Present and Powerful: Omnipresence in Leadership & Motherhood

You want to build your personal brand but you're not sure where to start? In this episode, Lyndsey Akers sits down with Payton Moran—a business coach, community builder, podcast host, and mom of two—to unpack the realities of entrepreneurship and motherhood. Payton opens up about building a personal brand rooted in authenticity, the systems that keep her business moving forward, and how she’s creating space for women to step into visibility through community and collaboration.

Whether you’re a mom navigating the daily juggle or a business leader trying to align your work with your life, Payton’s story will inspire you to embrace both ambition and presence.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• 🌟 Personal Branding with Authenticity — why your story is the most powerful part of your brand
• 👩‍👧 The Balancing Act — how Payton shows up fully in her business while staying present with her kids
• 🤝 Community That Elevates — behind the scenes of the Build Your Own Brand Conference and its mission to empower women entrepreneurs

Guest Bio:
Payton Moran is a business coach and host of the Piece of Cake Marketing Podcast. Known for her practical yet heart-centered approach, she helps women entrepreneurs build authentic personal brands and streamline client acquisition with confidence. As a mom of two and community leader, she’s passionate about showing women that business success and motherhood can thrive side by side.

Call to Action:
🎟️ Ready to connect with like-minded women and elevate your business? Join us at the Build Your Own Brand Conference in Mobile, Alabama September 26-27!

https://payton-moran-495e.mykajabi.com/buildyourownbrand

In this creative and candid episode of the Present & Powerful Podcast, Lyndsey Akers sits down with Dianuh Aerin, the visionary artist and founder of Chasing Linen, a boutique creative agency known for blending art, storytelling, and strategy.

Diana shares her journey from anonymously posting artwork on Tumblr to landing major brand collaborations with companies like Starbucks and Vans. Together, they talk about the evolution from solopreneurship to building a flexible team, the discipline behind growing a sustainable creative business, and what it really takes to lead with both artistry and entrepreneurship.

We also explore how Dianuh balances motherhood and business ownership, why mentorship matters, and how letting go of hustle culture has made space for more fulfillment and joy. Whether you’re just starting out or evolving your brand into something bigger, Diana’s story is packed with practical wisdom and creative courage.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Diana started her business in 2013, driven by a deep love for art.
• Her first viral post on Tumblr gave her the confidence to pursue art full-time.
• Early on, she said “yes” to opportunities to gain experience and build momentum.
• Her business has evolved into a boutique agency with independent contractors.
• Project-based work and seasonal offerings allow her to stay creatively fulfilled.
• Diana shifted her brand identity to focus more on the service than herself.
• Brand collaborations often come through strong PR relationships and reputation.
• Mentorship and leadership are key values she instills within her team.
• Building a strong foundation in your craft should come before seeking big gigs.
• Reputation, consistency, and quality work matter more than quick wins.
• There are no shortcuts—hard work is a non-negotiable part of the journey.
• Real estate has been one way Diana creates long-term financial security.
• Balancing family and business requires communication and flexibility.
• Stepping away from hustle culture has made space for deeper joy and clarity.
• Embracing your unique style helps you attract the right audience.
• Don’t try to please everyone—be bold and different in your creative voice.

📍Tune in for:

• Diana’s artistic origin story and her first viral breakthrough
• Behind-the-scenes of evolving from artist to agency owner
• A conversation on collaboration, reputation, and mentorship
• Why branding is about your audience—not just your identity
• Refreshing advice on balancing business with family and real life
• Encouragement for creatives to lean into their uniqueness
  
  
  

In this high-energy and empowering episode of the Present & Powerful Podcast, Lyndsey sits down with Michelle Thames—a marketing strategist, content creator, and podcasting powerhouse who went from beauty blogging to building a thriving visibility ecosystem for her brand and clients.

Michelle shares her inspiring transition from a healthcare career to full-time entrepreneurship, opening up about the mindset shifts, discipline, and confidence it took to bet on herself. Together, they explore the power of podcasting, what it really means to stay consistent, and how dual entrepreneurship plays out in real life (especially when you’re building a business and raising a family).

