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