Women are starting businesses at record rates, leading organizations at levels previous generations could not have imagined, and building the kind of public influence that is reshaping entire industries. The conversation about women in leadership has moved from aspiration to reality and in 2026, that reality is more visible, more powerful, and more consequential than ever before.

But visibility alone does not tell the full story. The women driving the most significant changes in business today are not just breaking through barriers they are building entirely new models of what leadership, success, and impact can look like.

This guide explores where women in business stand in 2026, what the data reveals about female leadership, and the practical strategies that the most successful women in business are using to build careers and companies on their own terms.

Where Women in Business Stand in 2026

The landscape for women in business has shifted dramatically over the past decade and 2026 represents an inflection point in several key areas.

Women-owned businesses are growing faster than the overall market. According to recent data, women-owned businesses now represent a significant and growing share of all US businesses, generating billions in revenue and employing millions of people across every sector of the economy.

Female entrepreneurs are entering traditionally male-dominated industries at accelerating rates. Technology, finance, construction, manufacturing, and real estate sectors that were historically dominated by men are seeing meaningful increases in female ownership and leadership.

Women in leadership positions are driving measurable business performance improvements. Research consistently shows that companies with women in senior leadership roles outperform those without on key metrics including revenue growth, innovation, and employee retention.

The funding gap is narrowing slowly. While women still receive a disproportionately small share of venture capital funding relative to male founders, the absolute number of female-founded companies receiving significant investment has grown substantially.

The picture is not uniformly positive significant challenges remain, and the progress is uneven across industries, geographies, and demographics. But the trajectory is clear, and the momentum is real. As agentic AI reshapes industries and creates new opportunities, women in business who adopt these tools early are gaining significant competitive advantages.

The Unique Strengths Women Bring to Business Leadership

The most effective women in business in 2026 are not succeeding by adopting a traditionally masculine leadership style. They are succeeding by bringing their authentic strengths to leadership and those strengths are increasingly recognized as competitive advantages. The leadership qualities that define great leaders in 2026 – emotional intelligence, resilience, and authentic communication are qualities women in business demonstrate at exceptional levels.

Collaborative Leadership

Women in business consistently demonstrate strong collaborative leadership instincts, the ability to build consensus, leverage diverse perspectives, and create environments where people feel genuinely valued and heard. In a business environment where talent retention and team performance are critical differentiators, this strength translates directly into measurable business results.

Emotional Intelligence

The research on emotional intelligence and leadership effectiveness is clear, leaders with high emotional intelligence consistently outperform those who rely purely on technical expertise or positional authority. Women in business who lead with emotional intelligence build stronger teams, retain better talent, and navigate complex organizational dynamics more effectively.

Resilience and Adaptability

Women who build successful businesses and careers in environments that were not originally designed for them develop exceptional resilience and adaptability, the capacity to navigate obstacles, find alternative paths, and sustain performance through adversity. These qualities are exactly what the current business environment demands from every leader regardless of gender.

Purpose-Driven Leadership

Women in business disproportionately lead with a clear sense of purpose building companies that solve real problems, create genuine value, and operate with ethical integrity. This approach resonates strongly with customers, employees, and investors who are increasingly making decisions based on values alignment alongside financial returns.

The Challenges Women in Business Still Face

Acknowledging the progress does not require ignoring the persistent challenges. Honest conversations about what still needs to change are essential to making that change happen.

Access to capital remains unequal. Female entrepreneurs still receive a fraction of the venture capital that flows to male-founded companies despite data showing that female-founded companies often deliver stronger returns on investment.

The visibility gap persists. Women in business are underrepresented in the media, on conference stages, in boardrooms, and in the publications that shape industry narratives. When women are not visible, younger women lack the role models and proof points that make ambitious goals feel achievable.

The double standard in leadership evaluation is real. Women in leadership roles are often evaluated more harshly than male counterparts for identical behaviors, confident women are described as aggressive where confident men are described as decisive, and emotional women are dismissed where emotional men are described as passionate.

The work-life integration challenge is disproportionate. Women in business continue to carry a disproportionate share of caregiving and domestic responsibility alongside their professional commitments, a structural inequality that limits career advancement and business growth for millions of women.

Managing work life balance while navigating these structural barriers requires deliberate strategy and strong personal boundaries. Understanding these challenges is not about dwelling in complaint. It is about making strategic decisions with clear eyes knowing what the actual landscape looks like so you can navigate it effectively rather than being blindsided by it.

Strategies the Most Successful Women in Business Use in 2026

Build Your Visibility Deliberately

The women in business who are having the most impact in 2026 are not waiting to be discovered. They are building their visibility strategically through media coverage, personal branding, speaking engagements, and published content that establishes their expertise and perspective in the public domain. Writing a strong press release for significant milestones is one of the fastest ways to begin building that media presence.

Getting featured in the right publication, building a consistent LinkedIn presence, pursuing podcast appearances, and seeking a business spotlight in credible media outlets are not vanity projects. They are strategic investments in the kind of visibility that creates opportunities, builds credibility, and attracts the clients, partners, and talent that accelerate growth.

Build a Network That Challenges You

The research on professional networks is consistent, the quality of your network is one of the strongest predictors of career advancement and business success. For women in business, building a network that includes both peers at your current level and mentors who have navigated the path ahead is particularly valuable.

