EP:46 | Lisa Bradshaw – "Your Story, Your Impact: Creating Meaningful Connections" – The Hype Squad

In this episode of The Hype Squad podcast, Charli welcomes Lisa Bradshaw, a cancer survivor, widow, author, TEDx speaker, and founder of The Don't Wait Project. Lisa shares her incredible story of transforming personal tragedy into purpose, including the creation of her memoired business journey, her heroic effort to get her product featured on the hit TV show 'Friends,' and her inspirational work with The Don't Wait Project. She delves into her experiences in pitching, storytelling, and building a brand while balancing life as a single mother. Lisa's journey of resilience, persistence, and finding meaning in adversity serves as an empowering tale for entrepreneurs and anyone facing life's challenges.Connect with Lisa BradshawContact: hello@lisabradshaw.coInstagram: @‌lisabradshaw.coWebsite: http://www.lisabradshaw.coShop page: lisabradshaw.co/shopConnect with Charli: Website: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.charlimcconnell.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@charli_mcconnell_co⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠cmco.womenscoach⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠⁠@‌charli_mcconnell_co⁠⁠

Welcome back, Hype Squad! 

Life isn’t always sunshine and brunch dates. Sometimes it knocks the wind outta you. But it’s also where we learn how strong we really are—through grit, grace, and a whole lotta guts.

Today, I want you to meet someone who gets it. Someone who turned heartbreak into hope, and built a movement that’s changing lives: Lisa Bradshaw. Let’s talk about resilience, chasing dreams, and what happens when you stop waiting for the “perfect” time to live out loud.

Meet Lisa Bradshaw: Turning Pain into Power

Lisa is a powerhouse. She’s a cancer survivor. A widow. A mom. An author. A TEDx speaker. And the heart behind The Don’t Wait Project—a movement born from deep personal loss and a burning desire to help others stop waiting to live.

After losing her husband way too young, Lisa didn’t shrink—she expanded. She took her grief and turned it into a platform to help others share their stories, heal out loud, and live on purpose.

Her book Big Shoes and her show Life with Lisa Bradshaw are real, raw, and packed with humor. She’ll make you laugh through your tears—and remind you that you don’t have to wait until life is picture-perfect to start showing up.

That One Time Her Pillows Made It to Friends

Fun fact: Lisa’s business started with a high school sewing project. Yep, alphabet pillows. She said “yes” to the idea, stuck with it—and those handmade pillows ended up on the freaking set of Friends. (I mean, could she BE any more iconic?)

It’s proof that no dream is too small and no idea is too random. Start where you are. You never know where that “silly little idea” might take you.

Rejection Isn’t a Dead End—It’s a Detour

Lisa’s faced plenty of no’s, but she never let that stop her. Every closed door was just a redirection to something better.

Whether she was getting her book into the world or cold-pitching Hollywood set designers, she kept going. Her vibe? What’s the worst they can say—no? Okay. Next.

Girl’s got guts—and we can all borrow some of that bravery.

Relationships Matter More Than Résumés

Here’s the deal: People connect with people, not fancy titles. Lisa built her brand by building relationships. The kind that lead to opportunities, shows, radio gigs, and more. She’s a walking masterclass in the power of being kind, bold, and human.

The Don’t Wait Project: 23 States of Storytelling

Lisa hit the road and traveled to 23 states, gathering stories of everyday people doing extraordinary things. Her message? Stop waiting for someday. Today is the day.

If you’ve been playing small or waiting for a sign—girl, this is it.

Why Your Story Deserves the Mic

Lisa doesn’t just tell her story—she helps others uncover theirs. Through speaking, media coaching, and her latest launch, The Pitch Playbook, she’s helping women shape their stories to land podcasts, press, and stages.

It’s not just about the spotlight. It’s about knowing your why, standing in your truth, and realizing your story could change someone’s life.

Let This Be Your Sign: Stop Waiting

Lisa’s journey is your reminder that what feels like an ending can actually be the beginning. She’s showing women everywhere how to rise, speak up, and live fully—right now.

So here’s your permission slip to stop waiting. Book the call. Tell the story. Launch the thing. Dance in the kitchen. Say yes to the scary stuff.

Because life? It’s happening. Now.

Thanks for being part of this amazing community. We’re here to hype each other up, tell the truth, and live lives we’re proud of. 

xo,
Charli
Your certified hype girl