Stephanie Thornton Plymale shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Stephanie, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
When I’m not working, I’m usually outside in the garden or inside rearranging a room. I love painting old furniture, styling spaces, and finding new ways to make my home feel fresh and lived-in.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m the CEO of Heritage School of Interior Design, with campuses across the U.S., and the Editor-in-Chief of Heritage Design magazine, a beautifully curated publication that celebrates interiors, fashion, and inspiring stories—all without ads. My work is deeply rooted in the belief that design can transform lives, a perspective shaped by my own journey overcoming adversity. I’m currently expanding our school locations, developing future issues of the magazine, and preparing to launch my first design book, Found & Styled, this fall.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a child growing up in foster care and with a mentally ill mother, I carried a deep sense of uncertainty and struggled with low self-worth. I didn’t believe I had much to offer. Through years of therapy, hard work, and leaning into my creativity, I’ve come to see my resilience, my vision, and my refusal to give up as strengths. Today, I believe in my ability to create, to lead, and to rise again and again. My creativity is my superpower.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, there are many moments I’ve wanted to give up. Starting a national magazine was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done. I faced rejection after rejection, and there were countless times I questioned whether it was even possible. But I had a clear vision, and I knew it could be something extraordinary, not just for me, but for our schools. So I kept going. I pushed through the setbacks, trusted my instincts, and refused to quit until it became a success.
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. Is the public version of you the real you?
Yes, I believe the public version of me is truly who I am. I show up with honesty and heart, and I share my story, my work, and my life with authenticity. What you see is who I am – imperfect, creative, and always growing.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
Yes. As a CEO and a mother, I’ve learned that much of what I do is unseen and often thankless. You have to have a clear vision and a strong “why” that drives you, because if you’re waiting for praise, you’ll lose momentum. I give my best not for applause, but because I believe in the work, the mission, and the impact.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.heritageschoolofinteriordesign.com
- Instagram: @stephaniethorntonplymale
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/school/heritage-school-of-interior-design/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16rHWNeBYg/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@heritageschoolofinteriorde5672
Image Credits
Stephanie Thornton Plymale