Seek out women who are doing what you aspire to do. Build relationships with sponsors not just mentors who will advocate for you in rooms you are not yet in. And invest in the communities of fellow women in business that provide both practical support and genuine understanding of the specific challenges you face.

Master Your Financial Literacy

One of the most consistently cited barriers for women in business both as employees and as entrepreneurs is financial literacy. Understanding your numbers, knowing your worth, negotiating confidently, and making informed financial decisions about capital, growth, and exits are skills that directly determine outcomes.

If financial literacy is a gap, close it deliberately. The investment in understanding your business finances, your personal compensation, and your startup business funding options is one of the highest-return skills available to any woman in business.

Tell Your Story

The women in business who build the strongest reputations and the most durable careers are almost universally the ones who tell their stories well. Not polished, carefully managed narratives but honest, specific, human accounts of why they do the work they do, what they have learned, and what they believe.

Your story is your most powerful differentiating asset. No competitor can replicate it. No algorithm can commoditize it. And in a world increasingly saturated with generic content, a specific, authentic voice built around genuine experience is the scarcest and most valuable thing a professional can offer. A CEO interview or executive feature in a credible publication is the most powerful single visibility tool available to women in business today.

Women in Business Who Are Leading the Way in 2026

The stories of women in business who are building remarkable companies and careers in 2026 are not hard to find but they are still underrepresented in mainstream media.

Women entrepreneurs are building technology companies that are solving problems in healthcare, financial services, and education. Female founders are leading the fastest-growing consumer brands in the country. Women in corporate leadership are steering major organizations through the most complex business environment in decades.

At CEO Medium, we are committed to telling more of these stories because visibility matters, representation matters, and the women doing remarkable work deserve to be seen and heard by the audiences that need to find them.

If you are a woman in business building something worth talking about, your story belongs here.

Resources and Support for Women in Business

The ecosystem supporting women in business has never been stronger. Here are the key resources worth knowing in 2026:

Funding resources:

• SBA Women’s Business Centers provide free and low-cost counseling, training, and access to capital for women entrepreneurs
• SCORE mentorship program connects women in business with experienced business mentors at no cost
• Grants and loan programs specifically designed for women-owned businesses are available through federal, state, and private sources

Community and networking:

• National Association of Women Business Owners
• Women’s Business Enterprise National Council
• Local women’s business groups and chambers of commerce

Media and visibility:

• HARO and Qwoted for journalist source opportunities
• LinkedIn for building professional visibility and thought leadership
• CEO Medium for dedicated feature coverage of women in business stories

Final Thoughts

The women in business who are making the most significant impact in 2026 share a common set of characteristics that have nothing to do with gender, they are strategic, persistent, clear about their value, and committed to building visibility alongside the substance of their work.

The progress is real. The challenges are real. And the opportunity for women who are ready to build boldly, tell their stories honestly, and invest in their visibility alongside their craft has never been greater.

Your business story deserves to be told. And the world needs to hear it.

CEO Medium is committed to featuring the stories of women in business who are doing remarkable work. Want your story featured? Get Featured Today or email info@ceomedium.com.

The post Women in Business: How Female Leaders Are Rewriting the Rules in 2026 appeared first on CEO Medium.

After Dani Austin’s birth sparked widespread conversation, many women were left with more fear than clarity.

There is another side of birth and it deserves to be seen.

There is a version of natural birth that most women are never shown. Not because it does not exist, but because it is rarely shared.

In a time where birth stories reach millions within hours, the narratives that rise to the surface often center around urgency, intervention, fear, and unpredictability. Those experiences are real. They matter, and I have been there.

But they are not the only reality.

After watching the response to Dani Austin’s birth, one thing became very clear. Women are searching. Not for perfection, not for comparison, but for a fuller picture.

Because there is another side of birth, a physiological, supported, undisturbed experience that unfolds in a completely different way.

And most women have never seen it.

My Journey to Natural Home Birth: From Emergency C-Section to VBAC

I am a mother of four.

My first birth was an emergency, medicalized, intense, and it left me feeling disconnected from my body. But it became the turning point.

It led me to question everything I had been taught about birth, about the body, about what was considered normal.

Over time, I rebuilt trust. Not just mentally, but physically. I nourished my body. I supported my nervous system. I began to understand what the body is actually designed to do when it is not rushed, interrupted, or placed under pressure.

My next births were different, three VBAC home births, each more empowering than the last.

And most recently, at 43 years old, I experienced something many women are told is unlikely, or even impossible: a two-hour, pain-free, deeply peaceful natural home birth.

What a Pain-Free Natural Birth Actually Looks and Feels Like

Before this birth even began, I had already seen it.

Not as a wish, but as a knowing.

With each of my previous VBAC births, I had learned how powerful the mind-body connection truly is. Birth visualization was not just a concept. It became a language my body understood.

When labor began, it did not feel chaotic. It felt rhythmic, like stepping into the ocean. Each wave came, and instead of bracing, I moved with it. I softened. I allowed.

At the peak of each surge, I focused on slow, steady exhales. I was not forcing anything. I was creating space.

And my body responded.

It opened. It guided. It knew exactly what to do.

There was no rush. No pressure. No constant interruption. Just a calm, supported environment where my body could do what it was designed for.

