8. Fran Hauser’s Network: The Secret Behind Her Business Wins and Bookstore Dream

What happens when you say yes to the coffee meeting, the late-night event, or the bookstore dream? Fran Hauser’s story proves that some of the best career moments happen when you show up with no expectations—and an open heart.

Fran Hauser is a bestselling author, keynote speaker, champion of women in the workplace, and a LinkedIn Top Voice. She is the bestselling author of The Myth of the Nice Girl and Embrace the Work, Love Your Career, angel investor, keynote speaker, and now, bookstore owner! Fran shares her layered career journey: from leading digital innovation at Time Inc., to investing in over 40 female-founded companies, to founding Book Bound for aspiring nonfiction authors, and opening Bedford Books, her town’s first independent bookstore.

In this episode:

• How one coffee meeting pivoted her entire career
• Why an open network—and an open mind—are her greatest assets
• The surprising challenges of running a brick-and-mortar business
• How community building is at the heart of everything she does
• Her approach to creating inclusive spaces in business and life
• Lessons learned on letting go of perfection and trusting the process

Connect with Fran:

Website: https://www.franhauser.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/franhauser/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fran_hauser/

Connect with Zoe:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoe-weisberg-coady-57aab37/