Build to Sell: A Private Equity Insider's Hiring and Exit Playbook

PE introductions, C-suite connections, companies exiting because of one conversation; that's what happens inside the MFC. We're opening spots for ambitious women at the 7-figure mark who are ready to be in the room where the best deals happen. Apply here: https://bit.ly/MFCApplication -- Welcome back to the CEO School podcast! In today's episode, our host Suneera Madhani sits down with powerhouse executive and proud Latina mom, Vivian Gonzalez. With nearly 30 years in executive search—20 of which were spent deep in private equity—Vivian brings a wealth of insider knowledge on scaling companies, strategic exits, and the art of assembling world-class leadership teams. Together, they dive into the realities of selling to private equity, what it takes to build truly exitable enterprises, and the unique challenges and opportunities for women in the male-dominated world of finance and leadership. Plus, Vivian shares actionable insights on retention, hiring, and the mindset shifts women founders need to unlock the next level of growth. Whether you're building your first company or preparing for a big exit, this episode is packed with must-know strategies and inspiration for ambitious women in business. Time Stamps: (00:00) Introducing Vivian Gonzalez: 30 Years Placing C-Suite Talent in PE-Backed Companies (05:20) From Law School Dropout to Running a Firm at 25 (07:44) Private Equity 101: What It Is, What It Isn't, and Why It Got a Bad Rap (12:17) The Gender Gap in PE: 15% on Deal Teams, 2% as Operating Partners (13:45)  Vivian's Rule: No Woman on Your Deal Team? No Introduction. (19:49) No Is a Gift: How Rejection Builds Better Founders (23:50)  What PE Buyers Actually Grade You On: Retention, Scalability, and Letting Go (25:50) The Mindset Shift: If the Business Can't Run Without You, It's Not Sellable (28:00) "I Can't Afford to Hire"... Here's How to Think About It Instead (33:47) The $1M, $5M, and $10M Inflection Points And What Breaks at Each One (39:17) The Case Study Hiring Method That Removes Risk and Gets You to Yes (44:19) The 30/60/90 Framework: Why Hires Fail Without It (46:00) — Where to Find Vivian and the MFC Follow Vivian and discover her ventures: Instagram: @viviangonzales.parkcapital LinkedIn: Vivian Gonzales Remember, every "no" is just a step closer to your "yes". Keep building businesses that create wealth and impact! -------------------------------------------------------------------- Vivian just told you the business that can't run without you isn't sellable. The 6P quiz will show you exactly which pillar is holding you back. Take it, get your weakest area, and get the custom workbook to fix it → https://bit.ly/FounderOrCEOQuiz --- Only 2% of female founders ever break $1 million in revenue. We're on a mission to change that. Subscribe to the CEO School and join the movement. Watch and listen to us at: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1525261018 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/06KIvFFJP0yJv67N9ugigU YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CEOSchoolPodcast/?sub_confirmation=1 Learn more about CEO School because nothing bad ever happens when women make more money: Website: https://theceoschool.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ceoschool/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ceo-school TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theceoschool Learn more about how Suneera Madhani is paving the way for powerhouse female CEOs like you to take center stage, not just in your industries but in your whole life. Website: https://suneeramadhani.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suneeramadhani/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suneeramadhani/ This episode was produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/. ------------------------------------------------------------------ SOCIAL Hashtags: #PrivateEquity #ExitStrategy #WomenInBusiness #FemaleFounders #WomenInLeadership #FounderToCEO #CSuiteRecruitment #BusinessGrowth #CustomerRetention #HiringStrategy #ScaleYourBusiness #CEOSchool

The avoidance patterns we broke down today show up in your business too, and our Founder or CEO quiz will tell you exactly where. Uncover your weakest area and get a custom workbook to strengthen it → https://bit.ly/FounderOrCEOQuiz In today's solo episode, Suneera takes a direct and honest look at one of the biggest challenges holding women back in business and life: our collective fear of direct conversations. From ghosting and gossip to building stories in our heads, Suneera unpacks the patterns of avoidance that can undermine relationships, leadership, and personal growth. Through practical lessons and personal insights, she'll show you how embracing direct yet kind communication is the key to true leadership and lasting success. It's time to pick