We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Stephanie Disse. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Stephanie below.
Hi Stephanie, thank you so much for opening up with us about some important, but sometimes personal topics. One that really matters to us is overcoming Imposter Syndrome because we’ve seen how so many people are held back in life because of this and so we’d really appreciate hearing about how you overcame Imposter Syndrome.
Overcoming imposter syndrome has been a journey for me, and one of the most significant lessons I’ve learned is that “comparison is the thief of joy.” This principle resonates deeply in both life and business. Each of us moves at our own pace, and every business operates differently. Recognizing this early on helped me avoid the trap of comparison, allowing me to focus on my own path.
I often encounter questions like, “Aren’t you worried someone will copy your business?” My response is simple: “They aren’t me.” While others may share similar ideas, they lack my unique passion and perspective. Passion is a driving force, especially in a lifestyle and adventure-oriented business like mine. If someone wants to replicate what I do without that same passion, they will inevitably fall short.
I won’t claim that I never experience imposter syndrome, but I’ve learned to manage it. When those feelings arise, I redirect my thoughts to reflect on my journey and the accomplishments that have brought me to where I am today. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when looking forward at the tasks ahead, but when I take a moment to look back, I see how far I’ve come. Each small step I’ve taken is a testament to my growth.
While it’s essential to set goals for the future, it’s equally important to acknowledge everything I’ve created thus far. By focusing on my achievements and the unique path I’ve paved, I can quiet the voice of self-doubt and embrace the journey ahead with confidence.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Here is the story from when I launched Mountaingirl (Lifestyle & apparel company) in October 2023.
It was on a trip to Montana that MOUNTAINGIRL’s founder Stephanie Jo realized “mountain” isn’t a place, it’s a spirit and one you can take wherever you go!
I’m Stephanie Jo, founder of Mountaingirl, my latest adventure!
From the moment I saw the mountains as a young girl, through all of my travels and activities, my passion for living the “spirit” of the mountains has only grown.
At times, I have lived in the mountains and others in the woods of the Midwest.
No matter where I have placed my skis, hung my hat, or kicked up my feet, that spirit has stayed alive inside me. This is what I encourage others to experience, to find adventure wherever they go. I am a born and raised Minnesota girl, married to my high school sweetheart, mother of two, and grandma.
I love downhill and Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, hiking, biking, paddle boarding, yoga, and just exploring!
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 on my journey, I believe the following three qualities have been particularly impactful: passion, empathy, and the ability to focus on incremental progress.
First and foremost, my passion for inspiring others to embrace adventure has been a driving force. I genuinely love planting seeds of motivation in people, encouraging them to pursue their long-term dreams. Hearing stories of individuals who have taken significant steps, like quitting their jobs to follow their passions, brings me joy. My “mountaingirl philosophy” emphasizes that a fulfilling life is rooted in pursuing what truly excites us. For those early in their journey, my advice is to cultivate that passion—if your heart isn’t in what you do, it will show, and you may struggle to achieve success.
Secondly, I’ve found that empathy plays a crucial role in connecting with others. People often comment on how I actively listen to their journeys and stories, and this connection fosters a sense of community. I encourage those just starting out to practice active listening and engage with others genuinely. By valuing others’ experiences, you can learn from them and create meaningful relationships that enrich your own path.
Finally, I’ve learned the importance of focusing on incremental progress. Early on, I was overwhelmed by the “shoulds” of life and business, which led to burnout. I realized that stepping back and revisiting my core desires was essential. It’s important to recognize that you don’t have to do everything at once. Instead, focus on making small, consistent efforts every day—whether that’s dedicating time to your passion or working on your business. Adopting the mindset of getting “one percent better” each day can lead to significant growth over time.
In summary, nurture your passion, connect empathetically with others, and focus on gradual progress. These qualities will not only enhance your journey but also inspire those around you to embark on their adventures.
How would you describe your ideal client?
My ideal client at Mountaingirl is an adventurous woman who loves the outdoors, trying new things, and wants to bring that spirit into her daily life. She values experiences, enjoys connecting with others, and believes in personal growth through exploration. She seeks apparel that reflects her adventurous personality as she embraces the mountains and/or finds adventure wherever she goes (even in your own backyard) and wants to have daily reminders to embrace the “spirit” of the mountains.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.mtngirlmn.com/
- Instagram: Mountaingirlmn
- Facebook: Mountaingirl
Image Credits
Stacey Heinlein, Kirstin Bird
