Build a Brand That Opens Doors Before You Walk Into the Room

What makes someone memorable?

It's not just a great website.

It's not posting every day on social media.

And it isn't luck.

In this episode of Casa De Confidence, Julie DeLucca-Collins sits down with award-winning public relations strategist and entrepreneur Aquila Mendez-Valdez, founder of Haute in Texas and creator of one of the country's first PR agency franchise models.

Together they unpack what it really takes to build authority, become visible, attract ideal clients, and create a business that reflects your values—not someone else's expectations.

Whether you're building your first business or growing an established brand, this conversation offers practical advice on personal branding, marketing strategy, confidence, delegation, and creating a business that supports your life instead of consuming it.

In This Episode

The difference between public relations and marketing
Why every founder needs a personal brand
Building confidence without comparison
How to stop chasing external validation
Creating a business around your values
Why women struggle with visibility
Building authority before selling
How PR creates trust with potential clients
Why testimonials and case studies matter
The importance of founder visibility
Starting a PR agency while raising young children
Franchising as a pathway to entrepreneurship
Why collaboration beats competition
Creating sustainable success without burnout

🔗 Connect with Aquila

Website: https://hitpr.com/

https://www.hauteinfranchising.com/

Instagram : http://instagram.com/hauteintexas

Free Offer

Download my free e-book, Public Relations for Female Founders! https://hitpr.com/ebook/

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Casa De Confidence is a podcast for women navigating midlife reinvention, entrepreneurship, leadership, and personal growth. Hosted by Julie DeLucca-Collins, the show explores confidence, sustainable business success, visibility, authority building, and aligned growth for women entrepreneurs ready to lead boldly and live intentionally. Through real conversations and practical insights, listeners gain clarity, strengthen confidence, and develop strategies to expand their impact, voice, and opportunities.

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For more about me and what I do, check out my website.

If you’re looking for support to grow your business faster, be positioned as an authority in your industry, and impact the masses, schedule a call to explore if you’d be a good fit for one of my coaching programs.

Follow Julie DeLucca-Collins on Instagram at @julie_deluccacollins