Recently, on a return flight home from a life-changing wellness retreat, I chose to sit next to a woman wearing a lovely green jacket. I didn’t hold it against her for cheering for the Eagles (turns out she was cheering for the right team 🏈). But what I didn’t expect was that our conversation would be a powerful reminder of why empowering women has become such a central part of my life and mission.

I was mentally, physically, and emotionally exhausted and really wanted a nap, but something inside me nudged me to say hello and engage in conversation. I’m so thankful I listened to my heart.

What unfolded was a conversation that left me inspired. I quickly learned that the woman beside me was Lori Schwartz Reichl, an incredible, brave, and intuitive former teacher turned inspirational leader, author, and speaker. Her mission? Empowering educators to reduce burnout, a powerful and much-needed calling!

As we exchanged stories, I shared my own passion for empowering women - coaching, fostering happiness, hiring women, supporting the trades, and advocating for growth in both personal and professional spaces. At one point, she paused and said something that struck me:

“You seem so much more passionate about inspiring women than what your company does.”

It wasn’t a judgment, but rather a reflection. I laughed and responded, “You’re 100% right.” When I started Entry Envy, it was all about home identification signs and a convenient, quality faux floral subscription box. But quite frankly, if that’s all it still was, I’d be bored!

Empowering Women Through Entry Envy: The Evolution of a Mission

I love Entry Envy, but what I love even more is what it has evolved into. It’s no longer just about creating beautiful home identification signs or delivering seasonal décor.

It’s about empowering women by building a nationally recognized company, sharing my journey publicly, and creating a culture defined by my ‘true north’ - a culture that uplifts and inspires.

Today, empowering women is at the heart of everything I do. Whether it’s through hiring women, coaching them toward success, or fostering a culture where women can thrive - Entry Envy has become a platform for so much more than just décor.

And here’s the truth: It’s never been about the money. If I can help women thrive, not just survive, and be successful both personally and professionally, I know it will all come back to me tenfold.

Thriving, Not Just Surviving — Taking My Own Advice

This year, I’m taking my own advice: I am thriving, not just surviving.

 I’m living in the present moment, truly engaging with the people around me, and breaking through my own walls - walls that have been built over 47 years to protect me.

Yes, I have thick skin. But those same walls that shielded me from pain also kept me from experiencing true joy and love. I’m done with that. It’s time to tear down those walls and feel life in its fullest expression - the good, the bad, and everything in between.

The Journey IS the Joy

I’ve always believed that, “you can have it all, but not all at once.” But I’m learning that’s not entirely true.

The day I reach my “pinnacle” will simply be a celebration of a milestone because now I understand that the journey is the joy.

For the first time in my life, I’m not just saying it, I’m living it. Every step, every conversation, and every challenge are a part of the beautiful adventure.

Empowering Women and Changing the World

What drives me every day is the vision of a company that empowers women to thrive, personally and professionally.

Empowering women isn’t just a phrase I throw around. It’s a deep-rooted passion that fuels everything I do, from hiring and mentoring to advocating for women in male-dominated industries.

Here’s what that looks like in action:

• Creating flexible work opportunities for women in all life stages

• Providing mentorship and growth plans tailored to individual goals

• Speaking up about issues that impact women’s personal and professional well-being

• Supporting women-owned businesses and collaborations

• Promoting mental health awareness and emotional resilience in the workplace

I want to create a ripple effect of joy, growth, and success - helping women build confidence, embrace their passions, and step into their power.

If I can leave that legacy, I know I’ll have done what I was put on this earth to do.

The Power of Connection and Paying It Forward

I think it’s true for all women - it’s a small world, and we’re here to lift each other up. You never know who you’re going to meet, so be kind to everyone. That quick conversation on a flight reminded me how powerful even brief moments of connection can be.

If you’re looking to make meaningful changes in your life, Lori Schwartz Reichl is a wonderful resource. You might find real value in connecting with her podcast and exploring the kind of inner work that leads to a happier, more fulfilled, and independent life.

🔗 Connect with Lori Schwartz Reichl on LinkedIn

And if you’re curious about my own story, I share a lot about the journey - the highs, the pivots, and the purpose over on LinkedIn.

🔗 Follow Jennifer Lea’s thought leadership on LinkedIn

Love Yourself and Enjoy the Journey 

To all the builders, dreamers, and changemakers out there - don’t forget to love yourself along the way. Celebrate the small wins, embrace the lessons, and savor the journey.

P.S. Lori also reflects on how our unexpected connection led to such a meaningful thought partnership. She also shares more about Entry Envy and the heart behind what we do - helping people create a welcoming space with ease and intention.

If you’d like to listen to the episode about passion, purpose, and empowering others, click here to listen. I promise you’ll leave feeling just as inspired as I did! 😊