We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Michelle Faust. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Michelle below.
Michelle, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s kick things off with your mission – what is it and what’s the story behind why it’s your mission?
The inception of The Lemonade Stand started with my own self-realization I had a story of learning how to acquire a fearless attitude due to having a severe hearing loss which had impacted my own self-worth and created limiting beliefs. My story is full of vulnerability, courage, and learning how to cope in a world that values perfection by developing my alternative strengths. My mission is to create the largest storytelling distribution network in the world, to give people a voice, share their stories, and elevate them above the conventional noise. I connect people with their stories and their stories with the world. There is power in storytelling, and my platforms celebrate the voice of entrepreneurs and small business owners who have tackled lemons and created amazing versions of lemonade opportunities. My network features individuals who have a powerful vision that is stronger than their fear. I provide extensive media exposure to brand their strength and courage. Be a Voice, Not an Echo – Albert Einstein.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers?
I am the founder of Lemonade Legend, a company offering both print and media exposure through an anthology series, digital magazine, a publishing house, podcast, virtual stages, and producer of a TV show featured on ZondraTV Network. The purpose behind my mission is to provide a variety of platforms for people to be heard. It is also a safe and encouraging environment where we celebrate courage and vulnerability. My passion for standing in our truth and providing opportunities to be heard is a powerful resource for women (and a few brave men) struggling with their own lemonade challenges. My joy is seeing Lemonade Legend emerging into a community of like-minded people who want to share, support, and lift up their sisters and brothers.
What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?
The thing that drives me is the impact and growth I witness by helping people share their stories. It’s a powerful healing journey to put it on paper and share it with the world. The authors I work with in my anthology, The Lemonade Stand, and as a publisher lead me on their personal pilgrimage of their past all the way to joy, acceptance, and forgiveness. It fills my soul. I am as grateful to my clients as they are to me. Our why and purpose comes from our stories. It is especially gratifying when an author discovers their true purpose in the process of writing their heart story. It is in understanding our why and fulfilling our purpose that we find our perfect truth.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
Much of my story comes from the severe hearing loss I was born with. Growing up, my parents and teachers were not well equipped to help me navigate my disability. I experienced a tremendous amount of bullying, limiting beliefs, and self-doubt. It took many years of perseverance and inner strength to develop alternative communication skills in order to be happy, well adjusted, and successful in my career. Before I entered the entrepreneurial world I had a twenty-year run in pharmaceuticals. It was an extremely challenging environment yet, I was at the top of the sales chart year after year. I have had to be resilient all my life and pick myself up every time I get knocked down. This served me well in pharma and then again when I was fired at the end of my career. I was still the top sales representative and being kicked to the curb was devastating. It took me a while to get back up from this one, but I did. That closed-door led to the most exhilarating and satisfying job I’ve ever had. I love being a creative in my own business that also serves others.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://lemonadelegend.com/
- Instagram: @lemonade_legend
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lemonade.L.Publishing
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-faust-lemonade/
Image Credits
Karianne Mundstedt