Voted Least Likely

Do you need to be a “Born Entrepreneur” to be successful in business?

In this episode of Voted Least Likely, I’m getting honest about what it’s like to build a business when you weren’t the kid selling lemonade or dreaming of boardrooms.
Spoiler: I wasn’t a “born entrepreneur.”
I never planned on starting a business, and for a long time, I felt behind—like I didn’t belong in the world of entrepreneurs who seemed to have it all figured out.
But here’s what I’ve learned: not fitting the mold doesn’t mean you’re not meant for this. It might actually be your biggest strength.
Key highlights:✔️ You don’t have to be born for this to be good at it✔️ Experience isn’t everything—perspective matters✔️ Your path is valid, even if it’s unconventional
If you’ve ever felt like you’re winging it, or wondering if you’re too late or too lost to figure it out—this one’s for you.
🎧 Hit play, and let’s talk about building something real, even if you never thought you’d be the one doing it.
Does this topic resonate with you? DM me on Instagram [@leahyard]
Learn more about the Voted Least Likely Podcast here:www.leahyard.comIG: @leahyardTikTok: @leahyard

"No Risk, No Story" An Inspiring chat about Courage and Resilience with Brittany Gawley (RE-AIR)

This week on the Voted Least Likely Podcast I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with the one and only Brittany Gawley. After watching Brittany speak at an event, I knew she was someone I wanted to connect with. Her warmth, sense of humour, and encouraging energy is rare to find in the entrepreneurial world. Known for her adventurous spirit and contagious energy, Brittany is a powerhouse female founder and thought leader paving the way in strategic marketing, brand development, visual storytelling, and content creation.
She is CEO of Founders Media, partnering with purpose-driven brands to tell stories and maximize impact through strategy, creative development, and content production for nonprofits, foundations, and socially conscious corporations. Prior to her businesses, she earned a Master’s Degree in Education, taught high school history, and played professional hockey in the CWHL.
In this week's episode we discuss how the tragic loss of a family member shifted her perspective at a young age, how she started a photography business (while teaching High School!) and how her ability to "start before she was ready" has lead her to build a wildly successful business.
Website: https://foundersmedia.ca/Follow Brittany on Instagram:
BDC Link: https://www.bdc.ca/en/bdc-capital
Learn more about the Voted Least Likely Podcast here:www.leahyard.comIG: @leahyardTikTok: @leahyard
 

Navigating Mother’s Day as a Small Brand

In this short and reflective episode of Voted Least Likely, I’m talking about Mother’s Day—specifically, how complex and emotional this day can be, and how I choose to navigate it as a small business owner.
While Mother’s Day is often marketed as a purely joyful celebration, the truth is that it can be a difficult day for many. From grief and loss to strained relationships and unmet expectations, this day holds a lot more than just flowers and brunch.
As someone who builds community through storytelling and intentional connection, I think it’s important to acknowledge those emotions—and to share how I approach my brand messaging with sensitivity, honesty, and heart.
🎧If you've ever struggled to balance empathy and messaging during emotional holidays—this might help you find your footing.
Got thoughts about Mother's Day messaging? DM me on Instagram [@leahyard]
Learn more about the Voted Least Likely Podcast here:www.leahyard.comIG: @leahyardTikTok: @leahyard

Mindset Shifts, Storytelling & Authentically Showing Up in Business — A Conversation with Lauren Tilden (on the Making Good Podcast)

This week on the Voted Least Likely Podcast, I’m sharing a special episode pulled from a conversation I had on the Making Good podcast, hosted by the incredible Lauren Tilden.
We covered so much ground in this interview—from the mindset shifts that have shaped my business journey, to the power of storytelling, and why how we think about our work can impact everything from our confidence to our sales.
This episode is full of real talk, honest reflections, and permission to do business your way—even when it doesn’t look like what everyone else is doing.
In this conversation, we explore:✨ The mindset blocks that hold so many of us back✨ Why storytelling is one of the most powerful tools in your business✨ The importance of leaning into your values and trusting your own pace
Key Takeaways:✔️ Your mindset is the foundation—when it shifts, everything else can too✔️ Telling your story isn’t just marketing—it’s connection✔️ You don’t have to do business like everyone else to be successful✔️ Clarity comes from action—not overthinking
If you’ve ever struggled with imposter syndrome, comparison, or just needed a reminder that you’re allowed to build a business that feels good, this episode is for you.
🎧 Press play and settle in for an honest conversation that might just change the way you think about showing up in your business.
Links & Resources:👉 Check out the Making Good podcast and follow Lauren Tilden here
If this episode resonates with you, let me know! DM me on Instagram [@leahyard]
Learn more about the Voted Least Likely Podcast here:www.leahyard.comIG: @leahyardTikTok: @leahyard

