Melanie Spring is a dynamic speaker, personal branding expert, and self-described “approachable badass” who has spent over 15 years helping people discover who they are beneath the layers the world has placed on them. Her journey from corporate marketing director to sought-after speaker is rooted in courage, authenticity, and a commitment to living unapologetically. Featured by Humans of Fuzia for her inspiring perspective, Melanie’s story speaks directly to our community of 5 million women and allies who believe in lifting each other up—because when one woman speaks her truth, she gives permission for others to do the same.
Q: Can you share the pivotal moment when you decided to step into the world of speaking and personal branding full-time?
Melanie: I was 28, working as the director of marketing at a marketing agency. One day, my boss asked, “What would you do if I couldn’t pay you anymore?” I said, “I’d work for myself.” He replied, “Great, you have 30 days.” That was 16 years ago, on April 1st, and I’ve been working for myself ever since.
Q: You talk a lot about confidence. How has your understanding of it evolved over the years?
Melanie: At first, I thought confidence was something you simply decided to have. But I learned it’s actually about healing and growth—unbecoming everything the world told you to be so you can fully step into who you are. It’s not about changing yourself, but removing the layers that keep you from your true self.
Q: One of your messages is about showing up unapologetically. Have you ever struggled with that?
Melanie: Absolutely. I was a lifelong people pleaser, trained to make others happy to keep the peace. Over time, I realized I cared so much about others that I forgot to care about what they thought of me. I learned that when someone doesn’t like me—especially when I’m showing up fully—it often has more to do with them than with me. That shift allowed me to become more unapologetic.
Q: You describe yourself as an “approachable badass.” How can women embrace their inner badass without losing their warmth or authenticity?
Melanie: Not everyone needs to be a badass, but if you feel that spark inside you, explore what’s really underneath all the apologies and people-pleasing. Ask yourself—what makes me truly happy? What lights me up? Those glimpses help you see who you really are and what you need to clear out to step fully into your power.
Q: How do you stay creatively fueled while running a business?
Melanie: I structure my week intentionally—two or three days for calls and meetings, and at least two days for creativity. Mornings start with incense, music, and journaling to clear my mind so creativity can flow. Protecting that time is essential.
Q: What’s one common mistake people make when trying to find their brand message?
Melanie: They look at their competitors and try to copy them. That puts you behind from the start. Instead, look at parallel industries—ones that evoke the feeling you want your brand to create. Branding is about a feeling, not just a logo or website.
Q: Speaking and entrepreneurship can be exhausting. How do you protect your energy?
Melanie: For years, I worked nonstop—on stage, on planes, even at home. Eventually, I realized I needed deep healing for my nervous system. I stopped speaking at places that didn’t align with my values and shifted toward work that truly fulfilled me.
Q: What message would you give to a young woman afraid to speak up?
Melanie: Every time you don’t speak up, your body holds it in—and over time, that can harm you physically and emotionally. Start by acknowledging and expressing even small moments of discomfort. The more you practice speaking up, the more natural it becomes, and the healthier you’ll be for it.
Closing Quote
“The more you start speaking up, the more you’ll want to speak up—and the freer you’ll feel.” —Melanie Spring
Connect with Melanie Spring:
Website | LinkedIn | Instagram
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