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Andrea Heuston

From Survival to Revival

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Daisy Auger-Domínguez is the Founder, CEO, and Fractional Interim Chief People Officer at Auger-Domínguez Ventures, where she partners with executives through fractional and interim CPO engagements, executive coaching, and interactive keynotes. As an award-winning global C-suite executive, advisor, and thought leader, she specializes in building strong, supportive, and productive cultures.

Daisy has held leadership roles and driven organizational transformation at Moody’s Investors Service, Google, Disney, and Vice Media. She is also the author of Inclusion Revolution and Burnt Out to Lit Up, which provide practical strategies for building inclusive workplaces and revitalizing leadership practices.

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Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

  • [3:11] How a sabbatical inspired Daisy Auger-Domínguez to launch a consultancy
  • [9:25] Daisy talks about the role of storytelling and culture in her business
  • [13:35] Why Daisy wrote Burnt Out to Lit Up after experiencing burnout as a chief people officer
  • [16:55] How Burnt Out to Lit Up helps leaders recognize burnout and rediscover fulfillment
  • [21:25] Using the Japanese concept of ikigai to reconnect with purpose
  • [27:42] Tips for addressing racial bias and discrimination throughout the employee lifecycle 

In this episode...

Burnout is an all-too-familiar experience in the workplace, especially for leaders balancing people management with high performance. As professional demands grow and organizational culture lags behind, how can leaders sustain their energy, lead with purpose, and inspire their teams without losing themselves in the process?

Workplace strategist and leadership expert Daisy Auger-Domínguez has developed strategies for conquering burnout and leading with intention. To sustain energy and inspire others, she recommends beginning with self-awareness by using the Japanese ikigai framework to connect your strengths and passions with team needs and payment structures. Leaders can also set clear boundaries, reshape harmful narratives, and use scripted, compassionate conversations to address tension within teams. 

In this episode of the Lead Like a Woman Show, Andrea Heuston interviews Daisy Auger-Domínguez, Founder and CEO of Auger-Domínguez Ventures, about creating sustainable leadership while avoiding burnout. Daisy explains how to dismantle racial bias and discrimination in the workplace, the role of storytelling and culture in leadership, and how to reignite your passion.

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Quotable Moments:
  • “I walked into my storytelling era; I didn’t know it would resonate with so many others.”
  • “Avoiding burnout is not to not work; it’s how we do the work that matters.”
  • “How do we build work that energizes, empowers, and fuels progress, not just survival?”
  • “We can’t build shared understanding and trust if we’re constantly in this righteous place of stories.”
  • “Don’t forget the human in human resources. When we get that right, everything is right.”
Action Steps:
  1. Reflect on what energizes and drains you: Understanding your personal energy drivers helps you make intentional choices about how and where to invest your time. This clarity prevents burnout and enhances your ability to lead effectively.
  2. Use the ikigai framework to define your purpose: Mapping out what you love, do well, and can be paid for helps align your work with meaning. Purpose-driven work increases motivation and long-term sustainability.
  3. Establish clear communication scripts for tough conversations: Providing managers and employees with language tools empowers respectful, productive dialogue during high-stress or emotional moments. This fosters psychological safety and stronger team relationships.
  4. Revisit your workplace narratives continuously: Questioning internal stories about rejection or failure can transform conflict into opportunities for growth. This shift enables more empathy, self-awareness, and effective collaboration.
  5. Design workplaces that revitalize, not deplete: Prioritizing well-being, creativity, and positive energy ensures organizations support sustained high performance. A thriving workplace culture attracts and retains top talent.

Sponsor for this episode…​

This episode is brought to you by Lead Like a Woman, a podcast dedicated to empowering women to unlock their leadership potential and amplify their voices.

We’re excited to introduce our new newsletter, which brings you exclusive access to past podcast episodes, products and services from our incredible podcast guests, unique Lead Like a Woman merch, and valuable opportunities to help you grow and lead.

To sign up for our newsletter and stay connected, send an email to andrea@leadlikeawoman.biz, and we’ll get you on the list today.

And the easiest way to find us? Simply type #LeadLikeAWoman into your search bar.