When the "Yes" Feels Scary — Navigating Wins in Business

In this episode of the Voted Least Likely Podcast, I'm diving into a surprising truth about entrepreneurship: sometimes, the hardest thing to handle isn’t the failure—it’s the success.
After pouring everything into building your brand, chasing leads, hearing no more times than you can count… you finally get a yes. The collection launch is a success. The offer lands. The client signs. You’re seen, recognized, validated. And instead of feeling only joy, you’re hit with a strange mix of unease and fear.
That’s what this episode is about: the emotional whiplash of getting a win when you’ve spent so long fighting for one.
We’re unpacking why success can feel destabilizing, and what it means to let in the good without waiting for the other shoe to drop.
Key Takeaways:
✔️ Fear doesn’t always mean “stop”—sometimes it’s a sign you’re expanding.✔️ A win is not a fluke; it’s a reflection of your effort. Sometimes we forget just how long we've been working on our goal, that we're surprised when we reach it.✔️ You are allowed to feel uncertain and proud. These things can coexist.
If you’ve ever had a moment where things finally start working and you’re not sure how to feel about it—this one’s for you. Let’s talk about what it means to stop surviving and start receiving.
🎧 Tune in and let’s normalize the messy beauty of growth, even when it looks like everything you wanted.
This is your reminder: you’re not “lucky”—you’re ready.If this episode resonates with you, let me know! DM me on Instagram [@leahyard]
Learn more about the Voted Least Likely Podcast here:www.leahyard.comIG: @leahyardTikTok: @leahyard
 

No Reels? No Problem: Tara Reid QUIT social media and built her dream biz

In this episode of the Voted Least Likely Podcast, I’m joined by the amazing Tara Reid, a business coach for introverts who proves that you don’t need to be online 24/7 to run a successful business. In fact, Tara walked away from social media entirely—and still grew a thriving, sustainable business on her own terms.
Tara shares how she shifted her focus to platforms that actually feel good—like Pinterest and her email list—and built a business that supports her energy, values, and clients without the constant pressure to post.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
✨ Why Tara decided to quit social media and how it changed everything
✨ What it really looks like to build a business as an introvert
✨ Encouragement for anyone feeling exhausted by social media but scared to step away
Key Takeaways:
✔️ You don’t need to do what everyone else is doing to be successful.
✔️ Marketing can feel aligned and spacious
✔️ Introverts can build bold, powerful businesses—without shouting on Instagram.
✔️ Stepping away from social media isn’t business suicide—it might actually be your secret weapon.
Tara’s story is a breath of fresh air in a world that says you have to be "on" all the time. If you've ever dreamed of ditching the scroll and building something calmer, this episode is for you.
🎧 Press play and give yourself permission to grow your business your way.
Links & Resources:
👉 Connect with Tara and explore her offerings at https://thetarareid.com/👉 Loved this episode? Share it with a friend who’s ready to ditch the hustle and do business differently.
If this episode resonates with you, let me know! DM me on Instagram [@leahyard]
Learn more about the Voted Least Likely Podcast here:www.leahyard.comIG: @leahyardTikTok: @leahyard