up the phone, have the tough conversations, and build a reputation and relationships that stand the test of time. Let's dive in!Time Stamps:(01:00) Cold open: we are terrified of direct conversations(02:18) Lesson 1: Leaders pick up the phone, not the voice note(03:40) Lesson 2: Giving direct feedback without the 12 disclaimers(04:11) Feedback is just data; it's not a verdict on your worth(04:56) Lesson 3: "It's you and me against the problem"(06:19) How to stop the story before resentment builds(07:22) Lesson 4: Stop living in zero or 100(08:09) Why women's reactions cost them trust and relationships(09:33) Lesson 5: Your reputation outlasts every disagreement(10:55) Zero to scorched earth: that's ego, not strength(11:27) The PSA: build the muscle for direct, kind conversations Share this with a founder who's been writing the text, then deleting it, then writing it again.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Your network is only as strong as your ability to protect it. The women inside MFC have already learned that. Come have the real conversations with us → https://bit.ly/MFCApplication--- Only 2% of female founders ever break $1 million in revenue. We’re on a mission to change that. Subscribe to the CEO School and join the movement. Watch and listen to us at: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1525261018 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/06KIvFFJP0yJv67N9ugigU YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CEOSchoolPodcast/?sub_confirmation=1 Learn more about CEO School because nothing bad ever happens when women make more money: Website: https://theceoschool.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ceoschool/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ceo-school TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theceoschool Learn more about how Suneera Madhani is paving the way for powerhouse female CEOs like you to take center stage, not just in your industries but in your whole life. Website: https://suneeramadhani.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suneeramadhani/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suneeramadhani/ This episode was produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/.-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- SOCIAL Hashtags:#leadership #directconversations #feedback #communication #conflictresolution #emotionalintelligence #womeninbusiness #avoidance #givingfeedback #receivingfeedback #businessrelationships #problemsolving #winwinmindset #assumption #ghosting #gossip #triangulation #personalgrowth #professionalboundaries #reputation #integrity #emotionalregulation #mentorship #teamdynamics #empathy #networkoverlap #peoplepleasing #burningbridges #ceoschool #foundertoceo

You can't build wealth on a business that falls apart the second you step back. The Founder-to-CEO Shift guide is the free first step out of the founder trap → https://bit.ly/FounderToCEOGuide Welcome back to CEO School! In today's episode, we sit down with Michelle Taylor: licensed wealth manager, founder of Women In Wealth, and host of the Talk Wealthy To Me podcast. Michelle shares her inspiring journey from entrepreneurial pivots and personal financial struggles to building a thriving practice focused on advising women business owners about wealth. We dive deep into the realities of juggling business and family, why your business shouldn't be your only retirement plan, and how women can shift their money mindset. Plus, we'll break down practical strategies for putting your money to work, discuss the importance of building a strong advisory team, and explore where and how wealthy women are investing for long-term growth.  Whether you're a founder or just getting started on your wealth journey, Michelle brings honest advice, sharp insight, and a much-needed perspective on investing in your business (and yourself). Grab a notepad, because this episode is packed with actionable wisdom you won't want to miss! Time Stamps: (01:00)  Selling Everything to Move to Italy (Then Pivoting)(05:54)  Leukemia at 17 & Why Health Is the First Wealth(07:41)  The Louboutin Product, IVF & Picking the Real Baby(09:57)  Why She Built Women in Wealth(15:33)  Bet on Yourself: Your Business Is the Home Run(17:02)  Where Founders Waste Money (And Where to Put It Instead)(20:37)  Stop Sitting on Cash: Give Your Money a Job(24:24)  The Pie: Allocating by Age, Goals & Risk(27:39 ) "Mailbox Money": Replacing Your Income With Real Estate(29:56)  Angel Bets & Why "When I'm Ready" Is a Trap(32:54)  Swing Big: The Baseball Rule of Risk(39:42)  Fire the CPA Who Says No(40:30)  Tax Moves That Don't Lock Up Your Cash Share this with a founder whose money is asleep on the couch. Connect With Michelle:Website: https://womeninwealth.co/Instagram: @itschelletaylor -------------------------------------------------------------- The honest money conversations only happen with women who get it. That room has a name. The Millionaire Founders Club has a few spots left → https://bit.ly/MFCApplication --- Only 2% of female founders ever break $1 million in revenue. We’re on a mission to change that. Subscribe to the CEO School and join the movement. Watch and listen to us at: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1525261018 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/06KIvFFJP0yJv67N9ugigU YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CEOSchoolPodcast/?sub_confirmation=1 Learn more about CEO School because nothing bad ever happens when women make more money: Website: https://theceoschool.