Member/Attendee Spotlight – Sam Laliberte
Member Spotlight | February 25, 2018
Tell us a bit about what you do, and what do you enjoy most about it?
I’m Sam! I host and produce a podcast series and online community for women who’ve left traditional work to pursue the Freedom Lifestyle. I’m currently self-employed as a freelancer and love the flexibility that comes with it. Working from home with my Bengal cat by my side and having unlimited ‘vacation days’ to visit my boyfriend who lives in SF are hugely valuable perks for me!
How does your workplace promote an inclusive environment?
What’s great about being self-employed is that I have a lot of control over who I work with. Most of my clients are female business owners themselves and there’s a great deal of camaraderie that comes with that. If I notice a workplace has a culture that’s not inclusive or against my values, I have the freedom to turn down future partnerships with that organization.
How are you leaning in?
The self-employment route I’ve taken has challenged me to focus on marketing and utilizing my greatest strengths. Previously when I’ve worked for other organizations I’ve found myself working on projects or in roles that didn’t necessarily align with my core values or the type of impact I want to create in the world. It took a ton of courage and pep talks from my support network to leave a steady pay check to pursue work that aligns most with my passions and purpose. To me, that’s really leaning in!
What attracted you to Lean In Canada?
Being part of an organization that’s taking a stand on supporting women in the workplace is something I can absolutely get behind. I’ll never forget the emotional reaction I had after reading the Lean In book; it was a milestone moment in my self-discovery towards feminism.
What was one thing that most resonated with you from the last event you attended?
Men Lean In is one of my favourite events! It’s so fun to have the guys on stage openly discussing how they’re allies of our cause. I always leave that event feeing inspired and optimistic about the future of women in the workplace.
If you were to recommend Lean In Canada to anyone, what would you say?
Have you ever been in a room with > 100 people who ‘get you’? That’s been my experience at every event and it’s incredible refreshing.
Tell us about the best ‘mentorship moment’ or networking opportunity so far in your career.
My mom is the original girl boss in my life. I watched her quit her government job and reinvent herself at 40. Watching her go through that as a teenager was such an empowering experience. I’m now confident that it’s never too late to start fresh and embark on a journey that aligns with your desires. We’re constantly changing and growing and if you’re unhappy in your current situation, the power to change it is within you.
If there was one thing you would want us to know about your organization, what would it be?
I love connecting with women who are living their version of the Freedom Lifestyle. It looks different for everyone and getting to discover their stories is incredibly rewarding. Feel free to pitch me on a podcast episode concept. I love that!
Name one notable woman (or women) you think deserves a shout out – and what would you like us to know about her?
Diana Ross has been such a source of inspiration and support for me during my transition to self-employment. She operates her own digital marketing agency, Greater Marketing, and provided me my first freelance gig. She’s always willing to listen and share her time and insights with women in her networks.
Lastly, what is your favourite quote/song that you live by?
Attract what you want by being what you want.
Twitter – @slaliberteee
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthalaliberte/
Instagram – @slaliberteee