From Corporate Accounting to Community Builder – Hillary Connelly’s Journey

In this episode of the Voted Least Likely Podcast, I sit down with Hillary Connelly, a Business Strategist who made the bold leap from the corporate accounting world to launching The Homemade Community Shoppe—a Chilliwack-based business supporting over 55 small maker businesses.
Hillary’s story is a powerful example of what happens when you follow your instincts, take risks, and build something bigger than yourself. She traded spreadsheets for storytelling, and created a space where small businesses can thrive.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
- Hillary’s journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship—and what sparked the change
- The biggest challenges of leaving a “stable” career to pursue something uncertain
- How The Homemade Community Shoppe is empowering small makers and fostering local business growth
- Advice for anyone feeling stuck in their corporate job and dreaming of something more
Key Takeaways:
✔️ Leaving security is scary, but so is staying in a job that doesn’t fulfill you.
✔️ Community over competition—why supporting small businesses benefits everyone.
✔️ Success isn’t just about profits, it’s about impact.
✔️ If you’re waiting for the “right time” to start, you might be waiting forever.
Hillary’s story is inspiring, practical, and full of real-world lessons for anyone considering a career pivot or looking to build a business that makes a difference.
🎧 Tune in for an honest, insightful conversation about risk, resilience, and redefining success.
Homemade Community Shoppe online: https://homemadecommunity.com/Homemade Community Shoppe on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homemadechwk/
More About Hillary:
Hillary is deeply passionate about empowering small businesses and fostering community growth. She comes from a family with entrepreneurial roots in Chilliwack, which has inspired her lifelong dedication to supporting local entrepreneurs.
Hillary is the owner of Homemade Community Shoppe, a Chilliwack-based business incubator supporting over 55 small maker businesses. Her innovative approach to retail provides a platform for home-based entrepreneurs to thrive by offering shelf rentals, coaching sessions, and community-building opportunities.
Hillary is a Chartered Professional Accountant with extensive experience consulting Fortune 500 companies across diverse industries. This experience inspired her to focus on “the little guy” and dedicate her life to supporting entrepreneurs in whatever way possible.Hillary is also the founder of a dog rescue, Hello Doxie Rescue.As a mom and wife, she balances her professional endeavors with her love for family life and her community. Hillary’s work is driven by her unwavering belief in the power of community and connection.
If this episode resonates with you, let me know! DM me on Instagram [@leahyard]
Learn more about the Voted Least Likely Podcast here:www.leahyard.comIG: @leahyardTikTok: @leahyard
Our sponsor is our very own jewellery brand: Leah Yard Designs
5% of all profits are donated to the Downtown Eastside Women's Center. Shop the full collection of demi-fine jewellery at: www.leahyarddesigns.com
IG: @leahyarddesignsTikTok @leahyarddesigns

Q1 Recap: The Highs, The LOWS, and Lessons Learned

It’s time for a chaotic quarterly check-in! In this episode of the Voted Least Likely Podcast, I’m taking a look back at Q1— the wins, the struggles, and the biggest lessons learned along the way.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
✨ The biggest wins from Q1 and what went right
✨ The unexpected challenges that threw me off course (because let’s be real, there were PLENTY)
✨ My plan to get back on track for Q2
Q1 was a wild ride, and I’m sharing it all—because reflecting on where we’ve been is the best way to figure out where we’re going next. Whether your first quarter was a total win or a bit of a mess (or both!), let’s unpack it together and set the stage for an even stronger Q2.
🎧 Tune in and let’s break it all down
If this episode resonates with you, let me know! DM me on Instagram [@leahyard]
Learn more about the Voted Least Likely Podcast here:www.leahyard.comIG: @leahyardTikTok: @leahyard
Our sponsor is our very own jewellery brand: Leah Yard Designs
5% of all profits are donated to the Downtown Eastside Women's Center. Shop the full collection of demi-fine jewellery at: www.leahyarddesigns.com
IG: @leahyarddesignsTikTok @leahyarddesigns

5 Lies I Told Myself That Kept Me STUCK in Business

In this episode of the Voted Least Likely Podcast, we’re getting brutally honest — with ourselves. I’m breaking down 5 lies I told myself that kept me stuck in business for way too long. These lies felt comforting, even necessary at times, but they were really just fear in disguise, keeping me from reaching my full potential.
What You’ll Hear in This Episode:
✨ The 5 biggest lies I believed that held me back — and why they’re so easy to fall for
✨ How these lies create a false sense of security that stops growth
✨ The tough mindset shifts that helped me break free (and how you can too)
✨ Why staying stuck can feel safer than pushing forward — and how to stop settling
Breaking free from these lies isn’t easy — they feel safe, familiar, and they're even true sometimes. But real growth lives on the other side of discomfort.
🎧 Hit play and let’s unpack these lies together — and maybe, just maybe, set yourself free from a few of your own.
If this episode resonates with you, let me know! DM me on Instagram [@leahyard] Let’s break down the lies we tell ourselves together.
Learn more about the Voted Least Likely Podcast here:www.leahyard.comIG: @leahyardTikTok: @leahyard
Our sponsor is our very own jewellery brand: Leah Yard Designs
5% of all profits are donated to the Downtown Eastside Women's Center. Shop the full collection of demi-fine jewellery at: www.leahyarddesigns.com
IG: @leahyarddesignsTikTok @leahyarddesigns