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ceoschool/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ceo-school TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theceoschool Learn more about how Suneera Madhani is paving the way for powerhouse female CEOs like you to take center stage, not just in your industries but in your whole life. Website: https://suneeramadhani.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suneeramadhani/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suneeramadhani/ This episode was produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/. -------------------------------------------------------------- SOCIAL Hashtags: #WealthManagement #WomenAndWealth #BusinessOwners #FemaleFounders #Entrepreneurship #BuildingWealth #FinancialLiteracy #MoneyMindset #PassiveIncome #Investing #TaxStrategy #RealEstateInvesting

The first step out of the founder trap is free. Get the Founder-to-CEO Shift guide → https://theceoschool.com/ Welcome back to CEO School! In today’s solo episode, Suneera Madhani shares the pivotal moment when her ambition outgrew her systems—and how that breakthrough became the foundation for building businesses that don’t depend on her every move. From the high of a Fast Company feature to the low of realizing she’d become the bottleneck, Suneera Madhani walks us through the lessons she learned transitioning from founder to CEO.  Tune in for practical tools, the must-have 6P framework for sustainable growth, and an invitation to break free from founder burnout with systems that actually set you up for true freedom and scale. If you’re ready to audit your business, embody your CEO self, and set your sights higher, this episode is for you! Time Stamps: (00:00) Facing overwhelming demand (04:16) Harnessing Inner Leadership Power (09:45) Building an Inclusive Business Accelerator (12:40) Using AI to streamline CEO tasks Send this to a founder who's still doing everything herself and wondering why she's stuck. ------------------------------------------------------------- When the strategy that got you here stops working, the next level is about the room you're in. The Millionaire Founders Club has a few spots left. Apply today: https://bit.ly/MFCApplication --- Only 2% of female founders ever break $1 million in revenue. We’re on a mission to change that. Subscribe to the CEO School and join the movement. Watch and listen to us at: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast//id1525261018 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/06KIvFFJP0yJv67N9ugigU YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CEOSchoolPodcast/?sub_confirmation=1 Learn more about CEO School because nothing bad ever happens when women make more money: Website: https://theceoschool.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ceoschool/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suneeramadhani/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theceoschool Learn more about how Suneera Madhani is paving the way for powerhouse female CEOs like you to take center stage, not just in your industries but in your whole life. Website: https://suneeramadhani.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suneeramadhani/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suneeramadhani/ This episode was produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/. ------------------------------------------------- SOCIAL Hashtags: #self image #mindset #femaleentrepreneurs #confidence #style #environment #personalgrowth,#ambition #fear #emotions #overcomingfear #selfconcept #transformation #selfworth #provingenergy #ambitionwithease #playfulness #selfcare #fashion #bookrecommendations #surroundings

