Jean understands the courage, passion, and persistence it takes to achieve your goals. Her career story provides insights for those looking to advance in firm settings and take on leadership roles. She reflects on her professional journey and lessons learned while sharing her perspective as a leader who evaluates design talent to select the best candidates to join her team.

In addition to gaining years of experience as part of these career moves, she gained an understanding of the value she brings to a team and the ability to negotiate for her true worth. As Senior Director of Design for Industrious, she is recognized as a thought leader influencing the future of workplace design.

With time, age and experience comes reflection, knowledge and perspective. Nicole Craanen’s story provides a great illustration. The impact of nature on the human experience and the benefits of designing with a biophilic mindset have been fueling her creativity and passion all along.

As Nicole Craanen reflects on her path to her business, The Biophilic Design Institute, there is clarity to how personal and professional experiences and decisions over the last 25 years have led her to this moment.

This is a conversation lead by Jenny Rebholz, founder and author of The Brand of You.

Many of us think we are good listeners, but often what we’re really doing is waiting for our turn to respond. While the other person is talking, we’re already thinking about what we’re going to say next.

Active listening requires something different. It means being fully present in the moment and focusing entirely on what the other person is saying.

There comes a moment in every designer’s career when external validation stops being enough.

There comes a moment in every designer’s career when external validation stops being enough.

While the awards feel good, the promotions look impressive and your portfolio gets stronger, something still feels unsettled.

When your choices are driven by attention, every misstep feels personal.

When they’re driven by values, discomfort becomes meaningful.

At The Brand of You, we believe careers are not built by chasing what’s loud—but by understanding what matters.

Before making career decisions, before comparing paths, before chasing the next opportunity, there is value in asking a few real questions.

Interior design job titles vary widely. Learn why focusing on skills—not titles—leads to better job matches and stronger early careers.

Your first interior design job doesn’t define your career. Learn how to make confident early-career choices without pressure or perfection.t all begins with an idea.

Interior design portfolios matter—but people hire people. Learn how to tell personal stories, tailor your work, and stand out in interviews.

Graduating in interior design? Discover what students really worry about, why it’s normal, and how to move forward with clarity and confidence.