In this Office Hours episode, Grace sits down with Ellen Yui, founder of Yui+Company, a trailblazing communications consultancy celebrating 33 years of success. Ellen shares her journey from a young leader in a big Irish family to launching her own company while pregnant and navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. Ellen discusses the importance of values, joy, and authenticity in business and life with candor and humor.

Key Moments:

• (03:54) The Pregnancy That Sparked a Business: Ellen shares how starting her company while pregnant catalyzed her entrepreneurial success.
• (09:01) Client Loyalty That Built a Legacy: How Ellen’s early clients followed her and helped her establish Yui+Company.
• (18:43) The Role of Values in Leadership: Ellen discusses why knowing and embodying your values is foundational to personal and professional success.
• (29:20) Using Joy as a Tool in Business: Why Ellen believes joy is the “divine spark” that fuels creativity and connection.
• (35:02) Simplifying Communication for Impact: Practical tips for tailoring messages to your audience and avoiding unnecessary noise.
• (52:52) Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: Ellen offers wisdom for those starting out, emphasizing the importance of knowing yourself and thinking beyond the present.

Key Takeaways:

• Authenticity and values are the cornerstones of lasting success.
• Communication isn’t about making noise—it’s about making connections.
• Joy is a powerful driver in business, both as a motivator and as a tool to inspire others.
• Risk tolerance and resilience are essential traits for entrepreneurs.
• Always think ahead and believe that the world will catch up to your vision.

Follow along:

• Grace Van Hollebeke: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gracevanholl/
• Office Hours: https://www.officehourspod.com/
• Lucia: https://letslucia.com/