The inner work underneath your strategy is what scales it, and it's exactly what we cover in Module 1 of the CEO Accelerator Certification. See how it works: https://accelerator.theceoschool.com/join-now Welcome back to CEO School! In today's episode, we're joined by Tonya Leigh, founder of the School of Self Image and host of the podcast “School of Self-Image .” Tonya takes us through her inspiring journey from a critical care nurse and single mom in the deep South to becoming a food and wine writer in France, transforming her life by reimagining who she could be. We dive into Tonya's unique framework for self-image, which centers on mindset, style, and environment, and how these pillars empower women, especially high-achieving entrepreneurs, to design a life they love.  Get ready for an important conversation on overcoming fear, the true currency of change, and actionable steps to step confidently into your highest self. Time Stamps: (00:00) Introduction: Tonya Leigh and the Art of Becoming(03:18) The one word that rewrote an entire life(08:51) The fear wasn't failing... it was not knowing how(10:32) The worst thing that can happen is a feeling(14:54) When she decided to french-kiss life(17:00) The strategy that built it is the strategy capping it(23:57) The thought ladder: how to shift a thought without lying to yourself(27:07) Dress to impress yourself, not the room(30:35) The three-nail-color rule for founders with no time(33:47) Beauty standards built to keep you chasing(34:44) Define beauty so it includes you(37:57) Your environment is shaping you. Audit it!(39:55) The bookshelf swap that changed everything(41:37) Where to find Tonya and her programs Share this with a founder who treats self-image like a soft skill.----------------------------------------------------------------------- When the strategy that got you here stops working, the next level is about the room you're in. The Millionaire Founders Club has a few spots left. Apply today: https://bit.ly/MFCApplication --- Follow Tonya and discover her ventures: Instagram: @tonyaleigh Website: https://schoolofselfimage.com/ Her free Elegant Success Framework:  https://schoolofselfimage.com/success --- Only 2% of female founders ever break $1 million in revenue. We’re on a mission to change that. Subscribe to the CEO School and join the movement. Watch and listen to us at: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast//id1525261018 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/06KIvFFJP0yJv67N9ugigU YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CEOSchoolPodcast/?sub_confirmation=1 Learn more about CEO School because nothing bad ever happens when women make more money: Website: https://theceoschool.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ceoschool/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suneeramadhani/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theceoschool Learn more about how Suneera Madhani is paving the way for powerhouse female CEOs like you to take center stage, not just in your industries but in your whole life. Website: https://suneeramadhani.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suneeramadhani/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suneeramadhani/ This episode was produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/. --------------------------------------------------------------------- SOCIAL Hashtags: #selfimage #mindset #femaleentrepreneurs #confidence #style #environment #personalgrowth #ambition #fear #emotions #overcomingfear #selfconcept #transformation #selfworth #provingenergy #ambitionwithease #playfulness #selfcare #fashion #bookrecommendations #surroundings

We've proven you can have it all, and we've built the framework that makes it possible: The CEO Accelerator. Six pillars, live calls with Suneera, and your own plug-and-play CEO Operating System. Apply now: https://accelerator.theceoschool.com/join-now *** Welcome to a very special episode of CEO School, in honor of Father's Day.  On this episode of CEO School, Suneera sat down with her husband, Fazail Madhani, for a candid conversation about their journey as entrepreneurs, partners, and parents. They talk about building businesses from the ground up, navigating failures together, what it means to truly support each other's ambitions, and how we make family our foundation.  If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to balance entrepreneurship with marriage and parenting, or if you need a reminder that you really can have it all with the right mindset and support, this episode is a must-listen. From humble beginnings and entrepreneurial struggles to scaling multi-million-dollar businesses and raising a family together, they share the highs, lows, and real-life lessons behind their “one team, one dream” philosophy. Whether you're seeking insights on building a supportive partnership, balancing family and ambition, or just want a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to thrive together as entrepreneurs and parents, this episode is packed with wisdom, vulnerability, and plenty of fun.  