In this episode of The Flourish Academy Podcast, Heather Lahtinen explores a groundbreaking discovery she calls Photo Dysmorphia—a condition affecting photographers who struggle to see their own brilliance. Through real-life examples and a deep dive into the root causes of self-doubt, she reveals why so many talented photographers dismiss praise, seek constant validation, and obsess over imperfections. Heather offers a powerful mindset shift and practical strategies to help photographers evaluate their work objectively, gain confidence, and stop relying on external approval. Show Notes:

• Why Photographers Struggle to See Their Own Talent
• A Real-Life Story: Award-Winning Photography and Persistent Self-Doubt
• The Root Causes: Comparison, Perfectionism, and Validation Addiction
• Why External Validation Will Never Be Enough
• How to Objectively Evaluate Your Work (and Finally Feel Good About It)
• Practical Steps to Build Self-Approval and Confidence

How to Support the Podcast:

• Subscribe to the podcast on iTunes or wherever you listen to podcasts. Please like, share, and leave a review.
• If you like the content, please share with your friends by posting on social media so that we can reach and impact more people.

Connect:

Heather Lahtinen: Website, Facebook, Instagram

Have you ever had a friend or family member make a discouraging comment about your photography business? Maybe they question your pricing, doubt your success, or think it’s "just a hobby." In this episode, Heather shares why these comments sting, how to stop internalizing negativity, and the best ways to respond with confidence. You don’t need their approval—you need your own belief. Let’s build a mindset that deflects doubt and keeps you moving forward, no matter what anyone says. Show Notes:

• The most common negative comments photographers hear from friends and family
• Why these comments only hurt if there’s already doubt in your mind
• The power of unshakable belief in your business
• How to stop seeking external validation and cultivate your own confidence
• Quick-witted responses to shut down negativity (with a little humor!)
• Why your success isn’t dependent on anyone else's belief but your own

How to Support the Podcast:

• Subscribe to the podcast on iTunes or wherever you listen to podcasts. Please like, share, and leave a review.
• If you like the content, please share with your friends by posting on social media so that we can reach and impact more people.

Connect:

Heather Lahtinen: Website, Facebook, Instagram

In this episode of the Flourish Academy Podcast, Heather dives deep into how the relationships in your life—especially the one you have with yourself and your business—affect your success. Drawing from a powerful mentoring experience, Heather shares key insights into why your most important relationship can either fuel or hinder your progress. From improving communication with your spouse to practicing self-compassion and transforming your business mindset, this episode is packed with actionable advice for unlocking breakthroughs in both business and life. Plus, stay tuned for a marriage tip at the end that could change your life! Show Notes:

• Why the most important relationship in your life impacts your business.
• How unresolved personal relationship issues can drain your cognitive resources.
• The impact of self-talk on your business and life.
• Tips for cultivating a healthy relationship with your business.
• How to reframe your thoughts to create better results in your business.

How to Support the Podcast:

• Subscribe to the podcast on iTunes or wherever you listen to podcasts. Please like, share, and leave a review.
• If you like the content, please share with your friends by posting on social media so that we can reach and impact more people.

Connect:

Heather Lahtinen: Website, Facebook, Instagram

In this episode of the Flourish Academy Podcast, Heather Lahtinen and Nicole Begley dive deep into the internal tug-of-war that keeps us from fully committing to our goals. They explore how subconscious thoughts of “another option” can quietly undermine your success and reveal how your self-concept plays a pivotal role in breaking through mental barriers.

They shared six powerful questions designed to help you gain clarity, identify your fears, and uncover what’s really stopping you from going all in on your dreams. Whether you’re building a photography business or pursuing another passion, these questions will inspire you to let go of hesitation and take bold, intentional action toward “Option A.”

Show Notes:

• Heather explains how self-concept and commitment are intertwined.
• The mental tug-of-war caused by "Option B."
• The impact of "burning the boats" and removing fallback plans.
• The GoDaddy phone call that changed everything.
• How to identify subconscious safety nets.
• Questions to uncover your hidden fears and reframe your goals.
• Practical tips for burning your boats (without losing everything).

How to Support the Podcast:

• Subscribe to the podcast on iTunes or wherever you listen to podcasts. Please like, share, and leave a review.
• If you like the content, please share with your friends by posting on social media so that we can reach and impact more people.

Connect:

Heather Lahtinen: Website, Facebook, Instagram

Nicole Begley: https://hairofthedogacademy.com/

In this episode of the Flourish Academy Podcast, Heather shares her guest appearance on the PhotoBizX podcast with Andrew Helmich, the world’s leading photography business podcast. Heather discusses her 2025 predictions for photographers, focusing on three transformative forces: the power of technology and AI, the importance of relationship marketing, and the game-changing impact of mindset.

Heather draws on over 22 years of experience and shares actionable strategies to help photographers adapt, thrive, and elevate their businesses. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, this episode is packed with insights to future-proof your photography career. Show Notes:

• Leveraging AI, outsourcing, and tools to optimize your workflow.
• Building meaningful client connections for long-term growth.
• Why success starts with how you think and how to shape your thoughts for growth. How to Support the Podcast:

• Subscribe to the podcast on iTunes or wherever you listen to podcasts. Please like, share, and leave a review.
• If you like the content, please share with your friends by posting on social media so that we can reach and impact more people.