Within two hours, my baby was in my arms, calm, alert, and peaceful.

This is the part that is missing from the conversation about natural birth.

Not that every birth will look like this. But that this version exists at all. That the body is not inherently broken. That with the right support, environment, and preparation, natural birth can unfold in a way that feels entirely different from what many women have been led to expect.

Why Women Are Not Being Shown the Full Picture of Natural Birth

We have normalized fear around birth.

We have normalized the idea that the body will fail. That pain in natural birth must be extreme. That intervention is inevitable. That being an older mom will come with gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and induction or C-section.

I had none of those complications at 43.

But what if that is only one version of the story?

What if there is another pathway, one that honors physiology, nervous system safety, and true support?

This is not about comparison. It is not about saying one birth is better than another. Every woman’s experience is her own. Every birth is valid, including my first emergency birth.

But informed choice requires full visibility.

And right now, women are not being shown the full picture of what natural birth can be.

There are births that are calm. There are births that are fast. There are births that are deeply peaceful. There are births where women feel powerful, connected, and fully present in their bodies.

This is one of those stories. And it deserves to be seen.

The Part of Natural Birth Preparation That Changes Everything

What most women are never taught is that preparation for natural birth is not just physical. It is neurological. It is emotional. It is deeply mental.

The body follows the nervous system. And the nervous system responds to what feels safe, familiar, and expected.

This is where birth visualization becomes powerful.

Not surface-level affirmations, but repeatedly seeing and feeling a specific birth outcome in your body before it happens. This is how the body learns. This is how it softens instead of resists. This is how natural birth can unfold differently.

This is the work I now share with women, rooted in what I lived and what I used to rebuild my body and reverse chronic illness over a decade ago,  through the Anthony William framework.

How to prepare physically for natural birth through deep nourishment and body support, using mineral rich foods, hydration, and targeted support to strengthen the body at a cellular level

How to regulate the nervous system so the body can stay open, safe, and responsive during labor, creating the conditions where oxytocin can flow naturally without force or interference

How to use birth visualization in a way that imprints on the body, aligns the mind and nervous system, and shifts the entire experience of birth

This is not theory. This is lived.

What Is Possible When You Trust the Natural Birth Process

Natural birth at 43, after a previous emergency C-section, after three VBAC home births, with zero complications, this is what is possible when women are given full information, genuine support, and the space to prepare properly.

This story is not presented as a prescription. Not every woman will choose home birth. Not every woman will have the same experience. Physiology, medical history, and personal circumstances all matter.

But visibility matters too.

Because the more women see that this version of natural birth exists, the calm, the peace, the power, the more informed their choices can be.

And when women are truly informed, everything begins to change.

Natural Birth Resources and Next Steps

If this story resonated with you and you want to go deeper into natural birth preparation, the physical nourishment, nervous system support, and birth visualization practices that supported this experience, I share my full birth story and everything that supported this experience here and @reclaimersofhealth.

Because women deserve to see all sides of birth.

And when they do, everything begins to change.

The post Natural Birth at 43: A Pain-Free, Two-Hour Home Birth Story appeared first on CEO Medium.

Women entrepreneurs are redefining business in 2026.

In 2026, women entrepreneurs are not just participating in business, they are redefining it. From solo founders building seven-figure companies from their living rooms to executives leaving corporate careers to build something entirely their own, the stories coming out of the female founder community right now are some of the most compelling in business.

The numbers back this up. According to recent data from QuickBooks, one in three Americans plans to start a new business or side hustle this year, and women are driving a disproportionate share of that growth, particularly in industries that were historically dominated by men.

But statistics only tell part of the story. The real picture emerges when you look at the individual women building businesses in 2026, who they are, what they are building, and what other aspiring female founders can learn from their journeys.

This article celebrates ten of the most compelling business ideas and entrepreneurial paths for women in 2026, drawing on real trends, real industries, and the real experiences of female founders who are winning right now.

Why 2026 Is a Defining Year for Women Entrepreneurs

Before diving into the stories and ideas, it is worth understanding the landscape that makes this moment so significant for women in business.

The barriers are lower than they have ever been. AI tools, no-code platforms, and digital distribution channels have dramatically reduced the capital and technical expertise required to start a business. A woman with a valuable skill, a laptop, and a clear target market can build a profitable business faster in 2026 than at any previous point in history.

Remote and flexible work has unlocked new possibilities. The normalization of remote work has made it possible for women to start and run businesses without sacrificing family responsibilities or relocating to major business centers. Geography is no longer a limiting factor for building a serious company.

Community and networks are stronger than ever. The women entrepreneur community in 2026 is more connected, more supportive, and more resourced than any previous generation. From online communities to local business groups to accelerator programs specifically designed for female founders, the support infrastructure has never been better.

The market is actively seeking women-led businesses. Consumers increasingly seek out and prefer women-owned businesses. Investors are paying more attention to female founders. Corporate procurement programs actively prioritize women-owned vendors. The demand side of the equation has never been more favorable.

10 Business Ideas for Women Entrepreneurs Winning in 2026

1. Digital Consulting and Coaching

One of the fastest-growing categories for women entrepreneurs in 2026 is digital consulting — taking specialized expertise built in a corporate career and packaging it as a service that businesses pay premium prices for.

