From Trouble to Triumph: Lessons in Resilience with Tiffany Sauder

What does it take to lead a company to success through turbulent times?

In this episode, join Tiffany Sauder, CEO of Element Three and a 2018 40 Under 40 honoree, shares her journey of steering her company through two significant economic downturns and earning multiple spots on the Inc. 5000 list. Tiffany provides a candid exploration of her entrepreneurial path, discussing the challenges of expanding her agency during the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic, adapting leadership roles for company growth, and balancing family life.

Tune in to discover how Tiffany successfully navigated the "messy middle" of her journey and emerged stronger.

Key takeaways:

• Adaptability and Decisive Leadership: Tiffany emphasized the importance of quick decision-making during the COVID-19 crisis. It was through immediate action and clear communication that they managed to navigate those uncharted waters.
• Embracing Team Collaboration: Tiffany’s shift from an "I" to a "we" mentality highlights her move towards a collaborative, team-based approach. By delegating day-to-day tasks and concentrating on key areas, leaders can enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
• Aligning Values with Financial Goals: The episode explores the challenge of balancing personal values with financial ambitions. Tiffany stresses maintaining health, sleep, and relationships while pursuing professional goals, advocating for a balanced approach to success that incorporates passion, financial savvy, and a strong company culture.

Timestamps:

00:00 Control, planning, and risk-taking.

05:33 Seeking influence, authority; upbringing shapes perspective.

07:59 Taking risks in your 20s

09:36 Finance background transitioned into marketing

15:40 Founders need passion, energy, and magnetism

17:41 Offering resources and investing in employees' growth

21:45 Bigger campaigns, risk, accountability, testing, client partnership

23:06 Mindset: turning "never" and "always" into opportunities

28:29 Business coach lessons

31:20 Adversity made me stronger

34:39 Founders need individual moxie and obsession.

39:22 Operational help for business to grow.

41:52 Shifting leadership roles

46:00 Balancing career, family, and personal fulfillment purposefully

47:14 Balancing financial success and family life effectively.

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