Empathy begins as a feeling—but becomes powerful when we let it guide what we create and how we lead.

In this episode of She Has The Audacity, I sit down with Kim Smiley—artist, designer, and founder of The Empathy Effect—for a conversation about building from intuition, leading with compassion, and creating a business that feels as human as it is impactful.

Kim shares how her path unfolded from nonprofit leadership to wearable art, and how trusting her quiet instincts led to the creation of a movement centered on empathy, artistry, and inclusion. We talk about what happens when you choose to listen inwardly, even when logic tells you otherwise—and how empathy, when practiced daily, becomes a radical act of courage and connection.

This is a conversation about trusting your inner knowing, about weaving values into your work, and about letting empathy be both your compass and your craft.

Here's what you'll take away from this episode: ✨ What it looked like to move from nonprofit leadership to creative entrepreneurship ✨ How intuition shaped Kim's transition and continues to guide her work ✨ Why empathy isn't softness—it's strength in action ✨ The origins of The Empathy Effect and how it sparked a global movement ✨ How boundaries can help sustain compassion without depletion ✨ What it means to create from emotional intelligence—not urgency

If you've ever felt torn between logic and intuition, or wondered how empathy can coexist with ambition, this episode offers a reminder that both can lead—and that the most meaningful work begins when you let your heart have a seat at the table.

🎧 Listen now [Insert episode link here]

Connect with Kim Smiley: 📱 Instagram: @kimsmiley 🌍 Website: kimsmiley.com

If this conversation offered something meaningful, I'd be so grateful if you left a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify—and shared it with someone who's ready to lead with empathy, intuition, and intention.

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Are you an ambitious woman who is a leader at work, at home or in the community and you are looking for support with overcoming perfectionism, determining your next right step, overcoming self-doubt and learning to advocate for yourself and fall in love with the next version of you? Chana can help you anywhere in the world through coaching. Visit chanaross.com to learn more.

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