We recently connected with Lauren Stern and have shared our conversation below.
Lauren, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?
From as young as I could remember, I was a complete computer nerd. I spent all day and night immersed in virtual worlds, learning how to create design and dream. I spent summers at computer camp, and even returned to the same computer camp during college as a programming instructor. In college, it only made sense that I dive into Computer Science and ended up being one of the few women in the major. In many of my classes, I was the only female period. Rare like a Pokémon! Even after college, I joined DARPA ( a scientific branch of the defense department) and then worked for the department of state. Being colorful, loud, and ready to ready to enact change is something many of my offices were not use to seeing.
About being the only woman in the room: i don’t see it as a disadvantage. It’s more like my secret weapon. Change and progress rely and even thrive on diversity, and fresh ideas coming from different perspectives. So when I’m surrounded by male programmers or colleagues, I don’t see it as “me” and “them”. I don’t just see a group of coders – that isn’t what uniquely defines us. I see us as a bunch of different puzzle pieces that fit together to create something awesome.
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?
In March of 2024 I shifted my focus away from my tech company and towards a new endeavor – taking over ownership of a vibrant legacy – Pikes Peak Artist Collective! It’s located in the heart of Old Colorado City in Colorado Springs, CO and has been serving the community for over two decades. As the new owner, I embarked on a mission to honor and uphold it’s traditions while infusing fresh energy and opportunities.
My first task was to connect with the dedicated instructors/artists who helped shape its legacy and create a plan that would uphold the studio’s culture and appeal. We expanded class offerings, catering to diverse groups including youth, seniors homeschoolers and more. We’ve also introduced discounts for families with multiple children, seniors, and military personnel and family.
My tech background came into play. Booking classes and making changes or offering refunds to those classes had been a labyrinth in the past – phone calls, paper forms, frustration and missed opportunities. I revamped our system and now students can view classes and memberships online, receive reminders and make changes to bookings, and can even request private lessons!
PPAC is not, and has never been, an isolated island of creativity. Instead we’ve become totally woven into the fabric of CO Springs. Community events (First Fridays, Territory Days, Local Charity Auctions), collaborative projects, and partnerships with local businesses are our palette. We offer classes to everyone from curious 5 year olds to seasoned 100-year-olds and cover all types of mediums including painting, drawing, clay ceramics and more. Our students are even invited to sell their work at the studio during first friday events!
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Reflecting back on my journey, one of the most valuable skills I’ve acquired is the art of embracing failure. It’s a paradox: true growth often emerges from setbacks rather than successes. Each time I learned a new skill or mastered a concept or completed a big project or task at work/home, I pushed myself myself to go further and beyond my comfort zone. Failure became my teacher – an illuminating guide that revealed my preferences, strengths, and limitations. It taught me resilience and the wisdom to accept what lies beyond my control.
In the world of consulting, and with a career of working with diverse individuals, active listening has emerged as another crucial skill. Oftentimes I’ve noticed that people approach situations with preconceived solutions – whether for themselves or for the group. I’ve noticed that trying to withhold (as hard as it may be) my own proposed solutions during group discussions yields better results. Instead I really prioritize understanding what each person genuinely seeks to achieve at the end of the day and then working form there to identify commonality. By identifying these common goals we break through different ideas and preconceptions and lay the foundation for meaningful discussion.
The last thing I think is important is that passion and innate skill aren’t necessarily prerequisites for starting something. Sometimes, it’s the lack of expertise that fuels the most remarkable journeys. So the secret is really just to begin. Whether you’re a pro or just starting out, just take a step towards something new. Something big. Even if you *think* it’s too big to achieve. Don’t fret about not knowing how to get there. Curiosity is your compass. Ask people who have walked the path you’re eyeing. Their stories will echo yours – humble beginnings, uncertainty, and a leap of faith. Dive into books, podcasts, reddit, whatever you have access to! Feast on the knowledge. If your dream hasn’t been done before, be the pioneer. Study those who got close, then stretch your wings. You’ll be amazed at the opportunities you see appear along the way. The universe has a way of loving audacity. As you chase your dream, doors swing open. Remember, every expert was once a beginner. Embrace the unknown.
Tell us what your ideal client would be like?
Our ideal client? A delightful mix! Realistically, anyone aged 5+ who is open to learning and has an interest/passion for art! During the upcoming year we’ll have classes for afterschool youth programs, daytime homeschool classes, daytime painting/drawing classes for adults, date night clay events for couples, and so much more. We cater to both novice artists and seasoned experts – our teachers are happy to instruct at the level of the participant. Erin Gillespie, our resident artist, hosts daytime sessions for adults that are popular for retirees and those who work from home or may have a quick break in their schedule! Whether you’re a novice or an experienced artist, we’d love to host you at our studio and create memorable artistic experiences together!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.pikespeakartist.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ppacstudio/
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/ppacstudio
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pikes-peak-artist-collective
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