She left the U.S. for Spain and built a business from scratch in a market built on connections she didn’t have.

In this episode of Hats On!, we talk about what it really takes to build something of your own far from home, without a clear roadmap, and before you feel “ready.”

Just four years out of university, Lauren made a decision most would call bold: she moved to Spain and launched her own executive search firm in one of the most competitive, relationship-driven industries.

What followed was over a decade of building a business across Europe—by doing things differently. Not just filling roles, but finding the people others overlook and turning them into game-changing hires.

But the story doesn’t stop there. Years later, she made another big shift—moving back to the U.S. to rebuild her business in a market she hadn’t lived in for over a decade… all while becoming a mother for the first time.

We talk about:

• Starting a business abroad with no network
• Turning “different” into your biggest advantage
• Navigating markets, cultures, and constant change
• What it means to rebuild—personally and professionally
• Motherhood as a founder—and how it changes everything (and nothing)

At its core, this is a conversation about trusting your instincts even when there’s no clear path. And realizing that sometimes, what looks bold from the outside… just feels obvious from within.

If you’ve ever taken a leap, questioned where you belong, or tried to build something on your own terms—this episode is for you.

Disclaimer: Guest's opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Hats On! or its partners. This podcast is not a substitute for professional advice.