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Flipping Out
Jeff Lewis

I went back to work for Courtney, hoping she had learned a lesson. I wanted a fresh start, a meeting of the minds and it seemed to be happening -- until her husband, Joe, entered the picture. I realized that what she was telling me was different from what she told her husband when Chris Ash let me know he had asked if my workers would stay if he fired me. This put me in a terrible position. I was afraid to tie up my crew with a non-paying project for me, but I also had no work for them and landing a well-paying job isn't all that easy. I was kind enough to let them stay and I feel satisfied in how I handled leaving Courtney. Still, I was extremely disappointed that she had fallen back into her old ways and we could not see eye to eye. It looks like the only person who changed in that situation was me, since I ended our work together with no anger and what I thought was a lot of generosity.

 I'm also happy with how things ended with Chris Keslar, since I was able to keep it professional. He just refused to acknowledge his mistakes, which irritated me beyond belief. A simple "I'm sorry" would have worked just fine, but he rarely apologized. Instead, he tried to justify his actions. I began to question his motives for working with me. I understand it takes a while to get used to having three cameras follow you wherever you go, but Chris seemed overly distracted. As a result, he made a lot of mistakes. Yes -- I teased him mercilessly, but I now realize that it was because I became increasingly suspicious about his motives. When I look back, I wonder if he was in it for his own advancement rather than making a contribution. He had failed to tell me that his mother and his sister had already appeared on Project Runway -- I learned of that much later. I also found out he was taking acting classes on Saturdays. This confused me because I was under the impression he wanted to pursue design. 

 I resolved that he must have been in it for the show. Why else would he have asked Zoila to trade seats with him so he could show the camera his best profile? (Is it possible that he could just be a vain man? Maybe.) By the way, Zoila is so perceptive, she was onto him before I started questioning his motives. Maybe this is why she seemed so agitated around him. At Jeff Lewis's office, my business comes before the show, while Chris was making the show more important. That isn't the way to get promoted. You get promoted by making yourself indispensable. And Chris was making himself disposable. I know I hazed him relentlessly, but his behavior was making me suspect and I was annoyed and disappointed. One afternoon, he interrupted an important meeting to ask me what he should wear in an upcoming photo shoot -- five days away..

Comments

111 Comments
09/23/2009 - 1:30pm
stacy steele

i can't start my day until i play pogo monopoly and win. so your intern, and your response to his behavior, had me in stitches~

09/09/2009 - 8:53am
jim

Jeff,

Your my idol. How much does an apprentice job pay or how much do I pay you?

09/08/2009 - 9:10pm
Lizz

Jeff- I can not stand reality shows, but I make a exception for your show. I think it is so addictive and entertaining. If you ever need an assistant in NY I would love to work for you.

09/01/2009 - 10:41pm
Viewer

The checkers routine in the morning for Trace sent me reeling off the sofa. I too cannot get ready for work until I complete yet one more hand of Jewel Quest Solitaire. And completing it is not enough. I don't more forward until I have topped my last score in that hand. On the bright side, I'm still not late for work, but I have to get up 2 hours earlier to be sure I can my "win" in and still be ready in time.

Be sure I have NEVER told anyone of this odd behavior. I suddenly feel really really close to Trace. He's a good boy; be nice now Jeff.

08/21/2009 - 9:10pm
cindy

I love you Jeff Lewis! I love your work and the way you think. You're not for everybody..sorry. But I love you!!! Loving this season so far. I know you won't be working for anybody too long!!

08/21/2009 - 2:56pm
Karen K

omg, i absolutely love this season! i cannot believe the checkers excuse and the look on jeff's face.

08/20/2009 - 11:16pm
tam

JEFF LOVE WELCOME BACK DO YOU EVER DO ANY MEET AND GREET IN
LA

08/20/2009 - 1:37pm
Viewer

LOVE that an 11 year old child put you in check!

08/19/2009 - 5:11pm
Laurette

I love all of you and i don't care about your phobias...lol
it must be hard in todays economy to do what you do? i give you alot of credit and you must be well loved by the people that stick by you.

