5. The Bold Move That Built It All | Starting From Scratch Abroad

She left the U.S. for Spain and built a business from scratch in a market built on connections she didn’t have.In this episode of Hats On!, we talk about what it really takes to build something of your own far from home, without a clear roadmap, and before you feel “ready.”Just four years out of university, Lauren made a decision most would call bold: she moved to Spain and launched her own executive search firm in one of the most competitive, relationship-driven industries.What followed was over a decade of building a business across Europe—by doing things differently. Not just filling roles, but finding the people others overlook and turning them into game-changing hires.But the story doesn’t stop there. Years later, she made another big shift—moving back to the U.S. to rebuild her business in a market she hadn’t lived in for over a decade… all while becoming a mother for the first time.We talk about:Starting a business abroad with no networkTurning “different” into your biggest advantageNavigating markets, cultures, and constant changeWhat it means to rebuild—personally and professionallyMotherhood as a founder—and how it changes everything (and nothing)At its core, this is a conversation about trusting your instincts even when there’s no clear path. And realizing that sometimes, what looks bold from the outside… just feels obvious from within.If you’ve ever taken a leap, questioned where you belong, or tried to build something on your own terms—this episode is for you.Disclaimer: Guest's opinions are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Hats On! or its partners. This podcast is not a substitute for professional advice.