EP 19 - You Don't Need Permission to Lead | Lessons from a CEO of Global Company | Alex Schrecengost

In this episode of Michelle's Seat at the Table, I sit down with Alex Schrecengost—Founder & CEO of Virtual With Us and Culture With Us, award-winning entrepreneur, hospitality executive, and Wine Enthusiast 40 Under 40 Tastemaker.After building a successful career in public relations, hospitality, and the culinary industry, Alex took an unconventional path into entrepreneurship. During the pandemic, she transformed the way organizations build relationships through curated virtual experiences, executive gifting, and in-person events that now serve leading global brands.Together, we explore leadership, entrepreneurship, resilience, mentorship, and the courage to find your voice. Alex shares why curiosity, community, and authentic human connection became the foundation of her business—and why you never need permission to contribute when you've earned a seat at the table.From earning the prestigious WSET Level 4 Diploma in Wines to building a global experiential marketing company from the ground up, Alex reminds us that leadership isn't about having all the answers—it's about creating opportunities for others.If you've ever questioned whether you're ready to start a business, struggled with imposter syndrome, or wondered how meaningful relationships can transform your career, this conversation is for you.IN THIS EPISODE• Why you don't need permission to have a voice in the room• Transitioning from corporate marketing to entrepreneurship• Leadership lessons from scaling a global experiential marketing company• The importance of mentorship, sponsorship, and community• How curiosity, resilience, and lifelong learning shape great leaders• Creating more seats at the table for othersGUESTAlex SchrecengostFounder & CEO, Virtual With Us & Culture With Us🌐 Website: https://virtualwithus.com📸 Instagram: @alexschrec💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexschrecengostCONNECT WITH MICHELLE'S SEAT AT THE TABLEFacebookhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61582151176440📸 Instagramhttps://instagram.com/michelles_seatatthetable🎧 Apple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/michelles-seat-at-the-table/id1872161528🎵 Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/show/4i9Pr8M4s8R9R6Qy5mQm9M🎙️ Amazon Musichttps://music.amazon.com/podcasts/cfb2dcf6-f295-4ae7-9645-427a5aa5409e/michelles-seat-at-the-table💼 LinkedInhttps://linkedin.com/in/michelleradneySubscribe for conversations on leadership, entrepreneurship, executive leadership, career growth, women in leadership, mentorship, networking, confidence, hospitality, business growth, and purpose.The most important conversations don't always happen in the boardroom—they happen right here at the table.— Michelle Radney