Bravo to Jeff

08/19/2009 - 9:54am
Viewer

Jeff - I love your show. I would love for you to come and re-do my kitchen in Illinois. I have been a loyal fan of your show from the get-go. Love it!! Pam

08/19/2009 - 3:16am
Paul

Jeff,

Jenni is beautiful,sweet,and very "LOYAL" to you.Why do you treat her so mean at times.??.It's hard to find Good dedicated employee's.Be good to her,as she is the only one who understands JEFF LEWIS.

08/19/2009 - 2:28am
Triggerman

Jeff, you are a nut. A very talented guy but a nut. Jenny and Zoila are priceless. They really have your back. The rest? Not so much. Ryan reminds me of my ex. Had enough of you but still loves you and "gets" you and you will always be family. Same as mine. He has a new guy and a child also now so I relate to that. I am the crazy ex and uncle to his child. I know how that is. But, you are a nut. Single, driven and self-employed in So Cal if you ever want to grab a cocktail.

08/19/2009 - 1:17am
Susan

Jeff, I love the show. How much of Ryan and his staff will we see this year? I love the interchange between the 2 or you. Susan

08/17/2009 - 6:13pm
Terri

Love your show! Wondering if on the last episode season 2 if you were interviewing Jett Travolta? Looked just like him. The credits were shown so fast I couldn't tell....

08/17/2009 - 3:42pm
Joan

Oh yeah, I forgot to tell you that I am thrilled that the new season starts soon.
Love ya

08/17/2009 - 3:38pm
ViewerJoan

Hi Jeff,
I love you, your personality, your charm, sense of humor, everything and I am a Grandmother age 61. I get you completely and I love your show. I wish you the best.
One of your many fans.
Wisconsin

08/15/2009 - 5:44pm
Anna

Jeff, I adore you and the show. I'm watching re-runs right now. I must admit I could never work for you as I am sensitive. However at least your very honest about your quirks and you get the job done well everytime.I wish I could afford you for my house. I'm always rooting for you and your talent is remarkable. I'm looking forward to the show. Have a great season and know there are millions of us that love love love you.

08/15/2009 - 2:57pm
A new Fan

Here's what I've observed from viewing just ONE episode of your show. I would have also FIRED Chris for entering MY office for his own leisure. Jenny is going to be a headache. I repeat "JENNY IS GOING TO BE A HEADACHE" and a foreseen problem of the future. Don't trust her. There is always going to be a hidden grudge against you. YOU FIRED her husband whom she STILL loves. She is soo over dramatic and very dense. Come on, sending someone a blank check as well as having marital problems that spills into the workplace is a definite, unprofessional, NO! I understand that you are always trying to look out for your friends and people you care about but business is business. Chris K. threw me back when he got a little over worried about the nanny cam. Um Chris K., 90% of the corporate world has a computer tracker system and monthly/yearly investigation of its employees. Jeff, I say clean house. Get rid of these people that need a constant babysitter. There are students that would love to be a "non-paid" intern for you. There are Professional women and men in need of work. Jeff, keep up the good work and be very skeptical of EVERYTHING, especially when something feels out of place and/or is just not working in your favor.

08/12/2009 - 3:01pm
SANDRA L CUNNINGHAM

Hello Jeff, every comment is so so true, you are one of a kind.I think well I know I have ocd. I hav only been digose by my husband ha ha!! I told him if he did not leave me alone I was going to live with you. Can I? I was so excited when I see that you was coming back o.I live in a trailor, but it is not fancey but it is very very clean and nothing is out of place. and I have 2 beauiful dog's there are the loves of my life.so I do not thinkI will hav anything close to anything that you have. Unless I was tohit the lottery, then the frist thing I would do is come and meet you and ask if you would please hv me a beauiful house built, well I would hve you to over see the whole thing, but until then I can do what I always do when I watch every show,go to some good place and dream. so please do not ever change, and until I hit the lottery I will just dream!!!!!!!!!!! LOVE & Prayers Sandra!!

08/06/2009 - 9:06pm
barnie

i have been following your posts for a while now all i can say
is they are great. I look forward to reading more from you.

