From Burnout to Breakthrough: The Story Behind HIVE Ambition
As the founder of HIVE Ambition, one of the most common questions I’m asked is, “How did this idea come to life?” So it feels right that my first blog post shares the journey—how I went from overwhelmed, sleep-deprived, and anxious to becoming a purpose-driven entrepreneur creating a thriving business community for women.
New Motherhood, a Pandemic, and the Pressure to Do It All
Let’s rewind to late 2019. I had just welcomed my daughter and was thrown into the deep end of new motherhood. Postpartum depression and anxiety crept in quietly, and like so many women, I struggled to find myself again.
Just as I was starting to find a rhythm, the pandemic hit. The isolation of lockdown added another layer of loneliness. Five months later, I was promoted to COO of a growing tech company. On paper, it was a huge win. In reality? I was exhausted, questioning myself constantly, and dealing with a baby who barely slept. I pushed through, determined to be the perfect leader and the perfect mom—ignoring the mounting toll on my mental health.
When Success Doesn’t Feel Like Success
For nearly two years, I ran on four hours of sleep, juggling leadership meetings, feeding schedules, and anxiety I refused to acknowledge. Eventually, my body gave out. At the height of my stress, I broke out in severe hives and ended up in the ER. That moment forced me to stop.
I got help. We hired a sleep consultant. I started setting real boundaries. I began the slow, necessary work of healing—and started asking myself what I truly wanted from life and business.
Finding My Spark Again: The Start of Hive Ambition
In early 2024, I felt a spark I hadn’t felt in years. I had an idea: what if I created a space for ambitious women like me—leaders, founders, creatives—who were craving not just connection, but real support, inspiration, and collaboration?
I knew I wasn’t the only woman searching for this kind of business community. And ironically, it all started while I was covered in literal hives—proof that even in the hardest seasons, something beautiful can grow.
Letting Go of Control and Letting Community Lead
At first, I tried to control everything—build the perfect website, plan the perfect events, structure the perfect program. But HIVE had other plans. Once I let go and allowed the community to shape itself organically, it became something far more powerful than I imagined.
Our first event sold out in 72 hours. Suddenly, it was clear: this wasn’t just a side project. HIVE was a movement.
HIVE Today: A Community for Women Entrepreneurs in Asheville and Beyond
Today, HIVE Ambition has over 115 members, with interest growing in new cities. We’ve built something special—a safe, collaborative space where female entrepreneurs and professionals can grow their businesses without sacrificing their well-being.
I created the community I couldn’t find. And through it, I’ve healed, grown, and reconnected with my purpose.
The Power of Letting Go in Life and Business
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is this: what you let go of can set you free. I spent years forcing myself to live up to impossible standards—until I realized that true growth, in life and business, happens when you loosen your grip and let things evolve.
To fellow entrepreneurs: ask yourself where you’re forcing and where you’re flowing. That simple question might change everything.
What’s Next for Hive
To the women of Asheville: thank you. You’ve helped HIVE become more than a community—you’ve made it a force. And to the women across the country who are searching for connection, mentorship, and inspiration: we’re just getting started.
HIVE is a membership-based community built for women who want to grow thriving businesses without losing themselves in the process. Through our digital platform, expert-led training, and intentional connections, we’re redefining what success looks like for modern entrepreneurs.
