#50 From Operator to Empire Builder: Althea Lewis on Grant Writing, Growth, and Knowing Your Worth

What happens when you stop trying to be the “Chief Everything Officer” and start leading like the visionary you are?

In this episode of Brand Disruptors, I am joined by powerhouse entrepreneur Althea Lewis, MBA, founder of Lewis Grant Writing Services, to discuss what it really takes to build a business that runs without burning you out.

Althea has secured over $50 million in grant funding, launched her own academy, and is now building a business that operates without her being in every seat. But her real story? It’s about trusting your worth, choosing rest, and moving with strategy, not stress.

This is a conversation about self-leadership, boundaries, and why every entrepreneur needs to stop doing everything themselves.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• What most people misunderstand about hiring a grant writer
• Why “doing it all” is a business model destined for burnout
• The difference between operating a business vs. owning one
• How Althea stepped fully into her value — and stopped discounting her expertise
• Why you don't owe anyone a play-by-play of your next move