The Hard Truths of Growth, Freedom, & Leadership w/ Heidi Schmidt

When Heidi Schmidt lost her job in 2020, she didn’t just pivot—she rewrote the script. In this episode, Heidi shares how she went from laid-off marketing director to six-figure agency owner and now, a candidate for state delegate. We unpack the realities behind the title “marketing strategist,” the emotional toll of burnout in the social media world, and why so many businesses fail before they even get started. From balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship to launching new offers while staying rooted in values, this conversation is a raw look at what it really takes to grow a business and stay true to your purpose.Episode Highlights:Social Media Strategy Is More Than Just PostingTime Freedom Is the Real WealthGrowth Requires Letting GoMarketing Success Comes from ConsistencyDefine Success on Your Own TermsChapters:00:00  Introduction & Heidi’s Story  02:30  What a Marketing Strategist Really Does  11:20  Pivoting After the Pandemic  20:00  Building & Scaling the Agency  27:40  Time Freedom, Boundaries & Burnout  32:45  Launching a Political Campaign & Purpose  48:30  Lessons, What to Unlearn & Final Pride Connect with Heidi:Website: www.heidijschmidt.comInstagram: www.instagram.com/heidischmidtcreative IG Hooks Freebie: https://heidischmidtcreative.kit.com/e01c14043eThis podcast is brought to you in partnership with Liz Chapman & COUpcoming Events:Napa Retreat - October 5-8, 2026 - https://laurennajar.myflodesk.com/cetj223rsrGrowth & Connect Events - https://laurennajar.myflodesk.com/hb2a0mwbqwSave 25% with Flodesk - https://flodesk.com/c/OR8VKLLet’s Stay Connected: → Follow Lauren on Instagram: www.instagram.com/laurennajar → Learn more or work with me: www.laurennajar.com → Follow Business Over Cocktails on IG: www.instagram.com/businessovercocktails → Attend Growth & Connect retreats & events: www.instagram.com/growthandconnect🎧 Subscribe & Review: Love the episode? Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share with a friend who needs a business boost and a good chat over a cocktail.