Leveling Up with Lindsay

In this episode of 'Leveling Up with Lindsay,' host Lindsay sits down with Autumn Backes, a vital member of White Peony's operations team. The discussion focuses on the significance of creating memorable customer experiences that are thoughtful, personal, and done right. Autumn shares her journey from starting as a part-time dental hygienist to becoming a key contributor to White Peony’s evolution, emphasizing the value of slowing down to focus on quality over speed. The conversation highlights the importance of authenticity, journey mapping, and the power of personal connections in driving customer loyalty. Lindsay and Autumn also offer practical advice for small business owners and managers on how to enhance customer experiences, even with limited resources. The episode underscores that great customer service is not a series of transactions but a commitment to making meaningful connections.00:00 Introduction to Creating Memorable Customer Experiences00:19 Meet Autumn: The Heart of Operations01:25 Autumn's Journey from Dental Hygienist to Key Team Member02:39 The Importance of Customer Service and Personal Connection04:40 Challenges and Strategies in Business Growth10:50 Slowing Down to Focus on Quality16:55 Lessons Learned and Celebrating Small Wins18:00 The Importance of Not Feeling Alone in Business18:32 Customer Experience and Slowing Down19:14 Adapting to Economic Challenges19:35 The Role of the Executive Team20:56 Mindset Shifts: From Scarcity to Overcoming24:58 Journey Mapping for Customer Experience27:54 Continuous Improvement and Feedback32:17 Authenticity in Customer Service34:44 Concluding Thoughts on Customer ExperienceWhether you’re an entrepreneur, a mom, a friend, or someone just looking for a little inspiration, this is your space to feel seen, supported, and motivated. Together, we’ll share stories, strategies, and embrace a little bit of life’s beautiful chaos while exploring what it truly means to level up in business, relationships, and personal growth.White Peony Boutique: https://whitepeonyboutique.com/?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAApMpvCjycyQ0c3Sl_UrGxbZUb4LOZ&gclid=Cj0KCQjw_JzABhC2ARIsAPe3ynpJ9T2QVOZHyVWc-Y_563PFrHUfZJTncb36Zu7FloMFXCrEXaAL05QaAs67EALw_wcB

TakeawaysReal strength is often quiet, steady, and built through adversity rather than something you are born with.Knowing your values, boundaries, and purpose is essential to building resilience and staying grounded.Women grow stronger when they support one another, serve outward, and choose perspective over self-defeat.In this heartfelt episode of Leveling Up with Lindsay, Lindsay Salzbrun sits down with her mom, Jayne, for an emotional conversation about what strength really means. Together, they redefine strength as something deeper than hustle or perfection. They explore resilience, motherhood, purpose, boundaries, creativity, faith, and the power of perspective. This episode is a reminder that true strength is found in consistency, kindness, and the ability to keep showing up through life’s hardest seasons.Key Topics Covered:What quiet strength really looks likeHow resilience is built through adversityThe role of consistency in everyday strengthWhy boundaries and self-awareness matterMotherhood, family values, and emotional strengthWomen supporting women instead of competingCreativity as a way to refill your cupPerspective shifts that change outcomesServing others when you feel small or unseenPurpose, prayer, and listening for “God winks”White Peony Boutique: https://whitepeonyboutique.com

TakeawaysGrowth is not automatic—it takes honesty, humility, and intentional effort.The strongest relationships are built through loyalty, grace, authenticity, and hard conversations.Real success is not just about what you build, but who you grow with along the way.In this heartfelt episode of Leveling Up with Lindsay, Lindsay Salzbrun sits down with Autumn and Emily for a powerful conversation about personal growth, leadership, friendship, and the relationships that shape our lives. Together, they reflect on how White Peony brought them together, but more importantly, how choosing growth through uncomfortable seasons helped them become stronger women, leaders, and friends.This episode goes beyond business and explores what it means to lean into people, communicate honestly, and build meaningful relationships that can withstand change, challenge, and time. Lindsay, Autumn, and Emily share candid thoughts on insecurity, people-pleasing, learning to use your voice, and why strong relationships require intention.If you are navigating change, craving deeper connection, or learning to choose growth over comfort, this episode will encourage you to reflect on who you are becoming—and who you are choosing to grow with.Key Topics Covered:Choosing growth over comfortFriendship, loyalty, and deeper relationshipsPersonal development through hard seasonsConfidence, people-pleasing, and finding your voiceLeadership growth for womenHonest communication in relationships and businessThe importance of surrounding yourself with the right peopleWhy success is about who you build life withWhite Peony Boutique: https://whitepeonyboutique.com/