Don’t miss this intimate look into the Madhani family's dynamic and the values that drive their success, both at work and at home. Time Stamps: (00:07) Born in Tanzania, raised to never make excuses (07:57) How they met, and who was playing footsies at the poker table? (12:35) Failing together before making it together (19:17) What Faisal actually signed up for when marrying Suneera (27:41) How he describes his wife when someone asks what she does (32:01) The not-so-pretty side of being married to a CEO (45:18) The moment that showed her what real partnership means (48:33) Why they refuse to believe women can't have it all (49:36) Parenting as two CEOs: what they protect, what they teach, and what they refuse to sacrifice (58:31) The moment he never told her he was proud of (59:31) The Sunny nobody sees online, and what 18 years comes down to Share this with a founder who thinks having it all means doing it alone. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- You don't have to figure out the next level alone; that's what the room is for. Our Millionaire Founders Club has a few spots left. Apply today: https://bit.ly/MFCApplication--- Only 2% of female founders ever break $1 million in revenue. We’re on a mission to change that. Subscribe to the CEO School and join the movement. Watch and listen to us at: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast//id1525261018 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/06KIvFFJP0yJv67N9ugigU YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/c/CEOSchoolPodcast/?sub_confirmation=1 Learn more about CEO School because nothing bad ever happens when women make more money: Website: https://theceoschool.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ceoschool/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suneeramadhani/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theceoschool Learn more about how Suneera Madhani is paving the way for powerhouse female CEOs like you to take center stage, not just in your industries but in your whole life. Website: https://suneeramadhani.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suneeramadhani/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suneeramadhani/ This episode was produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/. --------------------------------------------------------------------------

If your business is running on passion instead of process, that's the gap the CEO Accelerator closes. 12 weeks to go from founder mode to CEO mode: the six pillars, the playbooks, the live calls with Suneera. Apply now: https://accelerator.theceoschool.com/join-now *** Is hustle culture dead, or have we swung too far in the opposite direction? Welcome back to the CEO School podcast!  In this episode of CEO School, our host Suneera shares an unfiltered perspective on the current state of entrepreneurship, social media marketing, personal branding, and business growth. From the rise of the "soft girl era" to the pressure women founders feel to constantly create content, build personal brands, and chase visibility, Suneera challenges the narratives dominating social media and explains why founders may be focusing on the wrong metrics. Whether you're building a startup, growing a personal brand, scaling a seven-figure company, or simply feeling burned out by social media, this episode offers practical insights and a refreshing perspective on entrepreneurship in 2026. You'll learn why:-Business is neither masculine nor feminine; it's business-Visibility without conversion is just entertainment-Social media trends are creating a culture of sameness-Over-editing content can kill authenticity -Personal branding should support your business, not become your business Time Stamps: (00:00) — Introduction: Why Social Media Feels Exhausting Right Now (01:53) — The Problem with the "Soft Girl Business" Era (03:37) — Vision Boards Don't Close Deals, Systems Do (05:27) — Business Isn't Feminine or Masculine. It's Business. (06:24) — Lessons from Building Multiple Companies (10:15) — You Birthed Your Business, Should You Be Mothering It Too? (11:44) — The Real Cost of Content Creation (13:33) — Why Over-Edited Content Is Losing Its Power (15:47) — Social Media Sameness Is Killing Authenticity (18:26) — The Personal Brand Trap Women Founders Don't See Coming (20:57) — Visibility Without Conversion Is Just Entertainment (23:30) — The Feed Audit Every Founder Should Do Today Share this with a woman founder who needs to remember that visibility without conversion is just entertainment. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- You built the business. Now it's time to build the wealth. If you're a seven-figure founder ready to scale to eight, the Millionaire Founders Club has a few spots left. Apply here: https://bit.ly/MFCApplication --- Only 2% of women founders ever break $1 million in revenue. We're on a mission to change that. Subscribe to the CEO School and join the movement. Watch and listen to us at: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast//id1525261018 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/06KIvFFJP0yJv67N9ugigU YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CEOSchoolpodcast Learn more about CEO School because nothing bad ever happens when women make more money: Website: https://theceoschool.