How Interior Designer & Author Heidi Caillier Found Her Calling in the Industry

Welcome to Second Life, a podcast spotlighting successful women who've made major career changes—and fearlessly mastered the pivot. Hosted by Hillary Kerr, co-founder and chief content officer at Who What Wear, each episode gives you a direct line to women who are game changers in their fields. Subscribe to Second Life on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts to stay tuned.

It might come as a surprise that renowned interior designer and author Heidi Caillier wasn’t always so sure that design was for her. While earning a master's degree in international public health, Caillier embarked on her career at a medical clinic in the Gambia. However, upon returning to the United States, she found herself disillusioned by the administrative nature of public health roles. This disappointment ignited her quest for a fulfilling career, leading her through a multitude of endeavors, from studying acupuncture, nursing, and accounting to teaching scuba diving, practicing yoga, and even trying her hand at bartending.

Despite her diverse experiences, Caillier still hadn't found her true calling. It wasn't until she ventured into the world of design blogging that she discovered her passion. Through her blog, Caillier secured her first job at a design firm, ultimately paving the way for her successful career in interior design. Caillier honed her skills at notable design firms such as Jute Home and Lauren Nelson Design before venturing out on her own in 2014 to establish her eponymous interior design company. Today, Heidi Caillier Design boasts a team of six full-time employees and takes on projects across the country, with celebrity homes on the horizon. Caillier’s dedication to creating spaces that reflect her clients' distinct personalities and lifestyles shines through in her work, making her a respected figure in the world of design.

Adding to her impressive achievements, Caillier released her book, Memories of Home, in September, offering an intimate look at 12 of her exceptional projects. Caillier's winding journey from public health to interior design is a story of determination and resilience. Listen to the latest episode of Second Life to hear how Caillier never gave up on her dream of finding her true passion. 

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