Whether it is financial strategy, HR consulting, marketing, product development, operations, or leadership coaching, women with 5 to 15 years of corporate experience are discovering that the knowledge they built working for other people is worth far more when sold directly to businesses that need it.

The startup cost is minimal. The margins are extraordinary. And the demand for specialized expertise has never been higher, particularly as small businesses seek affordable access to knowledge that previously required hiring full-time executives.

What makes it work: Deep expertise, a clear niche, and the confidence to charge what the knowledge is actually worth.

2. Real Estate Investment and Property Management

Women are entering real estate at unprecedented rates in 2026, not just as agents, but as investors, property managers, and portfolio builders. The combination of accessible financing tools, online property management platforms, and growing communities of female real estate investors has made this one of the most popular paths for women seeking to build long-term wealth.

From house hacking and short-term rentals to commercial property investment and real estate development, the range of entry points has expanded significantly. Women who once felt excluded from a male-dominated industry are now building substantial real estate portfolios from scratch.

What makes it work: Long-term wealth building, multiple income streams, and an industry that is actively welcoming and mentoring new female investors.

3. Health and Wellness Businesses

The wellness industry in the United States now exceeds $500 billion annually, and women entrepreneurs are capturing a significant share of that growth. From functional nutrition coaching and mental health support services to fitness studios and holistic health practices, the health and wellness space offers women entrepreneurs a powerful combination of purpose and profit.

The most successful women in this space in 2026 are those who have combined genuine expertise with digital distribution, building audiences online before opening physical locations, using social media to establish authority before launching products, and creating subscription models that generate recurring revenue alongside service income.

What makes it work: Deep personal connection to the mission, strong community building, and the ability to generate multiple revenue streams from a single area of expertise.

4. E-Commerce and Product Businesses

Women-founded product businesses are thriving in 2026, particularly in categories like beauty, skincare, home goods, sustainable fashion, and specialty food. The combination of Shopify, social commerce, and creator-driven marketing has made it possible for a solo female founder to build a nationally recognized product brand with minimal startup capital.

The most successful women-led e-commerce businesses in 2026 share a common trait, they are built around a community, not just a product. The founder’s story, values, and personality are as important as what they sell.

What makes it work: Authentic brand identity, community-first thinking, and products that solve real problems for a clearly defined audience.

5. Content Creation and Media

Women are building significant media businesses in 2026, newsletters, podcasts, YouTube channels, and digital publications that attract loyal audiences and generate revenue through sponsorships, subscriptions, and product sales.

The barrier to starting a media business has effectively reached zero. What separates the women building sustainable media businesses from those who create content without financial return is a clear monetization strategy from day one, not an afterthought once the audience is built.

What makes it work: Consistency, a distinctive point of view, and a monetization model that does not require a massive audience to generate meaningful revenue.

6. Professional Services for Small Businesses

Small businesses are the engine of the American economy, and they are chronically underserved by professional service providers. Women entrepreneurs who offer accounting, legal support, bookkeeping, HR services, marketing, and technology support to small business owners are building highly profitable businesses in 2026.

The demand is structural and growing. As more people start small businesses, one in three Americans this year alone, the market for professional services that support those businesses expands proportionally.

What makes it work: Recurring revenue, high client retention, and a market that is growing faster than the supply of qualified service providers.

7. Technology and SaaS

Women-led technology companies are raising more funding, reaching more customers, and achieving greater scale in 2026 than at any previous point. From AI-powered tools for specific industries to software platforms solving niche operational problems, female founders are building technology businesses that are genuinely changing how industries operate.

The most exciting trend in this space is the rise of no-code and low-code platforms that allow women with deep domain expertise but limited technical background to build software products. You no longer need to know how to code to build a technology business, you need to understand the problem deeply and the customer intimately.

What makes it work: Solving a specific problem that the founder has lived personally, combining domain expertise with technology leverage.

8. Education and Online Courses

The global e-learning market is projected to reach nearly $400 billion by 2026, and women entrepreneurs are capturing a significant share of that growth. From professional skill development to personal finance education, parenting support to creative arts, women are building education businesses that generate substantial income while creating genuine impact.

The most successful women in the education space in 2026 are those who have combined their expertise with community, creating not just courses but ecosystems where learners support each other, return for more advanced content, and become advocates who bring new students in.

What makes it work: Deep expertise, strong community, and a willingness to iterate on what you teach based on what students actually need.

9. Food and Beverage Entrepreneurship

Women-owned food businesses are thriving in 2026, from specialty food products and meal delivery services to restaurant concepts and food technology startups. The food industry is being reshaped by changing consumer preferences around health, sustainability, and authentic cultural cuisine, and women entrepreneurs are at the forefront of that transformation.

The path to a food business has also become more accessible. Ghost kitchens, farmers markets, direct-to-consumer shipping, and social commerce have all reduced the capital required to test and build a food concept before committing to a full brick-and-mortar operation.

What makes it work: Authentic products, direct consumer relationships, and the ability to build a brand story around the food itself.

10. Impact and Social Enterprise

One of the most powerful trends in women’s entrepreneurship in 2026 is the growth of businesses built around a social mission. Women entrepreneurs are increasingly building companies that generate profit and social impact simultaneously, in environmental sustainability, community development, education access, healthcare equity, and economic empowerment.

