In this episode, we chat with Vanessa Colangelo, branding expert and owner of Life Well Branded, about helping entrepreneurs cut through the noise and create a brand that actually feels like them. From DIY Canva struggles to imposter syndrome, Vanessa breaks down why branding is so much more than a logo—and how she helps small business owners find their voice, their vision, and the confidence to show up online.
We also dive into her leap from a stable corporate job (while 8 months pregnant!) to building her own business, her perspective on personal vs. business branding, and why every entrepreneur should embrace their story—even if it’s still messy.
✨ In this episode:
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Show Markers:
(0:00) - Show Intro
(0:20) - What is Branding?
(1:40) - The Process: From Brand Confusion to Clarity
(4:30) - Helping Entrepreneurs Translate the “Heart” of Their Work
(7:25) - Personal Branding vs. Business Branding—Why Both Matter
(10:30) - Why People Buy From People (Not Just Businesses)
(12:00) - Helping Clients Overcome Imposter Syndrome and Overthinking
(14:00) - Packages Offered
(15:50) - Who Vanessa’s Ideal Clients Are (And Why They’re Over DIY)
(18:30) - Why a Website Is Still Essential in 2025
(19:15) - Growing Beyond CNY: Working With Clients Everywhere
(20:30) - Running a One-Woman Branding Studio (and Sleeping Well!)
(22:30) - Empowering Clients to Own Their Brand Without Retainers
(24:00) - Vanessa’s Leap From Corporate to Entrepreneurship
(26:30) - Why Branding is a Non-Negotiable for Business Growth
(28:30) - What’s Next for Life Well Branded
(30:00) - Rapid Fire: Favorite Season, Pizza Picks & Branding Pet Peeves
(33:00) - Creative Process: What She Does When Stuck
(34:20) - Brands That Get it Right
(36:00) - Fitness Lessons That Apply to Business
(37:15) - Life Balance Outside Work
(38:45) - Book For Entrepreneurs
(39:30) - Something That Surprises People About Vanessa
(40:00) - Closing Thoughts