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ceoschool/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suneeramadhani/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theceoschool Learn more about how Suneera Madhani is paving the way for powerhouse female CEOs like you to take center stage, not just in your industries but in your whole life. Website: https://suneeramadhani.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suneeramadhani/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suneeramadhani/ This episode was produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/ --------------------------------------------------------------- SOCIAL Hashtags: #CEOSchool #WomenInBusiness #Entrepreneurship #FounderLife #BusinessGrowth #PersonalBranding #Leadership #BusinessStrategy #WomenEntrepreneurs #StartupFounder #ContentMarketing #CEO mindset #BusinessPodcast #ScaleYourBusiness #SocialMediaMarketing

You built the business. Now it's time to build the wealth. If you're a seven-figure founder ready to surround yourself with women doing the same, the Millionaire Founders Club has a few spots left. Apply here: https://bit.ly/MFCApplication Welcome back to the CEO School podcast! In this episode, we're sitting down with Vivian Tu, aka Your Rich BFF, to talk about how she went from a Wall Street equities trader to a viral financial educator and a multi-million-dollar media entrepreneur. Her story starts with immigrant parents, a fourth career option nobody handed her, and a first TikTok that hit 3 million views in a week. From there, the conversation gets into the risk-calculated leap from a $625K corporate salary to building her own brand, and what it takes to turn income into wealth as a founder.Expect straight talk on the FU number, taking distributions, and why so many seven-figure founders are still broke. Plus, Vivian breaks down her latest book, Well Endowed, and Ask Dolly, her new fintech built to make financial advice accessible to everyone, not just people who already have a six-figure net worth.Practical, candid, and full of useful nuggets. Don't skip a minute of this one. Here are my top 3 takeaways: -Segregate Your Finances: The discussion explored the importance of separating personal and business finances. Treat your business as its own entity, pay yourself appropriately, and make sure you're using surplus for distributions and investments—not just reinvesting everything or using your business as a piggy bank. (17:27) -Find Your “Enough” Number: One concept discussed was the power of knowing your “FU” number—calculate what you truly need to live your ideal life, and let that number drive your wealth-building and investment strategies instead of always chasing “more.” (24:00) -Diversification is Everything: The conversation focused on what to do with distributions or windfalls: first, shore up your emergency fund, pay down high-interest debt, then diversify into tax-advantaged accounts, index funds, real estate, and even a little fun (yes, it’s okay to treat yourself!) (35:10) Time Stamps: (00:00) Introducing Your Rich BFF's Vivian Tu (01:58) The immigrant kid who found her fourth option, and ran with it (04:56) She went viral on day one, and her first call was to the legal team (07:15) She had $625K, a job she loved, and a decision to make (11:21) The moment she ran out of hours in the day (14:09) How she figured out what to charge (and kept pushing) (18:02) How do you go from making income to building wealth (24:09) Stop chasing a number you can't even visualize (30:29) The economy broke its promise to this generation (35:41) Your Roth IRA is a purse. What's actually in it? (38:21) Every big purchase she makes has a milestone tied to it (41:22) Nobody runs from the Sephora sale. Why run from the stock market? (44:21) The financial advice gap no one is filling...until now Share this with the woman who's making real money but still can't answer the question: "What's actually enough?" Follow Vivian Tu and discover her ventures: Instagram: @your.richbff TikTok: @yourrichbff Ask Dolly website: https://askdolly.com/ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ If you're a female founder who's built serious revenue but knows your business needs a real CEO, our CEO Accelerator Certification gives you the framework to make that shift in 12 weeks. Secure your spot today: https://accelerator.theceoschool.com/join-now. --- Only 2% of female founders ever break $1 million in revenue. We’re on a mission to change that. Subscribe to the CEO School and join the movement. Watch and listen to us at: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast//id1525261018 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/06KIvFFJP0yJv67N9ugigU YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CEOSchoolPodcast/?sub_confirmation=1 Learn more about CEO School because nothing bad ever happens when women make more money: Website: https://theceoschool.