This model is not charity. It is business, often highly profitable business, that attracts mission-aligned customers, employees, and investors who are motivated by more than financial return alone.

What makes it work: Authentic mission alignment, a business model that does not depend on charity for sustainability, and a community of stakeholders who are invested in the success of both the business and the cause.

What the Most Successful Women Entrepreneurs Have in Common

Across every industry and business model, the women entrepreneurs who are winning in 2026 share a set of common characteristics that go beyond the specifics of what they build.

They started before they felt ready. The most common regret among successful female founders is not that they started too early, it is that they waited too long. The permission to start does not come from external validation. It comes from the decision to begin.

They built in public. The women building the most successful businesses in 2026 are not hiding their journey until everything is perfect. They are sharing the process — the challenges, the pivots, the failures, and the wins, and building audiences of loyal supporters long before they have a product to sell.

They invested in visibility. Getting featured in publications, building a personal brand, seeking media coverage, writing a press release to announce milestones, and showing up consistently in the spaces where their target audience pays attention. Visibility is not vanity for women entrepreneurs in 2026, it is strategy. A business spotlight in the right publication can open doors that years of cold outreach never could.”

They asked for help. The myth of the self-made entrepreneur dies quickly when you examine the actual stories of successful female founders. Every one of them built networks, sought mentors, joined communities, and leveraged the knowledge of people who had done what they were trying to do.

Final Thoughts for Women Entrepreneurs

The opportunity for women entrepreneurs in 2026 has never been greater. The tools are more accessible, the markets are more receptive, the communities are stronger, and the stories of what is possible are more visible than at any point in history.

The only thing standing between an aspiring female founder and a thriving business is the decision to start.

If you are building something, or thinking about building something, your story deserves to be told. CEO Medium features women entrepreneurs and business leaders who are doing remarkable things. Because the world needs to hear what you are building.

Is your business story ready to be told? CEO Medium features women entrepreneurs and business leaders across the US. Get Featured Today or email info@ceomedium.com

The post Women Entrepreneurs: 10 Inspiring Stories and Business Ideas That Are Winning in 2026 appeared first on CEO Medium.

Lucy strategizes with her clients to find insurance packages that meet their financial needs. Prior to her current role, she held prominent senior roles at CIBC, Hub Financial, yourCFO Advisory Group, Burgeonvest Insurance, and Burgeonvest Bick Securities Ltd. 

One area of Lucy’s expertise is disability insurance. She educates clients on how policies protect income in case of illness or injury. In this interview, Lucy shares her insights on why disability coverage is essential and how to understand available options.

Q: Why do Canadians tend to forget about disability insurance?

Lucy Lukic: A lot of people underestimate the possibility of a serious illness or injury impacting their ability to work. Many think that government programs or employer plans will cover them completely, but those really only provide partial income replacement or have strict limits. Younger adults and other people who are in good health tend to think that coverage isn’t needed yet, but actually, accidents and health conditions can happen to anybody. My goal is to change that perspective by teaching clients the importance of disability insurance as something that is essential, not an optional luxury. When people understand real-life risks, more Canadians can take the needed steps to protect their financial stability. 

Q: How has disability insurance changed recently? 

Lucy Lukic: Disability insurance used to be a niche add-on, but now it’s a central part of financial planning. More Canadians are now working as freelancers, small business owners, and juggling multiple income streams. Workplace plans don’t offer enough protection. Policies are now more flexible, and people can customize benefit amounts, durations, and cost-of-living adjustments. Mental health coverage has also become more important, with anxiety and depression counting as legitimate reasons for claims. Staying informed about these changes can help people make better choices for long-term security. 

Q: What should people look for when choosing a disability insurance plan?

Lucy Lukic: Review your monthly expenses. See how long you can sustain these expenses with no paycheck. Look at policy features like elimination periods, benefit periods, and check if benefits are indexed to inflation. I also encourage my clients to compare group insurance from employers with individual policies, because gaps in protection can exist. It’s also important to review definitions of disability, because some policies vary in how they determine eligibility. People can avoid surprises by asking the right questions and understanding the fine print. 

Q: What effect does mental health & chronic illness have on disability insurance now? 

Lucy Lukic: Insurers are noticing more claims linked to mental health and chronic conditions, but coverage still varies. Anxiety, depression, and burnout are legitimate reasons for benefits, and people should make sure their plan explicitly covers them. Chronic health problems like arthritis, diabetes, or back injuries are also typical causes of long-term disability claims. It’s not just sudden injuries that qualify for coverage. When people know this information, they can choose insurance plans that truly protect their income, no matter the condition that arises. 

Q: What is one tip you can give to people regarding disability insurance?

Lucy Lukic: Disability insurance doesn’t replace your paycheck. It helps protect your lifestyle, family, and long-term goals. I encourage people to view insurance as a safety net that lets them focus on recovery without financial stress. Also, starting coverage early can make a big difference in costs and eligibility. When clients know how policies work, they feel empowered to make the right decisions. Ultimately, having the proper insurance gives people peace of mind, which is invaluable in planning for the unexpected.

The post Interview with Hamilton-Based Insurance Professional Lucy Lukic on the Relevance of Disability Insurance appeared first on CEO Medium.

