Founders & Fortitude | Conversations with Audrie Dollins

Episode 18: Oh My AI

🎙️ Show Summary:

Artificial intelligence is changing the way we work, market, communicate, and build businesses. But while AI can save time and improve efficiency, it should never replace the perspective, experience, and authenticity that make your business unique.

In this solo episode of Founders & Fortitude, Audrie Dollins shares how she incorporates AI into her business every day, where she believes it adds tremendous value, and where founders should use caution. Sparked by a simple newsletter mishap, this conversation explores why AI is a powerful business tool when it supports your ideas instead of creating them for you.

Whether you're a founder, creator, marketer, or business owner, this episode offers practical insight into using AI responsibly while protecting your voice, strengthening your marketing, and continuing to build trust with your audience.

What to Expect in This Episode:

• Why AI should support your thinking instead of replacing it.

• How Audrie uses AI throughout her business every day.

• The differences between ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, and other AI platforms.

• Why learning to write better prompts produces better results.

• The importance of fact checking and protecting sensitive information.

• Practical ways AI can save time across marketing and business operations.

• Why your perspective and lived experience remain your greatest competitive advantage.

Founder's Favorites:

Trending Topic:

Artificial intelligence and how businesses are incorporating AI into marketing, communication, operations, and everyday decision making.

Marketing Resource:

Audrie's companion blog covering today's leading AI platforms, practical business applications, and recommendations for getting started.

Current Business Focus:

Finding thoughtful ways to incorporate AI into daily business operations while protecting authenticity, creativity, and strategic thinking.

Current Reminder:

AI is a tool. Your voice is your advantage.

Quote of the Week:

Sponsored by Parlay Collective.

"The businesses that will thrive with AI aren't the ones using it to replace people. They're the ones using it to become better thinkers, communicators, and leaders." Audrie Dollins

This Week's Three from Me:

1. Learn Before You Judge

If you haven't explored AI yet, spend an hour this week learning one platform. Understanding how it works will help you use it responsibly.

2. Keep Your Voice

AI can help organize your thoughts, but your audience follows you because of your perspective. Never lose that.

3. Stay Curious

Technology will continue to evolve. The founders who stay curious and continue learning will be better positioned for what's next.

Resources Mentioned:

• ChatGPT

• Claude

• Google Gemini

• Grammarly

• Artificial Intelligence

• Prompt Engineering

• Audrie Dollins Blog

• Parlay Collective

Let's Connect!

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review. Your support helps Founders & Fortitude reach more founders, entrepreneurs, creators, and business leaders.

Join the conversation by sharing how you're using AI in your business or your biggest takeaway from today's episode.

Instagram: @audriedollins

Website: audriedollins.com

Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts so you never miss an episode.

Remember: You are valued, appreciated, and capable of amazing things.

Capture. Brand. Engage. Let's do big things.

Video and Sound Production provided by Kris of Danielle Rankin Photo & Film.

Episode 17: How Your Business Can Compete With Large Retail Sales Events

🎙️ Show Summary:

Major retail sales from Amazon, Target, Walmart, and other big box retailers can feel overwhelming for small businesses. But what if the goal wasn't to compete on price? What if the real opportunity was to compete on connection, community, and strategy?

In this solo episode of Founders & Fortitude, Audrie Dollins shares practical marketing ideas that every founder, retailer, creator, and service based business can implement during major sales events. From hosting memorable in person experiences and going live on social media to building strategic partnerships and working with creators the right way, this episode is packed with actionable ideas designed to help businesses stay visible, build stronger customer relationships, and create long term growth.

Instead of focusing on what the large retailers are doing, Audrie encourages founders to focus on what makes their own business valuable and how to turn that into a competitive advantage through thoughtful marketing and authentic community building.

What to Expect in This Episode:

• Why competing with Amazon on price is the wrong strategy and what to focus on instead.

• How going live on social media can increase engagement, build trust, and improve conversions.

• Why in person events create memorable customer experiences that large retailers cannot replicate.

• The power of strategic brand partnerships and business to business collaborations.

• How to create urgency with flash sales and planned promotional calendars.

• Why influencer marketing works best when creators are treated as true business partners.

• Marketing strategies that help small businesses remain visible during major retail sales events.

Founder's Favorites:

Trending Topic:
Mid year retail sales and how small businesses can strategically position themselves during Amazon, Target, Walmart, and other major promotional events.