08/05/2009 - 6:56pm
Viewer

Jeff, So happy to learn your show is returning this month.
Your attention to detail and standards has inspired me in getting my house ready to sell so I can "downsize".
I love your sense of humor. Your show keeps me learning
AND in stitches.
Also love Zoila. I found your comments about her reaction to Chris K quite interesting. She's the insightful person!!!
Can't wait for the "drama in the house" to begin.......

08/05/2009 - 1:37pm
Viewer

In the upcoming episode...you say that you are gonna kill yourself...

07/31/2009 - 2:40pm
linda

So happy to see that there will be a season 3. I adore you, this show is my fav of all the bravo show. Look forward to the antics and drama created by the cast. Mostly love the the process of your projects from beginning to end, you are the man!

07/30/2009 - 11:43pm
MatthewinShermanOaks

Hi Jeff! I am a fan of your show and can't wait to see what incredible house you make over. I think of the magazine "Dwell" when I see some of your houses you completed and love the flow and function you plan and execute to perfection.

Don't let anyone change you or let them think you are OCD or too much of a perfectionist. It's a great skill to have and the world needs a few more of you to bring the quality of home rehabs to a new standard.

07/27/2009 - 9:00pm
k

Hey Jeff, we are very happy your show will be back on August 17. We love your show. Can`t wait!
All the Best1

07/24/2009 - 10:28pm
A. Susan

As many others have requested, I ask, please put your past seasons on DVD's.

I am beyond pleased to know you that are doing a third season.

Jeff, you inspire me to make changes in my surroundings and to strive for perfection.

You're a genius and I love Jenni and Zoila too.

You are the reason BRAVO truely earns a Bravo!

07/16/2009 - 10:01pm
rita

I love you guys!!!!! Waiting patiently for the return of Flipping Out. August can't get here quick enough!!!

07/16/2009 - 10:00pm
viewer

I am so glad to see that you will be back! Your show is my "guilty pleasure."

07/15/2009 - 11:20pm
Viewer

This show MAKES Bravos! Can't wait for its return. But, why aren't Seasons 1 or 2 on DVD? I want to buy the seasons on dvd. Please Bravo, make this available -I want to give you my monnneyy

07/15/2009 - 4:39pm
Great House Assistant

Hello Jeff, my husband and I are so excited that your show is coming back. I totally understand your way of thinking and can appreciate your sense of style, attention to detail, cleanliness and care when it comes to your home and dogs. My husband is just like you and I am so used to living with that same personality for the past 20 years. I have previously been an executive assistant and have been at my current job for the past 9 years. Although my job pays me very well and I have the security and benefits, I miss the hell out of being an assistant, call me crazzzy...but I funtion best under pressure and can handle alot! I watch your show and my husband and I say "you/I could totally do that job" and run circles around your last House Assistants, with no alterior motives, just the desire to work for someone that has passsion and vision, something that I possess myself. Oh, did I mention that I think Zoila is great?! and I also speak spanish, something very important.

07/13/2009 - 12:50pm
Cezua

Just saw the date for the new season. YAY.

07/13/2009 - 9:41am
Shannon

Jeff, you are an educated, brilliant man who pays such incredible attention to detail. I am shocked to watch you fuel your body with an endless supply of junk food and highly processed and refined food. No wonder you always feel stressed and anxious! These foods are poisoning your body, soul and mind. Please get a Naturopath or Nutritionist!
LOVE your show!
Shannon, Australia. xx

07/10/2009 - 5:54pm
SHARON B

YES BABY! I AM ELATED YOU ARE COMING BACK. YOU ARE TO THE POINT AND JUST DAMN GOOD AT WHAT YOU DO. CANT WAIT TO WATCH THIS SEASON. ANYONE WHO DOESNT APPRECIATE YOUR TALENT ... WELLL THEY CAN KEEP ON MOVING, WELCOME BACK.

07/05/2009 - 11:40pm
Debbie Charles

Hi Jeff, I am so glad to hear that you are coming back for a third season… I really missed your show. Jeff your homes are truly amazing, I wanted to know if you are the only designer or do you consult with others? Also have you always been as meticulous as you are now?

