The Unfiltered CEO

IlluminEssence Creations

Welcome to The Unfiltered CEO, where we share real stories of the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Your host, Abby Bradetich of IlluminEssence Creations, is a business owner, brand & web designer, visibility strategist, and embodiment mentor always down for a dance party. In this podcast, we’ll dive into the authentic experiences of owning a business that you don’t always see online - the highs, the lows, and every spicy bit in-between. We’ll cover mindset, online presence, business, embodiment, social media, brand, and so much more as we turn our unfiltered stories into inspiring, actionable takeaways. In my corner of the internet, we say f**k the rules, aren’t afraid to make moves, and care more about things feeling good than comparing to what else you see online. No matter what stage of business you’re in, you’re welcome here! So grab a glass of wine or get out for your daily walk, and let’s get into it, girl!

  1. 4D AGO

    Grief, Life Transitions, & Letting Yourself Feel It All with Nichole Lee

    If you’re someone who’s used to being the strong one — the positive one, the ambitious girly who keeps things moving no matter what — this episode is for you 🫶🏻 I’m joined by Nichole Lee, a loss and life transition coach who supports high performers navigating grief, major life changes, and the identity shifts that often come with them. This conversation is honest, grounding, and such an important reminder that you don’t have to carry everything on your own — and that allowing yourself to feel, process, and evolve is part of stepping into the next chapter of your life. In this episode, we talk about: Nichole’s journey from losing her mother to leaving her job and building a business supporting people through loss and life transitions The signs from the universe that helped her step into the work she’s truly meant to do Why grief isn’t limited to losing a loved one — and how it can show up in identity shifts, changing relationships, and life transitions The unique challenges high performers face when navigating loss and emotional change Why the people who “have it together” still need support and safe spaces too Finding the people in your life who can hold space for you without trying to immediately fix things Allowing yourself to feel your emotions instead of suppressing them or comparing your struggles to others The importance of moving emotions out of your body and the mind-body connection in healing Practices we both love that help release stored emotions and reconnect with yourself Questioning belief systems and expectations that were never actually yours to carry Grieving the loss of friendships, identities, and old versions of yourself as you grow How outside perspectives and coaching can help you find clarity and move forward Looking at the root of what’s happening, rather than just trying to fix the symptoms How unprocessed emotions can show up as anxiety, panic attacks, or depression (and our personal experiences with that) Learning to listen to what your body is telling you and trusting your intuition Giving yourself permission to be all of you — and why life is both/and, not either/or Allowing yourself to dream bigger than what you might believe is possible Connect with Nichole on: Instagram, LinkedIn, and her website Schedule a complimentary confidential call with Nichole   Inquire about brand & web design: booking Q2 start dates! Payment plans available through me and with Affirm now too (for even more extended payment options)   FREE RESOURCES: You know I’m here for YOU and your success. And that includes offering a few different free resources to help you get there! Website Hero Copy Prompts - Your no-BS guide to writing a website header that hooks in less than 7 seconds — complete with fill-in-the-blank prompts, click-worthy CTA ideas, and a quick vibe check so your home page feels like you (not some cookie-cutter template). The Bold Expression Toolkit - Your no-fluff, full-body yes to showing up online like the powerhouse you are. Think: scroll-stopping Canva templates, juicy content prompts, mindset + embodiment practices, and personalized feedback from a pro — all wrapped in a Notion dashboard designed to help you stop holding back and start saying what you really want to say. Sign up for my Newsletter - Where you’ll get first access to any other new resources and opportunities to work with me, PLUS tips, strategies, and stories for how to navigate the online space in a way that feels good. Check out my website for more ways to work and connect!   Support my show! I would love you foreverrr if you subscribe, rate, and review my podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to show your support of the show. Share to your stories and tag me so I can see you tuning in! 🫶🏻   → Connect with me on Insta: @abbybradetich for alllll the juicy things @illuminessencecreations for brand & web @theunfilteredceopod for the podcast!