Marketing Resource:
Audrie's companion blog, How Your Business Can Compete With Large Retail Sales Events, featuring additional marketing ideas and implementation strategies.

Current Business Focus:
Building stronger communities through authentic marketing, live video, strategic partnerships, and memorable customer experiences.

Current Reminder:
The businesses that continue showing up consistently are the ones that build long term success.

Quote of the Week:

Sponsored by Parlay Collective.

"Stop worrying about competing with the big retailers. Focus on becoming the business your community chooses because of the experience you create." — Audrie Dollins

This Week's Three from Me:

1. Go Live Every Week

Choose one consistent day each week to go live on Instagram, Facebook, or TikTok. Use the opportunity to educate your audience, answer questions, and build relationships that extend beyond a single post.

2. Host an Experience

Create an in person event your customers will remember. Whether it's a shopping event, styling session, networking happy hour, workshop, or collaboration with another local business, memorable experiences build loyal customers.

3. Build Strategic Partnerships

Partner with complementary businesses and trusted creators to expand your audience. The strongest growth often comes through relationships and referrals rather than trying to market alone.

Resources Mentioned:

• Amazon

• Target

• Walmart

• Meta Ads

• Instagram Live

• Facebook Live

• TikTok Live

• Creator and Influencer Marketing

• Strategic Business Partnerships

• Parlay Collective

Let's Connect!

If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate and review. Your support helps Founders & Fortitude reach more founders, entrepreneurs, creators, and business leaders.

Join the conversation by sharing your biggest takeaway from today's episode.

Instagram: @audriedollins

Website: audriedollins.com

Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts so you never miss an episode.

Remember: You are valued, appreciated, and capable of amazing things.

Capture. Brand. Engage. Let's do big things.

Video and Sound Production provided by Kris of Danielle Rankin Photo & Film.

FOUNDERS & FORTITUDE

Episode 16

No Time For Nails

Forget Balance. Build the Business (and Life) That Actually Fits, with KJ Lenbauer and Steph Wibrary

Episode Overview

In this candid and energizing episode of Founders & Fortitude, host Audrie Dollins is joined by two powerhouse founders. KJ Lenbauer is a publicist, three-time author, and founder of Hearsay PR. Steph Wibrary is the founder of Joy Creative Shop. Together they have an honest conversation about what it really takes to build, scale, and sustain a business while showing up fully in life.

From the early days of PR before social media existed to the modern world of influencer marketing, brand partnerships, and subscription launches, KJ and Steph share the lessons, missteps, and mindset shifts that helped them build companies they love. They dig into team building, delegation, the messy reality of motherhood and entrepreneurship, the redefinition of success, and the freedom that comes from choosing who you work with and what you say yes to.

This episode is a permission slip for every founder, creator, and dreamer who is tired of comparing their season to someone else’s and ready to build something that actually fits their life.

Key Takeaways

• Balance Isn’t Real, Priorities Are. Why the pursuit of “balance” is a setup for failure, and how ebb and flow plus clear priorities actually run a business and a life.
• The Evolution of PR and Influencer Marketing. How the industry shifted from mailed press kits and unboxing videos to integrated brand partnerships, and where it might be headed next.
• Brand Partnerships That Actually Move the Needle. Why business to business collaborations and shared audiences are one of the most underrated growth strategies for modern brands.
• Delegation Is a Priority, Not a Privilege. Buying back your time, hiring before you feel “ready,” and trusting your team to run with the vision.
• Redefine Success on Your Own Terms. Whether it’s a Chanel bag, a piece of original art, a condo in Florida, or the freedom to pick your kids up at 3:20, success looks different for everyone, and that is the point.
• Start Small, Start Now. Why 25 subscribers in week one is a win for a multi-million-dollar brand, and how testing small ideas creates the biggest breakthroughs.
• Know What You Want to Be Known For. The single most important question every founder should answer before saying yes to anything else.

