When Clients Say One Thing… But Mean Another

EP 191: When Clients Say One Thing… But Mean Another

PODCAST
August 31, 2025•2 min read
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Hey, hey, hey! In this episode we’re talking about something that feels scary but will absolutely change your business: saying no before you feel ready. I know how hard it is to turn down a project—what if the right one doesn’t come along? What if word gets around that you turned someone down? I’ve had all those same fears. But here’s the truth: every time you say yes to the wrong project, you’re blocking space for the right one.

I’ll share the hidden costs of saying yes to everything, how to recognize the red flags early, and the exact scripts you can use to say no without burning bridges (because you don’t need to feel like the bad guy)

 IN THIS EPISODE, I COVER:

  • Why we wait too long to say no (hello, FOMO + people pleasing )

  • The financial, creative, and emotional costs of taking on bad-fit clients

  • A simple red-flag checklist to spot a “no” before you’re in too deep

  • My favorite word tracks that let you say no kindly and confidently

  • A student story: how saying no freed her calendar and brought in higher-value clients


Saying no isn’t risky—it’s a growth strategy. When you protect your time and energy, you create space for projects that light you up, clients who respect your process, and a business that actually feels good to run.

RESOURCES:

INTERIOR DESIGN BUSINESS BAKERY - Our year-long mentorship and coaching program:

https://thedesignbakehouse.com/interior-design-business-bakery

SIMPLIFY YOUR MARKETING, SIMPLIFY YOUR LIFE. All-in-one software that organizes sales, marketing, and business services all in one convenient location.

https://mysidemark.com/

MARKETING MEMBERSHIP - Join our hands on marketing & visibility program, no contract, only $59/month.

https://thedesignbakehouse.com/lead-lab

Stay in touch with Michelle on Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/thedesignbakehouse/

Join our Free Facebook Community:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/idbizlaunchpad 

Get clarity on your next best step today! https://www.designedforthecreativemind.com/reviewguide

Have ideas or suggestions or want to be considered as a guest on the show? Contact me! https://www.DesignedForTheCreativeMind.com/contact

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Michelle Lynne owns and operates her interior design firm, ML Interiors Group in Dallas, TX. She is also a renowned business coach for interior designers at the Design Bakehouse, where she teaches designers how to make six-figure leaps in their businesses. She is also the founder of Studio Works, a coworking space for interior designers, and a co-founder of Sidemark, the all-in-one sales and marketing software for interior designers. Michelle is currently serving as President for the Interior Design Society DFW Chapter.

Michelle Lynne

Michelle Lynne owns and operates her interior design firm, ML Interiors Group in Dallas, TX. She is also a renowned business coach for interior designers at the Design Bakehouse, where she teaches designers how to make six-figure leaps in their businesses. She is also the founder of Studio Works, a coworking space for interior designers, and a co-founder of Sidemark, the all-in-one sales and marketing software for interior designers. Michelle is currently serving as President for the Interior Design Society DFW Chapter.

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