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We’re Stronger Together

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Miren Oca is the Director of Ocaquatics Swim School, a mission-driven organization and Certified B Corporation. Ocaquatics focuses on water safety, community impact, and environmental responsibility, including carbon neutrality and support for clean water initiatives. Miren is also the Founder of Ripples of Impact, a nonprofit offering resources for personal and environmental resilience. She has been inducted into the US Swim School Association Hall of Fame and recognized in Forbes for using business as a force for good.

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Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

  • [3:09] How an unexpected pregnancy shifted Miren Oca’s career path from aspiring orthopedic surgeon to swim instructor
  • [4:55] Why Miren grew her swim school into a business focused on drowning prevention in Florida
  • [10:14] Miren shares how becoming B Corp certified improved her company’s environmental and social impact
  • [13:21] The decision to convert Ocaquatics into an employee-owned business
  • [20:39] Ripples of Impact’s mission to extend water safety to underserved communities
  • [23:10] Miren’s future community endeavors

In this episode...

Running a business with heart can feel like an uphill battle, especially when profitability seems at odds with purpose. Many entrepreneurs wonder how to lead with values, uplift their team, and still build a thriving enterprise. How can you grow a mission-driven company that puts people and the planet first without sacrificing success?

As a leadership-focused entrepreneur and social impact advocate, Miren Oca has built a values-based organization from the ground up. She emphasizes aligning business operations with purpose, which has allowed her to obtain a B Corp certification, transition to employee ownership, and develop an entrepreneurial mindset through financial literacy and internal growth. Entrepreneurs can also leverage peer groups and community support to foster mission-driven growth.

In this episode of the Lead Like a Woman Show, Andrea Heuston sits down with Miren Oca, the Director of Ocaquatics Swim School, to discuss building a business that saves lives and empowers employees. Miren shares how she transitioned her company’s focus, her employee-owned business structure, and how she launched her nonprofit to expand community impact.

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Quotable Moments:
  • “Lack of funds builds creativity. And poof, there was a lot of lack of funds.”
  • “We are different, and we make a difference.”
  • “We have a business that saves lives and does so much more.”
  • “Your frontline team members are the ones who have all the best ideas.”
  • “You get much fuel from others by listening to their experiences; learning from them.”
Action Steps:
  1. Develop an ownership mindset among employees: Teaching team members to think like owners enhances engagement, accountability, and long-term commitment to company goals. This mindset shift leads to more effective and empowered teams who contribute to overall business success.
  2. Invest in financial literacy training: Helping employees understand both personal and business finances fosters informed decision-making and builds trust within the organization. This knowledge equips team members to participate meaningfully in profit-sharing and operational improvements.
  3. Leverage B Corp tools to assess impact: Using the B Impact Assessment provides a structured way to measure and improve your company’s social and environmental performance. Even without certification goals, this tool offers valuable strategies for running a values-aligned business.
  4. Grow leaders from within the organization: Promoting and developing existing team members encourages loyalty and creates a culture of continuous growth. It also ensures leadership reflects the company’s core values and firsthand operational experience.
  5. Create community-driven initiatives aligned with your mission: Expanding your impact through nonprofit efforts or social programs builds brand authenticity and fulfills a higher purpose. These initiatives can amplify your company’s reach while reinforcing its values among both employees and customers.

Sponsor for this episode…​

This episode is brought to you by Lead Like a Woman, a podcast dedicated to empowering women to unlock their leadership potential and amplify their voices.

We’re excited to introduce our new newsletter, which brings you exclusive access to past podcast episodes, products and services from our incredible podcast guests, unique Lead Like a Woman merch, and valuable opportunities to help you grow and lead.

To sign up for our newsletter and stay connected, send an email to andrea@leadlikeawoman.biz, and we’ll get you on the list today.

And the easiest way to find us? Simply type #LeadLikeAWoman into your search bar.

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Dealing With a Workplace Bully

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Vicky Oliver is an award-winning author of six books on career development, business etiquette, and office politics. She is also the Non-fiction and Art Editor for LIT Magazine, The New School journal for the MFA program. Vicky’s career advice has been featured in over 900 media outlets, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and Esquire.

