EP. 13: The Leading with Power: The CEO Identity Shift No One Talks About

No one tells you that stepping into the CEO role can feel uncomfortable, like growing into a new identity that doesn’t quite fit yet. But what if that discomfort is actually a sign you’re leveling up?In this episode, I’m joined by Ashton Smith, a seventh-generation entrepreneur and founder of The Awakening, where she helps women build profitable, sustainable businesses while stepping fully into their power. We’re unpacking the CEO identity shift that no one prepares you for - and what it really takes to own your role as a leader.Here, you’ll learn:✨ The mindset shift from business owner to CEO - why it feels uncomfortable (and how to move through it)✨ The power of self-validation and why waiting for approval is holding you back✨ How to fully take responsibility for your business and momentum✨ The feminine leadership edge - how intuition, empathy, and energy make you a stronger leader✨ The emotional side of leadership - loneliness, pressure, and how to navigate itIf you’ve ever felt like you’re playing small, doubting yourself, or holding back from truly leading - this episode will shift your perspective.About Ashton:Ashton is the Founder of The Awakening, a Business Coaching and Education platform that has served hundreds of women worldwide since its inception in 2019. She loves to help women design profitable and sustainable companies from the ground up, but it’s about so much more for her. She is deeply committed to helping women wake up to their power, live fulfilling lives, and create lasting impact on future generations.Connect & Work with Ashton:* Website - https://www.myawakening.co* Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/myawakeningco/* Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCThIh7Yio-20DaeNZlrNybQ* Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/myawakeningco* Vivid Creative - https://www.myawakening.co/services/vivid* The Awakening Academy - https://www.myawakening.co/services/academy* Private Coaching - https://www.myawakening.co/services/coachingConnect with Sheila:* Instagram - www.instagram.com/sheila__fuentes* Work with Studio Naghisa (for your digital marketing needs): https://studionaghisa.com/start-here* Book free initial consultation call with Sheila: https://calendly.com/studio_naghisa/consultation This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sheilafuentes.substack.com