Community Over Competition: A Conversation on The Self Made Life Podcast

I recently sat down with Ashley Wyatt on her podcast, The Self Made Life, for one of the most real, honest conversations I've had about building a business while navigating motherhood, identity, and redefining what success actually looks like.

We talked about the messy parts. The parts that don't fit neatly into highlight reels or strategic plans. We talked about ambition in this season of life, building businesses that support our lives (not drain them), and why community over competition isn't just a hashtag — it's how we grow.

What We Covered:

On redefining ambition post-motherhood: I used to measure success by revenue goals and team size. Now? Freedom is my luxury. I want to work with aligned clients, do work that lights me up, and be present for my daughter. Motherhood shifted everything — and I'm not apologizing for that.

On prioritizing, not balancing: I don't believe in balance. I believe in prioritizing. There are days I win in motherhood and days I win in work — and those days are not the same day. And that's okay.

On building a business that fits your life: I started my business knowing I wanted the freedom corporate couldn't give me. I wanted to be there for my future kids. I wanted to build something sustainable. That hasn't changed — but what has changed is my definition of what "sustainable" means. It's not about doing more. It's about doing what matters.

On community over competition: A few years ago, I would have been intimidated to connect with someone like Ashley who offers the same services. Now? It feels expansive. There's enough out there for everyone. The clients aligned with me won't be the same clients aligned with her — and that's the whole point. We grow more when we share our stories, lean on each other, and stop competing.

On cultural identity and showing up fully: For years, I tried to fit in. I downplayed my South Asian heritage because I didn't think it was "professional" or relevant. But in the last five years, I've embraced it — and it's changed everything. I want other people who look like me to see that there's space for them to build businesses rooted in who they are, not who they think they should be.

The Takeaway:

Growth doesn't require doing all the things. Sometimes it means slowing down long enough to hear what you actually need — and leaning on community to get there.

If you're navigating motherhood and entrepreneurship, if you're redefining what success looks like, or if you're craving connection over competition, this conversation is for you.

🎧 Listen to the full episode here.

And if any of this resonates, I'd love to hear from you. Drop a comment, send me a DM, or just know — you're not alone in this.