Shifting Leadership From Me to We — Kaila Sachse’s Story

Have a story or inflection point to share? Tap here to message us — we’d love to hear it.Ever built two babies at once—one human, one company? That’s the real-world tension Kaila brings to the mic as she shares how a leap from solo designer to agency owner collided with a surprise pregnancy, forcing her to redesign time, pricing, and identity in a matter of months. We walk through the strategic moves that made it possible: shifting from hourly to value-based pricing, rolling out subscription services for predictable revenue, and turning I into we so clients embraced the team over the individual.What makes this story resonate isn’t just the business mechanics—it’s the heart work behind them. Kaila talks about coming back from maternity leave early because work felt familiar when motherhood felt overwhelming, and how that moment led to firm desk hours, fewer weekend replies, and healthier boundaries that actually improved delivery. She breaks down practical frameworks: scoping as a decision tool, the 50 vs. 95 percent progress check, and spotting when you’re just “tweaking the teal” with polish that doesn’t move outcomes.We also go deep on mental health. A wave of postpartum depression, layered with grief over a friend’s passing, pushed Kaila to advocate for care until someone truly listened. Letting go of perfectionism became a business advantage—projects shipped faster, feedback loops tightened, and the team had room to do their best work. The result is a new definition of success that values connection, gentle growth, and work that fits a life, not the other way around.If you’re navigating a big career shift, building a team, or learning to lead with grace, this conversation offers tools you can use today. Listen, share with a friend who needs it, and if it sparked something for you, subscribe and leave a review so more people can find it.Connect with Kaila:Company website: Yumari.digitalListen to her podcast: Yumari.digital/bubpodcastFollow her on Instagram: Instagram.com/SachseFierceConnect with her on LinkedIn LinkedIn.com/in/KailaSachseConnect with Beki on LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/in/BekiFraserLearn more about her coaching: TheIntrovertedSkeptic.comFollow Short Story Long's LinkedIn Page: Linkedin.com/showcase/shortstorylongpodGet her book, C.O.A.C.H. Y.O.U.: The Introverted Skeptic’s Guide to Leadership - AmazonShort Story Long is produced by Crowned Culture Media LLC