Knowing what you want and GOING FOR IT with Karen Khunkhun (RE-AIR)

RE-AIR: This week on the Voted Least Likely Podcast I had the HONOUR to sit down with Karen Khunkhun, co-host of the Jeff O’Neil Morning Show on CFOX.I'm not exaggerating when I say: I had the biggest smile on my face for the rest of the day after this chat.Karen is an absolute ray of sunshine. But she doesn't hold back on the real stuff. Imposter Syndrome, self-doubt, and dealing with rejection are all challenges Karen has had to face in her impressive media career spanning over two decades.Her work ethic, mental toughness, and grateful attitude are not only inspiring, but a powerful reminder that dreams are possible, if you are willing to do the work and be kind along the way. A huge thank-you to Karen. I'm so grateful for having spent time with one of the most gracious and supportive women I've met. She's the real deal. Tune in to this week's episode for a boost of encouragement from the North Shore's brightest light.More about Karen:
As a co-host of the Jeff O’Neil morning show, Karen Khunkhun enjoys waking the city up with a little music and a ton of fun. Her big break in radio came as a traffic reporter on the popular Larry & Willy morning show. From traffic reporter to show producer at CFOX, it was only natural for Karen to take on other exciting challenges - TV. Karen started at City TV with their Breakfast Show, entertainment specials and as the community events spokesperson. Her career has spanned the broadcast spectrum from the weekend weathercaster for CTV News and later CBC Television. With a particular knack for entertainment journalism, Karen has had the opportunity to interview an array of celebrity figures including Jim Carrey, Kate Beckinsale and Ray Liotta. Interviewing the stars has led to many memorable moments ranging from an impromptu Vegas poker match with Bradley Cooper and the cast of The Hangover to being served cocktails by Motley Crue’s infamous drummer, Tommy Lee. Karen sat down in L.A. with Oscar-nominated actor, Jeremy Renner, who revealed an unexpected fondness for Metro Vancouver’s own Pitt Meadows. Karen had a baby girl in 2010 and then returned to work to join The Jeff O'Neil Show on CFOX.  In addition to spending her free time acting, most recently on Supernatural and series like Bates Motel and Wayward Pines. Most recently she was on Worth the Wait and Kung Fu and So Help Me Todd. One of Karen’s most cherished projects was her video series with The Vancouver Sun called ‘Letters to a Younger Me’ – featuring local celebrities and inspirational figures sharing the advice they would give to their younger self.Karen holds many charitable initiatives close to her heart. She is the spokesperson for the Hometown Heroes Lottery, where proceeds go to the BC Burn Fund and UBC & VGH Hospital Foundations. She is a big supporter of Lions Gate Hospital Foundation, Pink Shirt Day, Anti Bullying Campaign and Karen proudly supports the Santa Fox Food Drive, where proceeds go to Lower Mainland Food Banks. She served as a Media Ambassador for Woman2Warrior, benefitting Easter Seals Camps in BC and Karen took part in The Covenant House Sleep Out, working to help keep homeless youth off the streets of Vancouver.Learn more about Karen here: www.karenkhunkhun.com Follow Karen on X: https://twitter.com/KarenKhunkhun Follow Karen on IG: http://instagram.com/karenkhunkhun 
Learn more about the Voted Least Likely Podcast here:www.leahyard.comIG: @leahyardTikTok: @leahyard
Our sponsor is our very own jewellery brand: Leah Yard Designs
5% of all profits are donated to the Downtown Eastside Women's Center. Shop the full collection of demi-fine jewellery at: www.leahyarddesigns.com
IG: @leahyarddesignsTikTok @leahyarddesigns