Notable Quotes

“It’s not privliege it's priority. It’s priority.” (Audrie Dollins)

“Success for me is not a monetary number. I get to choose what I do every day, who I get to do it with, and what I’m actually going to do.” (KJ Lenbauer)

“There’s no balance. I’ve grown Joy Creative Shop in the margin of motherhood, of life. But I’ve worked harder than most everyone you know.” (Steph Wibrary)

“What you walk in to achieve is what you receive. I can’t get you further if you’re not willing to go further.” (Audrie Dollins)

“It doesn’t have to be big, because this could be the biggest thing we ever do. But it has to start.” (Steph Wibrary)

“What do you really want to do? What do you really want to be known for? That is the piece of advice I give to everyone.” (KJ Lenbauer)

Links and Resources

Connect with KJ Lenbauer

• Website: hearsaypr.com
• Instagram: @kjlenbauer
• Book: Pitchworthy (and the accompanying Pitchworthy workbook), available on Amazon and anywhere books are sold
• Third book coming soon

KJ’s Highlights

• Publicist with nearly three decades of experience
• Best-selling author with a third book on the way
• Hearsay PR currently serves around 20 clients across multiple industries

Connect with Steph Wibrary

• Brand Website: Joy Creative Shop
• Instagram: @joycreativeshop
• New launch: Happy Mail Subscription. A monthly mailed letter, notecard, and pre-stamped envelope to pay forward to someone you love.
• Active brand partnership with Ali and Best

Mentioned in This Episode

• Pretty Woman (“I say who, I say when”), referenced on owning your terms
• Warren Buffett (KJ’s husband’s hero)
• Katie Craig, local artist whose work hangs in Steph’s kitchen as a milestone marker
• Bonnie of Shop with Bonnie, stylist and longtime friend of the show
• The “fund the dream vs. buy the bag” debate, and why both can be true

Host

• Audrie Dollins. Founder and CEO of Parlay Collective, Influencer and Brand Marketing Strategist, Host of Founders & Fortitude.

Final Note

This episode is for every founder who is tired of chasing a version of “balance” that doesn’t actually exist. KJ and Steph remind us that success is not a single number, a single bag, or a single milestone, and balance is not the goal. The goal is freedom. The freedom to choose your priorities, the courage to start small, and the clarity to know what you actually want to be known for.

Whether you are scaling a brand, building a team, raising kids in the margin of motherhood, or finally ready to outsource the things you do not love, let this conversation be your nudge to stop waiting for permission and start building the version of success that fits your life.

Capture, brand, and engage, and let’s do big things.

Quote of the Week

Sponsored by Parlay Collective.

“It’s easy to like those who make life fun and paths simple, but the ones worth choosing are those you respect, who challenge, push, and ultimately draw out the greatness within you, leading you to true strength and success.” (Audrie Dollins)

This Week’s Three from Me

Actionable tools and tips to apply right now.

1. Audrie’s Amazon and LTK Storefronts.

When you are too busy to put outfits together, I have done the work for you. Everyday looks to save time, workwear that takes the guesswork out of getting dressed, and gift ideas you can shop in one click. All sourced from what I actually use and wear, day in and day out. From gifts to outfits, I’ve got you.

• Amazon Storefront: amazon.com/shop/audriedollins
• LTK: @audriedollins on the LTK app
<...

Episode 15: Building Brands Before The Blueprint

Evolution of Influencer and Brand Marketing with Kristin McClement and Kirby Smith
Episode Overview
In this inspiring episode of Founders & Fortitude, host Audrie Dollins sits down with Kristin McClement, President of Arden St. Clair, and Kirby Smith, branding and marketing strategist, to reflect on the early days of influencer and brand marketing.

At a time when there was no clear blueprint, these trailblazers worked within public relations, influencer management, customer service, and marketing growth to curate an ecosystem that shaped today’s creator economy. Together, they share stories of navigating brand negotiations, learning from both successes and setbacks, and building companies that helped define how brands and influencers collaborate today.

Listeners will gain insight into how an undefined industry grew into a thriving marketing channel that continues to evolve, along with the lessons learned from those who were there at the very beginning.

Key Takeaways

• Building Without a Blueprint: How influencer and brand marketing emerged before clear processes existed.
• The Power of Collaboration: Why aligning PR, influencer voices, social media, and customer service created long-term growth.
• Lessons from Negotiation: The reality of structuring partnerships between brands and creators in the early stages.
• Growing with the Industry: How setbacks, adjustments, and persistence led to sustainable campaigns and thriving companies.
• Influencing the Future: The role professionals like Kristin and Kirby played in shaping today’s creator economy.

