What Founders Actually Feel When Scaling Their Business (It's Not What You See on Social Media)

Lauren Stephens of Dudley Stephens on Shame, Motivation, and Building a Family-Owned Business

This episode is something a little different: an actual recorded coaching call with Lauren Stephens, co-founder and CEO of Dudley Stephens, the fleece apparel brand she built with her sister Kaki into an eight-figure business. Lauren and Ann Marie have been friends since college, which means this conversation goes deep fast. Lauren talks openly about the shame she's carried around never raising outside capital, what it felt like to watch her company's explosive early growth level off, and the identity crisis that came with learning to manage a team for the first time. She also gets into something most founders don't say out loud: the guilt of being pulled in two directions, one part of her chasing bigger and faster growth, the other deeply protective of the autonomy and family-first business she actually built. This is a real coaching session, not a polished interview, and it shows what it actually looks like to work through the mental chatter that holds founders back. What we cover: * Why staying self-funded isn't a failure, even when it feels that way * The shame cycle that comes with comparing your business to others who raised money * Learning to manage people and lead through conflict without taking everything personally * Reconnecting with the original reason you started your business in the first place Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube Guest: Lauren Stephens, co-founder and CEO of Dudley Stephens: www.dudley-stephens.com [http://www.dudley-stephens.com] Special Shout-Out: Kris Plachy, our fabulous business coach and CEO of The Visionary CEO: https://www.thevisionary.ceo/ [https://www.thevisionary.ceo/]

What Founders Actually Feel When Scaling Their Business (It's Not What You See on Social Media)

What does it actually feel like to build a business from the ground up? Not the highlight reel version, but the real one: the imposter syndrome when you post your first job listing, the moment you realize someone is depending on you for their livelihood, the exhaustion that doesn't stop even when things are going well. In this episode, Ann Marie McHenry, founder of Rose & Stone Consulting, LLC, pushes back on a trend she's been seeing on social media: the idea that building a successful business is about reaching the top and collecting praise. She shares what scaling a team actually looks like, why knowing your numbers is non-negotiable, and what success really feels like when you're living it. Featuring a nod to Liesel Kiel of Central Saucy (www.centralsaucy.com [http://www.centralsaucy.com]) and Shelby Leigh, nervous system and neurodivergent coach at Rose & Stone Consulting, LLC (https://www.roseandstonellc.com/shelby [https://www.roseandstonellc.com/shelby]). If you're a female founder, business owner, or leader who wants an honest conversation about what building something really costs, this one is for you.

Shelby Leigh: Neuro-affirming Embodied Leadership Coach & AuDHD Specialist

The conversation covers topics related to neurodiversity, neurocomplexity, Complex PTSD and nervous system support. It explores the challenges and experiences of individuals with autism and ADHD, as well as the importance of creating a safe and affirming space for clients. The presence of horses and other therapeutic modalities are discussed as tools for supporting the nervous system and managing the allostatic load. The conversation discusses the experience of feeling unresolved despite extensive self-awareness and therapeutic work, the impact of neurodivergence on business owners and leaders, and the challenges of rejection sensitive dysphoria and social interactions. It also explores the journey of self-discovery and the importance of restorative rest. The conversation covers topics related to integrity, business agreements, diversity, and self-care. It also delves into the importance of rest and the impact of allostatic load on mental and physical well-being. Work with Shelby Leigh at www.shelby-leigh.com [http://www.shelby-leigh.com] or at www.roseandstonellc.com [http://www.roseandstonellc.com]. Takeaways * Neurodiversity and Therapy * Creating a Safe and Affirming Space AuDHD is a unique experience that combines autism and ADHD, leading to a complex set of symptoms and challenges. * The impact of trauma, particularly complex PTSD, on individuals with neurodivergence, such as AuDHD, is significant and requires specialized support and healing. * Therapeutic modalities, including the presence of horses, can help regulate the nervous system and manage the allostatic load, providing support for individuals with AuDHD. Neurodivergence can impact business owners and leaders, influencing their work style and approach to business. * Rejection sensitive dysphoria can significantly impact social interactions and relationships, leading to feelings of rejection and sensitivity. * Restorative rest and self-discovery are essential for individuals to thrive and find balance in their personal and professional lives. Integrity is a core value for autistic individuals. * Business agreements should align with personal values and integrity. * Diversity and inclusivity are important considerations in business and client relationships. * Rest and self-care are essential for managing allostatic load and maintaining well-being. Chapters * 00:00 Introduction and Personal Background * 06:02 The Journey of Self-Discovery * 12:09 Neurodiversity and Affirming Support * 23:58 The Impact of Diagnosis * 33:14 The Impact of Trauma and Complex PTSD on Neurodivergent Individuals * 41:28 Therapeutic Modalities for Regulating the Nervous System and Managing Allostatic Load * 57:23 Unresolved Trauma and Self-Awareness * 01:07:26 Journey of Self-Discovery and Restorative Rest * 01:26:22 Integrity and Values * 01:43:04 Rest and Well-Being

Emotional Health, Burnout, and Selling a Seven-Figure Practice: Podcast Guest on And We Feel

Dr. Brittany Chidley, a psychologist and host of the And We Feel podcast, interviews Ann Marie McHenry, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and business coach. The conversation delves into the intersection of emotional health and business, exploring Ann Marie's journey from clinical practice to business coaching, the challenges of starting a private practice, and the impact of stress and burnout on business owners. The conversation explores the emotional aspects of business ownership and the journey of building, growing, and ultimately selling a business. It also explores the transition from being a business owner to becoming an employee, highlighting the challenges and insights gained from these experiences. Visit the And We Feel podcast, hosted by Dr. Brittany Chidley on Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/show/0TinpkhVpZucbDhTtzIHvI?si=Q-_U_ckcQOSCW3Y0tFpnog]. Takeaways * Emotional health in business * Navigating stress and burnout Embracing and managing emotions in business * Transitioning from business ownership to employee status Chapters * 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction * 06:07 Navigating Business and Emotional Health * 11:14 Impact of Stress and Burnout on Business Owners * 24:51 Embracing Emotions in Business * 32:05 Transitioning from Business Owner to Employee

Susie Crossland-Dwyer on Building a Boutique Fitness Business, Mental Health, and Community

This conversation with Susie Crossland-Dwyer delves into her journey of founding and growing studio s, emphasizing the importance of community, personal connection, and adapting to change and challenges. Susie's passion for fitness and healthy living is evident throughout, as she shares her experiences and insights on creating a welcoming space, catering to different clients, and navigating business setbacks. The discussion also highlights the balance between personal and professional life, as well as the evolving landscape of the fitness industry. The conversation explores themes of letting go of control and navigating mental health challenges as a business owner. Susie Crossland-Dwyer shares her insights on surrendering control and the impact of COVID on business plans. She also discusses her mental health, grit, humor, desire for ongoing personal evolution, and the need for time and self-care. Visit Susie at https://www.instagram.com/susiecd/ [https://www.instagram.com/susiecd/] https://www.instagram.com/studioscinci/ [https://www.instagram.com/studioscinci/] https://www.studioscincinnati.com/ [https://www.studioscincinnati.com/] Takeaways * Passion for fitness and healthy living * Community and personal connection * Adapting to change and challenges Letting go of control * Navigating mental health challenges Chapters * 00:00 Balancing Personal and Professional Life