07/04/2009 - 11:43pm
Roz

Jeff, Love your show. I would be a wonderful assistance! I could even get your coffee right.

07/03/2009 - 12:17am
Gvde05

The new season starts,August 17 at 10PM ET/PT!

07/01/2009 - 1:12pm
Tara from Ohio

We want more flipping out !!!! Please tell me you're going to have third season !! We love the work you do !!
Also I would love to see you flip Kathy Griffins house.
My two fav. shows on at one time !!!!!!

06/24/2009 - 11:20pm
Season 3?

I love u, ur houses are beautiful!!!!!!!!
is there gonna be a season 3?

06/22/2009 - 11:55am
avid fan

Love your show, can't wait for next season. Now about your hiring practices. Your problem is you hire people for their looks, not people who really want to work. I don't know if the lack of good work ethics is a generational or geographic thing, but I believe if an employer says jump you ask how high. Hire someone who's not afraid to get their hands dirty.

I love your work, you are truly an artist!!!

06/22/2009 - 10:39am
Viewer

what do you order at pollo loco?

06/17/2009 - 9:32pm
Viewer

"Flipping Out" Season 3 comes back August 17. I can't wait!

06/17/2009 - 12:37pm
Richmond VA

Jeff!!! We're Flipping out without our Flipping Out!!! I love this show and always looked forward to watching every episode, sometimes more than once!! You are incredibly funny and adorable!

06/16/2009 - 10:17pm
glittergirl

YEAH!!! I just looked at Jeff's official website and it says Flipping Out is coming back in August.

06/15/2009 - 2:37pm
Viewer

When is season 3 coming? We miss you!!!

06/11/2009 - 7:31am
Amma

Hi Jeff,
I don't understand why some people may give you a hard time because you say it how it is!! I love this about you.
If you have employees working for you I completely understand that they are been paid to do their job and if someone is not to your standard then you are more than entitled to fired them! Keep up your great vision towards your work which may I add is amazing!! and if you ever do a show in Sydney, Australia I will like to be your Jenny..
Take care and I hope to see you soon "Down Under"

06/09/2009 - 5:04pm
Sheri Meese

When is season 3 coming out? SOON PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!

06/08/2009 - 11:32am
Viewer

Jeff, I truly love your show and activities that go along with it AND you sonderful partner. He also is fantasticj, plus his little girl; what a sweetheart. I'm quite elderly by the way

06/08/2009 - 11:30am
Viewer

anyone know if Jeff is coming back.

06/08/2009 - 7:41am
Christina

Hello Jeff, I miss seeing you on TV and wonder when you will be back on your reality show.

06/07/2009 - 5:43am
SUZY Ivancic

WE LOVE YOU HERE IN AUSTRALIA!!!!
CAN'T WAIT FOR THE NEXT SEASON

06/03/2009 - 2:54am
Craig

Jeff, I look forward to Monday nights when Flipping Out airs in Australia. You guy's are such characters and it really is a great source of enjoyment for me. I hope there is going to be another season so we can all follow the antics, you really are a stylish operator and good luck to all.

05/30/2009 - 1:47pm
Jennifer Dulgar

My husband and I love love love the show!I would love to see the floorplan of the house you gutted. When is the
next season???? Please tell me this summer!
Jenny

05/29/2009 - 8:44am
JROCK

Jeff,
I love you !
When are you coming back?

05/29/2009 - 8:27am
Tony Irons

i don't have a comment i just want to know will there be a new season this year and when will it start i'm a very big fan of the show.

05/27/2009 - 11:29pm
Adam

Mr. Lewis,
This season was awesome, and I can't wait for the next one whenever that is. Anyways I'm sraight and fat and I'm from cinncinasty Ohio so just keep in mind that your an inspiration to me all the way across the U.S.

Adam
P.S.
Have you thought of any probono work somewhere for an unfortunate family. It would probably make you and your crew more lovable as well as give you some publicity.