    55 min
  2. MAR 3

    Accidental CEOs, Boundaries, & Building a Profitable Business with Shauna Lynn Simon

    If you’re incredible at what you do… but avoid looking too closely at the actual business side of your business — this episode is going to hit 🔥 This week, I’m joined by Shauna Lynn Simon — CEO of Shauna Lynn Coaching, founder of SLS Academy, business strategist, author, and host of The Real Women Real Business Podcast (where I recently had the honor of being a guest!). In this episode, we talk about what it means to be an “accidental CEO” and how to stop operating like one. This conversation is strategic, direct, and empowering — a reminder that you’re not just the talent… you’re the CEO. And that role deserves your attention too! We dive into: What being an “accidental CEO” actually means — and how so many women fall into it The importance of facing the BUSINESS side of owning a business (not just doing client work) Why women undervalue and underprice themselves — both strategically and emotionally Reframing “client loyalty” and recognizing the true value you bring Profit leaks: where you might be unintentionally losing money in your business Why discounting before anyone even asks is costing you more than you think Setting boundaries, avoiding scope creep, and creating “yes opportunities” when you say no Taking full ownership of what happens in your business — the empowering and uncomfortable sides of that Not settling for “just enough” income when you deserve more How to build genuine relationships with past, current, and potential clients Do’s and don’ts of lead engagement — welcome messages, auto-responses, and keeping things human Shauna’s “matchmaker” approach to community building The power of niching down (and why it actually makes everything easier — from messaging to content to offers) How to monetize your passion without sacrificing income The two questions you need to ask yourself to ensure your joy and your revenue can coexist Connect with Shauna on: Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and her website Take her free Accidental CEO Assessment   Buy your copy of The Home Page Blueprint for $47! Your step-by-step guide to writing and structuring a home page that actually converts — complete with strategic prompts, real examples, and design flow tips so your site feels aligned, clear, and built to book (not just look pretty). Inquire about brand & web design: booking Q2 start dates! Payment plans up to 8 months available.   FREE RESOURCES: You know I’m here for YOU and your success, boo. And that includes offering a few different free resources to help you get there! Website Hero Copy Prompts - Your no-BS guide to writing a website header that hooks in less than 7 seconds — complete with fill-in-the-blank prompts, click-worthy CTA ideas, and a quick vibe check so your home page feels like you (not some cookie-cutter template). The Bold Expression Toolkit - Your no-fluff, full-body yes to showing up online like the powerhouse you are. Think: scroll-stopping Canva templates, juicy content prompts, mindset + embodiment practices, and personalized feedback from a pro — all wrapped in a Notion dashboard designed to help you stop holding back and start saying what you really want to say. Sign up for our Newsletter - Where you’ll get first access to any other new resources and opportunities to work with me, PLUS tips, strategies, and stories for how to navigate the online space in a way that feels good. Check out my website for more ways to work and connect!   Support my show! I would love you foreverrr if you subscribe, rate, and review my podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to show your support of the show. Share to your stories and tag me so I can see you tuning in! 🫶🏻   → Connect with me on Insta: @abbybradetich for alllll the juicy things @illuminessencecreations for brand & web @theunfilteredceopod for the podcast!

