309 - How To Stop Apologising and Get Taken Seriously As A Female Business Owner with Dr. Liz DuBois Erskine
Ever wondered why, even though nearly half of new businesses are owned by women, only a tiny percentage get the big investment or break through that elusive million-dollar mark?
There’s more at play than numbers and networking – it’s about presence.
Real, unapologetic presence.
The question we should be asking is what keeps so many smart, driven women from claiming their seat at the table, and what’s possible when we stop apologizing for being ambitious?
I’m joined by Dr. Liz Dubois Erskine, an executive coach, conflict analyst, and marketing strategist (plus, she’s got a PhD and a cracking sense of humour).
Liz helps bold women leaders untangle the old patterns that hold them back – especially the ones baked in by years of people-pleasing, burnout, and tip-toeing around what they actually want.
She’s guided by a no-nonsense approach to personal growth, and here’s a taste of what she shares in this episode:
-
Why is it still so hard for women to be unapologetically direct at work – or in their businesses – without feeling they need to justify themselves?
-
What are the real reasons women feel pressure to perform and seek validation, and how is this holding us back as leaders?
-
How can we tap into our own version of “masculine swagger” without feeling fake or like we’re putting on a mask?
-
What does unapologetic presence actually look and feel like – and why does it make others take notice (and feel strangely safe around you)?
-
Why do we project discomfort onto others when we step into our power – and what happens when we stop letting that hold us back?
Ready to challenge the old rules, unlock that next level, and feel genuinely powerful just as you are?
Tune in and let’s shake things up – because the world needs more female business owners who are comfortable commanding the room on their own terms.
About our guest:
Dr. Liz DuBois Erskine (pronounced Doo-Bwah Err-Skin) — Dr. Liz to colleagues and clients — is an executive coach, conflict analyst, and marketing strategist who helps high-achieving leaders break through the internal patterns holding them back from their next level of leadership.
With a PhD in Conflict Analysis and Resolution and a career spanning marketing roles with Disney and iHeartRadio, she combines academic expertise, business strategy, and a refreshingly no-nonsense approach to personal growth and leadership.
Dr. Liz works with ambitious professionals who have the credentials, drive, and accomplishments but still struggle with people-pleasing, burnout, and fear of judgment. She helps clients rebuild self-trust, lead with genuine authority, and create careers and businesses that feel as successful as they look. Her approach moves clients beyond hustle culture and the constant need to “prove yourself” toward deeper self-trust, confidence, and internal stability.
She’s also known for boldly pursuing big ideas. In 2020, just six weeks after launching her company, she bought a 40-foot yacht and moved aboard with her kindergartener during the pandemic. She also openly shares her recovery journey, including leaving alcohol behind in 2006 and marijuana and Xanax in 2021.
Connect with Dr. Liz:
Business name & website link
Dr. Liz DuBois Erskine, www.drlizdubois.com
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/bizdrliz/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bizdrliz/
......................................................
LEARN MORE WITH JESSICA - Master Your Marketing
If you'd like to learn more about the strategies that build demand, profit and sustainable growth, then register here for access: https://jessicaosborn.com/mym
…………………………………………
Are you a woman in business? YOU’RE INVITED!
JOIN our guests and other listeners in She’s The Business Community on Facebook and let’s continue the conversation!
Https://www.facebook.com/groups/shesthebusinesscommunity
.................................................
Loving this podcast?
We’d love it if you’d give us a 5 star rating and help others find it too!
Simply hit the 5 stars and (if you have 10 seconds to spare) add a few words as a review.
Interested in being a guest? All the info is here:
https://www.jessicaosborn.com/STB-guest-application
.........................................................
About your host:
Jessica Osborn is a marketing strategist and positioning expert - helping online coaches become unmistakable leaders in their industry so they are consistently in demand for their services. With over 25 years in marketing and 15 years as a successful entrepreneur, she shares deep insights and timeless principles to help you grow a sustainable and profitable business that fits your version of an ideal lifestyle.
Learn more & book an intro call: https://jessicaosborn.com
Instagram or Threads: https://instagram.com/jessica.osborn
LinkedIn: Https://linkedin.com/in/jessicaaosborn