Embracing Power at Every Stage: My Interview on Executive Encore

From Stay-at-Home Mom to Boudoir Photographer: My Reinvention Story

Recently, I had the honor of being a guest on the Executive Encore podcast, hosted by Patricia Muir. Our conversation dove deep into two themes that are very close to my heart: women’s reinvention and the life-changing power of boudoir photography.

For me, boudoir isn’t just about beautiful images—it’s about liberation. Every woman who steps into my studio in Chicago brings her own story, her own stage of life, and often, her own doubts. And what happens during a boudoir session is more than just posing in lingerie or creating stunning portraits—it’s an act of reclaiming confidence, power, and self-acceptance.

I shared with Patricia how my own reinvention began after years of being a stay-at-home mom. Taking the leap into entrepreneurship was scary—I had no formal business training, and photography wasn’t even part of my original career path. But my first boudoir shoot, was so transformative that I knew I needed to create that same experience for other women. Since then, I’ve photographed more than 2,000 women and witnessed firsthand how powerful it is to see yourself through a new lens.

One of my favorite stories I told on the show is about Sarah, a mom who survived a massive heart attack. On the one-year anniversary of her survival, she came to my studio and chose to be photographed nude—scars and all. She wanted her portraits to celebrate not just her body, but her survival, strength, and gratitude for life. That moment reminded me why I do what I do: boudoir photography isn’t about vanity. It’s about empowerment.

In our conversation, we also touched on something I believe deeply: nudity is not naughty. Women’s bodies are powerful, yes—but that power is something to embrace, not fear. Your body is not a project to fix; it’s a beautiful vessel that deserves to be celebrated at every age and every stage. (Listen to the TEDx talk I gave on “Nudity isn’t Naughty here!)

Reinvention doesn’t require starting a business or stepping in front of the camera. It could mean leaving a job, making a career change, moving cities, or simply making space for yourself in a new way. What matters is giving yourself permission to step into your power unapologetically.

I hope this episode inspires women everywhere to take that next bold step—whatever it looks like for you. Whether it’s booking a boudoir photoshoot, joining a mastermind, or simply saying “yes” to yourself, your next chapter may be your most powerful one yet.

If you’d like to hear the full conversation, you can listen to the Executive Encore podcast episode featuring me, Liz Hansen of Chicago Boudoir Photography. And if you’re ready to start your own journey toward confidence, I’d love to connect with you.