    58 min
  3. FEB 24

    Real-Time Reflections: Astrology, Embodiment, & Identity Shifts

    We're baaaack with a second episode of my new monthly series Real-Time Reflections! 🔥 These are honest, in-the-moment solo episodes where I pull back the curtain on what’s actually happening in my life and business — the mindset shifts, experiments, lessons, and evolutions unfolding in real time. And honestly. February felt… expansive and uncomfortable all at once. In this episode, I share what this past month really looked like BTS — the learning edges, the identity shifts, the limiting beliefs that popped up, and the intentional ways I chose to move through them. This month’s theme? Learning. In new ways. For no “productive” reason. Simply because I want to. And letting that expand who I am — inside and outside of business.   In this episode, I chat about: Why my husband and I started learning Croatian together, what inspired that choice, and how it’s brought us closer The app we’re using (and why we genuinely love it) The importance of trying new things that have nothing to do with business or productivity Getting uncomfortable in ways that aren’t tied to success or income My deep dive into astrology (inspired by Chani Nicholas’ book You Were Born For This) and what I’ve learned about myself How astrology and human design have given me permission to be my fullest self Using myself and my twin sister as examples of how signs and energy show up differently in different people How these tools have helped me understand relationships more deeply — personally and professionally My future vision for weaving human design and astrology more intentionally into my work The support my coach and friend Nina Chin has given me as I shed old identities and limiting stories Releasing the past 9-year cycle / year of the snake energy and stepping more fully into who I am now The shedding activation created by Nina that my husband and I did before Lunar New Year — and how powerful that felt The identity shifts that are directly impacting how I show up in my business, how I describe what I do, and the power I’m owning Why you don’t have to take action immediately on every realization — and the importance of embodiment before execution The limiting beliefs and mental wobbles that surfaced this month My favorite embodiment practices that helped me move through it (linked below) If you’re in a season of learning, shedding, evolving, or quietly becoming more of yourself — this one’s for you 🫶🏻   ✨ Guided Movement Practice for getting the shit out ✨ Guided Movement Practice for embracing more self-love   Grab a ticket to our Denver event on March 26th: Pour Into Your Content 🍷 A relaxed afternoon of content planning, legal clarity, and connecting with other women over a glass of wine. Thursday, 3/26. 4-7pm. Littleton, CO.   How we can work together: Get visibility & content help in Magnetic By Nature: my online presence support system with 3 tiers to meet you where you're at 🦋 Inquire about brand & web design: booking Q2 start dates 🪻 Grab a Design & Marketing Power Sprint to knock out your "I've been wanting to do this" business growth tasks that have been on your list for foreverrr in just 3 days! ⚡   FREE RESOURCES: You know I’m here for YOU and your success, boo. And that includes offering a few different free resources to help you get there! Instagram Audit: This free audit is your chance to get personalized feedback on your profile + content — so you can stop guessing and start showing up in a way that actually feels like YOU and connects with the right people. The Bold Expression Toolkit - Your no-fluff, full-body yes to showing up online like the powerhouse you are. Think: scroll-stopping Canva templates, juicy content prompts, mindset + embodiment practices, and personalized feedback from a pro — all wrapped in a Notion dashboard designed to help you stop holding back and start saying what you really want to say. Sign up for our Newsletter - Where you’ll get first access to any other new resources and opportunities to work with me, PLUS tips, strategies, and stories for how to navigate the online space in a way that feels good. Check out my website for more ways to work and connect!   Support my show! I would love you foreverrr if you subscribe, rate, and review my podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to show your support of the show. Share to your stories and tag me so I can see you tuning in! 🫶🏻   → Connect with me on Insta: @abbybradetich for alllll the juicy things @illuminessencecreations for brand & web @theunfilteredceopod for the podcast!