05/27/2009 - 12:32am
SeaNymphette

Jeff, you are the most infuriatingly obnoxious, anal retentive, narcissistic, obsessive/compulsive, picayune perfectionist I have ever seen. Half the time I think you're living with Shirley McClain on another new-agey, existentialist plane (with the dog psychics and cat-ccupuncturists). All that being said, every once in a while, we saw a glimpse of your generosity, your sensitivity, how tender and caring you could be to your employees and the people you care about. Now that was truly touching, and showed an inner beauty we rarely see on television. Even though you really, really, really got on my nerves, there is absolutely nobody on the planet I would trust to design my home, renovate my home, or recommend to me, the purchase of a home, more than you. That is definitely your genius and nobody does it better.

05/26/2009 - 9:42pm
Chrissy

Please bring this show back- my husband and I love watching. You guys are the best!!!
More flipping out soon PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

05/26/2009 - 8:49pm
Michelle

Jeff,

When are you going to come to Chicago and build me my dream bathroom? Jeff, do you actually read these posts?
I am coming out to LA in August, hope to see you. By the way my favorite scene of you is when you throw the doll on the floor and say bad baby. That reminds me of the you!

05/10/2009 - 2:07am
Brissy

Hi Jeff,

Just watching the episode where you had to let Chris go, I wanted you to know that I thought you handled the situation really well and I feel for Jenny of course. Keep producing the shows Jeff, because you have a great fan base here in Brisbane Australia.

05/09/2009 - 12:21am
Chrissy

When is the show going to be on again? I need my fix of Jeff!!!I Love you!

04/28/2009 - 10:57am
arusha

Hi! Jeff,
Greetings from India. My husband and I love watching your show together. Your ideas, your designs and not only that, the way you handle your crew, it's amazing and so much fun to watch. Hopefully, there is more coming.........looking foward to more shows featuring you.

04/28/2009 - 6:44am
Leila

Bad Baby! More please! I was thinking you should hire a woman as your house assistant. Women have a better work ethic, and have been dealing with demeaning positions in the workplace for decades. If the new guy doesn't work out you should place a want add in the paper: Sadist searching masochist for house assistant. Must be willing to crawl through dumpster, no questions asked.

Guy, you'd break me!

04/27/2009 - 7:43pm
Mitch

Hey Jeff, when are we going to see you with a man in your life? Mate, you are bloody a great guy to look at and to watch on tv. The property you do is amazing.

04/21/2009 - 10:36am
Angel

You are a Terrific good hearted friend to Jenni!! Besides the fact that you are terrific at your work, I think people should see how caring you are towards your friends and your animals, and that is what matters!!

04/18/2009 - 1:11am
Joseph

Jeff - please come to Vancouver and re-do my place! You are a treat to watch in action...

04/16/2009 - 6:03pm
Nancy

Jeff,

I love your design-style. I need you to come to my house and tell me what to do with it! I need more photos from the ouses you've done for ideas!

04/16/2009 - 3:18pm
Jenn

Jeff,
PLEASE DO TELL...what vacuum does Zoila use on your hardward? I have replayed TiVo so many times trying to stop on the vacuum that I probably need to buy a new TiVo. Thanks & I love the show!

04/16/2009 - 12:00pm
Jeff Nazzaro

When is the next season starting? I hope it is soon!! I love this show and have told many people about it - many new fans looking forward to the next season.

04/16/2009 - 10:05am
MP

Jeff,

My daughter and I adore your show and can't wait until the new season starts! Being a "detail oriented" person myself, I can appreciate your attention to detail and we think you and your staff are hysterically funny! Thank you for one of the best shows on tv!

04/14/2009 - 12:01am
Viewer

COME BACK JEFF

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE

04/13/2009 - 11:59pm
Sylvester

COME BACK JEFF
I MISS THE SHOW SO MUCH

ALSO WHY CANT I BUY SEASON 1 DVD OR SEASON 2 YOUR MISSIN OUT ON SOME $$$$$

04/13/2009 - 5:29am
Michelle - Sydney

Am a project manager in IT... thinking of property dev once this crash starts to bottom .. 2012? 2014? .. who knows.. but PM.. same principles.. different subject matter ...your show? … had hoped to see a little more flipping rather than flipping... if you know what mean. Don’t need to see profit per say.. But can you start to get more PM on me? Would like the added seriousness. Cheers . M from Sydney

04/11/2009 - 11:42am
Seth

Hey Jeff! I can't wait for your return for Season 3! You are one talented and well put-together guy. I also have to say that you are gorgeous, and I seem to have a bit of a crush on you! ;)

04/11/2009 - 4:37am
Viewer

Come back we all need another season of Flipping Out!!!!!!