Notable Quotes
“Influencer marketing wasn’t written down in a handbook when we started. We built it as we went.” – Kristin McClement

“The best campaigns weren’t just about sales. They were about connection, story, and growth for both brand and creator.” – Kirby Smith

“Every misstep became a roadmap for the future. Success comes from learning, adjusting, and trying again.” – Audrie Dollins

Links & Resources

Connect with Kristin McClement

• Email: [email protected]

• Instagram: @kristin_mcclement

• LinkedIn: Kristin McClement

Kristin’s Recommendations

• How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie
• Podcasts: Aspire with Emma Grede, Building Brand Advocacy
• Newsletters: Marketing Brew, Girlboss Daily

Connect with Kirby Smith

• Email: [email protected]

• LinkedIn: Kirby Smith

Kirby’s Recommendations

• #Girlboss by Sophia Amoruso
• Normal Gets You Nowhere by Kelly Cutrone
• Leave Your Mark by Aliza Licht

Guests

• Kristin McClement – President, Arden St. Clair
• Kirby Smith – Branding and Marketing Strategist

Host

• Audrie Dollins – Founder & CEO of AD Media Group, Marketing Strategist

Final Note
This episode is a masterclass in building before a blueprint existed. Whether you’re an influencer, brand founder, or marketer, Kristin and Kirby’s stories will inspire you to approach challenges with creativity, persistence, and vision. Their experiences remind us that the creator economy wasn’t given to us, it was built, and it continues to evolve with those willing to lead the way.

Suzy Mighell of Empty Nest Blessed – Finding Joy and Purpose in the Empty Nest Season

Episode Overview

In this heartfelt episode of Founders & Fortitude, host Audrie Dollins sits down with Suzy Mighell, the voice and vision behind Empty Nest Blessed. Suzy opens up about her passion for blogging, her journey as a leading resource for empty nesters, and the inspiration behind her new book.

This episode explores how the empty nest stage can be a time of rediscovery, growth, and meaningful new beginnings. Suzy shares practical advice and personal stories that make you feel understood, inspired, and equipped to navigate this transition with confidence and joy.

Audrie and Suzy dive deep into the power of community, the challenges and rewards of midlife reinvention, and how sharing your story online can impact countless others going through the same journey. This conversation leaves listeners feeling empowered, supported, and ready to embrace the possibilities of their next chapter.

Key Takeaways

• Rediscovering Purpose: How Suzy turned her personal journey as an empty nester into a thriving blog and supportive community.
• The Power of Sharing Your Story: Why blogging can create impact and connection during life transitions.
• Navigating Change with Confidence: Practical tips for finding meaning, joy, and direction when your children leave home.
• Creating a New Identity: Building a life that reflects who you are now while honoring the chapters that came before.
• Encouragement for the Journey: Why no one has to feel alone during the empty nest season.

Notable Quotes

• “The empty nest isn’t the end of your story. It’s the start of a beautiful new chapter.” – Suzy Mighell
• “When you share your journey, you give others permission to feel, to grow, and to know they’re not alone.” – Audrie Dollins
• “Midlife reinvention is not about starting over. It’s about stepping into who you’ve always been meant to be.” – Suzy Mighell

Links & Resources

Follow Suzy Mighell on Instagram: @emptynestblessed

Explore Suzy’s blog and resources: www.emptynestblessed.com

Check out Suzy’s new book: Empty Nest Blessed 

Follow Audrie Dollins on Instagram: @audriedollins

Visit Audrie’s websites: www.audriedollins.com
and www.admediagroupllc.com

Guest

Suzy Mighell – Blogger & Author, Empty Nest Blessed

Host

Audrie Dollins – Founder & CEO of AD Media Group, Marketing Strategist

Final Note

Whether you’re entering the empty nest stage, reinventing your career, or simply looking for encouragement, this episode will remind you that you’re not alone. Suzy’s story and insights offer a roadmap to living fully and joyfully in this new season of life.

Episode Powered by

AD Media Group – @admediagrp

Episode Overview:
In this episode of Founders & Fortitude, host Audrie Dollins sits down with Penny Gibbs, Founder of Moxy Energy Drink. Penny shares her journey from concept to execution, describing her mission to create a health-driven energy drink after realizing how many mainstream options were filled with unhealthy ingredients. What started as a personal need quickly turned into a brand built on impact, fortitude, and perseverance in the unknown.