    33 min
  4. FEB 17

    Growth, Intuition, & the Reality of Creative Entrepreneurship with Ariel Perry

    If you’ve ever wondered what it actually looks like to build a creative business that lasts — through growth, pivots, family life, and a whole lot of learning — this episode is for you. This week, I’m joined by Ariel Perry, a Charlotte-based photographer specializing in senior portraits and branding, the owner of Legacy Studios in Durham, NC, and my wedding photographer. This conversation is honest, reflective, and full of behind-the-scenes insights into entrepreneurship, intuition, and choosing a life you actually love. In this episode, we chat about: What it was really like working together during my wedding — the good, the stressful, and why having the right photographer matters so much The importance of staying calm, grounded, and supportive when things don’t go as planned Ariel’s journey into photography and becoming a business owner and mentor to other photographers Her transition from primarily shooting weddings to focusing more on senior portraits and branding Why continuous learning — on your own and from others — is essential for growth What I’ve loved about content coaching and empowering other women, and how I got here Working with second photographers, mentorship, and watching others grow in their craft Founding a photography and event studio in Durham and the intention behind creating that space Lessons learned from owning a physical location and embracing it as an event space Trusting your intuition and listening to nudges from the universe — even when you feel hesitant Balancing owning multiple businesses while being a mom to two kids Growing up around entrepreneurs and how that shaped Ariel’s mindset Why being a business owner is both a gift and a challenge — and how you really do get to choose your life The one trait we believe every entrepreneur needs Learning how to rest, set boundaries, and not do the most all the time The importance of a supportive partner and village — in business and parenting Applying lessons from one business to another and what it feels like to rebuild community in a new place How reading and self-education have supported Ariel’s growth as an entrepreneur Connect with Ariel on: Instagram and her website Check out Legacy Studios (Ariel's photo and event studio in Durham, NC): Instagram and website   Grab a ticket to our Denver event on March 26th: Pour Into Your Content 🍷 A relaxed afternoon of content planning, legal clarity, and connecting with other women over a glass of wine. Thursday, 3/26. 4-7pm. Littleton, CO.   FREE RESOURCES: You know I’m here for YOU and your success, boo. And that includes offering a few different free resources to help you get there! Instagram Audit: This free audit is your chance to get personalized feedback on your profile + content — so you can stop guessing and start showing up in a way that actually feels like YOU and connects with the right people. The Bold Expression Toolkit - Your no-fluff, full-body yes to showing up online like the powerhouse you are. Think: scroll-stopping Canva templates, juicy content prompts, mindset + embodiment practices, and personalized feedback from a pro — all wrapped in a Notion dashboard designed to help you stop holding back and start saying what you really want to say. Website Review - Ever wonder how your brand & website is doing? Or what could make it better? Sign up for a free review that answers these questions and provides design & copy suggestions to increase conversions & connect with your ideal clients more effectively, plus show you how to be more authentic in your online presence. Sign up for our Newsletter - Where you’ll get first access to any other new resources and opportunities to work with me, PLUS tips, strategies, and stories for how to navigate the online space in a way that feels good. Check out my website for more ways to work and connect!   Support my show! I would love you foreverrr if you subscribe, rate, and review my podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to show your support of the show. Share to your stories and tag me so I can see you tuning in! 🫶🏻   → Connect with me on Insta: @abbybradetich for alllll the juicy things @illuminessencecreations for brand & web @theunfilteredceopod for the podcast!

    55 min
  5. FEB 10

    Resonance, Authenticity, & Feminine Leadership in Business with Leela Black

    If you’ve ever felt like your business is asking you to become more you (not less) this expansive episode is going to land deeply. I’m joined by Leela Black - founder of Feminine Business Resonance - for a powerful conversation about authenticity, feminine leadership, and what it really looks like to trust yourself more deeply, soften where you’ve been forcing, and allow your business to become a space where you get to be fully seen, exactly as you are. In this episode, we explore: Leela’s 17+ year journey in business and how her work has evolved over time Why business is about so much more than the work you do — and how mindset, trust, and identity are part of the process Building a business as a permission slip to be your most authentic self The biggest inhibitor to authenticity — and how our clients often mirror where we are in our own journey Leaning into the feminine side of business and how Leela guides her clients using I-Ching My Resonant Truth Archetype and what it revealed about my life, business, growth, and leadership How community-building comes naturally to us — and the limiting beliefs that can still come up around it Our shared experiences of rebirth moments and why openly sharing your story is such a magnetic force Going against the grain, creating your own path, and trusting your intuition — even when it means standing alone My journey into empowerment and owning my voice online (and how I support clients through the same process) The importance of continuity — getting to be the same person everywhere in life and business Unlearning conditioning around not being “enough,” inherited shame, and how to work through it An income milestone Leela reached and how it deepened her sense of purpose and devotion to her work The natural falling away of people who no longer match your energy as you uplevel The four stages of resonance that Leela teaches and how transformation actually happens Honoring feminine bodies, cycles, and energy — and why the business world is shifting away from purely masculine models The power of releasing judgment and forgiveness Connect with Leela on Instagram   Grab a Design & Marketing Power Sprint to knock out your "I've been wanting to do this" business growth tasks that have been on your list for foreverrr in just 3 days! 🔥 Only 2 spots open in February, then closed again until Q2   FREE RESOURCES: You know I’m here for YOU and your success, boo. And that includes offering a few different free resources to help you get there! Instagram Audit: This free audit is your chance to get personalized feedback on your profile + content — so you can stop guessing and start showing up in a way that actually feels like YOU and connects with the right people. The Bold Expression Toolkit - Your no-fluff, full-body yes to showing up online like the powerhouse you are. Think: scroll-stopping Canva templates, juicy content prompts, mindset + embodiment practices, and personalized feedback from a pro — all wrapped in a Notion dashboard designed to help you stop holding back and start saying what you really want to say. Website Review - Ever wonder how your brand & website is doing? Or what could make it better? Sign up for a free review that answers these questions and provides design & copy suggestions to increase conversions & connect with your ideal clients more effectively, plus show you how to be more authentic in your online presence. Sign up for our Newsletter - Where you’ll get first access to any other new resources and opportunities to work with me, PLUS tips, strategies, and stories for how to navigate the online space in a way that feels good. Check out my website for more ways to work and connect!   Support my show! I would love you foreverrr if you subscribe, rate, and review my podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to show your support of the show. Share to your stories and tag me so I can see you tuning in! 🫶🏻   → Connect with me on Insta: @abbybradetich for alllll the juicy things @illuminessencecreations for brand & web @theunfilteredceopod for the podcast!

