In this raw and resonant episode of Studio LittleBold, we unpack the emotional labor, blurred boundaries, and safety concerns women face in male-dominated industries—especially in design and construction.

From unsolicited advances to “project-baiting,” where hopeful creatives show up expecting work but find themselves on surprise dates, we explore the real cost of being a woman in the field. It’s not just about showing up—it’s about showing up smart, protected, and empowered.

Featuring @steffiemunga’s story of learning to spot the bait and reclaim her time, we dive into:

• The hidden emotional toll of “maybe” meetings
• Why professionalism and safety must be non-negotiable
• How to set boundaries without guilt
• The power of saying no—and meaning it
• What it means to protect your peace while still chasing your purpose

This episode is a rallying cry for women in design, especially in emerging markets: your time is valuable, your standards are valid, and your safety is not up for debate.

Share this with a woman who’s ever felt unsafe, unseen, or undervalued on site. Drop your own stories in the comments—we’re building a space where honesty leads to empowerment.

This is the episode where we say the quiet part out loud. Interior design isn't just beautiful reveals—it’s rushed calls, tight timelines, and clients who needed it done yesterday. From walking into the field without a guiding hand to being told she's grown in how she leads, Clare's journey has been messy, bold, and transformative.

What we Share:
The pressure-cooker truth behind design timelines.
Why mistakes shape mastery.
How mentorship, team feedback, and supplier hiccups can shape growth.
Clares honest journey from solo learning to structured leadership.

Whether you're new to design or building a team, this episode pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to show up and lead with the right systems and mindset.

🔔 Subscribe for raw lessons, practical tools, and empowering content to grow your design practice with clarity and structure.

Interior design is more than picking colors and chasing creativity—it’s about mastering patience, listening deeply, and learning through every project. In this episode, we explore how the reality of real-world design work often challenges what you thought you knew. From adapting to clients’ needs to embracing new tools like Revit and sustainable practices, this is a wake-up call for designers who want to evolve and truly serve. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or uncertain, this reflection will remind you: every skill you gain shapes the designer you’re becoming.