Audrie and Penny dive into the realities of building a brand with Penny's non-prior industry experience, from formulating the drink to producing it for the masses. This conversation highlights the resilience required to keep moving forward, the importance of surrounding yourself with support, and how the AD Media Group team partnered with Penny to bring her vision to life through design and marketing processes.

Grab a Moxy and join us for an inspiring conversation about drive, passion, and making bold ideas a reality.

Key Takeaways:

• Building with Purpose: Why Penny’s personal health journey was the catalyst for Moxy Energy Drink.
• From Vision to Reality: What it takes to develop a product from scratch without prior experience.
• Fortitude in the Unknown: How persistence drives success when facing challenges in uncharted territory.
• The Power of Support: Why surrounding yourself with the right people is essential to growth.
• Marketing the Mission: How AD Media Group helped shape and amplify Penny’s brand story.

Notable Quotes:

• "I knew energy drinks were part of my daily life, but I didn’t want to compromise my health, so I made it my mission to create a better option." – Penny Gibbs
• "Building a brand is about fortitude, pushing through the unknown, and believing in your why." – Audrie Dollins
• "Surround yourself with people who support your vision, even when the journey feels uncertain." – Penny Gibbs

Links & Resources:
Follow Moxy Energy Drink on Instagram: @drinkmoxy

Learn more at: www.drinkmoxy.com

Follow AD Media Group on Instagram: @admediagrp

Learn more about marketing strategies at: www.admediagroupllc.com

Guest:
Penny Gibbs – Founder, Moxy Energy Drink

Host:
Audrie Dollins – Founder & CEO of AD Media Group, Marketing Strategist
Instagram: @audriedollins

Website: www.audriedollins.com

Website: www.admediagroupllc.com

Final Note:
Launching a product takes courage, persistence, and a clear mission. Whether you are building a new brand, developing a product, or finding your footing in uncharted territory, this episode shows the value of passion, fortitude, and surrounding yourself with the right team.

Capture. Brand. Engage. Let’s Do Big Things.

Episode Powered by:
AD Media Group – @admediagrp

Episode Overview:

In this episode of Founders & Fortitude, host Audrie Dollins sits down with AD Media Group’s Chelsea Drysdale @chelseadrysdale) to discuss the impact of trust marketing and the evolving dynamics between brands and influencers. They explore how sharing personal journeys online fosters trust, strengthens relationships, and creates meaningful collaborations.

Whether you're an influencer, brand, or marketing professional, this episode provides actionable insights on building authentic connections, navigating partnerships, and leveraging social media for success.

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Trust Marketing: Why authenticity is the foundation of successful brand-influencer partnerships and consumer connection will take you further.
• Understanding Your Audience: How to create content that truly resonates and converts.
• The Give & Take of Collaboration: What brands and influencers should expect from each other.
• Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Turning self-doubt into confidence and action.
• Leading with a Servant Heart: How generosity and genuine connection fuel success in marketing.

Notable Quotes:

"The best collaborations stem from trust, transparency, and shared values." – Chelsea Drysdale
 "Your audience connects with the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your story." – Audrie Dollins
 "Influencer marketing isn’t just about promotion; it’s about relationships that bring value to both sides." – Chelsea Drysdale

Links & Resources:

Follow Chelsea Drysdale on Instagram: @chelseanndrysdale
Follow AD Media Group on Instagram: @admediagrp
Learn more about marketing strategies at: www.admediagroupllc.com

Outfit Provided by Vici
Wine Glasses Provided by Saludi

Guest:

Chelsea Drysdale – Collaboration Manager, AD Media Group
Instagram: @chelseadrysdale

Host:

Audrie Dollins – Founder & CEO of AD Media Group, Marketing Strategist
Instagram: @audriedollins
Website: www.audriedollins.com
Website: www.admediagroupllc.com

Final Note:

Marketing is about authenticity, strategy, and relationships. Whether you're a brand looking to strengthen partnerships or an influencer seeking deeper connections, this episode will give you the tools to build trust, navigate collaborations, and market with purpose.

Capture. Brand. Engage. Let’s Do Big Things.

Episode Powered by:

AD Media Group – @admediagrp

Revisiting the Impact of Our First Episodes

Episode Overview

In this special episode, I’m reflecting on the journey so far, sharing key takeaways from our first episodes, the incredible impact it has had on me, and the inspiring feedback from our listeners.