    1 hr
  6. FEB 3

    Hiring with Intention, Building Culture, & Leading Like a Human with Amy Christopherson

    If you’re a business owner who’s thinking about hiring, growing a team, or simply wanting your business to feel more human again — this episode is for you. This week, I’m joined by Amy Christopherson, an HR expert for small businesses who’s passionate about helping founders build teams, cultures, and systems that actually support real humans — not just productivity or profit. In this conversation, we zoom out from rigid rules and focus on what it really looks like to grow your business with intention, clarity, and care — especially as a leader. In this episode, we chat about: Amy’s journey into business ownership and why she’s so passionate about bringing humanity back into the workplace What hiring and growing a team really involves as a small business owner Learning how to trust, onboard, and support people in a way that feels aligned My personal experiences with hiring in my own business Why culture matters just as much as skills when building a team Hiring in a way that supports you doing more of what you love Understanding the management role you step into when you hire (it’s more than just “getting time back”) The importance of dedicating time to work on your business, not just client work Avoiding shiny object syndrome and being intentional with your growth decisions Getting support in business — from coaches, peers, and trusted people — and why it matters How Amy uses Human Design in her business, life, and parenting (and the permission it creates) Ways Human Design and other tools can support you when hiring or leading a team Recognizing your influence as a leader — especially when hiring younger team members Navigating cultural and generational differences when you start building a team Approaching boundaries and tough conversations with clarity and kindness Setting the standard for what you accept — from clients, employees, and the universe Giving yourself grace as a business owner, leader, and human Why staying true to what matters to you is the foundation of sustainable growth Connect with Amy on: Instagram and her website Learn more about her program The HR Link   Grab a Design & Marketing Power Sprint to knock out your "I've been wanting to do this" business growth tasks that have been on your list for foreverrr in just 3 days! 🔥 Only 2 spots open in February, then closed again until Q2   FREE RESOURCES: You know I’m here for YOU and your success, boo. And that includes offering a few different free resources to help you get there! Instagram Audit: This free audit is your chance to get personalized feedback on your profile + content — so you can stop guessing and start showing up in a way that actually feels like YOU and connects with the right people. The Bold Expression Toolkit - Your no-fluff, full-body yes to showing up online like the powerhouse you are. Think: scroll-stopping Canva templates, juicy content prompts, mindset + embodiment practices, and personalized feedback from a pro — all wrapped in a Notion dashboard designed to help you stop holding back and start saying what you really want to say. Website Review - Ever wonder how your brand & website is doing? Or what could make it better? Sign up for a free review that answers these questions and provides design & copy suggestions to increase conversions & connect with your ideal clients more effectively, plus show you how to be more authentic in your online presence. Sign up for our Newsletter - Where you’ll get first access to any other new resources and opportunities to work with me, PLUS tips, strategies, and stories for how to navigate the online space in a way that feels good. Check out my website for more ways to work and connect!   Support my show! I would love you foreverrr if you subscribe, rate, and review my podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to show your support of the show. Share to your stories and tag me so I can see you tuning in! 🫶🏻   → Connect with me on Insta: @abbybradetich for alllll the juicy things @illuminessencecreations for brand & web @theunfilteredceopod for the podcast!

