Conversations w/ Women Who Lead: A Business Podcast for Female Founders and Executives

It's the start of Q3, and if you're anything like most business owners, you're probably looking at your revenue and your goals and thinking it's not enough. In this episode, Ann Marie walks through a mid-year reflection practice, looking back at January and tracing everything that's actually changed since then.

She shares an honest look at her own last six months, including the grief that showed up when she returned to Arizona a year after selling her first business, the identity shift that came with stepping away from a company she built for almost a decade, and the decision to move from therapy into business coaching. She talks about getting certified as a coach, building a small team of licensed therapists turned coaches, launching the Four Pillars course, and what it's actually looked like to start over in a completely different business landscape than the one she started in ten years ago.

This episode is an invitation to take stock of your own year so far. What did you try? What didn't work? What did you learn? And how are you talking to yourself about the person you were in January?

In this episode:

• A guided mid-year reflection for founders and leaders
• Ann Marie's own six months, from grief to rebuilding
• Why she moved from therapy to business coaching
• Building a team of licensed therapist-coaches at Rose & Stone
• The Four Pillars framework: know your numbers, establish your vision and values, set clear expectations, know yourself

Connect with Ann Marie at roseandstonellc.com or @roseandstonellc.

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
Special Shout-Out: Kris Plachy, our fabulous business coach and CEO of The Visionary CEO: https://www.thevisionary.ceo/

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) and Shelby Leigh, nervous system and neurodivergent coach at Rose & Stone Consulting, LLC (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.

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 or at 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

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.

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

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/studioscinci/
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

Most entrepreneurs are flying blind without formal business training—yet success hinges on mastering a few key pillars. In this episode, business coach Ann Marie McHenry unveils her powerful four-part framework that transforms chaotic startups into sustainable, thriving enterprises. Discover how to decode your financials with clarity, why your vision and values are your North Star in tough times, and how setting crystal-clear expectations can prevent frustration and miscommunication. Ann Marie shares candid insights from her own journey, revealing the critical importance of knowing your numbers—something she initially struggled with but now champions as foundational to business survival and growth. You'll learn the four pillars of resilient leadership: Know your numbers, Establish your vision and values, Set clear expectations, and Know yourself. Whether you're a new founder feeling overwhelmed or a seasoned business owner looking for fresh clarity, this episode offers practical strategies to reframe your approach, improve your confidence, and lay a solid foundation for success.Failing to master these essentials risks burnout, financial chaos, and lost opportunities. Conversely, embracing this framework opens the door to more targeted growth, authentic leadership, and greater impact. If you're ready to get unstuck, regain control, and lead with purpose, this episode is your roadmap.Perfect for women entrepreneurs, solo founders, and leaders committed to creating meaningful businesses—listen now and start transforming your leadership today.Visit www.roseandstonellc.com and follow @RoseAndStoneLLC for ongoing support and insights.

Coach Kris Plachy at The Visionary CEO

*Correction about 20-24% of business owners having MBAs: About 20-24% of business ownerrs have advanced degrees and only a fraction have MBAs. Educational Attainment of Business Owners in the United States. RealClear Public Affairs.
https://www.realclearpublicaffairs.com/public_affairs/2020/02/28/educational_attainment_of_business_owners_in_the_united_states_485521.html

The conversation covers the birth and evolution of the Cocus Pocus brand, the intersection of beauty and business, the creative journey of the founder, marketing and business growth strategies, and the drive to succeed as an entrepreneur. It also explores the inspiration behind the business and the development of the brand. The conversation covers the themes of creativity and business, sustainability and manufacturing, and personal growth and entrepreneurship. It delves into the intersection of creativity and business, the importance of sustainability in manufacturing, and the personal growth experienced through entrepreneurship.

Takeaways

• Business Inspiration
• Brand Development Creativity and Business
• Sustainability and Manufacturing
• Personal Growth and Entrepreneurship

Chapters

• 00:00 The Birth of Cocus Pocus
• 04:57 The Creative Journey
• 09:59 Marketing and Business Growth
• 15:59 The Drive to Succeed
• 25:21 Personal Growth and Entrepreneurship

Ann Marie McHenry shares her personal journey and the impact of personal history on business leadership. She discusses the battle with perfectionism, understanding oneself as a leader, and managing triggers to move forward with compassion and self-awareness.

Takeaways

• Impact of personal history on leadership
• Managing triggers with self-awareness

Chapters

• 00:00 The Battle with Perfectionism
• 07:00 Understanding Yourself as a Leader
• 13:12 Impact of Personal History on Business Leadership
• 21:32 History's Influence on Business Leadership
• 29:00 Managing Triggers and Moving Forward

The conversation covers the journey of transitioning from an employee to a business owner, the challenges and opportunities of business ownership, navigating partnerships and teamwork, utilizing relationship skills in leadership, gender dynamics in business ownership, and the vision of business ownership. The speakers discuss the process of taking over a practice, the impact of personal relationships on business decisions, and the evolution of the business owner's role. The conversation highlights the importance of partnership and support in business, as well as the challenges of overcoming perfectionism and over-functioning. It delves into the impact of these themes on leadership and personal growth, providing valuable insights for listeners.

Takeaways

• Transitioning from employee to owner
• Challenges of business ownership
• Navigating partnerships and teamwork Importance of partnership
• Overcoming perfectionism and over-functioning

Chapters

• 00:00 Vision of Business Ownership
• 45:11 Overcoming Perfectionism and Over-Functioning