The Banko Buzz: A Commercial Interior Design Podcast

BEE KIND with Laura Hope Whitaker & Lily Moore: Finding Joy, Connection, and Purpose Through Service

In this inspiring episode, CEO Laura Hope Whitaker and ESP spokesperson and actor Lily Moore join Melissa to talk about kindness, community, and the “joy exchange” that comes from serving others. Laura shares how a volunteer role led her to step into ESP leadership at just 19 years old after the passing of its founder — a moment that shaped not only her career, but the future of the organization. She reflects on how leading with grace, a learner’s mindset, and a deep belief in the potential of every individual has guided her through the years of growing ESP’s programs, teams, and impact. Together, Laura and Lily explore how service builds confidence, empathy, and even workplace skills — and why putting down our phones and engaging with the people around us matters now more than ever. They discuss the power of real human connection, the joy that volunteering brings, and practical ways anyone can get involved. Whether you’re seasoned in service or taking your very first step, this conversation is a reminder that service is a practice that always leaves you more joyful than when you arrived! Want more buzz? 👇 Watch this episode on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@bankodesignfirm] Visit our website at bankodesign.com [https://bankodesign.com/] Follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/bankodesignfirm/] and TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@bankodesignfirm] Thank you for listening to The Banko Buzz! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy [https://ausha.co/privacy-policy] for more information.

BEE AUTHENTIC with Jessye Archer: Redefining Leadership Through Authenticity and Inclusion

In this episode of The Banko Buzz, Jessye Archer, Co-Founder of South Haven Build Partners, shares how authenticity became her greatest strength in leadership and life. With roots in the Air Force and a decade climbing the ranks at John Wieland Homes, Jessye brings a mix of discipline and heart to the construction world. She opens up about facing imposter syndrome, the moments of self-sabotage that taught her growth, and the power of showing up fully as yourself — even in spaces not built for you. Joined by Melissa, Jessye discusses inclusion in the industry, the collaboration between design and construction, and why being real is the foundation of meaningful work and connection. Want more buzz? 👇 Watch this episode on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@bankodesignfirm] Visit our website at bankodesign.com [https://bankodesign.com/] Follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/bankodesignfirm/] and TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@bankodesignfirm] Thank you for listening to The Banko Buzz! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy [https://ausha.co/privacy-policy] for more information.

BEE PRODUCTIVE with Wynne White: The Art of Product Design and Growing a Legacy Brand

What do comedy, creativity, and commercial design have in common? For Wynne White, they’ve all shaped a career built on passion and purpose. As Vice President of Business Development for Gabby and Summer Classics and the founder of Wendy Jane, Wynne's multifaceted career bridges design and sales through cultivating strategic partnerships and designing fabrics and products for these beloved brands. In this episode, she and Melissa chat about the crossover between fashion and furniture, the importance of trust between designers and product partners, and what it’s like to grow up - and grow into - a family business. From building relationships to building a brand, Wynne shares how she stays inspired, productive, and present in both work and life. Want more buzz? 👇 Watch this episode on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@bankodesignfirm] Visit our website at bankodesign.com [https://bankodesign.com/] Follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/bankodesignfirm/] and TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@bankodesignfirm] Thank you for listening to The Banko Buzz! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy [https://ausha.co/privacy-policy] for more information.

BEE BALANCED with Emily Hatch: Designing Your Career While Embracing Motherhood

Emily Hatch’s pivot from interior design into business led her to a career beyond the studio, yet still rooted in the industry. Now a Senior Architectural Representative for TileBar, she shares how she designed a career where creativity and commerce intersect, and how trust, relationships, and design insight drive success in sales. As a new mom, Emily also reflects on balancing career and family - navigating fears of losing yourself professionally, the reality of mom guilt, and the unexpected support she found in the industry. Joined by Melissa, the two discuss time management, building a village of support, and the evolving culture of design that makes space for both motherhood and ambition. Want more buzz? 👇 Watch this episode on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@bankodesignfirm] Visit our website at bankodesign.com [https://bankodesign.com/] Follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/bankodesignfirm/] and TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@bankodesignfirm] Thank you for listening to The Banko Buzz! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy [https://ausha.co/privacy-policy] for more information.

BEE INSPIRED with Jessica Ybarra & Baleigh Rape: Myths, Realities, and Career Growth in Interior Design

At two very different stages of their careers in our studio, Jessica Ybarra, Lead Interior Designer, and Baleigh Rape, Junior Interior Designer, bring candid, behind-the-scenes perspectives on what it’s really like to work in interior design. Together, they bust common myths about “what designers actually do all day” and share how the realities of design school differ from life in a studio. They discuss the contrasts between commercial and residential design, what it’s like designing across multifamily, senior living, and private club verticals, and the skills needed to thrive in each. Jessica and Baleigh also offer practical advice for designers at every level on career progression, teamwork, and creating a healthy work culture. Press play for an honest, inspiring conversation on building a fulfilling career in interior design! Want more buzz? 👇 Watch this episode on YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@bankodesignfirm] Visit our website at bankodesign.com [https://bankodesign.com/] Follow us on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/bankodesignfirm/] and TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@bankodesignfirm] Thank you for listening to The Banko Buzz! Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy [https://ausha.co/privacy-policy] for more information.