Beyond the Design

Leading Through Design — A Conversation with Kari Bennett

What does it take to transform a vision into reality? In this inspiring episode of Beyond the Design, host Cray Bauxmont-Flynn welcomes Kari Bennett, Founder and Principal of EDGEiD for an engaging conversation about leadership, collaboration, and the discipline behind exceptional design.

Recognized for her strategic approach and extraordinary creative talent, Kari shares how successful projects are built on much more than beautiful interiors. They require trust, communication, thoughtful planning, and a team working in harmony toward a shared vision. Her philosophy demonstrates that the designer’s role extends far beyond aesthetics—becoming the conductor who brings together clients, architects, consultants, builders, and artisans to create environments that are both inspiring and enduring.

Throughout their thoughtful discussion, Kari and Cray explore the evolving role of design leadership, the importance of building meaningful relationships, and why operational excellence is just as essential as creative vision. Together, they reveal how collaboration, accountability, and innovation become the foundation for delivering extraordinary spaces and exceptional client experiences.

🎧 Listen or watch now - link in Bio.

🔗 To learn more about Kari and Edge ID, visit edgeid.com

Designing with Purpose, Perspective & Passion with Vern Yip

Great design has the power to transform not only the way we live, but the way we connect, feel, and experience the world around us. In this inspiring episode of Beyond the Design, host Cray Bauxmont-Flynn and Gunta Sandmeyer | Homes - welcomes acclaimed designer, author, television personality, and entrepreneur Vern Yip for a dynamic conversation exploring creativity, leadership, and the enduring impact of thoughtful design.

Throughout his remarkable career, Vern has become one of the most respected voices in the design industry, celebrated for his ability to create interiors that are timeless, functional, and deeply personal. His extraordinary talent lies in balancing architectural precision with warmth, beauty, and an intuitive understanding of how people truly live within their homes.

In this engaging conversation, Vern shares the experiences that shaped his creative journey, the lessons learned from working across television, publishing, product design, and residential interiors, and why empathy, authenticity, and purposeful design remain at the heart of every project. Together, Vern, Cray and Gunta explore how great design transcends trends, creating spaces that inspire, enrich lives, and stand the test of time.

More than a discussion about interiors, this episode is a conversation about leadership, creativity, inclusion, and the responsibility designers have to create environments that reflect the diversity of the people they serve.

This episode is presented in partnership with the High Point Market Authority - Diversity Advocacy Alliance, celebrating diverse voices, perspectives, and leadership that continue to shape the future of design.

🎧 Listen or watch now

🔗 To learn more about Vern Yip, visit vernyip.com