Audio book stopped me mid-stride!

A while back, I was on the treadmill in my garage (trying to like cardio, still failing), when an audiobook stopped me mid-stride.

Likeable Badass, by Alison Fragale.

Within five minutes, I had my hand over my mouth in disbelief. It was like someone had finally said all the things I’ve spent years trying to explain—but better, cleaner, funnier, and with zero awkward pauses.

Did I immediately stop running and pull up LinkedIn to look up the author? Yes. Was I looking for an excuse to get off the treadmill anyway? Also yes. But still...this one earned it.

Then I sent the nerdiest, most effusive InMail of my professional life. A message so wildly enthusiastic that future me will cringe, but present me always just goes for it, I am not into being cool and holding back my feelings- I think we should all be less cool and more honest. Unsurprisingly, Alison replied with warmth, wisdom, and generosity.

Now, I’m not saying we’re best friends (yet...).

But I’m also not saying that I haven’t mentally fast-forwarded to a future where we’re laughing and sharing macarons at a delightful café (that she picked, obviously, there is no scenario where I am the one who knows where these neat little cafés are).

If you haven’t read this book, READ IT NOW. Especially if you’re a woman navigating career growth without losing your soul.

People ask how I built my business this last year. I have some thoughts...

Here’s what I know to be true (and what this book beautifully reinforces):

- Generosity is a viable and successful business model.

- Being useful, curious, and genuinely invested in people works.

- Self-awareness > doing it all perfectly (or any of it perfectly, really)

- Word-of-mouth magic only happens when you’ve actually helped people.

- Authentic connection is more powerful than transactional networking.

This quote from Alison hit me straight in the values:

“Status comes from being a generous exchange partner, giving more help, advice, and support to others than you receive in turn.”

Yes. That. That’s how I want to continue building this.

There are a million paths to success. Not all of them require ruthlessness.

Some of them are paved with kindness, competence, and actually showing up for people (Also snacks. Always snacks- thats the one thing she may have left out...).

Read the book.

Alison, you are a gem. Your BFF necklace may or may not already be in the mail.

#likeablebadass #alisonfragale #audiobook #excellentread