It’s easy to mistake people-pleasing for good project management. But avoiding difficult conversations doesn’t reduce project stress—it creates it. In this episode, Kimberley Seldon sits down with Utah designer Ali Henrie to discuss what it really takes to lead successful projects. From managing client expectations to navigating contractor relationships, Ali shares why clear communication, documented processes, and strong boundaries are essential for keeping projects on track. If your projects have started to feel more complicated, exhausting, or unpredictable, this conversation will help you understand why—and what to do about it. What you’ll learn in this episode: - Why builders and trades respect clarity more than people-pleasing - How strong communication and documentation prevent project chaos - The difference between being flexible and abandoning your process - Why establishing roles, responsibilities, and expectations early matters - How to handle budget conversations with greater confidence and authority - Why leadership—not perfection—is the key to successful project outcomes

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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