Catherine Lang-Cline is a seasoned entrepreneur, author, and leader who transformed a moment of opportunity into a multimillion-dollar business. From navigating life transitions to building a thriving company in marketing and advertising, her journey reflects courage, timing, and unwavering belief in women’s potential. Humans of Fuzia celebrates her story for inspiring women across our 5M+ community to take bold steps, embrace growth, and claim their space in leadership.
Q: What inspired you to start your entrepreneurial journey? Was there a moment or challenge that pushed you?
A: It was truly a moment. I had graduated with an art degree and went into marketing and advertising for about 15 years. While freelancing for someone who wished there was a company that could help find talent in this industry, I realized I had done a lot of that myself. She asked if I wanted to start a company with her, and the timing was perfect—I was newly divorced, had no major responsibilities, and thought, why not? Had I said no, I wouldn’t have built a business that helped countless people find work and grew into a multimillion-dollar organization. Sometimes the right window opens, and you need to walk through it.
Q: Did you build this company alone, or did you have a team supporting you?
A: When I owned my company—before selling it last year—I had a team. At its largest, we were about 16 people. Building a business requires others to help multiply your impact. At first, I hired help for bookkeeping and paperwork, and eventually, I hired recruiters, managers, and sales professionals. Growth happens when you realize you can’t do it all alone and find people who can help you do more of what you do best.
Q: What has been the proudest milestone in your journey?
A: Selling the business is definitely up there—not many women have that opportunity. Before that milestone, receiving awards for high growth was a turning point. We didn’t wait to be noticed; we applied for the awards ourselves. Stepping onto those stages showed me that our work was real and impactful, and it pushed me to keep going.
Q: What are your thoughts on women in leadership today?
A: We absolutely need more women in leadership. I recently wrote a book, The Rules of the Game for Women in Business, which talks about why women need to step up—not wait to be tapped on the shoulder. We are half the population and bring essential strengths to leadership. Men have led for a long time, and in some ways, they’ve created challenges we now need to clean up. Women offer different—and necessary—skills, and our voices deserve to guide decision-making. To excel, we need to speak up and claim our seat at the table.
Q: What message would you like to share with women striving for growth?
A: Don’t fear failure and don’t fear risk. I’m not naturally a big risk-taker—I plan everything carefully—but mistakes and setbacks are part of the journey. Don’t be scared of getting too big. Growth doesn’t destroy balance; it allows you to bring in more help, make a bigger impact, and build financial stability. Take that leap of faith when something feels right.
Q: What is your idea of success, both professionally and personally?
A: Success looks different for everyone. For me, it meant financial security—no more worrying at the grocery store about whether I had enough. It also meant giving back. I’ve always felt that helping even one person leaves a mark on the world, and I’ve been privileged to help hundreds. Personally, success is having a happy home life. My family supports one another, and my husband has always cheered on my ideas. If you don’t have that support at home, find people who will believe in you, remind you of your talent, and push back against your self-doubt.
“Don’t fear getting too big—growth allows you to help more people and create the life you truly want.”
Connect with Catherine Lang-Cline:
(3) Catherine Lang-Cline | LinkedIn
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