Connect:

Heather Lahtinen: Website, Facebook, Instagram

In this episode of the Flourish Academy podcast, Heather Lahtinen dives deep into the often misunderstood topic of pricing. Learn why profitable pricing is just the starting point and discover how shifting your mindset and focusing on action can unlock the growth you’ve been seeking. Heather shares insights from her recent mastermind session, where photographers explored what might really be holding them back from achieving their goals. If you’ve ever felt stuck or unsure about your pricing or strategy, this episode will inspire you to take confident action.

Show Notes:

• The concept of profitable pricing and its importance in building a sustainable photography business.
• Why photographers fixate on pricing as the root of all problems and how this mindset limits growth.
• What else could be impacting your bookings and revenue?
• The role of a one-page marketing plan in driving client inquiries and revenue growth.
• The importance of discipline, consistency, and faith in your pricing and marketing strategy.
• Why social media isn’t always the cornerstone of a successful marketing plan. How to Support the Podcast:

• Subscribe to the podcast on iTunes or wherever you listen to podcasts. Please like, share, and leave a review.
• If you like the content, please share with your friends by posting on social media so that we can reach and impact more people.

Connect:

Heather Lahtinen: Website, Facebook, Instagram

In this episode of the Flourish Academy podcast, Heather Lahtinen shares a concept that's been a game-changer in her life—reducing cognitive load. With relatable examples and actionable advice, Heather dives into how mental clutter and unaddressed tasks drain your energy and limit your ability to focus on what truly matters. By making small, intentional changes, you can reclaim your time, reduce stress, and create space for meaningful growth in your life and business. Tune in to discover how to manage your cognitive load and step into a more productive and peaceful version of yourself.

Show Notes:

•  What is cognitive load, and how does it impact your life?
•  Simple steps to reduce mental friction (like buying scissors for your garage!).
•  Why "future you" is worth the effort today.
•  How managing cognitive load benefits both your personal life and business.
•  Practical tips for tackling small tasks to free up energy for bigger goals.
•  The compound effect: How small, consistent actions lead to massive results.

How to Support the Podcast:

•  Subscribe to the podcast on iTunes or wherever you listen to podcasts. Please like, share, and leave a review.
•  If you like the content, please share with your friends by posting on social media so that we can reach and impact more people.

Connect:

Heather Lahtinen: Website, Facebook, Instagram

In this powerful and impassioned episode, Heather Lahtinen shares strategies for overcoming the "nothing is working" mindset that can plague photographers and entrepreneurs. Drawing on real-life examples, coaching insights, and practical exercises, Heather equips listeners with the tools to manage their thoughts, navigate challenges, and find clarity in moments of frustration. Whether you're thriving or struggling in your business, this episode provides invaluable insights to help you grow, adapt, and succeed. Show Notes:

• Managing the “nothing is working” spiral
• Identifying the root thoughts that hold you back
• Why success isn’t about ease, but optimized challenges
• Practical strategies for building resilience and belief in yourself
• How to reframe obstacles as opportunities for growth

Mastermind

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https://flourishacademy.mykajabi.com/coaching How to Support the Podcast:

• Subscribe to the podcast on iTunes or wherever you listen to podcasts. Please like, share, and leave a review.
• If you like the content, please share with your friends by posting on social media so that we can reach and impact more people.

Connect:

Heather Lahtinen: Website, Facebook, Instagram

In this episode of the Flourish Academy podcast, Heather Lahtinen shares a candid and transformative conversation with Michelle Crandall. Together, they explore the elusive tipping point in your photography business—the one thing that might be holding you back from achieving success. Heather dives into the importance of self-concept and how trust, or a lack thereof, can be the biggest roadblock to growth. If you're feeling stuck, frustrated, or uncertain about the next step in your journey, this episode is for you Show Notes

• What is the Tipping Point?
• Discussion of Malcolm Gladwell’s concept of a tipping point and its application to photography businesses.
• Identifying the one critical factor that often holds photographers back.
• Self-Concept and Trust:
• How your view of yourself as a photographer impacts your business success.
• The role of trust in taking the next step and handling potential challenges.
• The Stories We Tell Ourselves:
• Exploring the narratives that prevent growth.
• Michelle’s fear of being "too successful" and its emotional roots

How to Support the Podcast:

• Subscribe to the podcast on iTunes or wherever you listen to podcasts. Please like, share, and leave a review.
• If you like the content, please share with your friends by posting on social media so that we can reach and impact more people.

Connect:

Heather Lahtinen: Website, Facebook, Instagram

Michelle Crandall: https://www.petsinfocusphoto.com/

In this episode of the Flourish Academy Podcast, Heather Lahtinen and Nicole Begley dive into their entrepreneurial journeys, sharing the highs, lows, and pivotal moments that shaped their careers. With over 36 years of combined experience in photography and business, Heather and Nicole discuss how embracing change, leaning into challenges, and following passion have transformed their businesses—and their lives. Whether you’re just starting out or considering your next big move, this candid conversation offers insights, inspiration, and actionable advice. Show Notes:

• The beginnings of Heather’s and Nicole’s photography careers.
• Major pivots in business: Knowing when to shift and why.
• Facing challenges: Revenue dips, growing pains, and lessons learned.
• Building successful educational platforms: The story behind Flourish Academy and Hair of the Dog.
• The importance of aligning your business with your passion.
• The difference between quitting and pivoting with purpose.

How to Support the Podcast:

• Subscribe to the podcast on iTunes or wherever you listen to podcasts. Please like, share, and leave a review.
• If you like the content, please share with your friends by posting on social media so that we can reach and impact more people.

Connect:

Heather Lahtinen: Website, Facebook, Instagram

Nicole Begley: https://hairofthedogacademy.com/