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Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

  • [2:20] How hiring unprepared candidates inspired Vicky Oliver to write career development books
  • [4:11] Why Vicky decided to pursue traditional publishing despite early rejections
  • [6:01] Vicky gives an overview of her six bestselling books on careers, etiquette, and frugal living
  • [8:15] How women can define, identify, and confront workplace bullying
  • [17:05] Tips for finding allies in the workplace and recognizing bullying patterns

In this episode...

Workplace bullying is a pervasive issue that can be difficult to define and even harder to confront, especially for women. Teasing disguised as humor, passive-aggressive comments, or public callouts can chip away at a person’s confidence and job satisfaction. How can professionals take back their power in environments where subtle harassment is tolerated or ignored?

To identify and address bullying without jeopardizing your professional reputation, award-winning author on business etiquette Vicky Oliver suggests documenting incidents privately and expressing concerns calmly. Women can also partner with allies and track personal achievements to protect themselves from being labeled as the instigator. If the situation escalates, Vicky recommends a tiered approach: address the bully directly, then seek support from allies, and finally consider involving HR if the incidents don’t resolve.

In this episode of the Lead Like a Woman Show, Andrea Heuston interviews bestselling author Vicky Oliver about reclaiming power from workplace bullies. Vicky shares how to document inappropriate behavior, respond with professionalism, and protect your workplace reputation.

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Quotable Moments:
  • “If you feel you are being bullied, then you are bullied.”
  • “You are better off keeping a private list. Keep a little list.”
  • “Document your wins. If someone says to you, ‘Hey, you did a fantastic job on this,’ say thank you.”
  • “The enemy you know is better than the enemy you don’t.”
  • “Be good at your job. Be helpful. Solve a problem, and you’ll be fine.”
Action Steps:
  1. Document workplace bullying incidents privately: Keeping a detailed record of inappropriate behavior helps establish a pattern and protects your credibility. This documentation can be crucial if you need to escalate the issue to HR or leadership.
  2. Use “I messages” in difficult conversations: Expressing your concerns using statements like “I feel” reduces defensiveness and promotes constructive dialogue. This approach helps maintain professionalism and keeps the focus on behavior rather than blame.
  3. Choose the right time to address conflict: Avoid confronting bullying during high-stress or chaotic moments in the workplace. Waiting for a calm, private opportunity ensures your message is better received and taken seriously.
  4. Identify allies within your organization: Connecting with others who may have experienced similar treatment builds support and validates your concerns. Allies can offer guidance, speak up on your behalf, or corroborate patterns of behavior.
  5. Ask for positive feedback in writing: When someone compliments your work, request they document it in an email or tell a colleague. This creates a paper trail that reinforces your value and counters potential negative narratives.

Sponsor for this episode…​

This episode is brought to you by Lead Like a Woman, a podcast dedicated to empowering women to unlock their leadership potential and amplify their voices.

We’re excited to introduce our new newsletter, which brings you exclusive access to past podcast episodes, products and services from our incredible podcast guests, unique Lead Like a Woman merch, and valuable opportunities to help you grow and lead.

To sign up for our newsletter and stay connected, send an email to andrea@leadlikeawoman.biz, and we’ll get you on the list today.

And the easiest way to find us? Simply type #LeadLikeAWoman into your search bar.

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Relationships = Opportunities

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Michelle Arpin Begina is the Founder of MichelleAB, where she empowers professional women to gain financial freedom. She is also the Senior Partner and Managing Director at Snowden Lane Partners, an independent wealth advisory firm. As a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) and Certified Investment Management Analyst (CIMA®), Michelle has over 20 years of experience in financial literacy.

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Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

  • [2:57] Michelle Arpin Begina shares why she wrote her book Be Good With Money
  • [6:58] Michelle’s first experience with money as a child and the concept of “financial déjà vu”
  • [17:21] How to recognize emotional money patterns to make informed financial decisions
  • [20:05] What are “money-isms”?
  • [24:46] Michelle shares inspirational quotes and advice

In this episode...

Women strive to maximize their careers, relationships, and health, but struggle to manage their finances. Despite having advisors and resources, many still feel insecure or avoidant around financial decisions. Why are conversations around money so uncomfortable, and how can women break this barrier?

According to financial advisor and therapist Michelle Arpin Begina, our earliest money experiences and unconscious emotional patterns shape our financial perspectives as adults. She explains the importance of identifying emotional triggers and embedded beliefs surrounding money that influence decision-making. Security, freedom, power, and love often drive financial behaviors, so Michelle encourages women to reflect on their first money conversations and explore how these narratives influence them. 

