How to Buy a Business (and Make It Your Own)

How do you stay relevant, build community, and lead through massive industry change—without losing yourself in the process?In this episode of Build the Damn Thing, Kathryn Finney sits down with powerhouse media executive and community builder Ann Shoket, former Editor-in-Chief of Seventeen Magazine and current CEO of TheLi.st. From the high-stakes world of legacy media to building a digital-first, purpose-driven network for women and non-binary leaders, Ann shares raw lessons on evolution, acquisition, and leadership in the face of disruption.Together, they unpack:The collapse of the magazine industry and how Ann pivoted from editorial to entrepreneurshipWhy knowing what problem you’re solving is the most critical leadership skillHow acquiring a brand (instead of starting from scratch) can accelerate your impact—and the pitfalls to avoidThe business cost of loneliness in leadership, and how to build your personal advisory boardThe power of micro-habits to strengthen your professional support networkWhether you’re navigating a career shift, scaling a startup, or searching for your next bold move, this conversation delivers actionable insights for leading with clarity and building what matters.🔗 Follow Ann Shoket:TheLi.stInstagram @annshoketLinkedIn🎧 Don’t just dream—build smarter. Subscribe, share, and let us know what you’re building.