274: Find Your Story, Grow Your Brand with Melissa Hughes

Send us a text A seven-second “mom fail” video, 22 million views, and a brand-new path. Our conversation with Melissa Hughes, founder of Rise Social Media Agency, is a candid look at how authentic storytelling can turn a personal turning point into a clear, magnetic brand. Melissa opens up about a valley season that tested her identity, the unexpected viral clip that launched her into entrepreneurship, and the mindset shifts that helped her lead with purpose while raising confident kids. We dig into why story beats slogans every time. Melissa breaks down psychographics—the beliefs, emotions, and inner shifts behind your milestones—and shows how they create resonance your audience can feel. You’ll hear a powerful case study of a client who moved beyond a generic “unstoppable” message by sharing a pivotal mental health battle, unlocking relevance, booking stages, and a mission that finally made sense. If you’ve ever wondered how to clarify your message, this is the blueprint: define the belief you held, the moment that changed it, and the mission that followed. We also get tactical. Melissa shares her content cadence, how to capture working processes with simple screen recordings, and why hiring for complementary strengths transforms your capacity. At home, she uses clear systems—the “five B’s” routine—to build independence and peace, proving that delegation isn’t lazy parenting; it’s leadership. And we reframe imposter syndrome as a signal you’re expanding into work that fits who you really are when it’s rooted in authenticity. If you’re a mom, creator, or founder ready to evolve without burning out, you’ll walk away with practical steps to focus your offer, say no with confidence, and build a brand that grows because it’s true. Listen, share with a friend who needs the nudge, and leave a quick review to tell us the defining moment shaping your message today. Resources: Melissa"s website: https://melissaleahughes.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/melissaleahughes/?hl=en  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-hughes-39b43580/  Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@melissaleahughes  The Ultimate Time Audit & Productivity System (Freebie) Grab it here: TIME AUDIT WORKBOOK How to Hire Your First VA for $27 Get it now: GROWTH CHEATSHEET Discover Your WHY – Free 5-Day Workshop Sign up for free here: DISCOVER YOUR WHY The Mom Balance Playbook (Freebie for Managing the Mayhem) Download here: MOM BALANCE PLAYBOOK Hire a VA or start your VA business here: https://camillewalker.co/ 5-Minute Meditations for Kids Podcast Listen & subscribe here: APPLE SPOTIFY Top 100 Mompreneur Podcasts: https://podcast.feedspot.com/mompreneur_podca