In this episode of the Lead Like a Woman Show, Andrea Heuston interviews Michelle Arpin Begina, Founder of MichelleAB, about how past experiences shape financial decisions. Michelle talks about financial déjà vu, the four emotional motivations behind money behavior, and the role of vulnerability in building financial confidence.

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Quotable Moments:
  • “At six, I was already tying my values to my money.”
  • “The most important thing to know about your money is yourself.”
  • “Flash points can become flashbacks later… I actually call it financial déjà vu.”
  • “We attend to our money basically from four different motivations: security, freedom, power, and love.”
  • “Because you told your story, I can now tell mine.”
Action Steps:
  1. Reflect on your earliest money conversations: Exploring childhood financial memories can uncover unconscious patterns that still shape adult decisions. Understanding where your money mindset originated is the first step toward making more intentional financial choices.
  2. Identify your emotional money drivers: Recognizing whether your decisions are rooted in love, security, freedom, or power helps guide healthier behavior. This awareness brings clarity when you’re faced with tough financial choices.
  3. Get curious when financial patterns repeat: Repeated financial missteps may be emotional flashbacks or “financial déjà vu.” By noticing these patterns, you can break the cycle and make more empowering decisions.
  4. Talk openly about money with those close to you: Conversations about money with partners, family, or colleagues can reduce shame and increase confidence. Openness builds understanding and strengthens financial relationships.
  5. Consider working with a financial therapist: If your financial behavior doesn’t align with your goals despite having a clear plan, deeper emotional support may be needed. A financial therapist can help address the root causes of these disconnects.

Sponsor for this episode…​

This episode is brought to you by Lead Like a Woman, a podcast dedicated to empowering women to unlock their leadership potential and amplify their voices.

We’re excited to introduce our new newsletter, which brings you exclusive access to past podcast episodes, products and services from our incredible podcast guests, unique Lead Like a Woman merch, and valuable opportunities to help you grow and lead.

To sign up for our newsletter and stay connected, send an email to andrea@leadlikeawoman.biz, and we’ll get you on the list today.

And the easiest way to find us? Simply type #LeadLikeAWoman into your search bar.

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I Can Learn From a Cockroach

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Veronica Karas is the Principal of CAPTRUST, a financial advisory where she provides comprehensive financial planning services to high-net-worth individuals and small businesses. With over a decade of experience as a Certified Financial Planner™, she specializes in areas such as estate planning, retirement planning, tax strategies, and insurance. Veronica is also the author of the Money Matters book series, which enhances financial literacy. Beyond her professional endeavors, she serves as the Co-president of the CAPTRUST Community Foundation. 

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Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

  • [3:06] Veronica Karas shares how her family’s immigrant experience inspired her passion for financial literacy
  • [10:28] The lessons Veronica learned starting her financial planning career during the 2008 recession
  • [16:52] Veronica outlines the unique financial challenges women face across their life cycle
  • [22:29] Why Veronica wrote the Money Matters book series and the importance of financial literacy
  • [29:49] Veronica’s work to expand financial literacy in schools through book donations and partnerships
  • [31:56] Advice for women to become financially literate

In this episode...

When it comes to managing finances, many women feel overwhelmed and disconnected. With outdated systems, unequal pay, and societal norms that often leave them out of financial conversations, financial literacy can feel like a foreign language. How can you take control of your financial future?

Financial literacy advocate Veronica Karas maintains that financial literacy isn’t just for experts; it’s essential for everyone. Women can understand money by acknowledging that they are capable of learning financial concepts despite historical and societal conditioning that convinces them otherwise. Veronica encourages women to leverage online resources and meet with Certified Financial Planners for personalized guidance.

In today’s episode of the Lead Like a Woman Show, Andrea Heuston meets with Veronica Karas, the Principal of CAPTRUST, to talk about how she empowers women through financial literacy. Veronica discusses the long-term impacts of financial planning, how she expands financial literacy in schools, and what she learned launching her financial planning career during the 2008 recession.

