The Beauty of Influence | Brand & Marketing Strategy for Small Businesses
Welcome to The Beauty of Influence, the podcast where we explore how Influence Psychology shapes the best brands, the most effective marketing and the mindsets of inspiring founders.I’m Sasha Fedunchak—business growth advisor, marketing expert, former beauty business owner, and your no-BS Slavic sister in growing your brand. After 15+ years in marketing and working with hundreds of businesses like yours, I know the ins and outs of building influence that lasts.This show will help you make marketing intuitive, influence irresistible, and growth inevitable for your business. Expect mini masterclasses packed with actionable takeaways, juicy insights into mindset and...
Somatic Healing with The Motherhood Mentor Rebecca Dollard
Send us a text
In this episode of The Beauty of Influence, host Sasha welcomes somatic mind-body life coach and host of the podcast The Motherhood Mentor Rebecca (Becca) Dollard to discuss her unique approach to motherhood, entrepreneurship, and holistic well-being. Becca shares her journey to a mindset set on self-trust and embodiment, revealing the importance of somatic healing in transforming her life. The conversation delves into the challenges of motherhood, overcoming past traumas, and the critical role of somatic practices in reclaiming personal agency. With actionable insights and inspiring anecdotes, this episode is a must-listen for...
Feeling Lost in Business? Look at Your Personal Goals
Send us a text
In this very brief episode, I'm sharing a key strategy we use with clients at Daring Haus to help them align their business success to their life - quite simply, it's identifying their personal goals.
The truth is, you can do a million different things to "grow your business" - but if you're not growing it in a way that's in line with your personal goals, you're simply creating a job for yourself, not paving the way to time and financial freedom that's possible with entrepreneurship.
What You'll...
Pitching, AI for Media Matchmaking and Personal Branding with PR Expert Nicole Pearl
Send us a text
In this enlightening episode of 'The Beauty of Influence,' host Sasha welcomes Nicole Pearl, a veteran beauty journalist and founder of The Beauty Girl. Nicole shares her extensive journey from being a beauty editor at prestigious magazines to becoming an award-winning PR and media coach. The discussion delves into the intricacies of PR, building a personal brand, the importance of authentic storytelling, and leveraging AI responsibly in media pitches. Nicole also introduces her innovative Media Matchmaker tool designed to help brands identify the best media outlets for their pitches. This episode offers...
Relatable, Aspirational, or Underdog: Defining Your Brand's Emotional Positioning
Send us a text
In this episode, Sasha discusses her personal experiences and observations about emotional positioning and brand archetypes. Sasha delves into the concept of emotional positioning, outlining three main archetypes: the underdog, the relatable bestie, and the aspirational icon, and how these impact brand growth and perception. She provides real-life examples of brands and her own business, Daring Haus, to illustrate the importance of aligning emotional positioning with brand strategy. Sasha also talks about the distinctions between branding and marketing and how brands can effectively resonate with their target audience. The episode aims to help...
How to Transform Your Website into a Sales Powerhouse (My best tips & tricks!)
Send us a text
In this episode, Sasha dives into essential website design tips and strategies for small business owners. Whether you're DIY-ing your website or working with a developer, this episode covers the critical elements that can enhance website performance, from understanding good website practices, SEO, to the buyer's journey. Sasha also shares surprising announcements including new project openings at Daring Haus and a potential sister company focused on website design for the beauty, health, and wellness industry. Detailed examples of client successes and practical DIY tips make this episode a must-listen for anyone looking to...
The Venomous Rise of Intoxicated Cosmetics: Rachel Sommers Ash’s Path to Product Perfection
Send us a text
In this episode of 'The Beauty of Influence,' Sasha interviews Rachel Sommers Ash, CEO and founder of Intoxicated Cosmetics. Rachel shares her unique path from aspiring to work in advertising to creating the first venom-based skincare brand in the beauty industry, driven by a personal journey of loss and self-discovery. The discussion covers the innovative ingredients used in her products, the challenges of launching and growing a business, and the balance between entrepreneurship and motherhood. Listeners are treated to insights into Rachel's fearless approach to branding, her dedication to research, and her...
