In this insightful episode of the Poolside Perspectives Podcast, Mike and Trey Farley are joined by special guest Ryan Hughes, a prominent outdoor living designer who shares his journey from his family's landscape business to founding Ryan Hughes Design. Hughes discusses creating functional and luxurious outdoor areas, challenges in his career, and breakthrough projects like the Emerald Sun. The episode also introduces Solana, Hughes' new venture offering curated outdoor living products nationwide. Listeners will learn about building client trust, the role of storytelling in design sales, and the significance of choosing the right contractor. Additional discussions focus on industry tips, the importance of quality craftsmanship, and strategic planning for enhancing outdoor living spaces.   Please follow us on YouTube to see the Videos, BBQ Bits segment and other features of the episodes. https://www.youtube.com/@PoolsidePerspectivesPodcast You can also follow us on Instagram to see pics, snippets and catch previews of episodes: https://www.instagram.com/poolsideperspectivespodcast/   Follow and contact Ryan: https://ryanhughesdesign.com/ https://www.youtube.com/user/ryanhughesdesign https://www.instagram.com/ryanhughesdesign   00:00 Welcome to Poolside Perspectives 01:08 Meet the Hosts: Mike and Trey 02:22 Special Guest Introduction: Ryan 03:38 Ryan's Journey in the Pool Industry 06:02 Innovating Outdoor Living Spaces 13:54 The 2008 Crisis and Business Pivot 17:42 BBQ Bits: Memphis Pellet Grills 22:04 Rebranding and Personal Branding 32:33 Building Relationships and Collaborations 38:07 Design Concept Segment: Collaborative Projects 41:11 Navigating Design Challenges and Collaborations 42:02 Furniture Journey: From Rejection to Success 46:38 Overcoming Rejection in the Pool Industry 48:43 True Crime: The Importance of Detailed Contracts 53:42 Introducing Solana: A New Approach to Outdoor Living 59:20 Travel Inspirations and Future Plans 01:03:40 Reflecting on Creative Challenges and Inspirations 01:13:43 Conclusion and Final Thoughts