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Quotable Moments:
  • “If a service professional tells you not to worry about it, you should worry about it.”
  • “You can make it beautiful, and you can turn it into anything you want it to be.”
  • “You could be keeping $1,000 more in your pocket every single month.”
  • “You have to participate in your own financial life and really take control of it.”
  • “It’s much harder to learn how to write a check when you’re 94 than when you’re 34.”
Action Steps:
  1. Start learning basic financial literacy as early as possible: Building knowledge about money management, taxes, and credit early can help avoid costly mistakes later in life. Even small steps — like understanding interest rates or reading a book — create a strong foundation for future financial decisions.
  2. Take advantage of free financial planning resources: Tools like the Financial Planning Association’s pro bono network connect you with certified professionals at no cost. These resources can provide tailored advice without the pressure of sales-driven services.
  3. Teach financial concepts to your children: Introducing kids to money through games or conversations helps normalize financial literacy from a young age. This early exposure empowers the next generation to make confident and informed financial choices.
  4. Don’t ignore your tax forms — learn how they work: Understanding documents like the W-4 helps ensure accurate withholdings, preventing large refunds or unexpected tax bills. Proper knowledge can increase your monthly income and reduce your reliance on tax-season “bonuses.”
  5. Reassess your financial plan after major life events: Divorce, death, career changes, or starting a business can all drastically alter your financial landscape. Being proactive in these moments helps you regain control and make decisions with long-term benefits.

Sponsor for this episode…​

This episode is brought to you by Lead Like a Woman, a podcast dedicated to empowering women to unlock their leadership potential and amplify their voices.

We’re excited to introduce our new newsletter, which brings you exclusive access to past podcast episodes, products and services from our incredible podcast guests, unique Lead Like a Woman merch, and valuable opportunities to help you grow and lead.

To sign up for our newsletter and stay connected, send an email to andrea@leadlikeawoman.biz, and we’ll get you on the list today.

And the easiest way to find us? Simply type #LeadLikeAWoman into your search bar.

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You WANT To Be Uncomfortable

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Kamila Gornia is the Founder, CEO, and Business Coach at Heart Behind Hustle, where she helps small businesses, personal brands, coaches, and course creators build, grow, and scale their companies. She is also the CEO and Corporate Trainer at Accelerated Impact Online, which helps corporate teams improve the productivity, systems, and results of their online marketing campaigns. Since 2014, Kamila has assisted over 25,000 entrepreneurs, contributing to more than $2 million in revenue. Her expertise has been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur, Inc., and The Huffington Post.

Kamilia Gornia
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Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

  • [2:46] How Kamila Gornia transitioned from side hustles to building Heart Behind Hustle
  • [8:38] Kamila’s early experience with online marketing at age 12
  • [13:28] The psychology of sales and how consumer behavior has shifted
  • [16:17] How specificity and transparency in marketing help break through the noise
  • [19:19] Kamila shares her approach to sales
  • [21:19] What is Evergreen Icon™, and how does it help coaches and course creators?
  • [24:51] Managing mindset and overcoming imposter syndrome as a coach

In this episode...

When launching an online business, the constant demand for sales calls, social media engagement, and client outreach can be overwhelming. How can business owners create a sustainable, scalable model that generates revenue?

Business coach Kamila Gornia has built automated, evergreen sales systems that free up entrepreneurs’ time while increasing revenue. She emphasizes shifting from an employee mindset to a CEO mindset, focusing on transparent sales psychology, and leveraging automation to attract the right clients. Kamila advises entrepreneurs to refine their messaging, clearly communicate their unique approach, and implement systems that allow their business to run smoothly without constant manual input.

In this week’s episode of the Lead Like a Woman Show, Andrea Heuston interviews Kamila Gornia, the Founder, CEO, and Business Coach at Heart Behind Hustle, about launching an online coaching business. Kamila discusses her proprietary approach to sales, how coaches can overcome imposter syndrome, and her early experience with online marketing at 12 years old.