The void between "alignment" and "momentum" SUCKS, don't you think?
Send us a text
In this episode, we're chatting about dealing with the grief of letting go parts of a business and navigating the 'void' between alignment and momentum. The episode features two new segments: 'Slavic Business School,' which offers direct and no-nonsense business advice, and 'Under the Influence,' exploring how unconscious decisions and brand identity shape consumer behavior.
What You'll Hear:
01:24 Choosing Great Over Good
01:58 Introducing New Segments
03:58 Scaling Sideways and Personal Updates
05:18 Navigating Business Changes
15:30 Slavic Business School: Your...
Breaking Barriers in Healthcare with Alexandria Russell, SLP
Send us a text
In this episode, Sasha welcomes Alexandria Russell, a long-time friend and former client, whose journey from medical speech-language pathologist to business owner of Wynter Wellness Group is truly inspirational. Alex shares her 12-year experience in the field, focusing on underserved adult and senior communities, and discussing the challenges and burnout she faced while working in traditional healthcare sectors. Starting her own practice during the COVID-19 pandemic, she emphasizes the importance of understanding medical diagnoses, the impact of the political climate on healthcare, and her revolutionary role in advocating for better care and access...
Diva Girl, Heal Thyself: Majet Reyes's Journey From Trauma Survivor to Trauma Counselor
Send us a text
In this episode, Sasha interviews Majet Reyes, a longtime friend and inspiring entrepreneur, who shares her powerful journey from being a paramedic and trauma victim to becoming a successful trauma therapist and a founder of the Philadelphia division of Diva Girl. Majet opens up about her personal battles, the transformative power of motherhood, and the importance of self-care and healing. They also touch on the societal pressures on women to prove their worth through productivity and discuss the importance of slowing down and focusing on inner joy. She introduces the PALM technique for...
From burnout to breakthrough: Choosing GREAT over "Good"
Send us a text
In this episode, I'm exploring the dilemma of choosing between what's good and what could be great, and expresses my burnout from trying to manage everything. I'm sharing - real time - how I'm moving from burnout to breakthrough and the even discussing the potential of discontinuing some things I truly love. And, I'm giving you a sneak peek into how I used ChatGPT as a reflection exercise to get clarity, FAST. This episode offers a raw and honest look into the complexities of professional and personal growth, and the importance of focusing...
The mistakes that nearly broke me: The year everything changed (Ep. 60)
Send us a text
This week’s episode is raw, unfiltered, and deeply personal.
Sasha pulls back the curtain on a year that changed everything—starting with the unexpected loss of her husband’s job just two weeks after their daughter was born. What followed was a season of survival, overcommitting, and trying to hold it all together while building a business, being a mother, and learning what it really means to trust yourself.
In this honest solo episode, Sasha shares:
The truth about postpartum, pressure, and why her maternity leave didn’t existT...Behind the Chair: Using Social Media to Grow as a Stylist and Salon Owner with Kara Day
Send us a text
Welcome back to The Beauty of Influence! Today, I'm joined by the incredible Kara Day, a fantastic hairstylist, salon owner, and mom whose business journey is nothing short of inspiring. We dive into her story of explosive growth, reaching six figures, opening a stunning salon outside Portland, Maine, and leading teams at Paris and New York Fashion Weeks—all within just a few years. Kara shares her experiences, insights, and unique approach to using social media to grow her business authentically. We also touch on the importance of personal transformation, setting boundaries, and fi...
Stop Spamming, Start Connecting: 3 Email Marketing Do's and Don'ts (Ep. 58)
Send us a text
In this episode, we're diving into email marketing, focusing on the top mistakes I see beauty, health, and wellness brands making that quietly sabotage sales and customer relationships. I discuss why email marketing still reigns supreme, the importance of owning your email list, and the power of consistent, relevant content.
