Unlocking Confidence & Community: My Interview on the EmpowerHer Business Accelerator Podcast
How I Built a Mission-Driven Brand That Empowers Women
I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Philippa Chenner on the EmpowerHer Business Accelerator podcast, and let me tell you—it was 🔥.
We covered how Chicago Boudoir Photography is so much more than just sexy photos. It’s about empowerment, authentic community, and smart, sustainable growth. If you're a woman building your business with purpose, this episode is packed with real talk and actionable insights.
Here are some of the biggest takeaways:
📸 Boudoir is More Than a Pretty Picture
It’s a transformation.
Boudoir sessions aren’t about being “sexy for someone else.”
They’re about helping women feel powerful and beautiful in their own skin.
My shift from weddings to boudoir came from witnessing that inner transformation—and I never looked back.
Takeaway: Whatever you’re selling, go deeper. What are you really offering? Confidence? Clarity? Relief? Focus on that.
💡 Marketing Without the Sleaze
Selling boudoir isn’t straightforward—no one wants a cold pitch for nude photos. 😂
I created a layered marketing system that’s all about inviting women into a powerful experience.
I focus on milestones, confidence, and how they want to feel—not just a product.
Networking? I lead with, “Do you want to feel amazing in your body?” Not “Need some lingerie pics?”
Takeaway: Sell the experience, not the service. Speak to your audience’s heart, not just their head.
👯♀️ My VIP Facebook Group Changed Everything
My Empowered Women of Chicago group now drives about 50% of my bookings.
It didn’t grow overnight—but I focused on genuine connection, not constant sales.
90% empowerment, 10% offers. That’s the sweet spot.
Women stay because it feels good to be there—and that turns into clients naturally.
Takeaway: Build a space where your ideal clients want to hang out. Offer value first. The rest follows.
⚙️ Automations = More Time to Be Human
Yup, I love a good system. But hear me out...
A CRM helped me stop drowning in emails.
I automate just enough to free myself up for the human parts—like actual phone calls and in-studio connections.
And I still keep it personal: My automations invite replies, and I always respond as me.
Takeaway: Don’t fear automation. Use it to enhance your humanity, not replace it.
💖 Lead With Your Mission
What really drives you?
For me, it’s helping women see their own strength and beauty.
It’s not about price tags or perfect poses—it’s about creating a shift in how someone sees herself.
Takeaway: When you’re clear on your “why,” the right clients will find you—and feel aligned with you.
🎧 Be sure to listen to the full episode below →
Whether you’re building a business, pivoting your purpose, or just love a good story—this one’s for you.
Liz Hansen, owner and photographer behind Chicago Boudoir Photography, the Windy City’s premier boudoir studio, is interviewed on today’s episode. Liz is so much more than a photographer. She’s a bold businesswoman who built a thriving company rooted in confidence, community, and smart systems. She's been featured on TEDx, NPR, and more, and in this episode, she’s pulling back the curtain on how she attracts her dream clients, builds trust, and automates with heart. Whether you're a solopreneur building from scratch or a CEO scaling a team, Liz’s approach to storytelling, tech tools, and intentional messaging will help you rethink how you sell and serve — while staying rooted in your mission.