Episode 17 - From Reinvention to Resonance: Telling the Truth That Builds Powerful Brands

In this deeply honest and powerful conversation, Coley sits down with Alex Vailas, Senior Vice President of Brand Marketing and Head of Brand at Bad Birdie, to talk about what it really means to reinvent yourself when life doesn't give you a choice. Alex's journey didn't start in corporate boardrooms. She began as a mommy blogger and fashion stylist, rising to the height of influence as the "Pinterest Queen." But just as her career was thriving, an abrupt divorce forced her to start over—emotionally, financially, and professionally. Faced with rejection, betrayal, health challenges, and the weight of becoming a single mom overnight, Alex made the difficult decision to return to corporate life for safety and stability, even though it felt like saying goodbye to her dream. Together, Coley and Alex unpack the anger, grief, and identity loss that come when someone else's choices alter your path and how curiosity, discipline, and self-trust can guide you forward. Alex shares how choosing vulnerability and telling the truth on social media broke the mold and created real impact, changing women's lives in real time by showing what was actually happening behind the scenes. They dive into what it takes to align your personal values with your business, why grounded self-awareness is essential to attracting your ideal client, and how the real-life experiences we often try to hide are actually our greatest strategic advantage. The conversation also turns to creativity and courage as Coley asks Alex about the book she's written—still in manuscript form—and what's holding her back from sharing it. Alex opens up about writing as a form of self-expression, healing, and permission, encouraging listeners to stop waiting and simply start. This episode is for the woman navigating reinvention, holding grief and ambition at the same time, and learning how to build a life and business that honors who she truly is.  Tits Up!