Ego, Insecurity, and Career Reinvention: Leadership Lessons from Erika Ayers Badan

Badass Women in Business

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In this episode of Badass Women in Business, Aggie and Cristy sit down with Erika Ayers Badan, former CEO of Barstool Sports and current CEO of Food52, to discuss the art of balancing ego and insecurity in leadership, navigating the complexities of career transitions, and the power of showing up authentically. Erika shares candid insights from her journey transforming Barstool into a media powerhouse, why she believes failure is a gift, and how to lean into discomfort to find career fulfillment. Whether you’re running a startup, thriving in corporate, or planning your next big move, Erika’s no-nonsense approach will inspire you to own your career with confidence and grace.

Show Notes:

• Introduction: Erika Ayers Badan, former CEO of Barstool Sports, current CEO of Food52, and author of Nobody Cares About Your Career.
• Key Insights:
  • Ego and Insecurity: How balancing humility with confidence can open doors and lead to growth.
  • Lessons from Microsoft: The art of saying "no" and the importance of setting boundaries in leadership.
  • Building Barstool Sports: Turning a chaotic startup into a $550 million brand with a predominantly female leadership team.
  • Career Transitions: Why Erika chose to pivot to Food52 and how she's redefining leadership in the homeware and lifestyle space.
  • Community and Connection: Erika’s vision for building brands that foster joy and belonging.
  • Feedback and Radical Candor: Why immediate, constructive feedback is essential for growth—at every level of the organization.
  • Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Strategies for silencing self-doubt and betting on yourself.
• Advice for Listeners:
  • Don’t silence your voice—listen to what you need and take action.
  • Work is tuition you’re paid for—make the most of every opportunity to learn and grow.
  • Nobody cares about your career more than you do—own it unapologetically.
• Connect with Erika Ayers Badan:
  • Website: ErikaAyersBadan.com
  • TikTok: @erika_
  • Instagram: @erika
  • LinkedIn: Erika Ayers Badan

Don’t miss this honest and inspiring conversation about leadership, resilience, and the journey to finding career happiness.

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