I’m bringing all sorts of new things to the show today! While at High Point Market, I sat down with Jude Charles, who produces documentaries for entrepreneurs, including the phenomenal docuseries with LuAnn Nigara. We spoke in depth about the power of storytelling in your business – from marketing to client relations.

Through this episode, Jude shares many of his personal stories as he walks us through his approach to infusing the personal with the professional through his films and in marketing. He encourages interior design business owners to focus on the ‘why you’ aspect, their core values, and the realization that you are more than just your portfolio.

Listening to his story, I was moved to share a few vulnerable stories myself, including how I felt about them then and now. Because of the intimacy of our design work, Jude inspired me and I hope you, to take note of your experiences and absorb these narratives into your business and life.

Stop playing small because your story is your strength!

Episode Highlights
  1. From Teacher’s Encouragement to 18 Years of Filmmaking – Discover how a high school teacher’s unwavering belief in Jude Charles kick-started his entrepreneurial journey at just 17 years old—with a surprising gift that changed his life forever.
  2. Why Storytelling is a Designer’s Secret Weapon – Jude and Rebecca dive into the power of storytelling in the design industry. Learn why showcasing your journey, values, and behind-the-scenes moments is the key to standing out and attracting your dream clients.
  3. The Vulnerability Advantage: Turning Personal Stories Into Powerful Connections – Jude shares a deeply personal story of loss and how it shaped his unique approach to storytelling. Plus, actionable tips for designers on sharing their own authentic stories to connect with clients on a deeper level.
Episode Resources

Read the Full Transcript ⬇️

 

Rebecca Hay
All right, Jude, welcome to the podcast. I’m so excited to have you here in person. This is such a new experience for me—I’m so used to doing these over Zoom. Thank you for making this happen.

Jude Charles
Thank you for having me, Rebecca. I’m excited to be part of this live recording. We’re here at High Point, which is exciting—and a little chaotic—but we made it happen.

Rebecca Hay
It’s definitely a whirlwind! Hopefully, we’ll recap the trip on the podcast at some point. Funny enough, it was your idea to do this in person. I was coming down here for a panel, and I was panicking about the tech setup. My husband suggested I bring my own equipment, and then I got your email saying, “Why don’t we do this at High Point?” It was perfect timing!

Jude Charles
Yep, it all worked out.

Rebecca Hay
And here we are, launching the “Rebecca on the Road” series! Maybe I’ll visit more cities soon. But before we dive in, can you introduce yourself to our audience?

Jude Charles
Sure! My name is Jude Charles, and I’m a filmmaker who creates documentaries for entrepreneurs. I’ve been doing this for 18 years. My journey started when I was 17 in a TV production class. My teacher, Mrs. Donnelly, taught me everything she knew about video production. Near the end of the school year, she told me, “Jude, you’re really talented—you should start a business.”

Rebecca Hay
Wait—at 17?! That’s incredible.

Jude Charles
Yes, I was just 17. My parents were blue-collar workers—my dad was a construction worker, and my mom worked at a chair factory—so I had no clue about starting a business. But Mrs. Donnelly didn’t take no for an answer. The next day, she brought me a yellow envelope. Inside was my first set of business cards! That moment set me on the path I’m on today.

Rebecca Hay
Wow, does Mrs. Donnelly know what you’re doing now? Have you stayed in touch?

Jude Charles
Yes, we’ve stayed in touch over the years. She’s actually in her final year of teaching now.

Rebecca Hay
That’s such an amazing story. Teachers really can change lives. I love that she saw your potential and encouraged you to pursue it. So, Jude, tell us more about your work in the interior design industry. I know you’ve worked with LuAnn Nigara on her docu-series. What does that look like?

Jude Charles
Two years ago, my team and I filmed LuAnn’s four-part docu-series. Each episode is about 20 minutes long, covering her journey—from starting her podcast to building Window Works. We even followed her around High Point as she spoke on panels and met industry leaders. My focus is on telling authentic stories about entrepreneurs, including interior designers. I go beyond portfolios and beautiful designs to uncover their vision, core values, and unique journeys.

Rebecca Hay
I love that! Many designers want to create video content—not just quick Instagram clips, but real storytelling. I always tell designers, it’s not enough to be talented. People need to know your story to connect with you.

Jude Charles
Exactly. If you scroll through most interior designers’ Instagram pages, you’ll see beautiful photos—but not much about the process or the person behind the work. Potential clients are asking, “Why should I choose you?” Storytelling answers that question by showing your personality, values, and what makes you different.

Rebecca Hay
That’s so true. Clients assume you’ll create something beautiful; it’s all the other factors that set you apart. But a lot of designers struggle with how much personal life to share. How do you balance professionalism with personality in your storytelling?

Jude Charles
It depends on what you’re comfortable sharing. Some people prefer to keep their personal life private, while others are okay sharing more. Vulnerability is key, but it doesn’t always have to mean sharing painful moments. It’s about being authentic—whether that’s showing behind-the-scenes challenges or sharing the lessons you’ve learned.

Rebecca Hay
That’s great advice. I’ve found that sharing my personality has helped me connect with clients. They often say, “I feel like I already know you.” It’s such a powerful way to build trust.

Jude Charles
Absolutely. Sharing your story humanizes you and builds a deeper connection. For example, I often share a vulnerable story about losing my father and how that experience shaped my approach to leading clients. It’s not just about the work—it’s about showing who you are and what you stand for.

Rebecca Hay
Thank you for sharing that. It’s a powerful reminder of the importance of vulnerability. For designers who are new to storytelling, what’s a good first step?

Jude Charles
Start with small stories. I have a free resource called “Storytelling for Interior Designers,” which includes prompts to help you identify and craft your stories. Keep a story journal where you jot down challenges, lessons, and memorable moments from your projects. Over time, these stories will become valuable tools for connecting with clients.

Rebecca Hay
I love that idea. Documenting those moments—big or small—can make such a difference. Jude, this has been such a valuable conversation. Thank you for sharing your insights and inspiring us to stop hiding and embrace our stories. Where can our listeners find you?

Jude Charles
You can find me on Instagram at @JudeCharles or visit my website, judecharles.co. And for the storytelling resource, go to judecharles.co/rebecca.

Rebecca Hay
Amazing! Thank you so much, Jude. This has been fantastic.

Jude Charles
Thank you, Rebecca. It’s been a pleasure!