We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Tina Dyba a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Tina , thanks for joining us today. We’d love to hear about the things you feel your parents did right and how those things have impacted your career and life.

“What My Parents Did Right”

It wasn’t until the last decade of my life that I truly realized the foundation my parents had built for me—and just how deeply it influenced my life and career.

I’m the oldest of five children, raised in the countryside of Montana. My parents were somewhat strict, and our upbringing reflected strong values and discipline. We attended private schools, had limited television time, and even our music choices were guided. Our meals were wholesome—sugar-free, with fresh vegetables from our garden, dairy from a local farmer, and meat from the wild game my father hunted.

There were clear expectations in our household: make your bed daily, keep your room tidy, contribute to the chores around the property. But life was far from dull. We spent our days sledding, riding bikes and motorcycles, camping, and regularly attending community and church events. Looking back, it was a rich childhood—simple, but full.

When I was eleven, my father passed away. My mother was left to raise five children on her own. Even though my time with him was short, my father left a lasting impact. He taught me everyday skills that allowed me to earn money at a young age—how to mow lawns, tend gardens, and build things with my hands. He encouraged my curiosity in art and electronics. One of my favorite memories is a school project he helped me with in the fourth grade—a model of an 1800s log cabin, complete with crops and handcrafted furniture. It won first place and was displayed in our school’s glass case for months. That project, and the time we spent creating it, was the seed that grew into my lifelong passion for design and creativity.

My father was incredibly skilled—an artist in chalk, a welder, a musician. He taught me how to set goals and pursue what I wanted with determination and imagination.

My mother, quieter in nature, was equally talented. She played piano beautifully, was an exceptional cook and gardener, and could sew just about anything—drapes, tablecloths, pillows. Our home, though modest, was full of warmth and handmade charm. She passed away last year, and as I went through her belongings, I realized just how much I had absorbed from her over the years. She never boasted, but her quiet strength, creativity, and resourcefulness shaped me just as much as my father’s bold talents.

We didn’t have much money growing up—just above the poverty line—but we were rich in values, character, and spirit. That foundation has guided me throughout my life. Today, I’m a successful entrepreneur and business owner, and I know without a doubt: my parents did many things right.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

“How My Career in Interior Design Evolved”

My career as an interior designer began early—while still in my twenties—when I started working as a receptionist for architectural firms and construction companies. It was in those formative years that I was introduced to the world of residential design, gaining deep insight into the industry from the inside out. I didn’t start with a formal degree in design—instead, I learned through observation, administration, hands-on involvement, and mentorship. That practical, ground-level education was invaluable.

Over time, I held multiple roles across different facets of the industry. My curiosity and passion led me into sales and marketing, working directly with manufacturers of lighting, furniture, and home décor. Eventually, I launched my own retail ventures, offering not just curated products but also design services and even apparel. Alongside that, I earned real estate licenses in two states, focusing primarily on retirement and golf communities.

What’s propelled me forward in every stage of my career is a relentless drive to learn and evolve. Even though I attended college on and off, most of my true education came from being in the field—learning through doing, through failing, through solving problems. I saw opportunity where others didn’t. I trusted my instinct. I wasn’t afraid to take risks—call it my free-spirited nature.

My strengths lie in my ability to solve complex problems creatively, especially in the realm of real estate and design. But more than that, it’s my communication and leadership skills that consistently bring value to my clients. I understand not just how to create beautiful environments, but how to translate vision into reality—while keeping an eye on lifestyle, wellness, and return on investment.

Recently, I rebranded my company to reflect the evolution of my work. Looking back, even the seemingly unrelated jobs I once held—entertainer, waitress, merchant marine shipping agent—played a role in shaping the professional I am today. They taught me adaptability, resilience, and how to connect with people from all walks of life.

What I’m most proud of isn’t just the projects or the portfolio. It’s the journey. The creativity. The resourcefulness. The life experience. I believe growth is never-ending. My brand reflects that belief—rooted in nature, aligned with luxury living and wellness, and always mindful of ROI. That holistic approach is what truly sets me apart.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

One of the most rewarding parts of my work as an interior designer is the ability to walk into a space—whether it’s a complete mess or just an empty plan—and immediately see its potential. Where others might see clutter or confusion, I see form, flow, and opportunity. That moment of quiet vision, when the concept takes shape in my mind, is both thrilling and grounding.

But what truly fulfills me is translating that vision into something my client can see, feel, and believe in. It’s not just about design—it’s about trust. It takes patience, empathy, and clarity to communicate ideas in a way that resonates. It also requires a deep sense of self-awareness and confidence. You have to believe in the process and guide your client through it until they can fully share in that belief. There’s something incredibly satisfying about watching their uncertainty transform into excitement and their faith grow as the project comes to life.

Each home, room or space I design is more than just aesthetics—it’s a reflection of lifestyle, function, and personal meaning. Helping someone see their space not just as it is, but as it could be—and then making that vision real—is where the true magic lies.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://dicdesigngroup.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stories/dicdesigngroup/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tina-d-48b77215/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@DICDesignGroup

Image Credits

no credits