Aileen’s hard work and determination paid off. Within the first two months of launching her affiliate marketing venture, she earned her first $10k. This achievement gave her the boost she needed to start her own coaching program, aimed at helping entrepreneurs who struggle with focus and organization to achieve their goals and expand their businesses.

In addition to her coaching program, Aileen is an advocate for natural and organic mental health products. She strongly believes that a healthy mind and body are essential for success in business and life.

However, Aileen encountered challenges along the way. Growing in the digital realm, especially on social media, was a daunting task. Juggling her business with raising two more children and caring for her mother was also challenging. Nevertheless, Aileen learned to thrive in chaos, leveraging her ADHD to her advantage. She developed systems that allowed her to succeed in her personal and professional life.

Looking to the future, Aileen has set her sights on establishing a multiple 6-figure passive income stream and mentoring ADHD entrepreneurs worldwide to achieve the same. Through her coaching program, advocacy work, and podcast “That ADHD Chick,” Aileen is helping others with ADHD overcome their challenges and unlock their full potential in business and life.

The post Navigating Entrepreneurship with ADHD Aileen Alvira’s Story appeared first on CEO Medium.

As the founder of Love CEO Institute, McCrea has built a thriving coaching practice that helps women create the lives they want. With a focus on empowering women to achieve their goals and live fulfilling lives, McCrea has created a unique coaching approach that has gained her a reputation as a leader in the coaching industry.

McCrea’s innovative thinking and strategic decision-making have enabled her to grow her coaching practice into a highly successful business. In addition to her success as a businesswoman, McCrea is also a sought-after speaker, sharing her knowledge and insights on personal development.

Natasha believes that everyone should have the opportunity to succeed and she works compassionately to make that a reality.

As we look ahead to the future, we are confident that Natasha McCrea will continue to inspire and empower women to achieve their dreams. We congratulate her on this well-deserved recognition as a female CEO to watch in 2023.

For media inquiries or interview requests, please contact Olivia Long via olivia@olivialongPR.com

The post Natasha McCrea, a Female CEO to Watch in 2023 appeared first on CEO Medium.

Q: What inspired you to found your own company?

HARMONY VALLEJO: I had been in the industry a long time before I actually decided to start my own company. The decision came because I believed I had a unique skill set that could be used for not only something bigger but something that would ultimately support others. It’s our responsibility to provide support to those who need it if we can, and after establishing a pretty good foundation, I was able to hone in on our niche. Besides, who doesn’t want to be their own boss?

Q: Why did you choose to support nonprofits and ethical businesses?

HARMONY VALLEJO: I adore what I do because I have the opportunity to have a career while supporting multiple charitable initiatives. We all have a responsibility to do good in the world, and with the way I’ve structured my business, we’re able to provide the help that these organizations need in order to support their communities. In short, we take the pressure of marketing and backend operations off their plates. I’m able to use years of experience to create meaningful changes in people’s lives, and to me, that’s a dream come true. 

Q: What inspires you to go to work every day?

HARMONY VALLEJO: My team needs me, for one. I am the CEO of the company and I need to be there to provide guidance and support where they need it. Other than that, I would say the biggest inspiration I deal with is the amazing people who work for these nonprofits. They come to work every day because they want to help others. They’re so dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the world, so being able to work closely with them and help ease their burden truly makes me so happy. And seeing them thrilled when they gain more followers on social media, or how happy they are when we provide branding support – all of these things make it so easy to come to work. 

Q: Can you explain why you think nonprofits need help with their marketing? 

HARMONY VALLEJO: Sure! Nonprofits often have a strong passion for their cause, but they may not have the expertise or resources to communicate their message to their target audience. Marketing is crucial to any organization, including nonprofits. It helps them raise awareness, attract supporters, and generate donations. But many nonprofits face challenges when it comes to marketing, from limited budgets and limited staff to a general lack of marketing expertise. As a result of these things, they might struggle to stand out. 

Q: What do you think the future of marketing looks like for nonprofit organizations?

HARMONY VALLEJO: That’s an easy one. It’s about the digital revolution, which continues to speed up every year, it feels like. But overall, this is an incredibly positive change for nonprofits. They just need to harness it. With social media and online fundraising platforms, nonprofits can reach a wider audience and engage supporters in more meaningful ways. Having said that, there’s still something to say about developing face-to-face marketing to create a meaningful relationship for a long-term donor relationship. I am interested in seeing how these two methods of delivery work cohesively. 

Q: What advice do you have for young entrepreneurs like yourself? 

HARMONY VALLEJO: My advice would be to stay passionate about your goals and be open to learning from failures. Perhaps most importantly, you have to be agile and willing to adapt to changing circumstances. You should also take calculated risks, stay true to your values, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. Entrepreneurs aren’t an island, and they don’t get anywhere alone. 

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My career to date has been free-flowing and non-traditional. I’ve always worked with entrepreneurs as I love the pressure, challenges, opportunities for learning, and being part of something new and big, that this path presents. I’ve worked in many sectors in many countries including Canada, the US, the UK and Africa. I’m lucky to have always enjoyed the freedom to get fully involved in projects and to work with uniquely talented individuals on exciting initiatives. 

