Unmuted: My Journey as an Introverted CEO and Founder

Growing up, I admired people who could easily command a room and make the most noise. I remember sitting in classrooms, and later, conference rooms, watching others speak up effortlessly while I processed quietly, waiting until I was certain my contribution truly mattered.

The comments I would hear early in my childhood were familiar and persistent:

Why are you so quiet?
My daughter used to be shy, but she got over it.
Why can’t you be more outgoing?

Early on in my life, I realized there was a stark difference between introverts and extroverts, and that the world often rewarded the loudest voices.

While introverts make up nearly half of the population, only about 6% of top executives at global companies identify as introverts (Susan Cain, TED Talk, 1/2/25). Despite this, a persistent bias remains: that introverts lack confidence, leadership ability, or the capacity to run successful companies. This could not be further from the truth.

According to the Cleveland Health Clinic (What Is an Introvert? Common Traits and Misconceptions, 2/5/25), introverts are energized by internal rather than external sources. They thrive in quiet, low-stimulation environments and value reflection and intentional decision-making. Extroverts, by contrast, draw energy from social interaction and external stimulation. Many founders fall somewhere in between adapting their style or partnering with others to meet the demands of leadership.

As an introverted CEO and founder, I’ve spent the past nine years navigating expectations that often favor extroversion: open offices, constant collaboration, large-scale networking, podcasting, and non-stop social media presence.

I still remember my first large networking event as a founder, and walking in already exhausted by the thought of small talk. Instead of forcing myself to “work the room,” I focused on a few meaningful conversations. Those connections later became long-term clients and partners, reinforced

What I’ve Learned as an Introvert in an Extroverted World

Sales
Listening is my superpower. By deeply researching clients and focusing on their needs, I build trust and close more deals by hearing more than I speak. I prioritize relationship-building to create genuine connections with C-suite leaders and business owners, not surface-level conversations. Thoughtful, persuasive written follow-up often does what small talk cannot: it closes the deal.

Decision-Making
I prioritize facts and data over feelings and optics. By carefully analyzing information and truly understanding my clients, I provide recommendations that are thoughtful, strategic, and tailored to their specific needs.

Networking
Preparation and placement matter. Intentional conversations, whether in person, virtual, or in small groups, create stronger, more authentic connections than massive forums that are overwhelming, less meaningful, and far less productive.

Calm Under Pressure
I remain steady in high-stress situations, breaking complex challenges down methodically to find solutions. When a client calls with a difficult employee issue, my instinct is to lean in, fully understand the situation, and work through practical, effective solutions.

Leading Teams
Effective leadership requires emotional intelligence, empathy, and empowerment. I strive to create environments where people feel supported and truly seen. Strong teams are built through ongoing feedback and opportunities for growth. When employees feel they are building collaboratively with their founder, they are far more invested in delivering positive outcomes.

Partnerships
Strategic partners with complementary strengths have amplified my voice and helped scale my business in ways I could not have achieved alone. Surrounding yourself with people from diverse backgrounds, who challenge and support you, makes you a stronger leader. These partnerships reinforce both internal and external structures as your organization grows.

Values-Driven Visibility
I don’t seek the spotlight for its own sake. I choose opportunities that align with my values and purpose, allowing me to remain authentic. I say yes only to speaking engagements where the topic and message align with my brand and will genuinely resonate with the audience.

‍Closing Thoughts

Leadership doesn’t require being the loudest voice in the room. Some of the most influential women including Brené Brown, Sara Blakely, Shonda Rhimes, Susan Cain, Rosa Parks, Oprah Winfrey, and Mother Teresa have led with quiet strength.

There is more than one way to lead, succeed, and make an impact.
Even quietly.
Even as an introvert.
Always unmuted.

‍