If you’ve ever questioned whether your voice matters, felt stuck in your 9-to-5 mindset, or wondered how to grow a platform with purpose—this episode will remind you that everything is figureoutable and visibility starts with self-belief.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Michelle began her journey in 2009 with a beauty blog—and never looked back.
• She pivoted from healthcare to marketing after being unexpectedly fired.
• Building a visibility ecosystem is essential for long-term growth.
• Podcasting is a powerful tool for brand awareness and community building.
• Being in a dual-entrepreneur household comes with both joy and challenges.
• Systems and discipline are necessary to balance business and family life.
• Entrepreneurs must unlearn the traditional 9-to-5 mindset to thrive.
• Money mindset is a common block—but it can be shifted.
• Community and support systems are critical for success.
• Even when things get tough: keep going, don’t stop.

📍Tune in for:

• Michelle’s candid story of starting from scratch and carving her own path
• A breakdown of the “visibility ecosystem” and why it matters now more than ever
• Real talk about podcasting, content creation, and staying consistent
• What it’s really like to run a business with your partner
• Actionable advice for mindset growth and confidence as a creator

Encouragement for anyone pivoting careers or starting later in life.

In this episode of the Present & Powerful Podcast, Lyndsey chats with Tricia Merchandani—founder of T Collective, a dynamic creative studio focused on digital marketing and brand storytelling.

Together, we explore what it really takes to show up, stand out, and sustain momentum in business. Tricia shares how pitching herself for opportunities opened new doors, what she’s learned building a collective of creative talent, and why effective messaging and emotional storytelling are non-negotiables in branding today.

Lyndsey and Tricia also dive into digital marketing trends, the rise (and fall) of social media engagement, and the long game of building brand awareness. Trisha speaks candidly about balancing entrepreneurship with motherhood, navigating business as an introvert, and the mindset shifts that have helped her thrive through each season of growth.

Whether you’re a solo founder, brand builder, or creative entrepreneur, this episode is packed with powerful reminders that small steps compound—and storytelling is your superpower.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Trisha landed this podcast spot by pitching herself—proof that bold moves matter.
• Building a business means wearing many hats and embracing the learning curve.
• Email marketing is still one of the strongest tools for driving engagement.
• Social media engagement is declining—brands need deeper strategies.
• Creative collectives can offer flexibility and adaptability in client work.
• Paid campaigns are effective when paired with clear messaging.
• Storytelling is what creates emotional resonance and brand loyalty.
• Brands are defined by the people who experience them, not just the logos.
• Building awareness must come before expecting conversions.
• Introverts can thrive in networking by being intentional and values-driven.
• Balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship is a continuous act of grace.
• Pursuing your passion—quietly or boldly—is always worth it.
  
  

📍Tune in for:

• The origin story of Tea Collective and Trisha’s creative approach
• Real talk on building a flexible business model that works for life and family
• Fresh insights on where digital marketing is headed
• A soulful take on brand building, storytelling, and emotional connection
• Encouragement for introverted entrepreneurs and working moms
• Honest lessons from the messy middle of entrepreneurship

In this powerful and down-to-earth episode of the Present & Powerful Podcast, Lyndsey is joined by Jillian Murphy, a magnetic sales mentor and entrepreneur who went from corporate success to creating a thriving seven-figure business without a website.

Together, we dive deep into Jillian’s journey of identity, resilience, and reinvention after an unexpected job loss became the spark for building a business on her own terms. She shares how the power of real relationships, discipline, and a value-first mindset became the foundation of her success.

We also talk about integrity in sales, simplifying your offers, and why showing up consistently (even when it’s hard) is non-negotiable. This episode is a masterclass in selling with heart and staying committed to the bigger vision especially when no one’s watching.

