Courage & Clarity Podcast: Episode 131 – "No Bad Clients"

Release Date: May 19, 2025
Host: Steph Crowder

Introduction

In Episode 131 of the Courage & Clarity podcast, host Steph Crowder delves into a transformative perspective on client relationships with the compelling theme, "No Bad Clients." Steph challenges the conventional dichotomy of good versus bad clients, advocating instead for a mindset that views all clients as unique individuals with their own challenges and needs. This episode is a deep dive into fostering healthier, more productive client interactions by shifting our perceptions and strategies.

Reconceptualizing Client Relationships

Steph opens the discussion by addressing a common frustration among entrepreneurs and coaches: dealing with clients who disengage, ghost, or overstep boundaries. She empathizes with listeners who grapple with categorizing clients as "good" or "bad" based on behaviors that disrupt the smooth operation of their programs.

"What if every client was a good client? What if there's no such thing as a bad client? What if there's just clients being clients?"
(02:30)

This rhetorical question sets the tone for the episode, encouraging listeners to adopt a more compassionate and solution-oriented approach.

Understanding Client Disengagement

Steph explores the underlying causes of client disengagement, emphasizing that it often stems from personal struggles rather than dissatisfaction with the program or the coach. She introduces the metaphor of a client "drowning in shame," illustrating how shame can paralyze clients, making it difficult for them to reach out for help or stay engaged.

"When your client is in the shame spiral, think of it as, like, drowning. They are actually drowning. Drowning in their shame, typically."
(15:45)

By reframing disengagement as a sign of deeper issues, Steph encourages coaches to approach these situations with empathy and curiosity rather than judgment.

The Myth of the Good Client

Challenging the traditional notion of "good clients," Steph argues that this binary classification is limiting and often unfounded. She posits that labeling clients as good or bad can lead to resentment and burnout, reducing the overall effectiveness of coaching programs.

"There’s no good clients, no bad clients. What if you just were invited to look at it as there are just clients?"
(08:20)

This perspective fosters a more inclusive and supportive environment where all clients feel valued and understood, regardless of their current engagement level.

Setting and Maintaining Boundaries

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the importance of establishing clear boundaries. Steph highlights that having well-defined boundaries not only protects the coach’s well-being but also benefits clients by providing structure and clarity.

"You can lovingly lead your client to help them get what they need without crossing your boundaries of having to do 15 rounds of edits."
(35:10)

She shares practical strategies for setting boundaries, such as:

1. Defining Participation Expectations: Clearly communicate how clients should engage with the program, including attendance, response times, and participation in community activities.

2. Implementing Response Guidelines: For instance, Steph mentions setting a 24-hour response window for coaching queries, which supports both the coach’s workflow and the client’s clarity.

3. Coaching Clients Towards Self-Sufficiency: Encouraging clients to formulate their questions and allowing them time to process insights independently.

"Here's how you can install that and manage that not through blame, but through leadership."
(42:00)

Cultivating Curiosity Over Judgment

Steph advocates for approaching client challenges with curiosity instead of making assumptions or passing judgment. This mindset shift is crucial for resolving misunderstandings and fostering a supportive coaching relationship.

"If a client is behaving in a way that's triggering for you, it's just a sign that you have to engage with them differently."
(22:15)

By maintaining curiosity, coaches can better understand the root causes of client behaviors and address them effectively without taking things personally.

Personal Growth and Professional Development

Towards the latter part of the episode, Steph reflects on her personal journey from being a people-pleaser to focusing on client results. This shift in focus has transformed her approach to client relationships, allowing her to prioritize outcomes over personal approval.

"You don't have to like me to get results in my program. You prefer you would, but you can get results regardless."
(50:30)

She shares her experiences of overcoming the fear of negative client feedback, emphasizing that addressing client issues openly leads to better service and stronger client-coach relationships.

Practical Takeaways and Strategies

Steph concludes the episode by offering actionable advice for coaches struggling with client management:

1. Develop a Client User Manual: Outline expected behaviors and engagement strategies to set clear expectations from the outset.

2. Regularly Update Boundaries: As new challenges arise, adjust your boundaries to maintain a balanced and effective coaching environment.

3. Focus on Client Outcomes: Shift your mindset from seeking approval to enhancing client results, which inherently improves the quality of your coaching.

4. Embrace Flexibility: Be willing to adapt your methods to meet clients where they are, facilitating better engagement and success.

Conclusion

Episode 131 of Courage & Clarity offers a refreshing and compassionate approach to client relationships. By eliminating the concept of "bad clients" and embracing the idea that all clients have unique needs and challenges, Steph Crowder empowers coaches to cultivate more meaningful and productive interactions. The emphasis on empathy, curiosity, and clear boundaries not only enhances client satisfaction but also prevents coach burnout, fostering a sustainable and fulfilling coaching practice.

"Recommit to curiosity in your coaching relationships, clear boundaries. And if you need more boundaries, that's okay."
(58:45)

Listeners are left with a powerful message: transforming their mindset towards clients can lead to greater professional success and personal satisfaction.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Steph Crowder: "What if every client was a good client? What if there's no such thing as a bad client? What if there's just clients being clients?" (02:30)

• Steph Crowder: "When your client is in the shame spiral, think of it as, like, drowning. They are actually drowning. Drowning in their shame, typically." (15:45)

• Steph Crowder: "There’s no good clients, no bad clients. What if you just were invited to look at it as there are just clients?" (08:20)

• Steph Crowder: "You can lovingly lead your client to help them get what they need without crossing your boundaries of having to do 15 rounds of edits." (35:10)

• Steph Crowder: "If a client is behaving in a way that's triggering for you, it's just a sign that you have to engage with them differently." (22:15)

• Steph Crowder: "You don't have to like me to get results in my program. You prefer you would, but you can get results regardless." (50:30)

• Steph Crowder: "Recommit to curiosity in your coaching relationships, clear boundaries. And if you need more boundaries, that's okay." (58:45)

Final Thoughts

This episode is an invaluable resource for female entrepreneurs and coaches seeking to enhance their client relationships and build sustainable businesses. Steph Crowder's insights encourage a shift towards a more empathetic and strategic approach, ensuring that both coaches and clients thrive in their professional journeys.