Spotify/Apple/YouTube) – Hosted and produced by Brian Berkowitz.
IDS Podcast on Apple

EP:57 Tech-Forward Design Partnerships with Howard Elliott

Episode 57: Tech-Forward Design Partnerships with Howard Elliott
In this episode of AI for Interior Designers, Jenna sits down with Bree Cassidy from Howard Elliott to talk about how one manufacturer is changing the game for designers with smarter, more efficient tools.
Howard Elliott has been a designer favorite since their early mirror collections in 2001, and today they offer over 5,000 SKUs ranging from mirrors and accent furniture to custom textiles, wall art, and outdoor pieces—all with a strong focus on customization. Bree shares how the brand’s new website update takes the guesswork out of sourcing, with features like:
Reverse image search so designers can upload a photo and instantly find similar Howard Elliott pieces
Clean silo photography and lifestyle images that make it easy to visualize products in projects
Wishlists and catalog builders to organize by client or project
Real-time stock visibility and designer-friendly pricing with no minimums
Jenna and Bree also dig into why user experience matters for trade partners, how Howard Elliott keeps customization at the forefront, and why photography and AI-powered workflows are making life easier for busy designers. Plus, Bree shares insider details about their Friday Friends designer spotlights, the annual Show Us Your Howard Elliott design contest, and of course—their legendary showroom happy hours at market.
This episode is equal parts tech-forward insights and down-to-earth designer talk, highlighting what true brand partnerships look like in 2025.
👉 Explore more:
The DAIly – on-demand AI training for designers ($29.99/month)
Jenna’s AI Tools List – her curated collection of go-to AI infused tools
Howard Elliott Website Walkthrough on YouTube – full video tour with Bree and Colleen. 
Howard Elliott's Website
Howard Elliott on Instagram
🎧 Tune in to hear how Howard Elliott is blending AI, customization, and a designer-first mindset—and why it matters for your next project or Watch this Podcast over on Youtube .