Whether you’re just getting started or ready to refine your strategy, Jillian’s approach will remind you that connection, clarity, and consistency are your most powerful business tools.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Jillian’s business began after a pivotal moment, losing her job in corporate sales.
• Her first six figures came within six months by focusing on intentional, income-producing actions.
• Return on Relationships (ROR) is her guiding principle in both client retention and growth.
• You don’t need a fancy website to make sales, you need trust, messaging, and follow-through.
• Simplifying your offers leads to stronger results (and less burnout).
• Discipline in your personal life shows up in your business.
• Authenticity and consistency build a brand that lasts.
• Long-term success comes from giving value first and asking later.

📍Tune in for:

• The real story behind Jillian’s ‘rocket ship’ growth
• A refreshing perspective on selling through DMs
• Tangible tips on client retention, profitability, and offer clarity
• Why getting honest about your desires matters more than ever

Sales strategies that feel good and get results

In this heartfelt and powerful episode of the Present & Powerful Podcast, Lyndsey sits down with business bestie, Monica Fullerton — the unstoppable founder of Spousely, an online marketplace supporting military and first responder families.

Together, we go beyond the headlines to talk about what it really takes to grow a mission-driven business. From navigating burnout to hiring with heart, Monica opens up about the evolution of Spousely, her passion for building community, and how authenticity and storytelling have been her greatest business strategies.

We also talk about our friendship as founders, what it means to support each other through the highs and lows, and how surrounding yourself with people who get it can change everything.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, a military spouse, or someone craving purpose in your business journey, this conversation will remind you that success is never solo — it’s built with belief, vision, and the right people by your side.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Spousely was born to uplift military and first responder families through e-commerce.
• Monica shares real-talk lessons on burnout, delegation, and team-building.
• Personal stories are powerful tools for attracting aligned teammates and customers.
• Community is the secret to sustainable growth — you don’t have to do it alone.
• Future plans include Spousely’s online course to help others launch with clarity and confidence.
• Authenticity isn’t optional — it’s the foundation of long-term success.

💬 Favorite Quotes:

📍Tune in for:

• Real founder friendship vibes
• Behind-the-scenes of building a business while balancing life
• Tangible insights into team growth, burnout recovery, and business evolution
• What’s next for Spousely — and how you can grow with it

In this special Present & Powerful episode, the mic gets flipped! Lyndsey Akers is interviewed by her business bestie and fellow military spouse entrepreneur, Monica Fullerton, for a raw and heartfelt conversation on motherhood, visibility, storytelling, and the winding path of entrepreneurship.

Together, they reflect on the power of being seen, the lessons learned from life transitions, and the unshakable value of community. Lyndsey opens up about balancing motherhood with mission-driven business growth, sharing what it really takes to stay grounded when the journey feels anything but linear.

Whether you're a fellow military spouse, a woman building a business while raising a family, or simply someone who believes in the power of your voice — this episode is for you.

What You’ll Hear:
🌟 Why your story matters more than your stats
🌟 The gift of having a “business bestie” who truly gets it
🌟 The beauty (and chaos) of pursuing success on your own terms
🌟 How storytelling creates deeper connections — and real growth
🌟 Why community support is the backbone of business and personal transformation

This episode is for you if:
You crave honest conversations about entrepreneurship, identity, motherhood, and the magic that happens when women support each other.

In this solo episode, visibility strategist Lyndsey Akers highlights why the CEO or leader of any business must be forward-facing to drive growth. She explains how staying behind the scenes is no longer a viable strategy for subject matter experts and entrepreneurs who want to build trust, attract media features, and create lasting credibility in their space. From leveraging PR to elevating your personal brand, Lyndsey unpacks the mindset and strategy needed to stop being your industry’s best-kept secret — and start becoming the go-to expert.

