In the latest episode of The Designer Show, hosts Dan, John, and Aaron—along with special guests—delivered an insightful discussion on industry challenges, Chief Architect strategies, and the upcoming Chief Experts Summit. Whether you’re a designer, builder, or remodeler, this episode is packed with real-world advice to help you level up your skills and business.

Let’s break down the biggest takeaways and why this episode is a must-watch for anyone in the design and construction industry.

Chief Experts Summit 2025: Why You Should Attend

One of the highlights of the episode was a deep dive into Chief Experts Summit 2025, an in-person event designed to help professionals master Chief Architect, business strategies, and industry trends.

What’s in it for you?

• Hands-on training with expert instructors
• One-on-one support to tackle your specific challenges
• Business and marketing insights to help you scale your design or remodeling business
• Networking with like-minded professionals who face the same challenges as you

Attendees from past Summits shared how the event transformed their workflow, helped them gain confidence, and made them faster, more efficient designers.

👉 Limited spots available! If you’re looking to sharpen your skills and grow your business, this is the event for you.

Imposter Syndrome: Are You Holding Yourself Back?

A powerful part of the discussion revolved around imposter syndrome, something that affects even the most experienced designers and builders. Have you ever questioned your worth, struggled to price your work, or felt like a fraud despite your skills?

The hosts and guests opened up about their own experiences and how they overcame these feelings. The key takeaway?

• Recognize your expertise. Your years of experience, creativity, and problem-solving skills have real value.
• Charge what you’re worth. Underpricing your work can hurt both you and the industry.
• Build confidence through community. Surrounding yourself with other professionals helps you see that you’re not alone in these struggles.

If you’ve ever doubted yourself in your career, this discussion will resonate deeply with you.

Industry Challenges: Rising Costs & Labor Shortages

Another major topic was the state of the construction and design industry. Contractors and designers alike are facing:

• Material price increases that impact project costs
• Labor shortages leading to unreliable subcontractors
• Clients pushing back on pricing without understanding the value of expertise

So, how do you handle it?

• Detailed contracts and estimates – Avoid unexpected cost increases
• Clear communication with clients – Set expectations early about pricing and timelines
• Better planning and documentation – Using Chief Architect’s tools effectively can streamline your process and reduce costly mistakes

The group also touched on how designers can take more control of project planning to avoid surprises and increase profitability.

Chief Architect: Thinking Beyond the Basics

For those looking to get more out of Chief Architect, this episode featured expert tips on improving your workflow and problem-solving approach.

• Think like a CAD user, not just a designer – Understanding how Chief processes 3D models can help you troubleshoot issues faster.
• Stop "tricking" the software—learn how to use it effectively – Tools like walls, cabinets, and materials can be used in unexpected ways to solve complex design problems.
• Leverage community knowledge – The Summit and Pro Academy provide real-world solutions from users who have mastered the software.

If you’ve ever felt stuck using Chief Architect, this episode is filled with valuable insights to help you work smarter, not harder.

What’s Next? Upcoming Events & Opportunities

Before wrapping up, the hosts shared some exciting opportunities for designers and builders:

• 2025 Chief Architect Total Immersion Summit by Chief Experts – Hands-on training event with industry leaders
• International Builders’ Show (IBS) 2025 – Get free tickets through Chief Architect
• Live Q&A Sessions & Training Events – More chances to learn from experts and peers

If you’re serious about growing your design, drafting, or remodeling business, these events are must-attend opportunities.

Watch the Full Episode & Take Your Skills to the Next Level

This episode is packed with insights that can help you overcome challenges, refine your skills, and grow your business. If you’re ready to:

• Gain confidence in your pricing & expertise
• Learn advanced Chief Architect techniques
• Network with industry pros & improve your workflow

Then you don’t want to miss this discussion!

👉 Watch the full episode below! 

What you’ll learn from this episode:

• How the Chief Experts Summit helps designers and builders grow
• The imposter syndrome struggle and how to overcome it
• Rising construction costs & labor shortages – what to do about it
• How to think in CAD and use Chief Architect more effectively
• Networking & learning from top industry professionals

 🔑 Key Takeaways

• Chief Experts Summit 2025 – Why You Should Attend

• Hands-on Chief Architect training from expert instructors

• Business & marketing insights to boost your design success

• The power of networking – build lasting relationships

Industry Challenges & Solutions

• Overcoming imposter syndrome – charge what you're worth
• Managing rising costs & subcontractor pricing
• Technology tips to enhance design workflow

Tech & CAD Insights

• Thinking in CAD – Stop forcing the software and work with it
• How to use Chief Architect’s tools in creative ways

📌 Chapters with Timestamps

• 0:00 – Introduction & Welcome
• 2:15 – The Chief Experts Summit: What to Expect
• 8:40 – Imposter Syndrome: Why Designers & Builders Struggle
• 15:30 – Construction Costs & Subcontractor Issues
• 23:10 – Chief Architect Tips & Learning CAD the Right Way
• 30:45 – Networking & Community – Why It’s So Valuable
• 40:20 – Upcoming Events & How to Get Involved
• 45:00 – Final Thoughts & Call to Action

📌 Upcoming Events

• → Chief Experts Pro Academy – Sign up for the Waitlist 
• → Chief Experts Summit 2025 – Limited Spots Available! Grab yours now
• → International Builders’ Show (IBS) 2025 – Free tickets via Chief Architect! 
• → Live Q&A Session – Stay tuned for announcements!

What challenges are YOU facing in design or construction? Drop a comment below! Like, Subscribe & Share!