Empowerment Through the Lens: Liz Hansen on the Thrive Mindset Podcast
Stepping Into Your Power: My Journey From “Good Girl Syndrome” to Empowering Women Through Boudoir
I recently had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Carrie Dale on the Thrive Mindset Podcast. Carrie’s mission is all about helping people create momentum in their lives, and we dove deep into a topic close to my heart: empowering women to celebrate themselves, their bodies, and their lives.
I shared my journey into boudoir photography—a journey that began nearly a decade ago when I stepped in front of the camera for my own shoot. As a photographer, I was used to photographing weddings, families, and babies, but boudoir was entirely outside my comfort zone. I was nervous, uncertain, and stepping into what I now call a transformative experience. That session didn’t just give me beautiful photos—it helped me tear away limiting beliefs I had carried since childhood.
Growing up, I was trapped in what I call “good girl syndrome.” You know, the idea that “good girls don’t…”—don’t show their bodies, don’t celebrate their sexuality, don’t take up space. Boudoir helped me step outside those boundaries. It was a declaration that I mattered, that I deserved to celebrate myself, and that my body wasn’t something to be ashamed of.
That transformative experience inspired me to open Chicago Boudoir Photography, a studio where I could give other women that same feeling: confidence, empowerment, and the chance to see themselves in a new light. Every session starts with a conversation about what a woman wants to feel and achieve, continues with hair, makeup, and wardrobe styling, and ends with a photo reveal—often the moment that changes how a woman sees herself forever.
Boudoir isn’t just about photos—it’s about breaking through limiting beliefs, claiming your power, and celebrating who you are right now. And it’s not just for young, thin women; it’s for every woman, at every stage of her journey.
We also talked on the podcast about business, entrepreneurship, and why starting a business is one of the most intense—and rewarding—teachers of life lessons. I shared the early struggles of launching my studio, the trial-and-error of learning everything from scratch, and the resilience it took to get through challenges like COVID-19. But the core lesson is this: if you have a deep enough “why,” it will carry you through the hard times. For me, my why is helping women rise up and claim the power that’s always been theirs.
Lastly, I reminded listeners—and I want to remind you—that your worth and value are inherent. You are just as valuable today as the day you were born. Nothing you do—or don’t do—changes that. And when you embrace that truth, you can show up fully, love yourself, and create a life that reflects your potential.
You can watch the full interview on the Thrive Mindset Podcast below, and I hope it inspires you to step into your power and celebrate yourself!