Designing Success: Eddie Mickenberg on Creativity, Entrepreneurship & Luxury InteriorsDesigning Success: Eddie Mickenberg on Creativity, Entrepreneurship & Luxury Interiors
The Power Of WE!
In this episode of The Power of We Podcast, Samantha and Nicole sit down with Eddie Mickenberg, a luxury interior designer known for creating timeless, personalized spaces that blend beauty with functionality. Based in Los Angeles, Eddie specializes...
24:32•17 Jul 2026
Bold Rooms, Big Risks: Eddie Mickenberg on Design, Business and Belief in Yourself
Episode Overview
- Building a business takes one step at a time, starting with side projects, a portfolio and simple tools like a basic website and business cards.
- Strong design work still begins and ends with the client; a clear process and approvals help clients feel safe with bold ideas and big investments.
- Creative risks—such as high-contrast palettes, black pieces and unconventional coastal schemes—can set a designer apart and attract attention.
- Talent is only a fraction of running a studio; professional photography and consistent marketing are essential to show work and win clients.
- Community matters: Alma Los Angeles offers events and connection for Latino creatives in design, helping them feel recognised and supported.
“I took a bet on myself.”
What drives someone to seek a life without alcohol? On this show, the answer often links back to courage, risk and community—qualities that shine through as Samantha and Nicole chat with Los Angeles-based interior designer and entrepreneur Eddie Mickenberg. This conversation centres on building a creative business from scratch and backing yourself even when it feels terrifying.
Eddie shares how, after years designing for other firms and getting “no credit” for his work, he finally “took a bet on myself” in 2020, turning side projects into a full-time luxury interior design studio. Anyone rebuilding life after chaos—whether from addiction, burnout or plain old overwhelm—will recognise that mix of fear and determination. Eddie talks about shaping a clear design identity while still putting clients first.
He leans into moody, high-contrast spaces, bold colour, pattern and “weird, quirky things that are not normal,” yet keeps a strong process so clients feel safe with big decisions and big budgets. He stresses trust, transparency and flexibility over ego, showing how creative work can stay joyful instead of becoming “just a job.” There’s also a strong thread of community and representation.
As a leadership council member for Alma in Los Angeles, Eddie helps build a network for Latino designers, architects and makers, creating space where people feel seen and connected rather than isolated in their careers. Practical nuggets pop up throughout—like his advice that “20% of owning a business” is talent and the rest is systems, marketing and professional photography—making this episode a handy listen for anyone dreaming of their own venture.
If you’re curious how design, risk-taking and community support can all feed into a more intentional life, this chat might get you asking: where could you take a small bet on yourself next?
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