Every Project Is a Learning Opportunity: Interview with Robert and Cortney Novogratz

I recently spoke to Robert and Cortney Novogratz, stars of HGTV’s Home by Novogratz and Bravo’s 9 by Design. Robert and Cortney are also the authors of the new book The Novogratz Chronicles.

Adam: Thanks again for taking the time to share your advice. First things first, though, what is something about you that even your most passionate fans don’t know?

Cortney: I was raised in Georgia but born in Oklahoma City. It's funny because my southern upbringing in Georgia influenced my sense of hospitality and design aesthetics. Yet, there's this little-known fact about my birthplace that adds an interesting twist to my background.

Robert: My father attended West Point and was a colonel who served in the Army for over 40 years. 

Adam: How did you get here? What experiences, failures, setbacks, or challenges have been most instrumental to your growth?

Cortney: We've faced numerous challenges, from economic downturns to construction mishaps, but each setback taught us resilience and creativity. One pivotal experience was our first big renovation project in New York City. It was full of unexpected issues, but it solidified our passion for transforming spaces and overcoming obstacles together.

Robert: The journey wasn't always smooth, with challenges such as dealing with outdated infrastructures, unexpected surprises like a global pandemic, and navigating the renovation of landmark property, among other obstacles. These challenges were tough, but they became the building blocks of our success.

Adam: How did the TV show come together? What would surprise people about your show?

Cortney: Funny enough, we approached Bravo ourselves without an agent and made the show happen. We were determined to share our journey with a broader audience and believed in our story enough to take that leap.

Robert: We were featured in Oprah Magazine and Condé Nast Cookie Magazine in the same week, which sparked a lot of interest. The following week, several networks pitched us shows. We chose Bravo because they had the biggest footprint in New York, which was our home base and central to our work at the time.

Adam: What do you hope readers take away from your new book?

Cortney: I hope readers find inspiration in our story and realize that with passion, creativity, and determination, they can overcome any challenge in their renovation journeys.

Robert: I want readers to see the beauty in the imperfections and understand that every project, no matter how challenging, is a learning opportunity. Embracing the process is as important as the finished product.

Adam: What are your best tips for anyone interested in buying and renovating houses?

Cortney: Do your research and trust your instincts. Each house has its own character, and it's essential to respect that while making it your own. Also, always have a contingency plan for unexpected expenses.

Robert: Start with a solid plan but be flexible enough to adapt. Renovations rarely go exactly as planned. Building a reliable team of contractors and designers is crucial. Their expertise can save you time and money.

Adam: What are your best design tips?

Cortney: Mix high and low elements to create a unique and personalized space. Don’t be afraid to experiment with bold colors and patterns. Your home should be a reflection of your personality and lifestyle.

Robert: Pay attention to the flow of the space. Good design isn't just about aesthetics; it's about functionality. Consider how you move through the room and how each space connects to the next.

Adam: What are your best tips on the topics of sales, marketing, and branding?

Cortney: Authenticity is key. Your brand should reflect who you are and what you stand for. Build relationships with your audience and stay true to your vision.

Robert: Leverage social media to tell your story. Consistent and engaging content can build a loyal following. 

Adam: What do you believe are the defining qualities of an effective leader? How can leaders and aspiring leaders take their leadership skills to the next level?

Cortney: Empathy and communication are essential. A good leader listens and understands their team's needs and motivations. Encouraging a collaborative environment where everyone feels valued can drive success.

Robert: Lead by example and maintain integrity. Be decisive but also open to feedback. Continuous learning and adaptability are crucial for staying ahead in any industry.

Adam: What are the keys to working successfully with a spouse or another close family member or friend?

Cortney: Clear communication and setting boundaries are essential. We’ve learned to separate our personal and professional lives to maintain a healthy balance.

Robert: Respect each other’s strengths and weaknesses. Collaboration is about leveraging what each person brings to the table and supporting each other through challenges.

Adam: What is the single best piece of advice you have ever received?

Cortney: Not to let your wins and losses define you. Success and failure are part of the journey, but they don't determine your worth or potential.

Robert: Always stay curious and never stop learning. The world of design and renovation is constantly evolving, and staying curious helps us keep our work fresh and innovative.

Adam: Is there anything else you would like to share?

Cortney: We are incredibly grateful for the support of our fans and community. Their encouragement keeps us motivated to push boundaries and continue creating spaces that inspire.

Robert: We hope our journey inspires others to pursue their passions, no matter how unconventional. 


Adam Mendler is an entrepreneur, writer, speaker, educator, and nationally recognized authority on leadership. Adam is the creator and host of the business and leadership podcast Thirty Minute Mentors, where he goes one-on-one with America's most successful people - Fortune 500 CEOs, founders of household name companies, Hall of Fame and Olympic gold medal-winning athletes, political and military leaders - for intimate half-hour conversations each week. A top leadership speaker, Adam draws upon his insights building and leading businesses and interviewing hundreds of America's top leaders as a top keynote speaker to businesses, universities, and non-profit organizations. Adam has written extensively on leadership and related topics, having authored over 70 articles published in major media outlets including Forbes, Inc. and HuffPost, and has conducted more than 500 one on one interviews with America’s top leaders through his collective media projects. Adam teaches graduate-level courses on leadership at UCLA and is an advisor to numerous companies and leaders. A Los Angeles native, Adam is a lifelong Angels fan and an avid backgammon player.

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