I'll break down the three big mistakes: hard selling in every email, turning your emails into personal diaries, and being inconsistent. Tune in to learn how to plan campaigns, build intimacy, and create an unforgettable brand. Let's get into it!
Business coaching and the truth we avoid (Ep. 57)
Send us a text
In this episode, I dive into the struggles of balancing business and motherhood during a tumultuous sleep regression with my daughter. Despite exhaustion, I'm fired up about addressing the overwhelming online advice and pressure to grow businesses. A transformative ChatGPT prompt led me to a deep reflection on my own patterns and the intimidation I feel about fully owning my influence.
I critique the high cost and questionable value of business coaches, emphasizing that we can find empowerment and success within ourselves. Through personal anecdotes, I stress the importance of self-honesty...
Brand Positioning Over Pretty Logos: The Key to Standing Out (Ep. 56)
Send us a text
In this episode the focus is a mini masterclass on brand positioning, exploring why it's more crucial than traditional branding. I'm sharing the truth about while visuals like logos and color palettes are important, they don't make a brand unforgettable.
The discussion dives deep into understanding brand identity versus brand reputation and introduces key concepts in positioning, like solving unique problems and standing out from competitors. Examples from Walmart, Target, Nike, and more illustrate successful brand positioning. The episode also outlines three steps to identify your unique position in the market...
Overcome Imposter Syndrome: Change the Narrative, Change Your Life (Ep. 55)
Send us a text
Let's dismantle one of the most harmful phrases to women: Imposter Syndrome. In this episode, I get real and passionate about the importance of reframing the narrative we tell ourselves and eliminating self-doubt language from our vocabulary.
Drawing inspiration from Martha Stewart's confidence, I'm sharing my POV on why constantly labeling oneself with imposter syndrome reinforces those feelings. Instead, I encourage you to search for self-validation, engage in positive self-talk, and find personal methods to build confidence. After you listen, my hope is you will be another step closer to believing i...
From Basement Business to Sunless Industry Pioneer: Shonna Dexter's Story (Ep. 54)
Send us a text
In this episode, I welcome Shonna Dexter, a veteran of the sunless tanning industry, to share her inspiring entrepreneurial journey. Starting as a side gig in her basement, Shonna has grown her business, Recreating Rays, into two brick-and-mortar locations over the past 13 years.
She candidly discusses the trials and errors she faced, emphasizing her evolution, both personally and professionally. Shonna offers insights into money management for entrepreneurs, the importance of personal development, and her recent venture into mentoring and coaching. Her story is a testament to resilience, continuous growth, and the...
$6K+ from ONE email: Sharing a skincare brand’s success story
Send us a text
In this episode, we dive into an astonishing client success story from Daring Haus centered on email marketing. Discover the step-by-step strategy that turned a simple Valentine's Day promotion into nearly $19,000 in sales in 5 days, leveraging an email list of just 6,000.
Learn why personalized, story-driven emails outperform traditional promotional blasts and how authentic social proof can dramatically boost conversions. This episode offers actionable insights into creating compelling emails that look stunning and build trust, making email marketing a cost-effective powerhouse compared to paid ads. Stay tuned for further masterclass content on...
Intuitive Marketing & Influence Psychology: Make Marketing Easier in 2025 (Ep. 52)
Send us a text
Welcome back to The Beauty of Influence! In the debut episode of Season 3, we're diving into intuitive marketing and influence psychology. We'll uncover the secrets to making your marketing effortless and compelling. From understanding subconscious decision-making to the principles of influence—like reciprocity, social proof, authority, and more—you'll learn how to create authentic and irresistible marketing.
Plus, get insights into the podcast's name change and new direction, focusing on the beauty, health, and wellness industries. Don't miss the free intuitive marketing blueprint guide in the show notes!
What You’...
