The Banko Buzz: A Commercial Interior Design Podcast

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

32min | 09/23/2025

Description

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

Visit our website at bankodesign.com

Follow us on Instagram and TikTok

Thank you for listening to The Banko Buzz!

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

About The Banko Buzz: A Commercial Interior Design Podcast

The Banko Buzz, A Commercial Interior Design Podcast, goes beyond interior design to explore entrepreneurship, leadership, career development, and issues affecting design and real estate. Join Melissa Banko, the founder and crazy visionary behind Banko Design and BD Studio Collection, and hear from design experts, clients, and rising talent in the industry as we discuss the journey of building successful brands, overcoming challenges, and leading teams. Discover how strong values, innovative thinking, and a whole lot of spark can shape not just spaces but entire communities.

Whether you're an interior designer, a business owner, or an aspiring leader, The Banko Buzz offers insight, inspiration, and tools for personal and professional growth. Tune in to learn how to elevate your business and leadership skills while making an impact through design.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

About The Banko Buzz: A Commercial Interior Design Podcast

The Banko Buzz, A Commercial Interior Design Podcast, goes beyond interior design to explore entrepreneurship, leadership, career development, and issues affecting design and real estate. Join Melissa Banko, the founder and crazy visionary behind Banko Design and BD Studio Collection, and hear from design experts, clients, and rising talent in the industry as we discuss the journey of building successful brands, overcoming challenges, and leading teams. Discover how strong values, innovative thinking, and a whole lot of spark can shape not just spaces but entire communities.

Whether you're an interior designer, a business owner, or an aspiring leader, The Banko Buzz offers insight, inspiration, and tools for personal and professional growth. Tune in to learn how to elevate your business and leadership skills while making an impact through design.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

Description

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

Visit our website at bankodesign.com

Follow us on Instagram and TikTok

Thank you for listening to The Banko Buzz!

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

About The Banko Buzz: A Commercial Interior Design Podcast

The Banko Buzz, A Commercial Interior Design Podcast, goes beyond interior design to explore entrepreneurship, leadership, career development, and issues affecting design and real estate. Join Melissa Banko, the founder and crazy visionary behind Banko Design and BD Studio Collection, and hear from design experts, clients, and rising talent in the industry as we discuss the journey of building successful brands, overcoming challenges, and leading teams. Discover how strong values, innovative thinking, and a whole lot of spark can shape not just spaces but entire communities.

Whether you're an interior designer, a business owner, or an aspiring leader, The Banko Buzz offers insight, inspiration, and tools for personal and professional growth. Tune in to learn how to elevate your business and leadership skills while making an impact through design.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

About The Banko Buzz: A Commercial Interior Design Podcast

The Banko Buzz, A Commercial Interior Design Podcast, goes beyond interior design to explore entrepreneurship, leadership, career development, and issues affecting design and real estate. Join Melissa Banko, the founder and crazy visionary behind Banko Design and BD Studio Collection, and hear from design experts, clients, and rising talent in the industry as we discuss the journey of building successful brands, overcoming challenges, and leading teams. Discover how strong values, innovative thinking, and a whole lot of spark can shape not just spaces but entire communities.

Whether you're an interior designer, a business owner, or an aspiring leader, The Banko Buzz offers insight, inspiration, and tools for personal and professional growth. Tune in to learn how to elevate your business and leadership skills while making an impact through design.

Hosted on Ausha. See ausha.co/privacy-policy for more information.

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