04/10/2009 - 2:55am
Laguna Beach Fan

I love what you do. Are you for hire in Laguna Beach? If you ever make it to this part of town, I would love a consult.

04/07/2009 - 10:50pm
ViewerTRINA LLOYD

DEAR JEFF, I AM WAITING FOR YOU TO RETURN TO THE TUBE. I ALWAYS ENJOYED YOUR SHOW AND THE MEMBERS OF YOUR HOUSEHOLD. HURRY BACK.

04/07/2009 - 7:39pm
William Churchill

I too love to watch the show and feel such empathy for the other cast members. Why you and Ryan split is no mystery but it would be great if you found another man!

04/07/2009 - 1:49pm
Viewer

Jeff like so many others I am hooked on your show. While each member of the "cast" brings something special to the show it is clear to me that we are all so taken with the show because of you. At the risk of going overboard lets face it you are smart, handsome and obviously a shrewd businessman. I look forward to a new season.

04/07/2009 - 11:04am
Viewer

This show is sooo darn funny! I love Jeff he is too much and so over the top! Luv it luv it luv it!

04/05/2009 - 4:37pm
Judi in Florida

Looking forward to seeing you again soon. I'm sure the market will affect how this show goes. Jeff, you are a nut case, but a loveable one!

04/01/2009 - 1:07pm
paula

Hello Jeff and Jenni..Last nights episode brought tears to my eyes Jenni was crying in the car it was so sad to see her so upset. I love the show don't ever change you are what you are..I too hope there is a third series...All the best from Wales ..UK..

04/01/2009 - 10:28am
joanne

Hey Jeff: Love your show but I have a nagging suspicion that Chris Elwood was rooting through your private stuff and computer for another show he does, namely punked. Any thoughts on that?

03/31/2009 - 4:10pm
Rob in London UK

Hey Jeff

Love the show and you are fab!
From one OCD to another....we rock!
Hope we see another season very soon.
All the Best.

03/28/2009 - 6:41am
Deb K

When are you coming back? I love the show...you are a real paradox....a really nice guy at heart who treats people like crap....I admire you chutzpah!

03/28/2009 - 12:55am
K2 in Vegas

Jeff, I saw you on the awards commerical! Just start another show pronto!!!K

03/27/2009 - 11:06pm
Emma

Greetings from County Wicklow, Ireland.
Firstly thank you for one of the most interesting shows on TV. Your attention to detail is incredible, and I absolutely adore your designs. With regard to the above, I'm rather afraid to say I got the same irritable feeling as Zoila. Lastly, if you get a moment, do you think you could possibly fly to Ireland and help me with my house - I had the in-conceived notion that my home was rather nice. I'm very much mistaken. It's a dump!
Jenni - I went to Starbucks earlier (for a latte) and bought a thermometer - would this be of help to you should temperature issues raise their head again, please be advised however it has a rather sharp end.... Emma

03/27/2009 - 1:52pm
Victoria

Jeff, You have no idea how much I miss you and your show! Please tell us you're coming back!! Every now and then I have to play one of the old episodes just to get my "flipping out" fix! Please come back soon!!

03/27/2009 - 7:55am
Viewer

Jeff you are so handsome. If you fathered a child it would be very good looking. I hope one day you will father a child.

03/24/2009 - 1:06pm
Seana

Jeff,
when are coming back????Please hurry i totaly love what your about perfection.... your so freakin interesting!
Great television show! I"m addicted to you....Seana

03/23/2009 - 2:52pm
NR

Where are you? Are you coming back? My husband and I really miss your show and would love to have you back on TV.

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