Launching a company requires some degree of fearlessness. Leah Dergachev believes that fear can be the thing that holds most people back. She realized, as she got ready to have her third baby, while rebranding her company and launching two community projects, that you can manage to have it all if you’re willing to take risks and enjoy the ride. “A full life is a happy life.” she says.
Leah Dergachev is a communications professional who launched Austley, a full-service marketing and communications agency and consultancy for mission-driven startups. As Founder and “Chief Storyteller,” Leah helps companies grow, leads Marcom Masters for industry collaboration, builds communities and manages to coordinate all of this from her home in the DC Metro area where she lives her husband and their three children, all under the age of three.
What advice would you give your younger self?
I would tell my younger self to embrace life’s full spectrum early on with an “and, not or” mentality. Understand that you don’t have to choose between a career and a family, or between passion and practicality. I managed to rebrand my business, have my third child, and kickstart two community projects simultaneously.
This was possible because I embraced the possibility of having it all, knowing that with organization, prioritization, and strong self-belief, I could create a life filled with various forms of success and fulfillment.
You don’t have to choose between having your cake or eating it too. After all, what’s the point of having cake if you can’t enjoy it, right?
What advice do you give to someone who says, “I could never Launch a Company?” How do You help others get started?
To anyone saying “ I could never do that,” I say, “Yes, you can!” Don’t let fear or hesitation stop you from getting started. The worst that can happen is needing more time than planned or having to pivot your approach – which is okay!
If you become your own roadblock, you’ll never see what you’re capable of achieving. Launching a company? Start by being your biggest cheerleader, encourage yourself, and keep pushing through the doubt.
Everyone’s journey begins with a single, sometimes shaky, step forward.
Do you have a mantra or words you live by that have helped you through tough times and kept you going?
My mantra, ‘the right people will find value in your experiences and wisdom.’ As someone deeply rooted in the world of communications and marketing, storytelling is not just my profession; it’s a lens through which I view life.
My mantra reflects this belief. It reassures me that each narrative I create and share, no matter how personal or professional, will resonate where it matters most.
This idea sustains me during challenging times, reminding me that authenticity matters. It’s a reminder that the stories we tell — whether they are brand narratives or personal anecdotes — will find their audience.
This mindset encourages me to continue expressing and sharing, secure in the knowledge that my true audience, those who will benefit most from my experiences, will connect with my message. It underscores the power of genuine communication and the importance of staying true to one’s voice.
Anything else we haven’t already asked—your secret to success or advice/tips you love to share with others?
Much of my success ties back to the philosophy of “And, Not Or.” Don’t let fear dictate your choices. By refusing to be limited by traditional either/or decisions, I’ve opened doors to simultaneous opportunities in multiple aspects of life
Embracing this mindset is not only liberating but also empowering. It allows you to build resilience, adaptability, and a more variety of experiences and achievements. View your journey as a map– the more routes you take, the more destinations you’ll discover.
Follow Leah for more great advice: linkedin.com/in/leahdergachev
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