On this episode of Powered by Authenticity, Melissa Bernstein joins me for a conversation that is raw, rich, and full of meaning. You probably know Melissa as the co-founder of the wildly successful Melissa & Doug toy company and Lifelines—but behind the brands is a deeply creative soul who spent years struggling to make sense of the world, and her place in it.
In this conversation, Melissa shares how she turned a lifelong sense of “otherness” into purpose. She opens up about what it really means to live authentically, how creativity saved her, and the work she is doing as a mentor to others.
This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt like they didn’t belong—and needed someone to say, “Me too.”
Within we chat about:
- How Melissa turned deep sensitivity and creative energy into a lifelong mission
The silent struggles she carried—even while building a wildly successful company
Why stepping into mentorship has become one of the most fulfilling parts of her journey
The difference between “fitting in” and truly belonging
What it takes to live with intention, even when it feels uncomfortable
Melissa brings deep honesty to this conversation, with just the right mix of wisdom and warmth. If you’ve been craving real talk about purpose, identity, and helping others grow—this one’s for you.
Thank you, Melissa, for a wonderful conversation. I can't wait to have you on our show again!
Where to find more information on Melissa:
Practice Makes Purpose™ | Well-Being Ecosystem | Lifelines
Melissa's Bio:
Melissa Bernstein is an entrepreneur, creative, and working mother of six. In 1988, Melissa and her husband co-founded Melissa & Doug out of their parents’ garage, and in the years that followed, they built Melissa & Doug into a multi-billion dollar brand. Melissa has spent the last 30 years helping children discover themselves, their passions, and their purpose through open-ended play. In 2020, after her own personal journey of self-discovery and acceptance, Melissa co-founded Lifelines. In this new venture, she is using her unparalleled creativity and imagination to reinvent well-being products that help adults rediscover wonder and relieve stress through their senses.
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