One day I realised I had a choice, I could continue working for one amazing entrepreneur or use all that I’d learned to create a business that enabled me to work with many amazing entrepreneurs to create a real impact. 

Kinship Kollective was born in September 2019, which allowed me to partner with entrepreneurs and help them overcome any obstacles stopping them from achieving their business goals. At the heart of the company is execution consulting which saves entrepreneurs both time and money by reducing their vision into execution-focused parts that let the people and the business move forward towards their objectives. 

What does your typical day look like?

There isn’t a typical day in my life, which is why I love what I do! Every day is different, and my priorities are different, with tasks ranging from prepping products for a marketing launch and overseeing a team to achieve a set goal to conducting 2 hours of interviews. 

I am in charge of my time and productivity, which I manage through time blocking. This lets me truly focus on specific client work and tick off tasks for the day efficiently. 

How do you achieve a work-life balance?

Working with entrepreneurs means non-traditional hours and work patterns and projects, but that’s the beauty and fun of it all as no two days are the same. The balance comes from doing work you really enjoy and creating time for things that provide meaning. As it’s the little things that make all the difference, I’ll always make sure I find time for workouts, and meditations and to fill my fridge with healthy and easy-to-prepare food when I know I have an intense couple of work weeks ahead. 

Are there any routines you’ve begun or ended during the last year to enhance your life?

Yes, meditation has been central to my well-being, and I’ve taken steps to ensure I meditate daily. It’s all too easy to put off meditation if I’m feeling overwhelmed so I now set a calendar reminder to meditate every day so that I’m responsible for making this happen. If the timing is off then I’ll set a new time in my calendar. This way, I can check back through my calendar to see if I’ve had a good week, and wellbeing-wise, and know to make changes for the following week if needs be. 

Which books and podcasts do you enjoy and would recommend?

I like listening to Tim Farris’s podcasts when I’m driving – he’s always interesting and speaks to intriguing people. Books, I just adore! Where to begin? Among my favourites are The Heroine’s Journey, Traction, Power vs Force, The Death of Expertise, and Mind. 

Whose interview on work-life balance would you like to read?

Rather than just one person’s thoughts on this, I’d ideally like a compilation book filled with contributions from global leaders and non-conformists, bringing insights from diverse industries and backgrounds on what work-life balance means to them. The book would end with an overview of similarities and differences, and a final summary of thoughts. 

Any final thoughts you’d like to share with our readers?

We’re all unique and have different strengths and drives. It’s important for everyone to understand exactly what they have to offer and what motivates them to be the best person they can be and then set boundaries that support and protect and ensure they can achieve the best version of themselves. 

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What motivated Erika to found Beyond Governance?

Beyond Governance was born in 2019 when Erika identified the opportunity to provide boards, executives and fellow Governance Professionals with tailored advice and support from seasoned Governance Professionals. With a mission of helping organisations find practical solutions to challenges around culture, decision-making and people, Erika is changing the face of governance and helping the C-suites, Chairs and investors to realise their organisation’s full potential.

What sets Erika and Beyond Governance apart?

At Beyond Governance, Erika’s unique drive and inquisitive spirit have resulted in a culture that stands out from the rest. Focusing solely on ex-in-house personnel for their services, they provide practical solutions based on real experiences instead of theoretical knowledge. The remote working environment also allows them unprecedented flexibility to work anywhere in the UK and beyond, while enjoying better productivity and work-life balance. What sets Beyond Governance apart is how they have built a strong organisational culture remotely.

Erika is a unique person, with unique qualities. With a naturally curious and ambitious mind, Erika asks the hard questions and has a forthright approach to her business. Beyond Governance does things differently.  

At Beyond Governance, Erika has crafted a remarkable corporate culture that champions talent and collaboration. She has brought together some of the best professionals in the industry with not only expertise and capabilities but also those who are personable team players, possess an upbeat disposition, maintain high ethical standards and harbour true enthusiasm for their work. Despite their clients always coming first, Erika ensures her staff are content in life as well; rewarding each of them equally through activities like networking days, invitations to awards or simply having fun at “team outings”. All members regardless of position or seniority can benefit from these unique experiences – guaranteeing everyone ultimately feels valued within the company.

Erika is dedicated to Beyond Governance’s sustainability and has worked hard to gain a B-Corp accreditation, proving that their values extend beyond words. They strive for profitability while also honouring their mission of supporting stakeholders and making decisions in the best interests of each individual client they serve. This has been shown in their twice awarded ‘Best For the World’ B-Corp award putting Beyond Governance in the top 5% for governance in the world amongst all B-Corps. 

Erika’s Road to Becoming CEO

Growing up in a working-class family with little support from her teachers, Erika was determined to make something of herself. She harnessed an incredible drive and resilience that saw her defy all expectations – exceeding her predicted GCSE results. 

Erika’s life was changed dramatically when a close family member experienced unexpected health issues, leading her to divert attention away from achieving the A-level grades she needed for Cambridge University. Rather than giving up hope entirely, Erika persevered and chose Reading University as an alternative route – where she studied Law as an undergraduate before progressing on to a Master’s in Commercial Law at Bristol University. Thanks to this dedication and hard work, Erika soon found herself training within KPMG’s Company Secretarial division; fast forward nine months later, however – after committing wholeheartedly towards impressing those around her – a promotion came knocking. Thereafter began what proved integral in propelling Erika’s already fantastic career further into uncharted success.

