3 Insights I Learned from Miranda Young

Last night, I had the privilege of hearing Miranda Young, co-owner of Alt Haus, speak at WESK (Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan). Her story is so inspiring - from launching a business just weeks before a global pandemic to now having an inclusive space that welcomes everyone.  Miranda is a living, breathing example of resilience, adaptability, and heart in business.

There were so may takeaways, but three powerful insights stood out to me—lessons about resilience, authenticity, and community that I just have to share.

1.    "You're never fully ready—so start anyway."

Miranda and her partner Joe launched their first storefront just two weeks before the pandemic hit. With no financial safety net and limited resources, they were forced to close for months.

Instead of giving up, they pivoted by launching an online store, which now receives orders from across the country.  Her advice? Stop waiting for the “perfect time.”

Who many of us do that?  We wait “until we’re ready” to buy the house, tie the knot, have kids, change careers, start a business, or chase a dream?  Do we ever really feel ready? 

I think her words should be our new mantra:

“There’s always going to be something in the way. Do it scared. Do it messy. Just do it.”

2.    "Community is everything."

As a queer business owner, Miranda talked about the importance of creating inclusive spaces. She didn’t always feel comfortable everywhere she went, so she’s made it her mission to ensure that everyone feels welcome in her store, whether they’re just browsing, buying a sofa or full interior design services. 

“Support isn’t always about money.  It’s about showing up. Go to the events. Be present. Find the things that resonate with you and dive in.”

I love this philosophy. How often do we focus on what we get instead of what we give? How often do we underestimate the power of simply showing up for others?

She walks the talk.  She shops local, shows up for her community and makes genuine connections.  I might be her newest fan girl! 

3.    "Authenticity is your superpower."

Miranda came across as someone who really knows who she is and who she wants to be.  She says you have to be who you are while you’re at work; otherwise, what’s the point? It’s exhausting.

“I don’t want to have to pretend I’m someone else or fit into a box of what someone else wants me to be—because I’m not going to be that. I’m never going to be that. You can keep pretending, but it’s not going to take you anywhere.”

How often do you feel like we have to put on a mask at work? How many times have you avoided talking about what’s going on in your personal life or being a little quirky because it’s “unprofessional”?  What would it look like if we all leaned into who we are a little more?

“You're working eight hours a day … why would you want to fake it for eight hours a day?  You have to be who you are while you're at work because otherwise, what's the point?”

Miranda also said authenticity is the key to success.  Being authentic is about embracing both successes and failures and allowing your business to evolve naturally – pivot and adapt. 

What I learned from Miranda will stay with me forever.  If you haven’t already, follow her and stop by Althouse on Broadway—a space I now know has been made to spark joy, foster connection, and champion local business.

If you know someone else that needs to hear this, please feel free to share.  As always, comments welcome!