TakeawaysBabes Wine & Galentines is more than a fundraiser—it’s a women-centered night that creates connection, courage, and visible hope.INDY Foundation (“I’m Not Done Yet”) provides tangible, local support that directly helps cancer warriors with real-life expenses like gas, appointments, and bills.Behind-the-scenes moments—warriors bonding backstage, sharing stories, and holding hands—are where the deepest impact often happens. Lindsay Salzbrun sits down with Courtney Studenski, Executive Director of the INDY Foundation, to share the heart behind “I’m Not Done Yet” and what it takes to lead a mission that serves families through cancer with dignity and hope. Courtney opens up about her family’s own cancer journey, how Indie showed up when they needed community most, and why Babes Wine & Galentines has become a powerful, women-supporting-women experience that’s unlike a typical fundraiser. Together, they break down how warriors are selected and supported, why public honoring matters, how volunteers make the night possible, and what fundraising dollars truly cover—like treatment travel, daily needs, and peace of mind.Key Topics Covered:Courtney Studenski’s path from caregiver to Indie Foundation Executive DirectorThe origin story and mission of INDY Foundation (“I’m Not Done Yet”)Why Babes Wine & Galentines feels different: empowerment + community + impactWarrior nominations, styling, hair/makeup, and what the runway moment meansThe behind-the-scenes emotional moments that audiences don’t always seeVolunteer committees and how people can help without overcommittingWhat the money funds: gas, appointments, bills, and relief for cancer familiesEvent impact: raising nearly $34,000 and sparking ongoing community momentum

TakeawaysMarket trips aren’t glamorous shopping—they’re high-risk inventory decisions with no returns, tight timing, and real pressure.Buying strategy includes price points, vendor comparisons, quality checks (fabric, seams, fit), and planning for seasons and shipping delays.White Peony focuses on building a wearable closet for real women—using customer “avatars” and real-life styling needs, not just viral trends.In this behind-the-scenes conversation, Lindsay Salzbrun and guest host Autumn Backes pull back the curtain on what boutique “market” trips actually require: late nights, early alarms, spreadsheets, risk, and the responsibility of choosing inventory that must sell. They share memorable stories from early buying trips, explain how they balance what they love with the numbers, and unpack their philosophy of building closets—not chasing fast-fashion hype. Plus, Lindsay teases the spring/summer vibe: brighter colors, patterns, florals, and ultra-soft sets designed to bring sunshine into the store after a long winter.Key Topics Covered:What “market” is and why boutique buying is a major business decisionThe real pressure: inventory risk, no returns, timing trends, and shipping delaysBalancing gut instinct with analytics and past best-seller lessonsTrends vs. value: quality fabrics, fit, hang-on-the-rack reality, and customer avatarsSpring/summer preview: bold color, pastels, florals, patterns, and fewer black piecesWhite Peony Boutique: https://whitepeonyboutique.com/?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAApMpvCjycyQ0c3Sl_UrGxbZUb4LOZ&gclid=Cj0KCQjw_JzABhC2ARIsAPe3ynpJ9T2QVOZHyVWc-Y_563PFrHUfZJTncb36Zu7FloMFXCrEXaAL05QaAs67EALw_wcB

TakeawaysFull seasons aren’t chaos—they’re capacity-building seasons that strengthen leadership.Mature strength looks like steadiness, clarity, and calm execution (even without applause).Discipline—not motivation—is what creates consistency and long-term impact.In this solo episode, Lindsay shares a leadership and mindset reset for anyone in a “full” season of life—busy schedules, rising expectations, bigger responsibilities, and nonstop demands. She breaks down what real strength looks like when your plate is packed: staying grounded, leading with clarity, and committing to consistency even when you don’t feel inspired. Lindsay offers practical anchors to protect your energy, focus your day, and keep executing while still honoring your emotions.Key Topics Covered:The difference between chaos and fullness—and why fullness requires strengthWhat “mature strength” looks like: steadiness, calm, and clear decision-makingWhy consistency separates people who start from people who buildHow full seasons expand your capacity and refine prioritiesLeadership tone: staying grounded so others feel clarityDiscipline vs. motivation: commitment as a daily standardThe “Top 3 Non-Negotiables” framework for focused executionProtecting emotional energy like moneyDeciding proactively before the day decides for youSeparating emotion from execution to build confidence and trustWhite Peony Boutique: https://whitepeonyboutique.com/?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAApMpvCjycyQ0c3Sl_UrGxbZUb4LOZ&gclid=Cj0KCQjw_JzABhC2ARIsAPe3ynpJ9T2QVOZHyVWc-Y_563PFrHUfZJTncb36Zu7FloMFXCrEXaAL05QaAs67EALw_wcB

