Episode Details

In this special episode recorded live from the KBIS 2026 Podcast Studio, Sponsored by AJ Madison Pro, AI for Interior Designers *Podcast host Jenna Gaidusek sits down with the KBB Person of the Year, Sharon Sherman, founder of Thyme & Place Design.
As AI moves at a breakneck pace, who is guiding the ship? Jenna and Sharon dive deep into the "feminine energy" required to nurture this technology, the importance of setting rigid ethical boundaries, and why AI can mimic a mood board but can never understand the "energetic quality" of a home. From Sharon’s AI assistant "Ursula" to the rising trend of "Analog Rooms," this conversation is a must-listen for designers looking to stay human in a digital world.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

• AI as a "Child": Why boundaries and "parenting" your AI models are essential for ethical design.
• The Ethics of Stealing: How to use AI to enhance your own portfolio without infringing on others.
• The Power of Analog: Why "sit tests," real stone, and physical connection are becoming the ultimate luxury in a digital age.
• Human EQ vs. AI IQ: Why the industry still needs the "voice of reason" only a human designer can provide.
• The "Wait and See" Crowd: Why the industry needs hesitant designers to help build better solutions.

Resources & Links
Learn with Jenna & Sharon:

• AI for Interior Designers™ Certificate Program: Register for Q2 Enrollment Here
• Q2 Class (May 8): The Ethical Designer: AI Humanization & Team Leadership

Connect with Sharon Sherman:

• Website: Thyme & Place Design
• Instagram: @thymeandplacedesign

Our Sponsors:

• AJ Madison Pro: Smarter appliance sourcing and exclusive trade programs. ajmadison.com/pro
• KBIS (Kitchen & Bath Industry Show): Special thanks to the KBIS Podcast Studio. kbis.com