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ceoschool/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suneeramadhani/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theceoschool Learn more about how Suneera Madhani is paving the way for powerhouse female CEOs like you to take center stage, not just in your industries but in your whole life.  Website: https://suneeramadhani.com/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suneeramadhani/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suneeramadhani/ This episode was produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/. ----------------------------------------------------------------------- #CEOSchoolPodcast #YourRichBFF #RichBFF #VivianTu #FinancialLiteracy #PersonalFinance #WealthBuilding #Entrepreneurship #ContentCreation #ViralVideo #SocialMediaStrategy #BrandDeals #PricingStrategy #Monetization #CreatorEconomy #BatchContentRecording

If you are a seven-figure female founder ready to scale to eight, our Millionaire Founder's Club has a few spots left. Apply here: https://bit.ly/MFCApplication Welcome back to the CEO School Podcast! This week on CEO School, I had the honor of sitting down with Dr. Arleen Lamba, founder of GLO300, a membership-based, medical-grade skincare franchise that has grown 1600% and is now one of the fastest-growing skincare studios in the nation. Dr. Arleen Lamba took us behind the scenes of her journey: from working as a full-time anesthesiologist while launching her first studio, to pushing through doubt, judgment, and “cringe” moments, all the way to nationwide franchise success. Here are my top 3 takeaways: Start with a Personal Problem: The most impactful businesses often solve a pain point you know intimately. Dr. Arleen Lamba built GLO30 out of her own frustrating skincare journey and turned it into a replicable, high-growth model. Embrace the Cringe & Push Forward: Every entrepreneur will face moments of doubt, external judgment, or feeling “cringe.” Dr. Arleen Lamba was handing out flyers 9 months pregnant, hearing “how’s your little spa?”—and every time, she pushed forward rather than retreating. Double Down on Systems & Execution: Scaling past your first location means obsessing over people, process, and customer experience. Dr. Arleen Lamba credits GLO30’s success to a relentless focus on quality and process, and on building a community that truly believes in the vision. If you’re sitting on an idea or in the “grind” phase, let this be your push. Sometimes the only permission you need is from yourself. Time Stamps: (00:00) Intro + Key Takeaways (01:00) Meet Dr. Arleen Lamba & GLO30 (03:42) From Anesthesiologist to Founder (06:52) Building While Working Full Time (08:12) Embrace the Cringe & Push Forward (12:15) The Moment She Went All In (16:28) The Opportunity that Changed the Trajectory (18:06) The Decision to Franchise (20:42) How to Scale Without Losing Your Standards (26:20) The Three A's: Approachable, Accessible, Affordable (28:18) What's Next for GLO30 & How to Support Them Share this with a woman who's building something real while everyone's asking, "How's your little business? "Follow Dr. Arleen Lamba and discover Glo30: Glo30's website: https://glo30.com/ Dr. Lamba's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drarleenlamba/ ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ If you're a female founder who's built serious revenue but knows your business needs a real CEO, our CEO Accelerator Certification gives you the framework to make that shift in 12 weeks. Secure your spot today: https://accelerator.theceoschool.com/join-now. Only 2% of female founders ever break $1 million in revenue. We’re on a mission to change that. Subscribe to the CEO School and join the movement. Watch and listen to us at: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast//id1525261018 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/06KIvFFJP0yJv67N9ugigU YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CEOSchoolPodcast/?sub_confirmation=1 Learn more about CEO School because nothing bad ever happens when women make more money: Website: https://theceoschool.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ceoschool/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suneeramadhani/ Learn more about how Suneera Madhani is paving the way for powerhouse female CEOs like you to take center stage, not just in your industries but in your whole life. Website: https://suneeramadhani.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suneeramadhani/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suneeramadhani/ This episode was produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ SOCIAL Hashtags: #GLO30 #skincarefranchise #medicalgradeskincare #facialtreatments #AItechnology #membershipmodel #accessibleskincare #womenentrepreneurs #franchisegrowth #businessbootstrapping #work-lifebalance #buildingabusinesswhileemployed #overcomingego #entrepreneurshipmindset #personalproblemsolving #DrArleenLamba #businessfunding #scalingabusiness #risk-taking #franchiseprocess #customerexperience #self-fundedbusiness #product-marketfit

