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The Chairish Podcast

Coping with Clients

Ep. 5
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Today’s clients are ever more savvy and informed, but are they also more demanding, and difficult? What do clients want from designers, and how do you navigate their needs and desires? Host Michael Boodro is joined by renowned designers Sheila Bridges, Richard Mishaan and Josh Greene.


In this episode, we find out how to deal with difficult clients and more:

  • Challenges of working with clients
  • What ignited a shift in client behavior
  • Establishing boundaries and understanding expectations
  • Paying due diligence
  • Red flags to watch out for
  • Photography agreements
  • Client relation best practices

Get to know our high-profile guests:

Named “America’s Best Interior Designer” by CNN and Time Magazine, Sheila Bridges founded her own interior design firm, Sheila Bridges Design, in 1994. She recently launched her own product line originally based in French toile wallcoverings — called Toile de Jouy — that has expanded to include a variety of good home goods. Toile de Jouy motifs challenge some of the stereotypes about the African-American experience. Her work is embellished with thoughtful pieces and colors, and has landed her on the Architectural Digest 100 and Elle Decor’s A-List from 2011 to 2019.

Owner of Richard Mishaan Design, Richard Mishaan holds more than three decades of experience in design, combining his knowledge of fashion, architecture, and interior design. He has crafted style ranging from urban to beachside in his distinctly layered and luxe, colorful style.

One year ago, Josh Greene founded his own firm, Josh Greene Design, that focuses on creating stylish environments balancing functionality, warmth, and comfort. He has over 15 years of design experience and has been featured on publications such as the New York Times, Architectural Digest, and House Beautiful.

Discover the work of our marvelous guests, and find more tips:

  • Tour Sheila’s colorful home in Reykjavík via The Cut
  • Inside Richard’s chic space in New York via Architectural Digest
  • Check out this beach house from Josh and his former partner via Architectural Digest
  • More tips for handling challenging clients via Kathy Kuo

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