The heart of this podcast has always been about celebrating the grit, determination, and passion of business owners, founders, and the powerhouse teams behind them. At AD Media Group, we witness firsthand the rollercoaster of building a brand from the ground up and take pride in amplifying those stories.

Hearing from listeners who have gained value from these conversations fuels my passion even more, yes, even if my southern twang makes an enthusiastic appearance.

Key Takeaways from Previous Episodes

We’ve had the privilege of speaking with some incredible guests who have shared their journeys of building successful businesses, navigating challenges, and finding purpose.

• Samantha and Matt Reynolds shared insights on balancing professional success and personal fulfillment. Matt, a former Major League Baseball player, and Samantha, a former AD Media Group employee, reflect on the lessons they've learned along the way, including the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and knowing when to pivot in both business and life.
• Lisa Pienierro, founder of Glotrition, discussed how she built a wellness brand focused on inner and outer beauty. Lisa shared how combining scientific research with innovative product development allowed her to create a brand that empowers consumers to feel confident from the inside out.
• Dr. Christian, founder of Dallas Dental Concierge, highlighted the importance of building trust and delivering exceptional client care. His approach to concierge dentistry focuses on providing a luxury experience for patients while addressing their unique needs with personalized care.
• Shey Geyer, owner of IBB Design, shared how blending creative vision with business strategy has allowed her to scale her luxury interior design business. She emphasized the importance of staying true to your design philosophy and understanding the needs of high-end clients.
• Monica, founder of Wash Yo Self, explained how she turned a personal need into a thriving business. Monica shared the challenges of product development, brand positioning, and the importance of customer feedback in refining her product line.
• Herbery Chaveyee Johnson, founder of Johnson Realty, discussed how understanding market trends, cultivating long-term client relationships, and maintaining integrity have helped him succeed in the competitive real estate market.
• Heather Stephens/The Agency Frisco - 

Notable Quotes

Samantha and Matt Reynolds
"Success isn’t just about the wins. It’s about growing through challenges and staying adaptable." – Matt Reynolds
"We learned the importance of knowing when to lean into each other’s strengths and how that drives success, both in life and business." – Samantha Reynolds

Lisa Pienierro
"Building a brand isn’t just about selling a product; it’s about creating a mission that empowers people." – Lisa Pienierro
"Health and beauty are more than just skin-deep; it’s about feeling confident in your own body and mind." – Lisa Pienierro

Dr. Christian
“Trust is the foundation of everything. When you make a patient feel truly cared for, they become lifelong clients.” – Dr. Christian
“People aren’t just looking for a service; they’re looking for an experience.” – Dr. Christian

Shey Geyer
“Success in interior design doesn’t come from just following trends. It’s about creating timeless spaces that truly resonate with the client.” – Shey Geyer
“It’s important to create a space where people feel connected and inspired, but also comfortable.” – Shey Geyer

Monica
"Starting a business is about solving a real problem – and that’s how Wash Yo Self came to life." – Monica
"Feedback from customers is invaluable. It helps shape not only products but the direction of your entire brand." – Monica

Herbery Chaveyee Johnson
“Real estate is about more than properties; it’s about understanding people’s dreams and helping them turn them into reality.” – Herbery Chaveyee Johnson
"The key to long-term success is cultivating trust and building relationships that last." – Herbery Chaveyee Johnson

Heather Stephens
“Success in real estate comes down to one thing: the ability to read the room and understand your clients’ needs before they even say a word.” – Heather Stephens
“The luxury real estate market is about the experience – it’s not just about selling a house, it’s about making a life-changing decision feel seamless and special.” – Heather Stephens
“Your career path doesn’t have to be linear. Sometimes, the detours are where you find your true calling.” – Heather Stephens

Links & Resources
Outfit Provided by Vici
Wine Glasses Provided by Saludi

Host
Audrie Dollins – Founder & CEO of AD Media Group, Marketing Strategist
Instagram: @audriedollins
Website: www.audriedollins.com
Website: www.admediagroupllc.com

Final Note

Success is about surrounding yourself with people who are driven to achieve greatness. The stories shared on Founders & Fortitude reflect the power of resilience, strategy, and passion. Each guest’s journey highlights the importance of aligning yourself with a community that challenges and inspires, creating an environment where success is not only possible but inevitable.

