We recently connected with Dasha Lebedev and have shared our conversation below.
Dasha, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we know how words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.
Overcoming imposter syndrome has been a journey for me. As a 33-year-old woman who has spent her entire career in the tech industry, I often felt like I didn’t belong. I was once called the least techy person working at a tech company, which only reinforced my doubts. On the side, I always loved to create and draw, doing illustrations for fun and occasionally taking on commissions for pet portraits and editorial pieces, but I considered it just a hobby.
When I finally quit my unfulfilling 9-5 job and threw myself into a totally random idea—creating tinned fish candles—I felt like a complete fraud. Even as orders started pouring in, I couldn’t shake the feeling of being an imposter. Despite getting a new studio, hiring six employees, and seeing my product in hundreds of stores across the US and Europe, the imposter syndrome never entirely went away.
What has helped me manage it is looking at the tangible evidence of my success. I focus on the numbers, the positive feedback, and the love I receive from customers. It reassures me that what I am doing is real and that I made it happen. While imposter syndrome still lingers, it keeps me grounded and aware, driving me to continually improve and stay connected to the community that supports my work.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I’m excited to share more about my journey and what I’m focused on professionally. After working in the tech industry for my entire career, I decided to follow my true passion for art and creativity. This led to the creation of my unique tinned fish candles, a venture that started as a random idea but has grown into a successful business with a studio, six employees, and products in hundreds of stores across the US and Europe.
What makes my work so exciting and special is the blend of whimsy and practicality. Tinned fish candles are not only functional but also bring a sense of curiosity and joy to those who encounter them. I love the idea of transforming everyday objects into something that can spark a smile and brighten someone’s day.
Looking ahead, I’m thrilled to announce that we’re expanding our brand in several exciting ways. We’re planning to launch a line of merchandise, including shirts and hats, so people can proudly show their love for tinned fish. I want to see people shouting from the rooftops about their passion for our products, turning a simple idea into a movement.
Additionally, we are deeply committed to sustainability and are working on integrating sustainable education into our brand. We believe in not only providing delightful products but also in making a positive impact on the environment and our community.
Ultimately, I want my products to inspire curiosity and joy. Whether it’s through a quirky candle or a fun piece of merchandise, I hope to create moments of delight and connection for everyone who interacts with our brand.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Looking back, there are three qualities and skills that have been most impactful in my journey: resilience, creativity, and adaptability.
Resilience: The path to success is rarely straightforward, and I’ve encountered numerous obstacles along the way. Resilience has been crucial in allowing me to push through self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and external challenges. For those early in their journey, my advice is to embrace setbacks as learning opportunities. Every obstacle can teach you something valuable. Build a support network of friends, family, or mentors who can offer encouragement and perspective during tough times.
Creativity: My passion for art and creativity has been the heart of my business. It’s what makes my tinned fish candles unique and memorable. To nurture creativity, allow yourself time to explore and experiment without the pressure of perfection. Engage with different forms of art, take inspiration from unexpected places, and give yourself permission to think outside the box. Creativity thrives in an environment where you feel free to make mistakes and try new things.
Adaptability: The ability to adapt has been essential in navigating the unpredictable nature of entrepreneurship. Whether it’s shifting business strategies, responding to market trends, or managing a growing team, being adaptable has allowed me to stay flexible and open to change. For those starting out, I recommend staying curious and continuously learning. Be open to feedback and willing to pivot when necessary. Cultivating a mindset that embraces change rather than fears it can be incredibly empowering.
For those early in their journey, my overarching advice is to stay true to your passion and values. Develop resilience by viewing challenges as opportunities for growth, foster creativity by giving yourself the freedom to explore, and build adaptability by staying curious and open to change. These qualities will not only help you navigate the ups and downs of your journey but also make it a fulfilling and enriching experience.
Tell us what your ideal client would be like?
My ideal client is the small specialty shop, especially those delightful wine, tinned fish, and gift shops that buy my candles wholesale and share them with their community. These shops are my absolute favorite because they attract customers who are seeking unique, carefully curated items that they can’t typically find at a big-box store.
People visit these specialty shops with the intention of discovering something special, something that has been thoughtfully chosen and placed on the shelf. It’s incredibly rewarding to see my brand showcased in these environments, where the emphasis is on quality, uniqueness, and community. These shops and their discerning customers appreciate the creativity and care that go into each of my tinned fish candles, making them the perfect partners for my business.
In these settings, my products are not just items for sale; they are part of a narrative of discovery and delight. This alignment with the values and atmosphere of specialty shops makes them my ideal clients, and I am proud to collaborate with them to bring a bit of joy and curiosity to their patrons.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://tinnedcandle.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tinnedcandle/?hl=en
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
