The Banko Buzz

Season 2, Episode 1

BEE FAITHFUL with Nathan Jones

Changing the Narrative on Senior Living Through Faith and Film

In this episode of The Banko Buzz, Nathan Jones, founder and CEO of Dash Media, shares how his journey from college football coach to media entrepreneur was guided by faith and purpose. Today, Dash Media is one of the most dynamic storytelling platforms in senior living, reaching millions with powerful, authentic narratives that are changing the way people see and experience senior living. Nate opens up about the calling behind his work, the lessons seniors have to teach us, and how building a mission-driven business can create lasting impact. Tune in for a candid conversation on faith, entrepreneurship, and the power of purpose-driven storytelling.

Season 2, Episode 2

BEE VISIONARY with Stacy Garcia

Building a Global Design Brand, Trend Forecasting, and Creative Entrepreneurship

Stacy Garcia built her career on bold color, inventive pattern, and fearless entrepreneurship, launching her first brand at just 26 years old. Today, she is a globally recognized designer and trend forecaster whose influence spans hospitality, commercial, and residential spaces across more than 50 countries. In this episode, Stacy reflects on what keeps her inspired as a designer, where she looks for fresh ideas, and how she channels her artistic instincts into products that resonate in markets worldwide. She also dives into the often-overlooked career path of product design, and the practical realities of turning creativity into a sustainable business. She opens up about identifying what’s marketable, finding your audience, and positioning yourself as the purveyor of “cool” in a crowded industry. Press play for actionable insights on trend forecasting, brand-building, and turning creative ideas into sellable products!

Season 2, Episode 3

BEE INSPIRED with Jessica Ybarra and 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!

Season 2, Episode 4

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.

Season 2, Episode 5

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.

Season 2, Episode 6

BEE AUTHENTIC with Jessye Archer

Redefining Leadership Through Authenticity and Inclusion

Jessye Archer, Co-Founder of South Haven Build Partners, shares how authenticity has become her greatest strength in leadership and in 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.

Season 2, Episode 7

BEE KIND with Laura Hope Whitaker and Lily Moore

Finding Joy, Connection, and Purpose Through Service

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 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 with ESP. 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.

Season 1, Episode 1

SPARK with Travis Snyder

Scaling a Business From a Spare Room to 5 Companies in Under 10 Years

From a 10x10 spare room in Melissa's starter home to owning five companies across the U.S. - join Melissa Banko, Founder of Banko Design and BD Studio Collection, and Travis Snyder, Director of Operations of Red Pen Procurement, as they discuss what sparked it all, early career paths, and the challenges of entrepreneurship. They dive into the strategies used to scale a business from one interior design studio to a portfolio of companies, with services spanning interior design, FF&E procurement, marketing, branding, and operations. Tune in for valuable insights on leadership, team building, and lessons learned along the way!

Season 1, Episode 2

TENACIOUS with Dana Miner

Managing the Inner Critic, Navigating Career Pivots, and Personal Growth

In this episode, Dana Miner, Vice President of Strategic Sales at Encore, shares her journey of resilience through career pivots, personal growth, and the tenacity it takes to succeed in sales. With over five years at Encore and expertise in customized carpet solutions for industries like hospitality, senior living, and multifamily, Dana’s dynamic approach has helped her develop national account strategies, assist sales representatives, and drive product innovation. She opens up about why she lives by the motto, “work hard, play hard,” and the dedication required to be an extraordinary salesperson in a competitive field.

Season 1, Episode 3

UNMATCHED with Tina Rogers

Increasing ROI in Senior Living Communities

In this episode of The Banko Buzz, Melissa Banko is joined by Tina Rogers, Operations and Programming Specialist at BD Studio Collection. Together, they unpack BD Studio Collection’s “ROI” program—Refresh, Optimize, and Illuminate—which goes beyond aesthetics to enhance functionality and profitability. From due diligence assessments to innovative programming ideas, Tina shares her wealth of knowledge and operator’s perspective to elevate senior living communities. Learn how thoughtful design can transform senior living spaces, improve quality of life, and boost your bottom line!

Whether you're a designer, operator, or investor in senior living, this episode offers actionable insights on turning challenges into opportunities and spaces into success stories. Tune in to discover how program meets “pretty” in senior living design!

Season 1, Episode 4

DRIVEN with Katherine Mosley

Rising to the Top in Commercial Real Estate Development

As the first female partner at Tribridge Residential, Katherine Mosley has raised the bar in commercial real estate development. In this episode of The Banko Buzz, Katherine shares her inspiring journey from intern to partner, overseeing multifamily developments totaling $1.2 billion in capital transactions across the Southeast. Learn how she leverages interior design and strategic branding to create successful projects, Katherine’s advice for young women building their careers, and what it takes to embody true “drive” in a competitive industry. Don’t miss this empowering conversation!

Season 1, Episode 5

INNOVATIVE with Sean Rosko

Staying Ahead of Trends in Multifamily Real Estate

Ever wondered what happens behind the curtain of real estate development? In this episode of The Banko Buzz, Sean Rosko, Development Partner at Middleburg Communities and former Vice President of Development at South City Partners, offers a glimpse into the processes designers don’t typically get to see. From navigating the complexities of financial underwriting and design coordination to managing construction and lease-ups, Sean shares what it takes to create successful multifamily projects. Discover how staying ahead of trends shapes thriving communities, what makes residents truly feel at home, and the state of the real estate market in 2024.

Season 1, Episode 6

OUTSTANDING with Audrey Lane

The Journey from Passion to Product Development

What does it take to turn a shared passion into a thriving business? In this episode, Holli Van Cleave and Jennifer Horning, co-founders of Audrey Lane, share their not-so-straightforward journey of building a luxury tile design firm. This dynamic duo saw a need for easy-to-customize tile lines and dedicated themselves to turning interior designers’ wildest tile dreams into reality, winning awards for their innovative tile collections. From feeling “safe” to take risks as a creative to making bold moves in product development—a career path often overlooked in interior design school—they’re showing us how they balance being both artisans and businesswomen. Get ready to nerd out on tile (and good branding), hear about the risks they’ve taken, and learn the lessons that have fueled their success!

Season 1, Episode 7

SERVICE with Erin’s Hope for Friends

Building a Culture of Care and Connection

In this inspiring episode, Melissa talks with Anna Matthews and Sam Seidel from Erin’s Hope for Friends, an organization dedicated to fostering lasting relationships for autistic teens and young adults through their e’s Club program. They discuss the importance of service—not just as philanthropy but as daily support—and how thoughtful design can promote mental wellness and address sensory needs. Melissa shares her personal journey and the profound impact of those who have shown her family servant-hearted kindness, and shows why service is woven into the fabric of the BD Studio Collection company culture. Together, they explore how we can see ability, not just the labels of disability, and address the critical gap in resources and opportunities for autistic individuals as they transition into adulthood. Prepare to be inspired by Anna and Sam’s stories, wisdom, and unwavering dedication to fostering understanding and belonging for all.