Capture. Brand. Engage. Let’s Do Big Things.

Video and Sound Production provided by: Kris of Danielle Rankin Photo & Film
Episode Powered by: AD Media Group @admediagrp

The Luxury of Reading The Room

You may know The Agency from the hit Netflix series Buying Beverly Hills and its founder, Mauricio Umansky, but did you know that The Agency Frisco is making waves in the luxury real estate world right here in North Texas? Join me for an inspiring conversation with Heather Stephens, the powerhouse owner of The Agency Frisco, as we dive into her journey from dental hygienist to luxury real estate mogul.

In this episode of Founders & Fortitude, we chat about the importance of building genuine connections, understanding how to read the room, and how these skills translate into the bespoke, high-touch experience that defines The Agency Frisco. Heather shares her remarkable story of growing from a part-time real estate agent to owning one of North Texas's most elite boutique real estate firms.

Key Topics in this Episode:

• Heather’s transition from dental hygienist to full-time real estate agent, balancing both careers while raising a young family
• The art of reading a room and understanding client needs in luxury real estate
• How Heather's background in patient care helps her build meaningful relationships with clients navigating life-changing decisions
• The impact of working with a global brand like The Agency and its influence on her business growth
• The importance of surrounding yourself with a strong support system, including family and mentors
• Heather's experience as a young mother and how it shaped her leadership and resilience in business

Notable Quotes:

• "It's not about a price point, it's about the experience." – Heather Stevens
• "When you find your passion, it’s easy to dive in." – Heather Stevens
• "Life is choices. It's about how you follow up from those choices." – Heather Stevens

Links & Resources:

• Guest: Follow The Agency Frisco on Instagram: @theagencyfrisco
• Heather Stephens: @heather_theagency
• Host: Audrie Dollins FOUNDER & CEO of AD Media Group Marketing Expert
  Instagram: @audriedollins
  Website: www.audriedollins.com
  Website: www.admediagroupllc.com

Final Note
Success is about surrounding yourself with luxury and connecting with people who are driven to achieve greatness. Heather Stevens' journey with The Agency Frisco highlights the power of building relationships with like-minded individuals who share a passion for excellence. Her story is a testament to the importance of aligning yourself with a community that challenges and inspires, creating an environment where success is not only possible but inevitable.

Capture. Brand. Engage. Let’s Do Big Things.

Video and Sound Production provided by: Kris of Danielle Rankin Photo & Film
Episode Powered by: AD Media Group @admediagrp

Founders & Fortitude: Conversations with Audrie Dollins

Understanding Your Purpose Per Season with Chavayee & Herbert Johnson

Episode Description
Building a business while working alongside your spouse takes resilience, passion, and a deep sense of purpose. In this episode, I sit down with Chavayee and Herbert Johnson to discuss their journey of growing a real estate firm as a family.

Chavayee shares her transition from a career in education to stepping into her role within the business full-time, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and how faith has guided her through this new season. Herbert discusses the fortitude it takes to establish and maintain an independent real estate firm, the systems he has in place to stay competitive, and the discipline required to thrive in a demanding market.

This episode is a powerful conversation about honoring the past, leaning into the present, and trusting in what’s to come.

Key Takeaways

• How Chavayee transitioned from assistant principal to real estate entrepreneur
• The balance of running a business as a husband-and-wife team
• The structure and discipline needed to succeed in the real estate industry
• The role of faith and resilience in entrepreneurship
• Finding purpose in each season of life and career

Follow Along

Host: Audrie Dollins FOUNDER & CEO of AD Media Group Marketing Expert
Instagram: @audriedollins
Website: www.audriedollins.com
Website: www.admediagroupllc.com

Guests: Chavayee & Herbert Johnson – Founders of The Johnson Realty Group
Instagram: The Johnson Group

Website: The Johnson Realty Group

Final Note
Success is about more than just business. It’s about the relationships you build, the lessons you learn, and the resilience you develop along the way. Chavayee and Herbert’s story is a testament to trusting the process, leaning into change, and embracing the journey.

Capture. Brand. Engage. Let’s Do Big Things.

Video and Sound Production provided by: Kris of Danielle Rankin Photo & Film
Episode Powered by: AD Media Group @admediagrp