You know how some birthdays feel bigger than others?

My son just turned 13, and it hit me hard—in the best way.

In this deeply personal episode of Branding Room Only, I reflect on seven powerful lessons my son has taught me. These lessons have shaped not only how I parent, but how I lead, communicate, and show up in the world. From courage and joy to boundaries and the boldness to ask for what you want, his influence, even at this young age, already runs deep.

Because sometimes the most meaningful branding lessons come from the people closest to us.

We often talk about personal branding in terms of LinkedIn, pitches, and positioning. But the truth is, your brand is shaped just as much by who you are at home—in moments of love, challenge, and growth—as it is in the boardroom.

1:34 – The power of resilience my son started showing at one year old
3:07 – Why I admire and want to emulate his audacity to ask (despite it testing my patience)

4:04 – How Austin brings me joy and the realization he taught me about its gifts

5:06 – The importance of having boundaries, standards, and self-respect

6:13 – How my son reminds me of authenticity and its importance to branding

7:01 – The difference between confidence and courage that he displays

7:57 – The most transformative lesson of all that I continue to learn from Austin daily

Mentioned In 7 Powerful Branding Lessons I’ve Learned From My Son

Donate to Hassenfeld Children’s Hospital

Personal Branding Strategy Sessions

Subscribe to The Branding Room Only on YouTube

Paula’s Resources

Lessons from My Mother, Hopes for My Daughter: On Mothering and What We Carry Forward

Call to Action

Follow & Review: If you enjoyed this episode, leave a 5-star review on your favorite podcast platform! 

Want more branding insights? Join Paula’s newsletter for expert tips and exclusive content! Subscribe Here

Sponsor for this episode

This episode is brought to you by PGE Consulting Group LLC.

PGE Consulting Group LLC empowers individuals and organizations to lead with purpose, presence, and impact. Specializing in leadership development and personal branding, we offer keynotes, custom programming, consulting, and strategic advising—all designed to elevate influence and performance at every level.

Founded and led by Paula Edgar, our work centers on practical strategies that enhance professional development, strengthen workplace culture, and drive meaningful, measurable change.

To learn more about Paula and her services, go to www.paulaedgar.com or contact her at info@paulaedgar.com, and follow Paula Edgar and the PGE Consulting Group LLC on LinkedIn.