    47 min
  7. JAN 27

    Real-Time Reflections: Money Mindset, Big Goals, & Becoming More Me

    Welcome to the first of a new kind of solo episode on the podcast, called Real-Time Reflections! Unfiltered, behind-the-scenes, and deeply honest (cause you know we keep it real around here) 🔥 In these monthly episodes, I’m giving you a true look at what’s happening inside my business and mindset, leading from my 3/5 Human Design the way I naturally do: by sharing what I’m learning, what’s working, what’s not, and the mistakes I’m actively navigating so you can learn alongside me and feel less alone too. These episodes are recorded just days before they go live so you get the real ass leadership, reflections, and permission to build your business your way (just like I'm doing!) 🫶🏼 In this episode, I dive into: Why I’m leaning harder into teaching and leading as a 3/5 — and what that means for these solo episodes My big income goals for the year and the money mindset work I’m doing to support them Sharing the scary thing out loud, claiming it, and stepping into my power The reality of where I’m starting from — and the limiting beliefs that have already come up Why I’ll be sharing quarterly updates on my big money goal and taking you along for the ride The intentional choice I made in January to regulate my energy, mindset, and embodiment around money The question I ask myself when I wobble so I can take action from an empowered place My very real mid-month mini freak-outs — and what I do when things don’t move as fast as I want them to Tips for navigating money mindset and embodiment work for yourself (and how MBN supports this) My husband and I going through The Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron together — why we’re doing it again and what’s coming up this time An exercise you can try around self-worth and noticing who has (and hasn’t) supported it in your life Feeling underestimated and why I’m so passionate about helping women feel good enough The power of allowing yourself to be all of you (even when it doesn’t look traditional) You get to make and break your own rules — and why changing your mind is a strength, not a failure A behind-the-scenes look at my refreshed website — what I thought I’d do vs. what it became Taking myself through the same transformation process I guide my clients through My favorite new part of the site and the assessments I made to ensure it finally matches who I am now How we can work together to bring your website and online presence up to date   Get content help in Magnetic By Nature: my content support ecosystem with 3 tiers to meet you where you're at 🦋 Inquire about brand & web design: booking March-May start dates ✨ Grab a Design & Marketing Power Sprint to knock out your "I've been wanting to do this" business growth tasks that have been on your list for foreverrr in just 3 days! 🔥   Check out my refreshed website! 🥰😍🥂 Open To Overflow money mindset audio program I recommend   FREE RESOURCES: You know I’m here for YOU and your success, boo. And that includes offering a few different free resources to help you get there! Instagram Audit: This free audit is your chance to get personalized feedback on your profile + content — so you can stop guessing and start showing up in a way that actually feels like YOU and connects with the right people. The Bold Expression Toolkit - Your no-fluff, full-body yes to showing up online like the powerhouse you are. Think: scroll-stopping Canva templates, juicy content prompts, mindset + embodiment practices, and personalized feedback from a pro — all wrapped in a Notion dashboard designed to help you stop holding back and start saying what you really want to say. Website Review - Ever wonder how your brand & website is doing? Or what could make it better? Sign up for a free review that answers these questions and provides design & copy suggestions to increase conversions & connect with your ideal clients more effectively, plus show you how to be more authentic in your online presence. Sign up for my Newsletter - Where you’ll get first access to any other new resources and opportunities to work with me, PLUS tips, strategies, and stories for how to navigate the online space in a way that feels good.   Support my show! I would love you foreverrr if you subscribe, rate, and review my podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to show your support of the show. Share to your stories and tag me so I can see you tuning in! 🫶🏻   → Connect with me on Insta: @abbybradetich for alllll the juicy things @illuminessencecreations for brand & web @theunfilteredceopod for the podcast!

    30 min
  8. JAN 20

    (Twin) Sisterhood, Identity, & Trusting Yourself in Life and Parenting with Dr. Amara Rosenbaum