Are you a 7-figure founder ready to be in a room like this? MFC has a few spots left. Apply here: bit.ly/MFCApplication Welcome back to the CEO School Podcast!  On today’s episode, Suneera dives deep into the powerful lessons and raw realities uncovered at the recent Millionaire Founders Club Spring Wellness Retreat in Phoenix. After gathering with 50 high-achieving, seven- and eight-figure women entrepreneurs, Suneera shares the themes, breakthroughs, and unfiltered truths that emerged when leaders let their guard down and reconnected with themselves (and each other). From the challenge of letting go of people-pleasing and perfectionism, to redefining the roles of feminine and masculine energy in building successful businesses, to confronting the pressures of social media and personal branding, this episode offers an unfiltered look at the evolving journey of women founders. Suneera also addresses the lonely side of leadership, sharing why your circle gets smaller as you grow, and the surprising importance of giving yourself permission to disconnect. Whether you’re craving growth, authenticity, or practical takeaways for your own leadership path, tune in for a candid, thought-provoking conversation that will challenge your perspectives and encourage you to reflect on the armor you wear, and what it could mean to finally set it down. Topics covered in this episode include: Female entrepreneurship and emotional burnout Millionaire founder mindset shifts The pressure of personal branding and social media Feminine vs masculine energy in business High-achieving women and people-pleasing Entrepreneurship loneliness and friendship shifts Why not everyone wants to see you win Leadership, identity, and personal growth Building profitable businesses without emotional overwhelm Wellness retreats and founder healing If you are a founder, CEO, business owner, ambitious woman, or entrepreneur trying to navigate success without losing yourself in the process, this episode is for you. Time Stamps: (00:00)  Intro + key takeaways (01:00)  How the MFC Retreats started (04:24)  How to Join MFC + What Makes It Work (08:14)  Setting the Scene: 50 Women in the Desert (13:00)  Inside The Boardroom: Board-Level Accountability (14:56)  Lesson 1: Letting the Armor Down (18:10)  The People Pleasing Confession (21:00)  What Would Happen If You Let Your Armor Down? (21:30)  Lesson 2: Rethinking Feminine vs. Masculine Energy in Business (22:54)  Why Business Might Actually Belong in the Masculine (28:52)  Lesson 3: The Social Media Pressure Nobody Talks About (33:29)  Lesson 4: You Are Allowed to Disconnect (35:21)  Lesson 5: Not All Women Want You to Win (36:45)  Your Circle Will Get Smaller...And That's Okay (39:47)  Recap of All 5 Lessons (40:20)  Let's Keep This Conversation Going Share this with a woman in your life who’s building something big... and carrying more than she needs to. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Our podcast has a new home! Follow @ceoschoolpodcast on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ceoschoolpodcast/ --- Only 2% of women founders ever break $1 million in revenue. We’re on a mission to change that. Subscribe to the CEO School and join the movement. Watch and listen to us at: Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast//id1525261018 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/06KIvFFJP0yJv67N9ugigU YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/CEOSchoolPodcast/?sub_confirmation=1 Learn more about CEO School because nothing bad ever happens when women make more money: Website: https://theceoschool.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ceoschool/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suneeramadhani/ Learn more about how Suneera Madhani is paving the way for powerhouse female CEOs like you to take center stage, not just in your industries but in your whole life. Website: https://suneeramadhani.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/suneeramadhani/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suneeramadhani/ This episode was produced by Hi Hello Labs: https://www.hihellolabs.com/. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ SOCIAL Hashtags: #femaleentrepreneurpodcast#womeninbusinesspodcast#femininevsmasculineenergyinbusiness#entrepreneurburnout#foundermindset#millionairefoundersclub#business leadership for women#highachievingwomen#womenentrepreneurmotivation#CEOSchoolPodcast#SuneeraMadhanipodcast#entrepreneurshipandsocialmedia#peoplepleasingasafemalefounder#founderwellnessretreat