💥 What You’ll Learn:

• Why visibility and leadership go hand in hand for lasting business growth
• How to build trust and engage audiences beyond social media
• Ways to use PR and personal branding to position yourself as a credible expert
• Where to focus your time and effort to find visibility opportunities that actually move the needle
• Why being seen leads to more leads, faster decisions, and long-term influence

🎯 Key Takeaways:

• Being a best kept secret won’t attract clients or opportunities
• PR expands your reach — without adding more to your plate
• A visible personal brand builds reputation, which builds revenue
• Action breeds clarity — take the first step to be seen
• Your business can’t grow if people don’t know what you do best

⏱️ Chapters:
00:00 – The Importance of Visibility in Business
02:08 – Building Trust Beyond Social Media
04:12 – The Role of PR in Business Strategy
06:52 – Elevating Your Personal Brand
08:51 – Visibility as a Path to Opportunities
09:11 – Becoming the Go-To Expert in Your Industry
10:35 – Practical Steps to Enhance Visibility

What if outsourcing your household tasks was the key to reclaiming your time, energy, and peace of mind?

In this insightful episode of the Present & Powerful Podcast, host Lyndsey Akers sits down with Kelly from Sage Haus—a trailblazer in modern household management—to talk about redefining what support looks like for today’s families.

Born from her own experience with burnout, Kelly shares the personal journey that led her to launch Sage Haus, a service designed to match overwhelmed families with trained house managers who bring order, relief, and calm to the chaos of daily life. From creating systems that support your unique lifestyle to dismantling the stigma of asking for help, this conversation is a masterclass in how thoughtful outsourcing can transform your home, your mindset, and your capacity.

Together, Lyndsey and Kelly dig into what it really takes to run a household with intention, how to make empowered decisions about investing in support, and why asking for help is one of the most courageous (and strategic) moves a parent can make.

What You’ll Learn:
✨ What a house manager is—and why it’s not just another name for a nanny or cleaner
✨ Why so many families still feel overwhelmed, even with childcare in place
✨ How conducting a “time audit” can help you delegate with confidence
✨ The mindset shifts required to overcome guilt and reclaim your time
✨ Why outsourcing is not about luxury, but about sustainability
✨ How Sage Haus is making household support accessible and meaningful

This conversation is for you if:
You’re a busy parent or entrepreneur craving more peace, clarity, and bandwidth in your daily life—and you’re ready to explore smart, sustainable support systems that actually work.

Chapters
00:00 – Welcome & Introduction to Sage Haus
03:08 – Kelly’s Burnout Story & the Birth of a New Model
06:01 – What Is a House Manager, Really?
09:04 – How Sage Haus Services Have Evolved
11:51 – Demystifying the Hiring Process
15:04 – Budgeting for Support That Fits Your Life
18:11 – The True Value of Time and Mental Load
21:13 – Accessibility and Custom-Tailored Help
23:43 – Understanding the Cost Factors
26:51 – The Power of a Time Audit
31:53 – Creating Systems That Work for You
36:01 – Dismantling Outsourcing Misconceptions
41:51 – Balancing Family, Business, and Boundaries
45:07 – Kelly’s Advice for Aspiring Founders

What really happens after the conference ends? In this special episode of the Present & Powerful Podcast, host Lyndsey Akers sits down with Taylor Smith:npowerhouse founder, community architect, and the visionary behind Power Table Live, to reflect on the unforgettable energy of this year’s event and what’s coming next.

Taylor shares candid insights into the planning, intention, and identity-driven leadership that shaped the Power Table Live experience. From sparking authentic connections to designing a conference that felt like a homecoming for ambitious women, she pulls back the curtain on the why behind the wow. Together, Lyndsey and Taylor explore how identity fuels entrepreneurship, why being in the room changes everything, and how to build powerful relationships that go beyond business cards.

If you’ve ever longed for a business community that sees all of you, this is the episode to hit play on.

What You’ll Learn:
✨ Why authenticity is the backbone of impactful networking
✨ How Taylor used her keynote to challenge identity norms in entrepreneurship
✨ What makes the Power Table Live experience different and deeply personal
✨ The real ROI of showing up in person and building before asking
✨ A look ahead at future opportunities and how to get involved in the movement

This conversation is for you if:
You’re a woman entrepreneur seeking more aligned community, meaningful networking, and a deeper connection between who you are and the business you’re building.

Chapters
00:00
Introduction and Event Recap
13:08
The Power of Community and Connection
21:19
Identity and Authenticity in Business
29:05
Future of Power Table Live and Speaker Opportunities