In this episode of The Badass Softie Podcast, Dr. J.J. Peterson sits down with creative business mentor and coach Laura Higgins for a heartfelt, grounded conversation on what it really means to lead as a creative. Laura opens up about her journey from “generalist” uni dropout to running a successful business coaching over 1,000 creatives — and the mindset shifts, courage, and leadership skills she had to build along the way. Together, they explore the tension so many creatives feel:Can I be ambitious without losing my softness?Can I lead boldly without abandoning my heart?Can I be an artist and an entrepreneur?Laura makes the case that leadership isn’t a personality type — it’s a learnable skill. And when creatives pair structure with soul, something powerful emerges: sustainable success without losing the magic. In this episode, you’ll learn:Why creatives often struggle with self-worth and visibilityThe real reason imposter syndrome hits heart-led leaders so hardHow to balance your “artist self” with your “entrepreneur self”Why leadership is a set of skills — not an identity changeHow to protect your creativity (your greatest currency)Practical steps to get more leads, sell confidently, and scale with intentionWhy kindness and boundaries can (and should) coexistConnect with Laura:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurahiggins/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@laurahigginsofficial Send this episode to the creative friend who keeps saying “one day.” Today could be the day they finally go for it.