In this episode of Leveling Up with Lindsay, host Lindsay interviews her friend and employee Autumn Backes about their journey together at White Peony Boutique. They discuss the importance of leadership, community, and creating a unique retail experience that goes beyond just selling clothes. Autumn shares her personal story of transitioning from a dental hygienist to a key player in the boutique, emphasizing the power of connection and authenticity in both personal and professional growth. The conversation highlights the significance of building a positive culture and empowering others to be their true selves.TakeawaysCreating a supportive space is essential for personal growth.Leadership is about empowering others and fostering connections.Authenticity attracts the right people into your life.Retail should be more than just selling products; it's about relationships.Everyone has unique skills that can contribute to a team's success.Building a positive culture requires understanding and valuing each individual.Emotional connections with customers can lead to lasting relationships.Personal experiences shape our professional journeys.It's important to embrace who you are and not conform to others' expectations.Leadership involves listening and adapting to the needs of your team.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a mom, a friend, or someone just looking for a little inspiration, this is your space to feel seen, supported, and motivated. Together, we’ll share stories, strategies, and embrace a little bit of life’s beautiful chaos while exploring what it truly means to level up in business, relationships, and personal growth.White Peony Boutique: https://whitepeonyboutique.com/?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAApMpvCjycyQ0c3Sl_UrGxbZUb4LOZ&gclid=Cj0KCQjw_JzABhC2ARIsAPe3ynpJ9T2QVOZHyVWc-Y_563PFrHUfZJTncb36Zu7FloMFXCrEXaAL05QaAs67EALw_wcB

TakeawaysStability is essential before making strategic decisions.Return on Effort (ROE) is a vital metric for leaders.Leaders must evaluate opportunities through the lens of alignment, not pressure. In this powerful conversation, Lindsay Salzbrun sits down with leadership advisor Kent Gustafson to discuss how leaders can discern their next move during seasons of growth and pressure. Together, they unpack the difference between restlessness and readiness, how to assess opportunities through a values-based lens, and why slowing down can lead to more strategic outcomes.Key Topics Covered:Knowing when and how to pivot with purposeFinding clarity during business plateausEvaluating opportunities with intention and strategyThe importance of grounding decisions in personal and organizational valuesBuilding internal leadership readinessReturn on Effort: a fresh metric for sustainable growthWhy even top leaders need advisory supportWhite Peony Boutique: https://whitepeonyboutique.com/?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAApMpvCjycyQ0c3Sl_UrGxbZUb4LOZ&gclid=Cj0KCQjw_JzABhC2ARIsAPe3ynpJ9T2QVOZHyVWc-Y_563PFrHUfZJTncb36Zu7FloMFXCrEXaAL05QaAs67EALw_wcB

In this episode, serial entrepreneur Kent Gustafson discusses his journey and experiences as a business advisor, sharing insights on effective leadership, the importance of focusing on controllable factors, and building a supportive team. The conversation highlights valuable strategies for small business owners and leaders to navigate growth, manage pressure, and implement intentional pivots. Kent emphasizes the significance of understanding core values, investing in people, and celebrating small wins to ensure sustainable success.00:00 Introduction and Guest Background00:18 Entrepreneurial Journey and Family Life01:14 Coaching Experience and Business Consulting02:01 Business Focus and Clientele02:59 Personal Business Challenges and Growth06:38 Leadership and Controlling the Controllables10:26 Team Dynamics and Culture15:21 Celebrating Wins and Continuous Improvement16:09 Learning from Early Business Challenges17:05 The Importance of Asking for Help18:26 Building a Strong Business Team22:33 Navigating Business Transitions25:25 Controlling the Controllables30:14 Conclusion and Next StepsWhite Peony Boutique: https://whitepeonyboutique.com/?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAApMpvCjycyQ0c3Sl_UrGxbZUb4LOZ&gclid=Cj0KCQjw_JzABhC2ARIsAPe3ynpJ9T2QVOZHyVWc-Y_563PFrHUfZJTncb36Zu7FloMFXCrEXaAL05QaAs67EALw_wcB

In this raw and unfiltered episode of 'Leveling Up with Lindsay,' Lindsay and her operations director and close friend, Autumn, dive deep into the chaos of balancing life and business. They discuss the pressures of trying to be everything to everyone, the myth of having it all together, and the importance of embracing one's true self. Both share personal experiences about their hectic schedules, the necessity of compartmentalizing emotions, and the journey towards self-care and boundaries. This heartfelt conversation is a powerful reminder that even in the mess, you are made for more.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:12 The Myth of Having It All Together01:51 Daily Routines and Juggling Responsibilities03:38 Strength in Small Moments05:30 Balancing Emotions and Professionalism07:49 Understanding and Honoring Personalities16:03 Seasons of Life and Personal Growth19:22 Rejecting the Concept of Goals20:31 Navigating the Messy Middle22:13 Finding Moments of Presence24:30 The Struggles of Overworking29:51 Embracing Authenticity and Imperfection40:48 Concluding Thoughts on the Messy MiddleWhite Peony Boutique: https://whitepeonyboutique.com/?gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAApMpvCjycyQ0c3Sl_UrGxbZUb4LOZ&gclid=Cj0KCQjw_JzABhC2ARIsAPe3ynpJ9T2QVOZHyVWc-Y_563PFrHUfZJTncb36Zu7FloMFXCrEXaAL05QaAs67EALw_wcB