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In this episode of the She's So Suite Podcast, I sit down with Mackenzie Hughes, co-founder of Gold Hue, to unpack Mackenzie’s journey from corporate burnout to bold entrepreneurship and the personal reflections that fueled her leap into building something new.
Mackenzie opens up about her early love of art and creativity, her path to tech, and the pivotal moments that shaped her career. She and Kristi dive into the challenges of navigating corporate America, the impact of both great and toxic bosses, and the gender dynamics that complicate leadership. Mackenzie shares candid lessons on vulnerability, growth, and why women must not only strive but also pause to celebrate their successes.
Tune in to hear:
1. The risks and rewards of leaving stability for entrepreneurship
2. How self-reflection, therapy, and coaching can transform your path
3. What great leadership looks like (and how to recognize toxic traits)
4. The importance of building safe, supportive spaces for women in tech
5. Practical strategies for maintaining balance and investing in yourself
Whether you’re a founder, a leader, or someone navigating your next career move, Mackenzie’s story is packed with honesty, encouragement, and actionable wisdom.
Timestamps
0:00 – Preview & Intros
1:30 – Mackenzie’s Background and Current Role
2:35 – Taking the Leap to Entrepreneurship
4:30 – Childhood Ambitions and Personal Hobbies
9:03 – Education and Early Career
13:28 – Meeting Future Co-Founder Tara Goldman
14:40 – Navigating Discomfort and Imposter Syndrome
16:57 – Reflections on Leadership (Good and Bad Bosses)
21:15 – Toxicity in Female Leadership
29:10 – Celebrating Career Successes
33:20 – Empowering and Supporting Other Women
36:10 – Work-Life Balance and Self-Care
39:20 – Parting Advice for Listeners
Connect with the guest:
Mackenzie Hughes: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mackenzierhughes/
Connect with Kristi Faltorusso:
Website: https://www.kristifaltorusso.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristiserrano/
Follow the Podcast
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLvmKTIOWzy8e3kbzHr4f9VMr1oGfK5Qc_
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0Pf1SZMvfwvSJTA6WnpNjP
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/shes-so-suite-podcast/id1730535499
To learn more about Wednesday Women check out their
Website: https://www.wednesdaywomen.org/
LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wednesday-women/
Connect with the Show Producer:
Manali: https://www.linkedin.com/in/manalibhat/
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About She's So Suite Podcast:
Embark on a journey with Kristi in each podcast episode as she engages in insightful conversations with accomplished women in the C-suite. Explore their unique stories, triumphs, challenges, dreams, and valuable advice that will inspire and empower you. Tune in for an enriching experience as Kristi delves into the depth of their professional journeys and brings you closer to the dynamic world of female leaders at the top.