Erika became the youngest person in the industry to move into the highest governance and legal role in a London-based FTSE 250 organisation, Low & Bonar plc (FTSE SmallCap engineering company), at only 32 years old. This was largely due to the hands-on experience that she gained at numerous large corporations at InterContinental Hotels Group plc (FTSE 100 dual-listed in New York), Premier Foods plc (FTSE 250 food manufacturer), ICAP plc (FTSE100 financial services), and The Restaurant Group plc (FTSE 250 hospitality company).

At just 32, Erika’s ascension to a C-level position is remarkable – particularly in this challenging industry. Her experience and resilience enabled her to effectively navigate an ever-changing landscape of corporate issues: from share price collapse and external pressure group protests, through investigations into fatal incidents or fraudulent behaviour, even up the highest levels of management. In spite of these obstacles she never stopped pushing for answers; when faced with difficult questions that often had no answer it wasn’t enough for Erika who persevered until she found out all there was to know by herself.

Erika has explored the power of individuality and is unapologetically authentic as she steps into her role as CEO at Beyond Governance. Being a mother to twin girls, who are both so similar yet unique from each other, had been one of the greatest influences that encouraged her managerial skills. She aims to incorporate this valued mindset within her company by empowering employees with self-acceptance and allowing them the freedom in expressing their individualism without judgement or apology.

What do the coming years look like for Beyond Governance?

Beyond Governance is striving to empower organisations by equipping them with the knowledge they need on governance practices. This will ensure that they are up-to-date and prepared for any potential challenges ahead. There is enormous potential for governance to drive increased profits, employee retention and recruitment as well as improve the general operations of organisations. Taking what they have learnt over their combined 150 years Beyond Governance is set to change the face of corporate governance in the UK and internationally.  

Erika Eliasson-Norris, CEO of Beyond Governance, has always worked in the ‘eye of the storm’. Her career included navigating controversial board decisions, shareholder rebellions, a share price collapse to the brink of insolvency, high-profile anti-management stakeholder protests, survival-focused business division disposals, corporate manslaughter investigations, forced CEO and Chair removals, c-suite fraud investigations, FCA dawn raids, unexpected radio appearances, liquidation evading emergency finance and more. These challenging and extensive experiences afforded her the top governance and legal position in a London-based FTSE 250 organisation at the age of 32 – the youngest person in the industry to take on this c-suite-level role. Following frustrations over the lack of tailored, realistic, practical advice for c-suite Governance Professionals, Erika left her corporate career in 2019 and founded Beyond Governance.

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Her leadership in business spans more than 20 years and her guidance as a coach for personal transformation and wellness spans more than a decade. In addition to guiding the start-up of three national-level organizations, as a management consultant with Booz Allen Hamilton, she has worked with corporate, government, and nonprofit leaders to build their organizations while supporting them through their personal growth. 

What inspired you to develop your idea?

It is important to me that my work is meaningful. I started my career in the non-profit space supporting equity and access to education. I then transitioned into the government arena where I developed an additional passion for organizational effectiveness. I began to notice that the work I found most fulfilling and impactful was guiding individuals and groups through reflection that allowed them to transform new possibilities for their lives, their families, and their communities. Once that spark was lit, I realized that facilitating transformational conversations was the most powerful work I could do – so I stepped fully into it.  

What is unique about your business? 

Me. As a bisexual, black, immigrant woman, I bring a deep appreciation of the ongoing pressures faced by marginalized groups and the ways these truths can manifest in their lives. That allows me to create a safe space for folks to speak truths that are hard to say and step into possibilities they have yet to imagine.

How did you decide where to establish your company? 

I was living in Washington DC when I became deeply excited about the power of coaching so I started my business there. Being in there allowed me to plug into existing communities and networks as I was honing my craft and delivering services.

Knowing what you know now, is there anything you would have done differently when you were first starting?

When I was starting my fear of failure drove me to strive for perfection. But it’s impossible to get everything right – especially in a startup. So, I would have been much more compassionate with myself and my learning curve for starting a business.  

 What challenges did you have to overcome at the beginning of your journey?

I am thankful to be surrounded by really smart people. However, sometimes what is right for one person isn’t right for you. It was challenging to get advice that came from well-meaning individuals but wasn’t the right approach for me. However, one way to mitigate this is to try something on a smaller scale and if it doesn’t work well then pivot. For example, when I first started my business I wasn’t on many social media channels. One of the pieces of advice that I received was that I needed to be on all of them! That was both draining and a time suck. I eventually decided not to pursue Twitter or Tiktok so that I could focus my efforts on LinkedIn and Instagram. Since then, I have made LinkedIn my primary social media vehicle which has allowed me to be more targeted with my outreach and engagement. 

What advice would you give to someone who is trying to become an entrepreneur? 

Managing your nervous system is key to giving yourself the space to try new things and take risks that are inevitable with starting a business. So practice centering yourself. I am a fan of meditation, yin yoga, naps, and walks. When we feel emotionally overwhelmed it’s hard to be expansive and creative. Being able to manage your nervous system will allow you to operate from a place of possibility instead of a place of fear.

https://catapultchange.com/

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