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Quotable Moments:
  • “I needed to stop thinking like an employee and start thinking about what I get to create.”
  • “The more specific you can get, the more believable your offer becomes.”
  • “My job in my marketing is not to teach them the details; it’s to enroll their perspective.”
  • “Instead of chasing clients, I let my marketing attract the right people who already resonate.”
  • “If you’re not willing to be uncomfortable, you’re not growing; you’re just hanging out.”
Action Steps:
  1. Shift from an employee mindset to a CEO mindset: Viewing yourself as a business owner rather than just a service provider allows for greater strategic decision-making. This shift enables entrepreneurs to focus on long-term growth rather than day-to-day survival.
  2. Use transparent messaging to build trust: Clearly outlining what your offer includes and how you achieve results reduces skepticism among potential clients. When people understand the approach upfront, they are more likely to engage and stay committed.
  3. Leverage automation for marketing and sales: Setting up automated sales funnels and lead generation through ads ensures consistent revenue without constant manual effort. This frees up time for business owners to focus on higher-impact activities like content creation and client experience.
  4. Position yourself as a thought leader: Sharing insights and perspectives through content — whether on social media, podcasts, or emails — establishes credibility. When people resonate with your way of thinking, they are more likely to seek out your offers.
  5. Get comfortable with discomfort: Growth happens when entrepreneurs take calculated risks and challenge themselves beyond their comfort zones. Pushing for expansion and new opportunities continually ensures long-term success and prevents stagnation.

Sponsor for this episode…​

This episode is brought to you by Lead Like a Woman, a podcast dedicated to empowering women to unlock their leadership potential and amplify their voices.

We’re excited to introduce our new newsletter, which brings you exclusive access to past podcast episodes, products and services from our incredible podcast guests, unique Lead Like a Woman merch, and valuable opportunities to help you grow and lead.

To sign up for our newsletter and stay connected, send an email to andrea@leadlikeawoman.biz, and we’ll get you on the list today.

And the easiest way to find us? Simply type #LeadLikeAWoman into your search bar.

Don’t Let Anyone Tell You No

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Lori Mazan is the Co-Founder, President, and Chief Coaching Officer of Sounding Board, a leadership development firm offering a tech-driven, human-centric approach to leadership development. With over 25 years of executive coaching experience, she has provided tens of thousands of coaching sessions to top leaders, including Fortune 100 CEOs and venture-backed startup executives. Lori is among the first 250 coaches globally to be certified by the International Coach Federation (ICF). She is also the author of Leadership Revolution: The Future of Developing Dynamic Leaders, which explores innovative approaches to leadership development. 

Lori Mazan
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Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

  • [3:12] Lori Mazan’s journey from social work to executive coaching and tech leadership
  • [9:41] How Lori and her co-founder built Sounding Board
  • [16:37] Why women should take risks
  • [21:49] The role of leadership coaching in professional development
  • [25:29] Lori shares concepts from her book Leadership Revolution
  • [31:02] The power matching strategy: how to assert yourself in male-dominated spaces

In this episode...

Many women leaders struggle with adapting to change, inspiring their teams, and making confident decisions in high-stakes environments. With evolving leadership expectations, how can executives and entrepreneurs develop the skills to thrive in today’s fast-moving world?

Executive coach Lori Mazan emphasizes the role of coaching in developing dynamic leaders. Coaching allows leaders to clarify their desires, develop resilience and adaptability, and challenge binary thinking. Through power matching — a technique for asserting presence in leadership interactions without overpowering or backing down — leaders can navigate complex workplace dynamics with confidence.

In this episode of the Lead Like a Woman Show, Andrea Heuston chats with Lori Mazan, Co-Founder, President, and Chief Coaching Officer at Sounding Board, about leadership development. Lori explains why women leaders must embrace risk-taking, how to secure venture capital through persistence, and the importance of shifting your mindset.

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Quotable Moments:
  • “Stop fixing yourself. You’re good the way you are. Just get clear on what you want and go for it.”
  • “Venture capital is all about the future. Investors want to see the dream, not just the numbers.”
  • “If you can think of it, you can do it. Don’t let anyone else tell you no.”
  • “Leadership isn’t about reacting; it’s about being at choice in how you navigate change.”
  • “Power matching is about meeting authority where it is — not shrinking or overpowering, but standing strong.”
Action Steps:
  1. Take risks from where you are now: Don’t wait until you feel fully prepared. The right moment is now, and taking action will create momentum.
  2. Ask why when faced with rejection: If someone says no — whether for funding, a job, or an opportunity — ask why, fix the issue, and try again.
  3. Practice power matching: When encountering dominant personalities, match their energy instead of shrinking or overcompensating. This creates an equal power dynamic.
  4. Adopt a nonbinary mindset: Instead of choosing between two limited options, seek a third, better solution that expands possibilities.
  5. Get a leadership coach: Having a thinking partner who pushes you to reach your goals can be the difference between stagnation and success.