    This episode is a very special one for me — because I’m joined by my twin sister, Amara Rosenbaum. She has her Ph.D. in Child Development from Oregon State University, is the founder of Parent Empowerance, and is on a mission to translate research into real-life parenting tools that actually feel doable, empowering, and aligned — not overwhelming or shamey. This conversation is a beautiful mix of sisterhood, identity, parenting, business, nervous system work, and trusting yourself — and don't worry, my precious little two-year-old niece Natalie makes a surprise appearance too! 🥹 We dive into: What it was like growing up as twin sisters How being a twin impacts identity development — and what it took for each of us to become our own person The resistance to being the one who has to make allllll the decisions — especially as a business owner Being called “intimidating,” confidence vs. self-esteem, and trusting yourself in different ways Showing up authentically online as a non-negotiable — and how that evolves over time Why Amara feels like she gets to start her business from a real place — and how long it took me to get there How content coaching has supported Amara as she begins showing up online Our shared passion for empowering people to go after what they truly want Amara’s journey finishing her Ph.D. while parenting two young kids and starting a new business How Amara helps parents trust themselves as the expert on their kids — backed by research and real strategy Why research needs to be applied to real life (and how Amara does this for parents) Letting yourself be playful, free, and embodied — like kids naturally are Resetting yourself and your kids through body-based regulation — using dancing, shaking, and movement (for kids and adults) Why relatable, REAL content matters — parenting and business aren’t highlight reels Finding community and knowing you’re not alone (especially in isolating seasons like new motherhood) Why kids get the “wiggles” or stall at bedtime — and simple, research-backed ways to support them Not letting your emotions get wrapped up in other people’s reactions or what's happening around you Amara’s unintentional resolution this year: letting go, giving herself grace, and being more present Gratitude journaling — how it actually changes your brain (backed by science & research) Our thoughts on New Year pressure, resolutions, and word-of-the-year culture Focusing on what’s given to you instead of what’s taken from you as a parent Postpartum identity shifts, hormones, and why this transition is so rarely talked about honestly Natalie starting preschool and navigating big transitions with support and perspective Finding balance and prioritizing what actually matters most to you Connect with Amara on: Instagram and her Podcast   Get content help for 2026 in Magnetic By Nature: my content support ecosystem with 3 tiers to meet you where you're at 🦋 Inquire about brand & web design: booking February-April start dates ✨ Grab a Design & Marketing Power Sprint to knock out your "I've been wanting to do this" business growth tasks that have been on your list for foreverrr in just 3 days! 🔥   FREE RESOURCES: You know I’m here for YOU and your success, boo. And that includes offering a few different free resources to help you get there! Instagram Audit: This free audit is your chance to get personalized feedback on your profile + content — so you can stop guessing and start showing up in a way that actually feels like YOU and connects with the right people. The Bold Expression Toolkit - Your no-fluff, full-body yes to showing up online like the powerhouse you are. Think: scroll-stopping Canva templates, juicy content prompts, mindset + embodiment practices, and personalized feedback from a pro — all wrapped in a Notion dashboard designed to help you stop holding back and start saying what you really want to say. Website Review - Ever wonder how your brand & website is doing? How it compares to others? Or what could make it better? Sign up for a free review that answers these questions and provides design & copy suggestions to increase conversions & connect with your ideal clients more effectively, plus show you how to be more authentic in your online presence. 5-Day Spark Reset Challenge - To reset your energy & mindset, refocus on your goals, & reignite your spark to show up on socials. Each day, you’ll receive an email with 3 tasks to do that can be done in 30 min or less! Sign up for our Newsletter - Where you’ll get first access to any other new resources and opportunities to work with us, PLUS tips, strategies, and stories for how to navigate the online space in a way that feels good. Check out our website for more ways to work and connect with us!   Support my show! I would love you foreverrr if you subscribe, rate, and review my podcast on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to show your support of the show. Share to your stories and tag me so I can see you tuning in! 🫶🏻   → Connect with me on Insta: @abbybradetich for alllll the juicy things @illuminessencecreations for brand & web @theunfilteredceopod for the podcast!

    1h 17m

Trailer

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Unfiltered CEO, where we share real stories of the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Your host, Abby Bradetich of IlluminEssence Creations, is a business owner, brand & web designer, visibility strategist, and embodiment mentor always down for a dance party. In this podcast, we’ll dive into the authentic experiences of owning a business that you don’t always see online - the highs, the lows, and every spicy bit in-between. We’ll cover mindset, online presence, business, embodiment, social media, brand, and so much more as we turn our unfiltered stories into inspiring, actionable takeaways. In my corner of the internet, we say f**k the rules, aren’t afraid to make moves, and care more about things feeling good than comparing to what else you see online. No matter what stage of business you’re in, you’re welcome here! So grab a glass of wine or get out for your daily walk, and let’s get into it, girl!