EP 440 | Handling Difficult Clients with Confidence: Interior Design Strategies That Work with Dr. Ganz
This episode originally aired as Episode 002 on March 28, 2017.
Every interior designer eventually encounters a difficult client or an uncomfortable conversation—but how you handle those moments can either erode trust or strengthen it. In this episode, Kimberley Seldon is joined by Dr. Ganz to share a simple, effective technique for diffusing tense situations and regaining control—without confrontation, defensiveness, or emotional fallout.
Using a surprisingly memorable 90’s action-hero metaphor, Dr. Ganz explains how designers can stay calm under pressure, de-escalate escalating conversations, and turn challenging interactions into productive, relationship-building moments. The best part? This approach works just as well with colleagues, friends, and family.
If you want to show up with authority, protect your energy, and stop letting difficult clients rattle your confidence, this episode delivers practical tools you can use immediately.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
- How to calmly diffuse a situation that’s escalating
- Stress-reducing strategies that help you stay grounded during challenging client interactions
- Why working with a coach or psychologist is a sign of strength—not weakness
- How emotional regulation supports better leadership and decision-making
- Five compelling reasons interior designers should charge more for their expertise
About Dr. Ganz Ferrance
Dr. Ganz Ferrance holds a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology and an M.A. in Developmental and Educational Psychology from Andrews University in Michigan. In addition, he is the former Public Education Coordinator as well as the former Vice-President of the Psychologist’s Association of Alberta. For over 30 years he has been helping individuals, couples, families, and corporations reduce their stress, improve their relationships and enjoy more success.
Dr. Ganz prides himself on being a fellow “work-in-progress” and does not presenting anything that he has not personally put his blood, sweat and tears into. This approach has made him a sought-after public speaker—with audiences in the United States and Canada enjoying his fun, engaging, and life-changing presentations on beating stress and building superior relationships.
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Thank you to our podcast sponsor, Aquavato!
Aquavato is a trade-focused plumbing showroom in Toronto designed to support interior designers with expert product guidance, educational support, and concierge level service. Inside, the House of Rohl Studio has curated selections of Perrin & Rowe, Rohl, Shaws, Victoria + Albert, Emtek & Schaub.
Learn more about the Aquavato Trade Program at aquavato.com.
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Legal Disclosure | This podcast is for educational purposes only and provides general business advice for interior designers and design professionals. It is not intended as individual legal, accounting, or professional guidance. Kimberley Seldon and Business of Design® make no guarantees regarding accuracy and are not liable for how information is used. Strategies shared may not apply to every situation—listeners should seek qualified legal, financial, or professional advice before making business decisions. References and resources mentioned may change over time.
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