Sponsor for this episode…​

This episode is brought to you by Lead Like a Woman, a podcast dedicated to empowering women to unlock their leadership potential and amplify their voices.

We’re excited to introduce our new newsletter, which brings you exclusive access to past podcast episodes, products and services from our incredible podcast guests, unique Lead Like a Woman merch, and valuable opportunities to help you grow and lead.

To sign up for our newsletter and stay connected, send an email to andrea@leadlikeawoman.biz, and we’ll get you on the list today.

And the easiest way to find us? Simply type #LeadLikeAWoman into your search bar.

It’s Okay To Be Fabulous!

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Emily Blumenthal, known as the “Handbag Fairy Godmother,” is the author of Handbag Designer 101, a comprehensive guide for aspiring designers. She also founded the Independent Handbag Designer Awards to spotlight emerging talent and hosts the Handbag Designer 101 podcast, which showcases the stories behind iconic handbag brands. Emily is a Professor of Entrepreneurship at the Fashion Institute of Technology.

Emily Blumenthal
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Here’s a glimpse of what you’ll learn:

  • [5:10] Emily Blumenthal’s journey from working in media to creating her handbag empire
  • [11:34] The challenges women face building and scaling a business
  • [16:20] Emily talks about the skill sets that propelled her business forward
  • [19:31] The creation of Handbag Designer 101 and the Independent Handbag Designer Awards
  • [22:25] A synopsis of Savvy Suzanna — Emily’s upcoming book on entrepreneurship for kids
  • [26:26] What is the CASM (customer, agony, solution, monetization) framework?

In this episode...

Many women entrepreneurs struggle with scaling their businesses, often finding themselves stuck between growth and control. They are conditioned to take on too much, fearing delegation might dilute their brand or message. How can female founders shift from managing every detail to building sustainable, scalable businesses?

Handbag industry expert and entrepreneur Emily Blumenthal has developed the CASM framework — customer, agony, solution, and monetization — to validate business ideas before investing resources. This methodology, combined with persistence, allowed Emily to land her products on Sex and the City and QVC. She encourages female entrepreneurs to embrace delegation, reframe failure as a stepping stone to success, and develop clear strategies for long-term growth. 

In today’s episode of the Lead Like a Woman Show, Andrea Heuston chats with Emily Blumenthal, the author of Handbag Designer 101, about her entrepreneurial insights. She talks about empowering young girls through early entrepreneurship, the skill sets she leveraged to launch her business, and the origins of the Independent Handbag Designer Awards.

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Quotable Moments:
  • “We are not built to scale; we are built to control.”
  • “If you want to teach kids to have hopes, wishes, and dreams, teach them how to fail.”
  • “You can’t fly if you don’t try. You don’t even realize you’re flying until you fall.”
  • “Homework is free. Do as much market research as you can before spending money.”
  • “Has it led to sales? What’s the conversion rate? Feet on the ground, and it makes sense.”
Action Steps:
  1. Understand your customer before launching a product: Identifying your target audience’s needs ensures your product solves a real problem in the market. Without this clarity, entrepreneurs risk wasting time and resources on ideas that lack demand.
  2. Embrace failure as a learning opportunity: Viewing setbacks as stepping stones to success helps entrepreneurs refine their strategies and improve resilience. Every failure provides insights that can be used to pivot, adapt, and grow a stronger business.
  3. Develop persistence and follow-up skills: Reaching out repeatedly, as long as it’s done strategically, can open doors that seem closed. Building relationships through persistence and humor can turn a rejection into an opportunity.
  4. Secure your brand name and trademarks early: Owning social media handles and trademarks prevents legal disputes and strengthens brand recognition. This proactive step ensures long-term control and protection of your business identity.
  5. Start small and test before investing heavily: Conducting market research and creating a minimum viable product minimizes risks and maximizes learning. Entrepreneurs who validate their ideas before scaling are more likely to build sustainable businesses.

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