Using Curiosity, Sales Psychology and Authenticity to Build a Powerhouse Brand with Kaili Meyer
Send us a text
In this episode, I’m welcoming Kaili Meyer, an exceptional copywriter and founder of Reveal Studio Co. Kaili shares her journey of becoming a versatile business owner, highlighting her shift from journalism to creating digital products. The conversation dives into Kaili’s top strategies for meeting customer needs, the impactful use of AI, and the importance of always staying curious. Perfect for those thinking of pivoting their business or enhancing their personal brand, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration.
Connect with Kaili:
Follow on Instagram: http...
2025 Marketing Predictions for Small Businesses
Send us a text
In this episode, I'm diving into the future of marketing as 2025 approaches. Prepare for major changes in small business strategies, especially the increasing importance of trust—81% of consumers distrust social media content, preferring businesses over celebrities.
Learn how transparency, authenticity, and genuine customer connections will shape your strategy. We'll also explore branding beyond logos, the rise of real user content (RUC), the resurgence of email marketing focused on connection and value, and the priority of authenticity over perfection. Get ready to crush it in 2025 with actionable insights and practical tips!
...
Revealing My Big Secret...What's Next??? (Ep. 49)
Send us a text
In today's episode, I dive into my new business venture centered around my personal brand. Over the past month, I've been developing a new approach that I'm excited to finally share. The journey began back in 2017 when I first encountered the idea of coaching and has evolved into creating programs based on the Energy Leadership Assessment.
For ambitious women founders, I've crafted the 'Energy Leadership Intensive' and 'Ambition Amplified' programs to help transform their approach and take decisive actions towards their goals. This episode is all about empowerment, energy, and setting...
Energy, Mindset, and Feminine Flow in Business with Sammy Hearn
Send us a text
This episode features the incredibly creative Sammy Hearn, a top-notch photographer and owner of Social Sphere. Sammy dives deep into her journey from a journalist to a leading creative out of Nashville. Sasha and Sammy explore topics including mindset, managing energy, tapping into feminine flow, and escaping the hustle culture. Sammy shares powerful practices on gratitude, visualization, and manifesting a life you love, while emphasizing the need for women to prioritize their own pleasure and self-care. This episode is all about empowering yourself to design a life full of joy and success.
<...Fierce 5: Year-End Advice: Embrace Where You Are (Ep. 47)
Send us a text
Welcome to a quick Fierce 5 episode where I'm sharing a timely, heartfelt message of giving yourself grace. I'm candidly chatting about my personal journey of navigating a challenging year, the pressures of balancing business and family, and the importance of self-care. Tune in if you, too, are needing some relief from pressures, and are wanting to slow down, find relaxation, clarity, and self-compassion amid the year's end hustle.
Remember, you're exactly where you need to be, and growth awaits in the new year.
What You'll Hear:
The Art of Reinvention: Celebrity Esthetician Morgan Rackley on Building a Successful Beauty Career
Send us a text
In this episode, we're thrilled to welcome Morgan Rackley, the multi-talented Celebrity Esthetician and founder of Morgan Rackley Skin Care. With over 15 years in the beauty industry, Morgan has collaborated with renowned brands and been featured in top publications like Harper's Bazaar and Elle Magazine. Our conversation dives into Morgan's journey, from starting in her mom's hair salon to becoming a successful skincare expert with a packed clientele. She shares valuable insights about the importance of customer service, asking for opportunities, and setting up your business around your desired lifestyle. This episode is p...
Fierce 5: Brand excellence starts with your website
Send us a text
In this episode, I’m getting real about the importance of creating a customer experience that aligns with your brand promises. Using an engaging analogy about a million-dollar watch, I share how the setting and presentation of your product can drastically alter customer perception.
Regardless of your business type, your website serves as your digital storefront and should reflect the value and experience you want to provide.
Don’t miss my insights on enhancing your digital presence to build trust and improve customer engagement. Tune in to get actionable tips...
Plan Your 2025 Marketing Calendar in 20 Minutes (Ep. 44)
Send us a text
In this episode of Daring Made, I’m excited to delve into planning a 2025 marketing calendar in just 20 minutes. The episode was inspired by my upcoming presentation for The Carolina Collective's 2025 Annual Planning Workshop.
