From Intern to Owner — Dani Miller on Building a Business with Grit, Vision & Heart

What does it really take to go from intern to entrepreneur? In this episode, Dani Miller, owner of Lauderdale Design in Knoxville, TN, shares her journey of stepping into business ownership, leading with intention, and building a design firm that reflects her values, vision, and bold spirit. Recorded just days before welcoming her second child, Dani opens up about the realities of entrepreneurship—balancing risk and reward, leading a team, and making tough calls with courage and clarity. From managing global rebrands for Cadillac to returning home to take over the very firm where she started her career, Dani’s path proves that entrepreneurship is equal parts grit, growth, and grace. She dives into what she’s learned about building a sustainable business, fostering mentorship, creating opportunity within a small team, and why personal finance and emotional well-being are critical to professional success. Whether you’re dreaming of launching your own company, looking for inspiration to grow your leadership, or navigating the messy middle of running a business, Dani’s story will leave you feeling empowered and equipped to take the leap. New from Imagine a Place: Tenwek Hospital: How faith, friendship, and design built a beacon of healing in Africa. Connect with Maria on LinkedIn. Click here to get your copy of Maria's children's book—Design Your World. Follow Imagine a Place on LinkedIn.