From nannying and late-night valet shifts to building two thriving businesses, Olivia Shears shares how creativity, grit, and a willingness to pivot have shaped her journey as a leader and entrepreneur. Olivia’s entrepreneurial story started in unexpected ways. Working double shifts while in college and missing out on time with her mom pushed her to launch a picnic design business in 2020. When rising costs and changing demand forced her to close that chapter, she discovered her real passion for social media marketing, which led her to found Social Bean Agency in 2021. At Social Bean Agency, Olivia brings a hands-on, personal approach to every client, treating accounts as if they were her own. She has built her business through networking and referrals while navigating the challenges of perfectionism, encouraging other women entrepreneurs to show up authentically online, experiment, and stay consistent rather than waiting for perfection. Her entrepreneurial leadership doesn’t stop there. Olivia co-founded Long Distance Besties with childhood friends Shelby and Mason, turning years of shared letters and creative games into a journal business that has grown to nearly 15,000 followers and sparked international sales. Their work highlights Olivia’s ability to identify overlooked needs and build meaningful, scalable solutions that celebrate connection. In this episode, we dive into Olivia’s journey of leadership, creativity, and adaptability, exploring how she turns challenges into opportunities and grows businesses that matter. Tune in to hear her insights and learn how she approaches entrepreneurship with authenticity, strategy, and heart. Chapters 💌 01:55 The Journey of Long Distance Besties 🌿 03:49 From Picnics to Social Media and Olivia’s Business Evolution 🔥 05:13 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Passion 📱 09:45 Building a Successful Social Media Agency 💡 12:32 Advice for Women Entrepreneurs on Social Media ✨ 17:01 The Importance of Authenticity in Social Media 🌍 21:32 Exploring Long Distance Besties in Depth LinksWebsite: socialbeanagency.comSocial Media: @LongDistanceBestiesLDB / @SocialBean.AgencyEmail address: [email protected] out Olivia’s website, follow her on Instagram, and explore Long Distance Besties to find inspiration for building authentic connections across every stage of life and business.Reach out to Adrienne: [email protected] our website: www.sheleadsmedia.comJoin us at the upcoming She Leads LIVE 2025 conference in NYC on November 6th & 7th. Learn more at sheleadsmedia.com"I love ♥️ listening to The She Leads™ Podcast!” If that thought crossed your mind at any time while listening to our special show, I’d love it if you would take a moment and give our podcast some love too. To do so, simply Rate, Review & Follow Us on Apple Podcasts & Spotify. Taking this simple action helps my team and I to spread the word about all the incredible guests featured on The She Leads Podcast and contributes overall to helping women leaders and entrepreneurs everywhere! 🗺 Also, if you haven’t done so already, please +follow the podcast so you never miss an episode. Thank you so much!!— Adrienne

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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