Be sure to have a notebook handy as you’ll be guided through selecting an anchor channel, setting quarterly goals, and creating a simple content ecosystem. The episode wraps up with tips for building monthly habits to stay consistent.
Tune in for practical, actionable advice on achieving marketing success with clarity, consistency, and commitment.
...
Unlocking Your True Self with Human Design Ft. Mikaela MacLean, the Auric Esthetician
Send us a text
In this episode of the Daring Made show, host Sasha invites Mikaela MacLean, the auric esthetician, to unpack her unique journey and expertise. Mikaela shares how she's transitioned from physical beauty treatments to focusing on the energetic realm, combining practices like human design, astrology, meditation, and more. Her journey from aspiring doctor to ballet dancer, and eventually finding her calling in aesthetics and human design, offers rich insights.
Together, they discuss the profound impact of understanding one's human design, including Mikaela's creation, the Energetic DNA, and how it helps people align...
A Vulnerable Update: Building a Legacy One Step at a Time (Pt 1)
Send us a text
In this episode of Daring Made, Sasha shares her journey and evolving business ventures on a reflective drive home from Philadelphia. She opens up about the challenges and transformations within her company, Daring Haus, and her new venture, Powerhaus Media.
Sasha discusses the importance of serving her community, balancing multiple business roles, and staying true to her vision despite personal and professional hurdles. She emphasizes the value of collaboration, following intuition, and being adaptable in one's entrepreneurial journey. Stay tuned for an upcoming big announcement in part two!
Checkout...
Fierce 5: Goal Clarity - The Secret Weapon for Entrepreneurial Growth
Send us a text
Welcome back to Daring Made! In this Fierce 5 episode, I’m getting into the essential yet often overlooked topic of goal setting. Feeling stuck or like you're on a never-ending hamster wheel? I’m sharing insights on how to break free by defining and working backwards from your personal and business goals.
With relatable examples, including advice given to a makeup artist wanting to transition to training, this episode provides actionable steps to help you become the leader of your vision. It's time to stop the busy work and focus on your...
BTS: Sharing a Client Case Study with Daring Haus CFO Mike Farneti (41)
Send us a text
I'm joined by Mike Farneti, co-founder of Daring Haus, and we're spilling all the tea on one of our latest client case studies. Plus, we share can't-miss, practical advice on managing commission-only pay structures, financial obstacles, and effective pricing strategies.
Learn how to navigate the complexities of cash flow, overcome predatory financial practices, and align new hires with your company's core values.
We also dig into the nitty gritty of customer retention, growth strategies, and leveraging data-driven decisions to ensure sustainable profit. Plus, get inspired by the holistic Daring 360...
Fierce 5: Being a Cardio Queen in your business is keeping you stuck (Ep. 40)
Send us a text
Kick off the first 'Fierce 5' session with Sasha Fadunchak at Daring Made! In this intense and empowering coaching segment, Sasha narrates her transition from cardio queen to strength-training enthusiast and how that metamorphosis can revolutionize your business mindset.
Tired of burning energy on unproductive tasks? Shift your focus to long-term goals and build both literal and metaphorical muscle. Sasha packs in actionable advice on branding, marketing, and setting ambitious goals beyond mere survival.
Get ready to challenge yourself, engage on social media, and share your thoughts as you...
Pivoting with Passion: Emy Dyer’s Path to Multi-Brand Success (Ep. 39)
Send us a text
In this episode of the Daring Made show, we're joined by the unstoppable Emy Dyer, a multi-passionate entrepreneur, graphic and web designer, and owner of Emy Ave Boutique.
Emy takes us through her inspiring journey from feeling unfulfilled in the corporate world to thriving as a boutique owner and branding expert. Despite the demanding roles of wife and mom, she's mastered balancing business with creativity. Emy shares her transition from Etsy success to managing multiple ventures, offering valuable insights into her bold design style and authentic branding approach. Packed with entrepreneurial...
