24. Reinventing a Business Through Digital Storytelling with Patrice Poltzer
Patrice Poltzer didn’t just switch careers—she burned it all down and rebuilt from scratch. Moving from Brooklyn to Lisbon with her family, she ditched the traditional corporate path, pivoted from television producer to business owner, and faced the tough reality of reinvention. But here’s the twist: she never planned to be an entrepreneur. Now, she’s using storytelling and AI to help others show up authentically online.
In this conversation, Patrice and I talk about the messy middle of career transitions, why calling yourself a "freelancer" might be holding you back, and how AI can actually help you find your voice. She shares the unexpected moment that changed her business trajectory, the story behind her viral LinkedIn post, and why her vulnerability about hearing loss sparked unexpected connections, proving that authenticity cuts through digital noise and that marginalized voices must take up space. If you’ve ever doubted whether your story is "big enough" to matter, this episode is for you.
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In this episode, we discuss:
What happens when you stop calling yourself a freelancer and own your expertise
How AI can actually make storytelling more authentic
"Do I really need to be on LinkedIn?"—The surprising answer for entrepreneurs
How personal stories (even the ones you’ve kept quiet) can drive business success
Why the fear of saturation is BS (and how to stand out in a crowded market)
What makes podcasting the ultimate relationship-building tool for female entrepreneurs
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Key Takeaways
Introducing Patrice Poltzer (00:00 - 10:26)
Patrice is a storytelling master and AI strategist
Recently moved from Brooklyn to Lisbon with family
Background in television, including Today show producer
Started own business after leaving corporate world
Initially struggled with self-esteem and business identity
Transition from TV to Business (10:26 - 22:04)
Patrice's business evolved from video production to online teaching
Learned about online business and digital products during COVID-19
Pivoted business strategy based on customer demand
Developed 'My Story Pro' platform for storytelling and marketing
Authenticity in Online Presence (22:04 - 33:02)
Discussed importance of genuine storytelling online
Shared experience of revealing hearing loss on LinkedIn
Emphasized the value of unique perspectives in saturated markets
Explored the use of AI in enhancing authenticity
AI in Storytelling (33:02 - 42:16)
Introduced 'Pocket Patrice' AI tool for storytelling assistance
Explained how AI can help remove biases in self-presentation
Discussed the balance between AI assistance and maintaining authenticity
Shared success of AI-assisted storytelling tool in business
️ Podcasting and Online Presence (42:16 - 51:53)
Host shared her journey from marketing to coaching to podcasting
Discussed the value of podcasts in building relationships
Emphasized the importance of sharing unique perspectives
Encouraged listeners to embrace their 'outsider' status and share their stories
About your host: Samantha Fackler is an Executive Leadership Coach and Marketing Advisor who transforms how women entrepreneurs grow a freedom-based business. After scaling 100+ companies over 12+ years with both Fortune 500 companies (think Apple, PayPal, LinkedIn) and early-stage founders, she brings a rare blend of corporate strategy and holistic leadership to help you scale intentionally. Her approach? Building aligned, profitable businesses without the burnout narrative. Because success shouldn't cost you your wellbeing.
Watch: HOW TO SCALE Masterclass Replay (FREE for a limited time)
Join Sam's Mastermind Group for Women Entrepreneurs: Apply here
Connect with Sam:
Instagram: @growwith_sam
TikTok: @sidenotepod
Website: www.growwithsam.com
YouTube: @sidenotepod
Have a transformation story worth sharing? Top-tier women entrepreneurs can apply to be a guest at sidenotepod.com.
