What if courage came before confidence, not after? That theme powers a candid conversation with third‑generation jeweler Blake Polizzi of Susan Blake Jewelry, who stepped into leadership after her mother’s passing and turned a beloved family brand into a modern, data‑driven business. We trace the lineage from a 47th Street workshop and a pivotal Tiffany & Co. contract to a multistore operation rooted in craft, community, and thoughtful growth.

Blake pulls back the curtain on what it takes to evolve a legacy without losing its heart. She explains how a data analyst’s mindset helped her rebuild inventory systems, streamline operations, and transform the website into a true sales engine. We dig into practical SEO strategy, human‑edited AI content, and location‑aware discovery that funnels real customers to the door. Along the way, she shares the mindset tools that keep her steady: reframing overwhelm, choosing three priorities, and accepting that confidence follows action. The result is a grounded playbook for founders who want both soul and scale.

We also look ahead to the Miami opening, her first end‑to‑end build informed by foot traffic, neighborhood dynamics, and clear unit economics. Blake’s vision is simple: keep the handmade spirit and personal service alive while using smart systems to remove friction. If you’re a builder, creator, or small business owner navigating growth, you’ll find honest insights on risk, resilience, and the daily discipline of shipping work that matters.

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