How To Become THE Magnetic Brand That Everyone Wants (Ep. 38)
Send us a text
Join our host as she returns from a summer filled with parenting adventures to bring you an exciting new focus on marketing, mindset, and motherhood. Dive deep into the world of influence with insights inspired by Robert Cialdini's work and learn about the principle of reciprocity—how small acts of giving can build trust and drive engagement. Whether through social media, email marketing, or real-life interactions, get actionable tips to make your brand magnetic. Plus, don't miss out on the new seven-day challenge designed to transform your business.
Get it FREE: Be...
Email Marketing 101 for Beauty, Health & Wellness Businesses (Ep. 37)
Send us a text
In this highly requested episode of the Dairy Made Podcast, we're diving into the world of email marketing, specifically tailored for the beauty, health, and wellness space. Your host shares personal experiences and effective strategies like building strong client relationships, engaging your audience, and boosting your business growth.
Learn how to create irresistible lead magnets, craft compelling welcome sequences, and maintain a consistent email schedule that will keep your clients coming back for more. Discover the secrets to transforming your email list into a powerful business tool and get tips on w...
Future-Proof Your Business: Trademarking with Chandler J of Lethal Legal (036)
Send us a text
In this episode of Daring Made, we’re thrilled to welcome Chandler J, a fierce intellectual property attorney and founder of Lethal Legal. Chandler shares her journey from traditional law to starting her own innovative firm, Lethal Legal, and discusses the importance of trademarking and intellectual property protection for entrepreneurs. She provides valuable insights on the steps to take when building and protecting a brand, including the pitfalls of using document preparation companies like LegalZoom versus working with a specialized IP attorney. Chandler also emphasizes the importance of treating legal protection as a cr...
From Side Hustle to Six Figures: Dezirae Sepesi's Spray Tan Success Story (035)
Send us a text
In this episode, join us for an inspiring conversation with Dezirae Sepesi, a beauty entrepreneur and founder of Dezirable Tanz in Knoxville, Tennessee. Dezirae shares her powerful journey of transforming a simple side hustle into a thriving six-figure spray tanning business. She discusses her humble beginnings, the challenges she faced with money management, and how she grew her brand organically on social media. Learn about her effective marketing strategies, the importance of setting boundaries, and the empowering experience of training others in the spray tanning industry. Dezirae’s candid reflections and practical advice ar...
The difference between branding, marketing and sales for small businesses (034)
Send us a text
In this jam-packed episode, we're diving into a mini masterclass on the crucial differences between branding, marketing, and sales for your small business. Discover why simply posting on Instagram isn't enough, and learn how each element plays its own unique role in your business growth.
We'll explore real-life examples from my first business, Vacay Beauty, and client experiences, sharing actionable strategies to help you thrive. Grab your notebook, and get ready to take some empowering notes on turning a strong brand identity into effective marketing and successful sales.
...
Empowering the Queer Community through Esthetics with Jenna Leigh Kapitan (033)
Send us a text
In this episode of Daring Made, Sasha sits down with Jenna Leigh Kapitan, owner and esthetician of Beyond the Binary by Jenna Leigh Skin, and host of The Emo Entrepreneur podcast.
Jenna shares her inspiring journey of establishing her business, which serves the queer community with full body waxing, skin treatments, and scar revision. Listen as Jenna discusses her early struggles, the impact of her unique branding, the importance of authenticity, and her dedication to creating an inclusive and supportive environment.
Jenna also touches on her personal development, resilience...
2 Tips to turn overthinking into ACTION (032)
Send us a text
In this quick and heartfelt episode of Daring Made, Sasha shares profound insights from a recent call with a successful beauty industry client. She dives into the importance of defining your niche and crafting a clear vision, while also emphasizing the need to balance strategy with action. Tune in for empowering advice that can help you break free from the cycle of overthinking and take decisive steps toward your goals.
What you’ll hear:
00:18 Client Story: Expanding a New Idea
01:15 Lesson 1: The Riches are in the Niches
0...
